23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Yonkers (NY)

Want to know the fun things to do in Yonkers, NY? Yonkers is a beautiful city located in Westchester County on the Hudson River in New York, United States.

It is the third largest city in New York, behind New York City and Buffalo, with a population of 211,569 in the 2020 census.

Yonkers is an energetic city rated as one of the best top places to live in the country, making it an excellent location for vacations.

The city is popular for its busy streets, gorgeous waterfront residence, and historic neighborhoods.

Yonkers consists of attractions like the Hudson River Museum, Empire City Casino, the Center for the Urban River at Beczak, Yonkers Fleamarket, Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, and more.

Are you planning an exploration of Yonkers? Here are the best things to do in Yonkers, NY.

Things to Do in Yonkers, NY

1. Untermyer Gardens Conservancy

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy
Credits: proteinbiochemist / Flickr
Untermyer Gardens Conservancy

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy was formed along the Hudson River on a steep portion of land in 1916.

It is a gorgeous public garden that was formerly a component of the personal estate of Samuel Untermyer, a distinguished civic leader and lawyer.

In the middle of the attraction lies a Walled Garden split by waterways into different quarters according to the Garden of Eden in the Bible.

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy features an amphitheater built in Greek-inspired style, hosting several performances with sculptures on a gorgeous tiled stage and high columns.

The Gardens have different regions, arranged into various categories to showcase the wildlife and flora of Yonkers.

This destination is one of the unique gems of the city and an excellent place to go for a stroll as you glance through the Rock & Stream Garden and Temple of Love.

Address: 945 North Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

2. Tibbett’s Brook Park

Tibbett’s Brook Park
Credits: Walking Geek [CC BY-SA 2.0], Wikimedia Commons
Tibbett’s Brook Park
Tibbett’s Brook Park is one of the first established parks in Westchester County and a favorite destination for visitors and residents.

This large Park spreads out by sixty-five hectares offering visitors numerous outdoor activities irrespective of age.

It has a spacious water park ideal for cooling off on a hot summer day, with tubes and water slides for more fun.

Tibbett’s Brook Park comprises playgrounds for little kids with a wide variety of play instruments to keep them busy.

There are biking and hiking trails open throughout the year, making it a popular place for many bikers and hikers in the city.

You can also go swimming or try out your fishing skills at the beautiful beach in the presence of professional lifeguards.

Tibbett’s Brook Park features picnic areas where families can enjoy delicious meals and drinks after playing a round of basketball.

Address: 355 Midland Ave, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

3. Science Barge

Science Barge
Credits: Daina Dajevskis / Flickr
Science Barge

For those looking for a more innovative attraction, visit the fascinating Science Barge in Yonkers.

The Science Barge is a one-of-a-kind floating organic grange in Yonkers nestled in the Hudson River.

The farm cultivates crops through hydroponic farming techniques, coupled with wind turbines and a greenhouse powered by solar.

This innovative Center and excellent science museum educate school groups about no-emission food processing techniques.

The Science Barge is usually open to the entire public during weekends, educating them more about sustainable small-scale food production methods.

Address, 99 Dock St, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

4. The Hudson Amphitheater

Hudson Amphitheater
Credits: LeStudio / Shutterstock

An exceptional attraction, the Hudson Amphitheater is majorly a venue for music presentation while also offering a fascinating view of the Hudson River.

Aside from music, the Hudson Amphitheater is home to drama, dancing, falconry, and various entertainment genres.

The Hudson Amphitheater has a seating capacity of approximately four hundred persons and is accessible for free.

Visitors can enjoy live musical entertainment, comedy shows, movie nights, and other occasional events such as Shakespeare festivities.

It would be best to visit Hudson Amphitheater whenever you’re in the city and check out their website to find your favorite show.

Address: 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10701 United States

5. Ridge Hill

Ridge Hill
Credits: Jordan Confino Elevatedphotopro.com / Flickr
Ridge Hill

Are you ready to explore this city? Make out a few hours to tour Ridge Hill, although you might spend more time than you intend.

Ridge Hill is an open-air retail mall located on a great square encompassed by benches, fountains, and ponds.

One of the major spotlights of the mall is the charming play area for little children and an impressive selection of cafes and restaurants.

There are several clothing shops with a good number of electronics stores and many others. Kids always love visiting the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where they play around with different rides.

Ridge Hill houses the Whole Foods Market, where people purchase everything groceries and healthy food.

You can dine at any of the restaurants when you feel hungry or watch a movie at the incredible 12-screen movie theatre.

Address: 1 Ridge Hill Blvd, Yonkers, NY 10710, United States

6. The Center for the Urban River at Beczak

Center for the Urban River at Beczak
Credits: Sarah Lawrence College Center for the Urban River at Beczak / Facebook
Center for the Urban River at Beczak

The Center for the Urban River at Beczak, which was established in 2013 for an important role, was founded in coalition with Sarah Lawrence College.

