Untermyer Gardens is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in the New York area. The grounds are always stunning, but they're especially spectacular in September when everything is in full bloom and the gardens are filled with vibrant colors. Admission is completely free, although donations are accepted to help preserve this incredible place--which is amazing considering how well maintained it is. It's the perfect destination to spend about two hours, whether you want to enjoy a peaceful stroll, take plenty of photos, or do a little of both. The breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the Palisades make the visit even more memorable. There's also plenty of free parking, which makes getting there easy. The only reason I'm giving four stars instead of five is that it can get fairly crowded on beautiful weekends, but it's absolutely worth visiting and returning to throughout the year. read more

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Untermyer Gardens Conservancy is widely celebrated as a breathtaking, 43-acre hidden gem in Yonkers, NY. Visitors like me rave about the stunning, Greco-Persian walled gardens, dramatic Temple of Love, and sweeping Hudson River views, it offers a peaceful, cinematic, and highly rated escape for locals and out-of-state visitors. The landscape perfectly blends ancient-style ruins with vibrant horticulture, resulting in a peaceful, immersive retreat. I like the spectacular architecture, fountains, and beautiful floral arrangements. It is a tranquil escape from the city that delivers immense historical charm. Because the property is a former millionaire's estate undergoing a long-term revitalization, some guests note that portions can feel slightly unkempt or dilapidated. Parking can also become limited on busy, peak-season days. It holds an impressive 4.5+ average rating across travel platforms, with many reviewers calling it a "must-see". read more

My visit to Untermyer Gardens Conservancy this year was a highlight. It is such a majestic place. Although our trip was short, we made the best of it. The weather was absolutely beautiful. It was a crowded day, and the traffic entering and leaving the Gardens was intense. For anyone who enjoys natural beauty and has a whole day to relax and explore these grounds, you will absolutely love it. The fact that this garden is free is also a great gift to the community. One drawback is that you can't bring your fur babies. read more

My goodness. What a forever amazing park to visit. The view is breathtaking! The walk is incredibly refreshing. Nature and Gods creation at its best. I cannot wait for the flowers and trees to be in their full bloom. I took some pics and I'm sure this is going to be epic. Please, I beg don't over crowd the space. Everyone will end up wanting to go. Its peaceful and rich- its like all cultures together in esthetics, with garden history, architectural history. Its amazing to see spiritual meanings and resonates as a symbol of peace among all diff cultures. Its fascinating to see it in person. Pics do no justice! read more

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This was one of the most stunning gardens I've visited, definitely a gem of Yonkers. They have beautiful trails you can walk on with stunning views. I toured for almost all of under two hours and the best part about it is that it's totally free! There's a section outside the gate where you can sit and have a picnic, they also had a musical performance towards the evening that was fun to watch. This is the perfect place for a family trip or just to go with friends. read more

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I visited Untermyer Gardens Conservancy with my mother, and it felt like stepping into a little piece of paradise tucked away in Yonkers. The second we walked in, it was like time slowed down. Everywhere you turn there's something beautiful to look at, from the fountains to the flowers. My mom was in absolute heaven. She kept stopping to take photos every five steps, and honestly, I didn't even blame her. The gardens are stunning and so peaceful that it's hard not to just stand there and take it all in. It's the kind of place that makes you want to pack a picnic, wear your favorite dress, and pretend you're in a movie scene. I even saw people taking professional/formal photos with their beautiful dresses and suits. What I loved most was how clean, well-kept, and thoughtfully designed everything was. You can tell the people who run it really care about keeping it beautiful for everyone. It's also free, which feels like a little miracle considering how magical it is. If you're looking for a place to reset, take your loved one, clear your mind, or just remind yourself that life is still pretty sometimes, definitely visit! read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

