Looking for the best things to do in Yonkers? New York’s fourth-largest city sits on the Hudson just north of NYC, with a revitalized waterfront and a few genuine gems. Locals point to the stunning Untermyer Park and Gardens, the Hudson River Museum, the downtown waterfront and pier, and Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway.
Things to do in Yonkers
Untermyer Park and Gardens
A breathtaking, free public garden — walled “Persian” garden, ruins, and Hudson views. One of the best-kept secrets in the metro.
The Hudson Waterfront
The revitalized downtown waterfront, pier and esplanade, the Science Barge, and riverfront dining with sunset views across the Hudson.
Hudson River Museum
Art, a planetarium, and the historic Glenview mansion overlooking the river.
Empire City & Cross County
Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway for gaming and events, plus Cross County shopping.
Things to do in Yonkers at night
Waterfront restaurants for sunset over the Hudson, plus gaming and entertainment at Empire City — with all of NYC a short Metro-North ride away.
Free things to do in Yonkers
- Untermyer Park and Gardens
- The Hudson waterfront and pier
- Riverfront walks with skyline-adjacent views
What Yonkers locals actually recommend
The best time for Untermyer, the waterfront spots worth it, what’s on locally — that comes from people who live here. On Neighborhood Nurturers’ Yonkers community, real Yonkers neighbors answer “what should I actually do this weekend?” Join your Yonkers neighbors free →
Fitting it into a day in Yonkers
The best days here mix the well-known spots with the places only locals frequent. What sets Yonkers apart is how close everything sits together. Start near the free Untermyer Gardens, work in one of the spots from this guide, and you are minutes from the Yonkers waterfront and pier if you want to keep going. Locals often round out a full day out with a detour to the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail or a quieter stop at the Lenoir Preserve. Because the distances are short, you can improvise as you go rather than lock the whole day down in advance.
More Yonkers guides
Yonkers rewards people who dig a little deeper. These related guides map the same neighborhoods from different starting points: Free things to do in Yonkers, Best restaurants in Yonkers, undefined Yonkers — enough to plan a whole day or two.
Get a local’s take
Guides are a starting point; the current, on-the-ground details come from people who live in Yonkers. Hours shift, favorites change, and residents always know what is genuinely worth it now. Ask Yonkers neighbors directly or join your town community free to hear from real locals.
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Yonkers?
Visit the free Untermyer Park and Gardens, explore the Hudson River Museum, walk the revitalized downtown waterfront and pier, and catch gaming or events at Empire City Casino.
Is Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers free?
Yes — Untermyer Park and Gardens is a free public garden, and one of the most beautiful and underrated spots in the New York area.
What are free things to do in Yonkers?
Untermyer Park and Gardens, the Hudson waterfront and pier, and riverfront walks are all free.
Is Yonkers worth visiting near NYC?
Yes — for Untermyer Gardens, the Hudson River Museum, and the waterfront, all a short Metro-North ride from Manhattan.