The Center for the Urban River at Beczak’s primary goal is to enlighten the public about the significance of environmental awareness and the Hudson River Estuary’s conservation.

It is found in what was formerly known as the Beczak Environmental Center, featuring numerous informative exhibits.

You will find the Aquaria, which is packed with turtles, oysters, crabs, and fish unique to the Hudson River.

There is a vibrant Kids’ corner which consists of cleaned-up treasures and many other hands-on activities for children.

Visitors can explore the beach area and the salt marshes along the river’s edge or unwind in Habirshaw Park.

Address: 35 Alexander St, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

7. Empire City Casino

Empire City Casino
Credits: Kenishirotie / Shutterstock

Don’t stay idle when you can have fun at one of the best Casinos; add a visit to Empire City Casino to your list of fun things to do in Yonkers, NY.

Empire City Casino can be found on an ancient spot known as the Yonkers Raceway, where spectators watch mindblowing life horseracing almost every day of the week.

After watching the horses racing through the iconic track live, many visitors try their luck at the slots.

There are numerous restaurants to dine at, including the Big Kitchen International Food Court and Chophouse.

Most of the restaurants also offer live music performances with romantic and gleaming lighting, mainly on Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 810 Yonkers Ave, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

8. Burkes Restaurant and Bar

Burkes Restaurant and Bar
Credits: Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock

Another activity that shouldn’t be missed in Yonkers is dining at Burkes Restaurant and Bar.

Burkes Restaurant and Bar officially opened its doors to the public in 2001 and has become a neighborhood landmark.

The restaurant is popular because of its delicious burgers with mindblowing tastes and quality, which cannot be gotten anywhere else.

The establishment is always packed with people from different faces of life, including colleagues, family members, and friends.

Burkes Restaurant and Bar is a sports hub featuring TVs that shows all the latest happenings in the world of sports.

It is also a host of numerous different events, including private parties and birthdays, due to its spacious private party room.

They offer more than twenty-five draft beers, including premium and local ciders and other drinks.

Address: 645 Bronx River Rd, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

Also check out our list of things to do in Greenportthings to do in Tarrytown, and cool things to do in Watkins Glen, if you are planning a New York road trip.

9. Sherwood House Museum

Sherwood House Museum
Credits: Magicpiano [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Sherwood House Museum
Sherwood House Museum is owned and operated by the Yonkers Historical Society. It was erected in 1740 as one of the few surviving farmhouses of the pre-Revolutionary war.

It was initially a one-story building that had several new additions in 1850, such as a red barn and a second floor. Later in 1902, a bathroom and electricity were added to the house.

This Museum is a National Historic Landmark and has continuously been refurbished by the Yonkers Historical Society through donations of artifacts, decor, and resources.

Sherwood House is open for visitors on Sundays during summer and spring. More information on the region can be found in the Yonkers Library.

Address: 340 Tuckahoe Rd, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

10. Hudson River Museum

Hudson River Museum
Credits: Eileen_10 / Shutterstock
Hudson River Museum

On your list of top things to do in Yonkers, NY, add a visit to the Hudson River Museum, as it’s a must-visit for every visitor in Yonkers.

Hudson River Museum is a one-of-a-kind center for sciences and arts, with its main section housed in a Gilded age mansion, Glenview.

In the 1960s, the Museum needed a larger exhibition area, so a Brutalist-style contemporary wing was included. The Glenview features an amazing planetarium in its dining section.

You can stop by and admire an enormous permanent historical and modern art exhibition in a unique rotational collection.

Hudson River Museum hosts educational science, and art workshops open to the old and the young. The Museum also houses a dome and outdoor theater, where most events are held.

Address: 511 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

11. Decostas Restaurant

Decostas Restaurant
Credits: DeCosta’s Restaurant / Facebook
Decostas Restaurant

Decostas Restaurant is the number one restaurant in Italian cuisine; they are committed to showcasing the Italian tradition.

This family-owned and operated restaurant was founded by Nuno and Pedro De Costa, two brothers, with the support of the rest of the family.

The owners are experienced fishermen and usually select seafood and fish for the restaurant.

The food menu features an impressive selection of Italian meals, most of which are inspired by the recipes unique to the de Costa family.

Decostas Restaurant offers meals like Salmon Pesto, homemade pasta, Chicken Parmigiana, bread pudding, chicken marsala, Fruit Salad Platter, caesar salad, Clams Casino, and more.

They also have a motto of treating everyone that walks into the restaurant like family rather than strangers.

