Untermyer Gardens

Updated May 13, 2025

Description

Let me tell you about one of New York’s best-kept secrets – the breathtaking Untermyer Gardens. I still remember my first visit like it was yesterday, standing there slack-jawed at the sheer grandeur of this 40-acre wonderland. This historic paradise, dating back to 1912, showcases some of the finest Persian-inspired garden architecture I’ve ever encountered in North America.

The star of the show is absolutely the walled Persian Garden, which will honestly make you forget you’re in New York for a moment. The geometric patterns, ancient stonework, and classical elements transport you to another time and place entirely. And those Hudson River views? They’ll stop you in your tracks – I’ve spent hours just soaking in the panorama from various vantage points throughout the gardens.

Key Features

• The Walled Persian Garden – an absolutely stunning centerpiece with intricate mosaic walkways, reflecting pools, and classical Greek architecture
• Temple of Love – a gorgeous rocky outcrop with a gazebo offering spectacular Hudson River views
• The Vista – a grand staircase flanked by ancient Roman columns
• Rock and Stream Garden – featuring peaceful waterfalls and winding paths
• Rhododendron Walk – bursting with color during spring blooming season
• The Amphitheater – an impressive Greek-style structure perfect for performances
• Color Gardens – seasonal displays that change throughout the year
• Historic Temple of the Sky – featuring original mosaic work and architectural details

Best Time to Visit

Listen, I’ll be straight with you – while these gardens are gorgeous year-round, spring and summer are when they truly shine. April through June is peak season for the flowering plants, and the weather is usually perfect for wandering the grounds. Summer evenings are magical here, especially during sunset when the light plays off the Hudson River.

Fall brings its own charm with changing leaves against the classical architecture. Winter? Well, the gardens take on an ethereal quality when dusted with snow, but bundle up – it gets pretty chilly up there by the river!

How to Get There

Getting to Untermyer Gardens is pretty straightforward if you’re coming from NYC. You can catch Metro-North’s Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to Yonkers station – it’s about a 30-minute ride. From there, you’ll want to grab a taxi or rideshare for the short trip to the gardens.

If you’re driving (which honestly might be easier), there’s free parking on-site. Just be aware that the lot fills up quick during peak times – I learned that lesson the hard way one busy Saturday! The gardens are also accessible by local bus routes if you’re already in the Yonkers area.

Tips for Visiting

Ok, here’s the inside scoop from someone who’s been here more times than I can count. Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing lots of walking, and some paths are uneven. The gardens are built on different levels, so there’s quite a bit of climbing involved.

Bring a water bottle and snacks – while there are some benches and picnic tables, there’s no café on site. I always pack a little picnic to enjoy by the Vista. Trust me, you won’t find a better lunch spot in Yonkers!

Photography is allowed and encouraged – the light is usually best in the morning or late afternoon. If you’re serious about getting good shots, arrive early before the crowds show up.

During summer weekends, try to arrive before 11 AM when it starts getting busy. And while the gardens are wheelchair accessible, some areas might be challenging due to the terraced design and historic pathways.

The gardens are free to visit, but consider making a donation – this incredible place is maintained by a non-profit organization that does amazing work keeping everything in tip-top shape. And speaking of maintenance, some areas might occasionally be roped off for restoration work – it’s just part of preserving this historic gem for future generations.

Oh, and one last thing – check their website before visiting during winter months, as hours can be limited. And do yourself a favor: don’t rush through. Take your time, find a quiet spot, and just soak in the atmosphere. These gardens have a way of making you forget about the outside world, even if just for a little while.

Key Highlights

• Key Features
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Get There
• Tips for Visiting

Location

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