Spring break is here again but just because your college years may be behind you, it doesn’t mean you can’t make it a great one. While some of you may be dreading not having a destination vacation for whatever reason (can’t afford it, didn’t do it soon enough, whatever) and may have thrown your arms up in the air surrendering to the last resort, staying home. Others are actually taking in the sights right here in our backyard. That’s right, people are actually traveling to NYC with The Bronx in their agenda. If you think I’m all hype because I happen to live and love The Bronx check out what others are saying. The Travel Channel has highlighted a few spots in their article NYC: Best of the Boroughs and Famous Fat Dave took a trip to The Feeding Tree. Even Travel + Leisure Magazine has featured our beloved borough a few times, just to point out a couple the Bronx Museum of the Arts got a mention and The Bronx’s Little Italy got a full article. More currently Mommy Poppins has given a few pointers at to what to do in the boogie down next week. But enough of that, here are a few things you can do next week if you’re planning a Bronx staycation.
Wave Hill public garden and cultural center in The Bronx. Located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, you can enjoy the landscape (which overlooks the Hudson River and Palisades), take part in any of the many workshops or just taken in artistic performance. overlooks the Hudson River and Palisades. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 students & seniors and $2 children 6+. Free admission every Tuesday and Saturday morning 9am to noon. For more information and for directions visit the Wave Hill website.
The New York Botanical Garden world renown for its scientific research and largest collection of flora. Here you can explore nature and participate their Spring Break special activity, visit any of the current exhibits (The Orchid Show is my favorite) or check out the Orchid Evenings featuring a DJ and their signature cocktail, The Vanilla Ginger Moon. Admission with the all garden pass is $20 for adults, $18 students/seniors, $8 children 2-12 (under 2 free). Grounds only admission is $10 adults, $5 students/seniors, $2 children 2-12. Free grounds admission all day on Wednesdays and Saturday from 10am-11am. For more information on special events/exhibits prices and directions visit NYBG.com.
Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum a historical landmark and historic house where you can take a walk through the beautiful garden, a guided tour, visit the exhibit, or participate in any of the educational programs or family activities. You an also enjoy the return of First Friday, for music, exhibition and a trolley ride. The trolley leaves from #6 train station at Pelham Bay Park and registration is required. For registration and pricing visit the website.
The Bronx Zoo offers an escape into the wild! Complete with camel rides, animal feedings and training demonstrations, among other activities. After taking a hike through tiger mountain and dancing to move it move it in Madagascar you can check out Dora & Diego’s 4D experience or catch a theater show. For admission and exhibit prices visit BronxZoo.com.
NYC Parks hosts a number of events throughout the city and with some of the largest parks here in The Bronx, you can be sure there will be something for everyone in the family. You can enjoy Archery at Van Cortlandt Park, Easter arts & crafts at Hunts Points Recreation Center, Insect Safari at Crotona Park, Swimming program at St. Mary’s Recreation Center, Flag Football Clinic at Van Cortlandt Park, and many more events free and low cost throughout the week. Visit NYC Parks events page.
In the mood for Theater? If you’re looking to immerse in the performing arts during the spring break week you can catch a Broadway quality performance taking place at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, Pregones Theater, or the Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance. Want to delve in more art, take a trip to the Bronx Museum. If history is what you’re looking for, tour the Edgar Allen Poe Cottage part of the Bronx County Historical Society.
Bronx Hot Spots! After you took in the sights, learned about art and history, the kids had a great time and are out for the night after all the outdoor activities and now you want some grown up time, here are some Bronx Hot Spots to check out: Babalu lounge, 900 Park, Tosca Restaurant Bar & Lounge, G-Bar & Lounge, and Tapas Restaurant & Lounge. For more great eateries visit Arthur Avenue and City Island.
While this is not nearly everything The Bronx has to offer I hope it encourages you to explore your hometown. And, now that you have some ideas to populate your Bronx Staycation agenda, go out an enjoy a great Spring Break! (and do share your great experiences with me here or @Bronx_PR)