Address: 400 Yonkers Ave, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

12. iFLY Indoor Skydiving

iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Credits: ViktorKozlov / Shutterstock

Are you ready to participate in one of the fun things in Yonkers, NY, and the World? Skydiving is one of the most enjoyable activities to do due to the formation of the light natural chemicals in the brain while it is being done.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving was officially launched in 2016 and has quickly become a popular destination in the region.

It is an indoor skydiving facility where participants are offered skydiving outfits as they soar high in a virtual realm formed by fans.

As you dive, you feel like you’re flying as you’re being pushed up by air, almost like the earth’s gravity when you carry out a regular jump.

You can decide not to get on a plane to take the jump, as you can also get the same experience in a no-risk and controlled environment.

Address: 849 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY 10710, United States

13. Sprain Lake Golf Course

Sprain Lake Golf Course
Credits: FloridaStock / Shutterstock

Are you looking for what to do in Yonkers, NY? How about swinging your club in an incredibly natural environment with friends?

Sprain Lake is known for its wealth of water hazards, small greens, difficult holes, challenging shots, and rolling terrain.

The Lake offers a majorly back & forth, straight play style due to its slim and lengthy layout. Sprain Lake Golf Course is an 18-hole course featuring 6,110 golf yards from Par 70.

Tom Winton designed Sprain Lake Golf Course with a slope rating of 122, and the Course is generally rated 69.3.

The Course was founded in 1928 and consists of a fully-stocked Pro shop to cater to all golf players’ needs; the players can be male or female.

There is a driving range, a practice area, and an on-site restaurant where players can enjoy a nice meal and drink.

Address: 290 E Grassy Sprain Rd, Yonkers, NY 10710, United States

14. Philipse Manor Hall

Philipse Manor Hall
Credits: Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site / Facebook
Philipse Manor Hall

Stopping by Philipse Manor Hall is among the best things to do in Yonkers with your fellows if you’re a history enthusiast.

The Philipse Manor Hall, a combination of a Historic State Center and House Museum, is situated in the Getty Square District.

This destination is one of the oldest residences in the United States as components of the initial Manor House was erected by Frederick Philipse, the Dutch immigrant, around 1682.

The building is packed with a plethora of architectural treasures, such as a 1750s paper Mache in Rococo style and a plaster ceiling.

Philipse Manor Hall has been functioning since 1911 as an art and history museum open to visitors who appreciate American Portraiture through the Cochrane Collection.

Address: 29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

15. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Credits: Shift Drive / Shutterstock

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a wonderful movie theatre where you and your family can hang out and spend quality time.

As a unique Cinema, it offers visitors an opportunity to catch many latest movies, including numerous classic films.

The Cinema is committed to preserving historical films, which helps bring back lots of old and special memories amongst the audience.

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is focused on providing the audience with sharp 3D movies on screens with fantastic sound systems.

The destination continuously invests so much in modern technology and maintenance equipment to offer viewers a premium experience.

Stop by the concession stand and enjoy unique and quality beers and a wide variety of delicious cuisine. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is one of the best places to visit in Yonkers, NY, with friends and family.

Address: 2548 Central Park Ave, Yonkers, United States

Considering a New York road trip, check out our guides on things to do in Flushingthings to do in Cooperstown, and things to do in The Hamptons for a memorable trip.

16. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
Credits: Pepe’s Pizza (Yonkers, NY) / Facebook
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy freshly made pizzas, one of the top things to do in Yonkers, NY, is to dine at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana.

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving the public for more than ninety-five years.

It is currently operated by the immediate descendants of the original owners. They still maintain the family traditions of serving the best brick-fired pizzas.

Make sure you try their signature “Tomato Pie,” a pizza topped mainly with tomato, olive oil, cheese, oregano, and garlic.

They offer various options such as Meatball And Ricotta, Amanti Della Carne, Mozzarella & Pepperoni, Bacon & Onion, Caesar Salad With Roasted Chicken, Cannoli Pie Slice, and more.

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana also offers Milk, Chocolate Milk, Apple Juice, Poland Spring, Kola, Diet Kola, Orange, White Birch Beer, Diet White Birch Beer, and others.

Address: 1955 Central Park Ave, Yonkers, NY 10710, United States

17. Yonkers Fleamarket

Yonkers Fleamarket
Credits: Rishiken / Shutterstock

Yonkers Fleamarket is an outstanding market in Yonkers that attracts visitors and locals from different parts of the city.

The market features a diverse selection of vendors who offers nothing short of the highest quality and affordable items.

You can purchase several kinds of books, vintage & contemporary items, and other unique collectibles.

The Yonkers Historical Society places many tables close to the barn, plus a gift shop of which the proceeds are used for the historic Sherwood House maintenance and repairs.

