While we're on the topic of the Bronx, this week's classic New York trip is to one of the only mainland boroughs many treasures: Wave Hill. A gorgeous property in Riverdale with views of the Palisades, it has been stunning visitors since Wave Hill House was first built in 1843.
Originally owned by a jurist, the property has been called home by an impressive list of people. Theodore Roosevelt summered there as a child, Mark Twain leased the estate from 1901-3 (writing of the winters there: "I believe we have the noblest roaring blasts here I have ever known on land; they sing their hoarse song through the big tree-tops with a splendid energy that thrills me and stirs me and uplifts me and makes me want to live always."), Toscanini lived there as did the British Delegation to the U.N. and more.
Wave Hill became a City-owned institution in the mid-60s and has remained so, providing copious gardens and woodlands to explore along with concert series and art shows. But really its the plants and the views of the Palisades that make Wave Hill a must visit for any New Yorker looking to enjoy a different, classic, side of their City.
Directions to Wave Hill.
More Wave Hill history.
Gothamist on other Classic New York trips.
