Located on the edge of Hudson River, Yonkers “The Central City” is a bustling city with excellent attractions, shopping, entertainment and dining options. It is the fourth largest city in New York and one of the culturally diverse cities of Westchester. It is a thriving city with fascinating history, diversity, culture, and plenty to do and see.
Image By Famartin (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
History of Yonkers
Yonkers history dates back to the late 1640s when Adriaen Van der Donck got a land grant from the Dutch East India Company, which was referred as the Colon Donck. He established one of the first saw mills of the New World at the intersection of Nepperhan Creek and the Hudson River. The land received by Van der Donck was given to the Philipse family in the seventeenth century and in early 1680s, Philpse Manor Hall was built at the intersection of the Hudson and Nepperhan rivers. The city’s strategic location resulted in the growth of the city and formation of a diverse community.
In 1700s, Yonkers was a farm town. In 1872, Yonkers was incorporated as a city. Later with innovation in travel and waterfront, several industries were established in the city. Many inventors and innovators call Yonkers their home. The magnificent views of Palisades and the Hudson River have inspired innovation and creative for over 150 years. During the twentieth century, the city became an industrial powerhouse. The city served as a major center for hat and carpet manufacturing. The first elevated mass transit system in the world was created in Yonkers.
Important Locations in Yonkers
Yonkers, “The City of Hills" has a variety of historical, entertainment, cultural, recreational and educational offerings. There are several locations to see and explore in Yonkers. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, art aficionado, history buff or nature lover, the city offers something for everyone. From golf courses and parks to waterfront esplanade to museums, entertainment and cultural venues, there’s always something to do here.
Untermyer Park:
Untermyer Park is a 1912 landscaped park with lush vegetation, remnants of bygone era, classic sculptures, fluted pillars, a rock garden, pergola, a paradise garden, and mosaic-lined pools, all overlooking the Hudson River.
Philipse Manor Hall: Explore the art, architecture and history at
Philipse Manor Hall. It has eighteenth century architecture, an amazing collection of presidential portraits, and a 1750s papier mache Rococo ceiling.
Science Barge: The
Science Barge is Yonkers cultural center. Learn about hydroponics, solar energy and other renewable resources at the Science Barge.
Tibbetts Brooks Park:
Tibbetts Brooks Park features an aquatic complex, spray playground, baseball fields, lazy river, tennis courts, hiking trails and more. There is something for all ages in this park!
Hudson River Museum:
Hudson River Museum is a cultural institution with a state-of-the-art planetarium, amphitheatre, art galleries, and several science and history exhibits. Get a glimpse of Hudson River’s role in American life at this museum!
Riverfront Art Gallery:
Riverfront Art Gallery features contemporary, internationally and nationally recognized works of art. The works range from paintings, photos to sculptures, mosaics, works on paper and in other media.
Sherwood House Museum: Sherwood House Museum is a historic museum with period antiques. It is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and maintained by the Yonkers Historical Society.
Yonkers Police Museum: Yonkers Police Museum features photos and artifacts detailing the history of Police Force of Yonkers.
Sprain Ridge Park:
Sprain Ridge Park features picnic areas, and mountain biking and hiking trails. Exercise in the natural environment, take in the fresh air, go for mountain biking or a hike on any of the trails.
To know more about the important locations in Yonkers, click here.
People and Culture of Yonkers
Yonkers is nicknamed as “The City of Gracious Living”. It is one of the ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the state of New York. Several events and festivals are held that remind of it being a diverse city. The city has a large Irish-American and Italian-American communities, and holds NY’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade that reminds you of the resident’s Italian and Irish pride. The city offers a great lifestyle for all and has diverse neighborhoods with lively vibe.
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Yonkers
Time Zone
Yonkers follows the Eastern Time Zone/
UTC-GMT Offset: Yonkers is GMT/UTC - 5hours during Standard Time; and GMT/UTC - 4hours during Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time Usage: Yonkers uses Daylight Saving Time
Time Zone Abbreviation: EST is abbreviated for Eastern Standard Time and EDT is abbreviated for Eastern Daylight Time
Phone Codes
Area Code: 914
Best Time to Visit Yonkers
Spring (April through June) and fall (September through November) are the best times to visit Yonkers. The weather is pleasant and crisp in these seasons, ideal for outdoor activities. The city offers plenty of parades, events and festivals, ranging from art and crafts to music, theater and dance to food and more. The parades celebrate the city’s American, Africa, Irish and Italian heritage. Annual events and festivals that keep you entertained and busy are:
Important Locations in Yonkers Map Guide
