Need a change of scenery this summer? It's a train ride away. Yonkers Downtown is bustling and has plenty to offer, with art galleries, restaurants, beautiful views of the Hudson River, and so much more. Traveling north or south to this city on the river is easy and enjoyable with Metro-North Railroad’s Hudson Line. 

Head north from Grand Central Terminal (only a 30-minute or less ride) or south from Poughkeepsie (98 minutes) via Metro-North’s Hudson Line for a scenic ride to this lively little city.

Upon arriving at the historic Yonkers train station, you are just steps away from the iconic Yonkers Pier. Take in the summer sun and the beautiful vista of the palisades across the river. If you arrive on Friday evening in the summer, you will be greeted by the sounds of Yonkers Waterfront Live, a weekly concert series happening right on the pier in the waterfront amphitheater. These concerts happen every Friday from 6:30 pm to 8 p.m.  

Follow the path down the river and stumble upon our delightful Waterfront Sculpture Garden.

Meanwhile, on the north side of the pier you'll find Groundwork Hudson Valley’s Science Barge, a floating environmental education destination open to the public on weekends. All the energy needed to power the Barge is generated by solar panels, wind turbines, and biofuels, while the hydroponic greenhouse is irrigated solely by collected rainwater and purified river water, thus operating entirely “off the grid.”   

Feeling adventurous? If you love to be out in nature, then stop by Yonkers Paddling and Rowing Club. They will help you get out on the river and test your skills at kayaking. Stop by on a Saturday for free kayaking.  

Once you have worked up an appetite, you will need to try one of the many restaurants in the downtown area. From Mexican to Italian and American to Irish, there is something for everyone’s palate.

Some recommendations: You could visit Dolphin, Dos Marias, Francey Brady’s, Guapo, Khangri, La Bella Havana, Metate, Nawab, Off The Hook, TaqueRio, X20 Xaviars on the Hudson, Yonkers Brewing, and Zuppa. 

Interested in art? Several exciting galleries focus on local artists to check out when you’re in Downtown Yonkers. There is Blue Door Art Center, Warburton Galerie, or the Riverfront Art Gallery located within the Yonkers Public Library.  

Even if you don’t find your way into one of our galleries, you will find several impressive murals throughout the downtown area.  

If you're craving something sweet, a must-try is The Lost Borough. Cream & Creativity is at the heart of this unique and flavorful shop—the fresh ice cream is made on site, so the menu of flavors is constantly changing, and there is always something new to try.  

Something unique to Yonkers Downtown is its three “daylighting” parks. These parks were created by uncovering three different sections of the Saw Mill River, a tributary of the Hudson River that starts in Chappaqua and runs into the Atlantic Ocean. Begin from the train station and head north to meander along this river and discover even more of Yonkers Downtown.  

After all the walking around, you may want to treat yourself to a bit of rest and relaxation. At Sachi Spa, you will be treated to a luxurious experience, or go and get your nails done at SoYo Nails. 

You may need a little pick-me-up before ending your trip and hopping back on the train. Visit any of our coffee delicious coffee shops, including Bougie Brews, Cafe 2.0, and Manor Bagel Café, to get your caffeine fix.