Far in the northwest corner of the Bronx, there's a park that's perfect for New Yorkers looking to reconnect with nature — yet you've probably never heard of it.
Known as Wave Hill, the 28-acre park was originally developed in the mid-1800s and has at different times been home to both Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain. After passing through the hands of many different owners, the park was eventually donated to the city of New York by the Perkins-Freeman family in 1962.
The park was in trouble of closing in the early 1990s, and only an anonymous donor was able to save it. Today, it's owned by the city and run by a private board of directors.
Wave Hill may not be as big or attract as many visitors as Central Park or Prospect Park, but it’s meant to be a quiet retreat. Though it’s technically still in New York, the hustle and bustle of the city will feel far away.
And you have to pay to get in — annual memberships cost $50 for an individual and $90 for a family. Otherwise, you can pay an $8 daily entry fee.
We visited the park on a beautiful fall day, and the noisy traffic, gray skyscrapers, and crowded subways of Manhattan felt a world away.
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From Times Square to the park's entrance at West 249th Street, it'll take you about 45 minutes by subway. In less than a minute after entering, you'll find yourself on peaceful grounds.
Most people head straight to the main outlook. Under the pergola, one of the signature elements of the park, you'll get your first really good view.
In the foreground is the Riverdale Country School, which is located just down the road from the entrance to the park. In the distance you'll see the Hudson River and the Palisades.
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