Address: 420 Nepperhan Ave, Yonkers, NY 10701, United States

18. The Cross County Shopping Center

Cross County Shopping Center
Credits: michaeljung / Shutterstock

Check out the Cross County Shopping Center with your family and friends if you’re setting out for a shopping spree. It is one of the best places to visit in Yonkers, NY.

Commonly known as Cross County Center, Cross Country Shopping Center is a vibrant shopping center that houses more than one hundred stores and eateries.

The Cross County Shopping Center offers visitors too much of everything from dining, entertainment, and shopping.

The Center features a playground for children and loads of outdoor activities with local boutiques offering the latest merchandise.

During the summer, the Center hosts the SummerFest event, including children’s programs, fashion shows, and outdoor music concerts.

The Cross County Shopping Center is also a venue for other events, such as the Kid’s Earth Science Circus Show and Earth month.

Address: 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

19. 55 Days of Fun

55 Days of Fun
Credits: Wanwalit Tongted / Shutterstock

Have you ever heard of 55 Days of Fun? If not, here is your chance to learn about it and be a part of it.

Quickly include attending 55 Days of Fun on your list of the fun things to do in Yonkers, NY. It takes place during the summer months.

55 Days of Fun is held in the city’s downtown district on the beautiful waterfront offering families lots of outdoor opportunities.

The event usually includes special children’s programs, film screenings, jazz performances, and other outdoor music concerts.

Numerous kids’ events, including music classes, animal education, and storytelling sessions, have been included in the festival.

Address: Yonkers, New York, United States

20. Glenview Mansion

Glenview Mansion
Credits: June Marie / Flickr
Glenview Mansion

Glenview Mansion is also referred to as the House of John Bond Trevor. It is one of the remaining structures in Yonkers built from greystone that is all locally mined.

The Mansion has been thoroughly refurbished to depict the past of Yonkers, educating the public about the people’s way of life during the early century.

You can tour all the rooms, which are completely stocked with timeless objects and symbols that will make you reflect on the Mansion’s history.

Glenview Mansion is also a component of the Hudson River Museum taking visitors on a journey through the past.

Address: 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, New York, United States

21. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail

Old Croton Aqueduct Trail
Credits: Matt Green / Flickr
Old Croton Aqueduct Trail

Still wondering about what to do in Yonkers, NY? Take a walk through the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and enjoy some of the most magnificent sights in Westchester County.

The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, which was completed in 1842, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This downhill dirt Trail heads through some trees and neighborhoods encompassed by a green grassland.

As you walk through the trail, please pay attention to the path as it interprets the region’s history from more than one hundred and seventy-five years ago.

The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail extends through the county for precisely 41.8 km. It is a popular place for runners, hikers, and bikers.

Whenever you want to go outdoors and immerse in the beauty of Westchester County, make a trip to the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail.

Address: Yonkers, New York, United States

22. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester
Credits: Legoland Discovery Center (Westchester) / Facebook
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester

A premier indoor LEGO playground, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester is a fantastic place for kids from as low as 3 to 10 years.

This indoor amusement center at the Ridge Hill of Westchester features thousands of LEGO bricks in one spot.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester offers children the opportunity to create great memories hovered around bricks; there is no limit to what can be imagined.

The Center features twelve LEGO attractions such as NYC MINILAND, 4D Cinema, two rides, and more.

There are lots of activities for kids to do here, from testing their Ninja skills, adding their construction to LEGO City Builder, racing the constructed car through the build & test track, and shopping at the LEGO shop.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester also features a gift shop and a coffee shop where delightful beverages can be enjoyed.

Address: 39 Fitzgerald Street Ridge Hill Mall, Yonkers, NY 10710, United States

23. Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County

Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County
Credits: Zoran Zeremski / Shutterstock

An amazing movie cinema housed in Cross Country Center shopping plaza, Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County is an example of a modern movie theater.

Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross County features 3D projection systems and high-quality acoustics, guaranteeing an amazing movie experience.

The theater offers you trendy Hollywood movies which have or will catch your attention and make you stay for long.

All you have to do is book your movie, sit, relax on any of the reclining seats fully operated by ultra-plush power, and have a good time; reservations are also recommended.

Showcase Cinema de Lux Cross Country is an excellent place for various events such as parties, conferences, etc.

You can enjoy some delightful cocktails, signature margaritas, handmade mojito, wines, and beers at the lobby bar.

Address: 2 South Dr, Yonkers, NY 10704, United States

Check out more cities in New York, here is a list of things to do in Sag Harborthings to do in Cortland, and things to do in Canandaigua for a fun time in this city.

Plan Your Trip to Yonkers

Yonkers is an exceptional tourist-friendly destination that offers every tourist something fun and captivating.

The city is celebrated for its unique features, both natural and artificial attractions, contributing immensely to its beauty and grace. 

Start planning your trip to Yonkers.