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Samuel Untermeyer, a corporate lawyer, & his wife Minnie, were both very influential in their social and cultural circles. In 1899, Samuel purchased the property from the estate of Samuel J. Tilden. Untermyer wanted the "finest garden in the world," so he hired William Welles Bosworth in 1916, an Ecole des Beaux Arts trained architect/landscaper, to create the "finest garden in the world." They did a lot of entertaining here and opened it to the public once a week in the early years. In 1946, 16 acres were given to the city of Yonkers for a public park but due to insufficient funding it slowly declined. In 1970 it had another restoration which was fleeting. With the help from Mayor Zaleski in 1990, Nortrud Spero & Joe Kozlowski both community leaders, acquired 43 acres that make up the park today. I grew up in Yonkers until I was 10 and never had been here until now. It was hot and humid but the skies were clear. The view of the Hudson River was spectacular. The grounds were amazing and we enjoyed strolling around looking at all of the plants & flowers in bloom. Highly recommend visiting here. I felt like I was traveling through Europe while I walked the grounds. * Summer ~ Open Monday - Sunday 9 am - 7 pm *No Admission for the park ~ However, DONATIONS are greatly appreciated! *NO Reservation necessary *For Tour Groups of 20+ you will need a permit from Yonkers Park Dept. *Free Parking *Check the website for more info read more

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Came to this location for a music event they were having in the gardens. This place is gorgeous. The pictures thought nice, don't do it justice. The day I went was lovely weather. Sunny but not humid and a nice breeze. The views are breath taking. So many locations to look at and take the sights in. Location is accessable as well. read more

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I had the opportunity to visit the gardens twice in the past month. Each time it was just perfect. Easy parking, free admission, not crazy busy and beautifully cared for grounds. Take time to spend a few hours and read what you can about its most interesting history. There's flowers, architecture, sculpture/art, grottos, views, and peaceful surroundings. Lots of places to sit and rest. Great for professional picture taking. read more

Wow, fall foliage is really in full bloom here & the gardens are spectacular! Clean bathrooms, free parking, and lots of benches made our visit comfortable. I'm surprised to see a lot of school children here today picking up colorful leaves. read more

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This is a hidden gem that I am so glad we visited. The gardens are gorgeous and have so many different things to see. It doesn't feel so big that it's overwhelming, you need maybe 2-4 hours depending on if you're trying to take a lot of pictures. They also have a small hiking trail there if you're looking to do something a bit more. I really liked the way they have designed the different areas of the garden and the waterfall is very soothing to watch. Inside the gardens there is no area to picnic but they have spots where you could sit and hangout. They have a separate picnic area outside of the gardens, the view isn't the greatest but it's nice and relaxing and not too crowded. They only have a few picnic tables so make sure to bring your picnic set up so you can sit in the grass. The earlier you go the better. We got there around 10am and it was only slightly crowded, parking was manageable and there was no traffic to get inside. However, as we left around 1ish, it was very crowded and it was getting a little too congested in the gardens. The parking situation also wasn't great at this point and there were long lines for cars to get into the garden. read more

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This is a beautiful park, free to enter, has some beautiful views and architecture. The garden has a love temple sitting on top of hill. Underneath there's a long walkway alongside flower garden. On the right side of the entrance, there's doorway to main garden. It has a giant water fountain which was dry because of winter. This garden has multiple structures that look Greek inspired. Another huge pool looking out to the Hudson. Even though the garden is wonderful, yet it is under maintained. Lots of weeds and dirts. It takes little over an hour to explore the whole park. Parking is difficult to get in the lot, so many visitors park on the street. read more

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Wonder park and garden by the river. It's quite cold now and flowers will start to bloom in couple weeks. I'm sure it will look more vibrant and colorful in April/May. Good walking path for short hike. There's a temple, gazebo, flowers, old building structures. Great photo spots. Many senior students were there for prom pictures. It's free and based on donations. Free parking lot but it's small. Street parking is available as well. read more

