Esplanade Park

For New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape with breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere, Esplanade Park in Yonkers is an absolute must-visit. Officially dedicated as the Alfred B. DelBello Riverwalk in 2015, this meticulously maintained waterfront park is a true jewel nestled along the majestic Hudson River. It serves as a central hub for relaxation, recreation, and dining in the revitalized downtown Yonkers area, offering a distinct urban oasis that seamlessly blends natural beauty with lively city life.

Esplanade Park is renowned for its panoramic vistas, providing unparalleled views of the dramatic cliffs of the Palisades across the river and stretching down to the iconic George Washington Bridge and even glimpses of the Manhattan skyline. This scenic backdrop makes it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a leisurely stroll, capture stunning photographs, or simply sit and soak in the serene ambiance of the river. As one delighted visitor aptly put it, "If you like the water most do. And you like majestic views of the Hudson and the George Washington Bridge. It's your spot." Beyond its visual appeal, the park is a lively gathering place, pulsating with the energy of nearby trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and a friendly, welcoming crowd. It's a testament to Yonkers' successful waterfront revitalization, transforming the area into a dynamic destination for all ages and interests.

Esplanade Park is ideally situated at the heart of Yonkers' vibrant downtown waterfront, with its main access point located at 100 Main St, Yonkers, NY 10701, USA. This prime location makes it incredibly accessible for New Yorkers from various parts of the city and surrounding Westchester County.

For those traveling by public transportation, the park's proximity to the Yonkers Metro-North Train station is a significant advantage. It's just a short walk, often described as a 2-minute stroll, from the station's western entrance directly to the Esplanade. The Metro-North Hudson Line offers frequent and convenient service from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, making it an easy and stress-free journey to the park. The Yonkers train station itself is a beautifully restored historic landmark, adding to the charm of your arrival.

Driving to Esplanade Park is also straightforward. While dedicated parking for the park itself might be limited directly on Main Street, there are various public parking garages and lots within easy walking distance in downtown Yonkers. The downtown area has undergone significant revitalization, including infrastructure improvements that aim to make it more walkable and inviting. Additionally, the Esplanade connects to a continuous Hudson esplanade that stretches nearly a mile long, further enhancing pedestrian access along the waterfront. This continuous riverwalk allows visitors to explore more of Yonkers' scenic waterfront area, including the historic Yonkers Pier and potentially connecting further north to Van Der Donck Park and the "daylighted" Saw Mill River. The combination of excellent public transit links and ample nearby parking options ensures that Esplanade Park is a convenient and welcoming destination for everyone looking to experience the beauty of the Hudson.

• Waterfront Promenade: The primary feature is a beautifully maintained, paved walkway stretching along the Hudson River, perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, and enjoying the views.
• Scenic Overlooks: Designated areas and benches are strategically placed to offer optimal viewing points of the Hudson River, Palisades, and the George Washington Bridge.
• Public Seating: Numerous benches are available along the esplanade for visitors to relax, rest, and take in the surroundings.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The park welcomes leashed dogs, making it an excellent spot for pet owners to enjoy outdoor time with their companions. As one reviewer mentioned, "Pet friendly as well."
• Access to Dining: Esplanade Park is directly adjacent to a variety of restaurants and cafes, including acclaimed options like The Dolphin (Dolphin Restaurant) and X2O Xaviars on the Hudson, as well as more casual spots.
• Proximity to Retail: The park is just steps away from downtown Yonkers' growing array of shops and businesses.
• Community Event Venue: The Esplanade and the historic Yonkers Pier often host seasonal concerts, art exhibitions, and community events, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Notably, it's a key location for the annual Yonkers RiverFest.
• Access to Yonkers Pier: Visitors can walk out onto the historic Yonkers Pier, the last Victorian steel pier on the Hudson, for unique perspectives of the river and skyline.
• Public Art Installations: Various public sculptures and art pieces are often found along the Esplanade, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the area.
• 9/11 Memorial: A reflective 9/11 Memorial with a bronze plaque commemorating the Manhattan skyline before the Twin Towers fell is located in the Sculpture Meadow on the Hudson, offering a place for remembrance and reflection.

• Majestic Hudson River Views: The park offers unparalleled, sweeping vistas of the Hudson River, providing a dynamic backdrop of flowing water, passing boats, and the dramatic natural beauty of the river valley. This is consistently highlighted by visitors as a top draw.
• Palisades and George Washington Bridge Panoramas: From the Esplanade, visitors are treated to stunning views of the imposing cliffs of the New Jersey Palisades across the river, as well as downriver views of the iconic George Washington Bridge, and even the distant Manhattan skyline. These views are truly postcard-worthy.
• Historic Yonkers Pier: A significant highlight is the opportunity to stroll out onto the historic Yonkers Pier. This Victorian steel pier provides unique perspectives of the waterfront and is a nod to Yonkers' rich maritime history.
• Vibrant Dining Scene: The park's location at the end of Main Street places it at the epicenter of downtown Yonkers' burgeoning culinary scene. Renowned restaurants like X2O Xaviars on the Hudson (of Iron Chef fame, noted by a reviewer as "very pricey need deep pockets for that one. 5 star food accommodations. It is the restaurant of an Iron Chef. So expected. Awesome I visit often. See you there.") and Dolphin Restaurant, alongside other trendy establishments and coffee shops, are just steps away, making it easy to combine a park visit with a delightful meal or drink.
• "Perfect Riverwalk" Experience: As described by a local, it's a "Perfect Riverwalk North or South of Hudson River at the end of Main Street," offering a pleasant and engaging pathway for exercise or relaxation.
• Lively Community Hub: Esplanade Park is a focal point for community activity. It regularly hosts seasonal concerts and art exhibits, and is home to major annual events like Yonkers RiverFest, bringing together thousands of people for music, food, and celebration.
• Dog-Friendly Atmosphere: The park's welcoming stance towards pets ("Pet friendly as well," according to a review) makes it a popular choice for dog owners to enjoy a walk with their furry companions.
• Public Art Installations: Various sculptures and artistic elements are integrated into the park's design, adding a cultural dimension to the outdoor experience.
• Proximity to Local Businesses: The park's central location in downtown Yonkers means it's surrounded by a variety of local businesses, including breweries like Yonkers Brewing Company, shops, and even "an old school Irish gin mill (Fancy Brady's)," as one reviewer noted.

As a public park managed by the City of Yonkers and benefiting from the efforts of various community organizations, Esplanade Park does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in a commercial sense. Its primary "offer" is its free and open access to the public for recreational enjoyment and scenic appreciation.

However, the park and its surrounding downtown Yonkers area are frequently the site of various free or low-cost community events and activities that can be considered valuable "offers" for locals:

• Yonkers RiverFest: This annual, free family-friendly festival is a major highlight, typically held on the waterfront. It brings together live music, art shows, food vendors, street performers, and environmental tours, transforming the Esplanade into a lively celebration of community.
• Seasonal Concerts and Art Exhibitions: Throughout the warmer months, the Esplanade and the historic Yonkers Pier often host free concerts and outdoor art exhibitions, providing cultural entertainment against the stunning river backdrop. These events are publicly advertised by the City of Yonkers and local business improvement districts.
• Access to Waterfront Dining Deals: While not a direct park promotion, the numerous restaurants adjacent to Esplanade Park (such as The Dolphin, X2O Xaviars on the Hudson, and Yonkers Brewing Company) frequently offer their own daily specials, happy hour deals, or seasonal menus. Visitors to the park can often combine their stroll with a special dining experience. For instance, Xaviars on the Hudson, noted for its "5 star food," caters to those seeking a high-end culinary experience.
• Community Engagement: The park often serves as a starting point or focal point for various community-led walks, clean-ups, or initiatives organized by local groups like Scenic Hudson, which advocated for its creation. These opportunities allow locals to engage with their environment and community.

For the most current information on upcoming events, concert schedules, or any specific offerings tied to the Esplanade, New Yorkers are encouraged to check the official City of Yonkers Parks Department website, the Yonkers Downtown BID (Business Improvement District) website, or local community calendars. These resources will provide details on how to best enjoy the lively atmosphere of Esplanade Park and its surrounding attractions.

For general inquiries about Esplanade Park or information regarding the City of Yonkers Parks Department, please use the following details:

Address: 100 Main St, Yonkers, NY 10701, USA

While a specific direct phone number for Esplanade Park is not publicly listed, inquiries can generally be directed to the City of Yonkers Parks, Recreation & Conservation Department. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding park usage, events, and facilities.

You can typically find contact information for the Yonkers Parks Department on the official City of Yonkers website. For specific details about events or activities happening at the Esplanade, checking the Yonkers Downtown BID (Business Improvement District) website is also a good resource, as they often promote local happenings.

Esplanade Park, also known as the Alfred B. DelBello Riverwalk, is an exceptionally suitable destination for New Yorkers, offering a multifaceted experience that caters to a wide array of local interests and needs. Its seamless integration into the revitalized downtown Yonkers area makes it an accessible and indispensable urban amenity.

Firstly, its stunning natural beauty and unparalleled views are a major draw. For those seeking respite from the city's intensity, the majestic panoramas of the Hudson River, the dramatic Palisades, and the distant George Washington Bridge provide a truly invigorating escape. As one local enthusiastically stated, it's "your spot" for "majestic views." This allows New Yorkers to connect with nature and appreciate the scenic grandeur of their own backyard without having to travel far.

Beyond the views, the park is a hub of activity and convenience. Its "Perfect Riverwalk" provides an ideal setting for exercise, whether it's a brisk jog, a leisurely stroll, or a walk with a beloved pet, as it is proudly dog-friendly. The immediate proximity to a plethora of dining options, from "nice crowd" restaurants like The Dolphin to the highly acclaimed X2O Xaviars on the Hudson, means that a visit to the park can easily transform into a full culinary experience. This integration of green space with a vibrant dining and entertainment scene is a key factor in its local appeal.

Furthermore, Esplanade Park is a cornerstone of the Yonkers community's cultural life. It serves as a popular venue for free public concerts, art exhibitions, and major annual events like Yonkers RiverFest, fostering a strong sense of local pride and community engagement. These events offer diverse entertainment options for families, friends, and individuals, cementing the park's role as a gathering place. Its historical significance, including the presence of the Yonkers Pier and public art, adds another layer of depth, inviting locals to learn about their city's rich heritage. In essence, Esplanade Park is a testament to successful urban revitalization, offering a dynamic blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, cultural vibrancy, and convenient access that truly enhances the quality of life for all New Yorkers.

Esplanade Park

100 Main St, Yonkers, NY 10701, USA