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This was one of the most stunning gardens l've visited and can you believe is in Yonkers? You must visit this hidden gem. They have beautiful trials you can walk on with stunning views of the Hudson river. I went on a very hot/humid day so I didnt stay long but I think you can tourr all of it in about 2hrs at a moderate pace. Lots of photo ops everywhere. There's even a section outside the gate where you can sit and have a picnic. I witness 2 marriage proposals at the lover's tower. This is the perfect place for a date, a family trip or just to go with friends for a nice afternoon picnic. Best of all is that it's absolutely free. There's free parking and you can check calendar of event as they often have musical performance in the afternoon read more

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Beautiful location perfect for a stroll or a photoshoot. I was here on Saturday for my anniversary photoshoot and although crowded, it was expected because it was a weekend. This place is beautiful and i can't wait to see how the photos come out. The only con is there's not a lot of parking on site but there's plenty of street parking, there's also a restroom on-site read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

What a beautiful place! Such an interesting history getting inspiration from Persian gardens, fountains from Alhambra, castles, the Roman's and Greeks, etc. It all goes together beautifully. You can spend a good amount of time here exploring the expansive grounds and the different areas. Lots of beautiful flowers in bloom. I imagine it looks so nice in every season. read more

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This was my third visit, and I just realized I had been missing a whole section--with beautiful water features and scenic walking trails! Such a peaceful, stunning place to spend a few hours. There's a creative energy here, with people doing photo shoots, making art, and even live concerts from time to time. Untermyer Gardens is a hidden gem that keeps revealing more each time I come. read more

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Gorgeous find within the city. What a hidden gem!? Definitely come and check it out. There is no entrance fee and street parking if you can find it. We didn't try to park on the grounds as it is limited. Such an oasis and spectacularly maintained. Well done. read more

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This is one of my favorite parks to walk around on a nice day! I love that its free to enjoy and I usually bring a book to read on the grass. Its beautiful maintained in every season with flowers and the views of the Hudson are gorgeous! read more

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This garden is located about an hour from NYC and offers free admission to explore its beautiful, serene grounds. My friends and I spent around three hours there, hiking, walking, and discovering hidden gems throughout the forest. It's an ideal spot for wedding and special occasion photography, but read up on their policy before planning any professional photo shoots. Overall, worth exploring if you have time. Beautiful place. read more

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This park is so beautiful! I love to hike & see new places. I came here w/ my cousin,friend,& her mom. We came after lunch which I loved b/c I could burn off some calories. I def will be back! The scenic views were magical to me! read more

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Spent s very relaxing & enjoyable 2hrsa here on a beautiful spring weekday. Had always heard sboiy these gardens but hsf never been I'm so happy that I went Took lots of picturesas everthing was blooming. Everyone wanted to know where I took such beautiful photos. With only a 2hr visit I'm sure I only scratched the surface & so I know that I will have to visit again read more

The Grand Holiday Illumination is a truly magical experience featuring lights that are as beautifully strung as the gardens are cultivated during the spring, summer, and fall. Classical selections such as Handel's Messiah provide an auditory backdrop that enhances the enchantment while strolling through the Indo-Persian walled garden. There's also a free hot chocolate station to warm up after your fingers freeze from taking several Instagram-worthy photos and selfies with your companions. read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - Grand Holiday Illumination - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

We visited Untermyer Gardens this morning and enjoyed our experience. Located in Yonkers, NY, it is a place I completely didn't expect to step back in time. Everything all around looked interesting, we will return when areas will be in full bloom. read more

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This was amongst 4 gardens that I wanted to visit this summer. On a whim, I decided to make the trip one Sunday afternoon. I considered the hour long drive from Southeast Queens and times it for a 2:30 arrival. In my mind, this would allowed for about. 2 hr visit and plenty of time to grab a bite locally before heading back. We pull in to the garden and both sides of the parking lot were full, we had to find street parking a block away. There is no formal check in. However, there are volunteers at the front who welcome donations. Right to the left of the volunteers is a slight incline with a memorial / flagpole. They have the name of officers who have passed on bricks in a semi circle. Bathrooms and water stations are right past that area as you approach the actual garden. The gardens are approximately 43 acres of what is now a public park and the site is what's left of Samuel Untermyer's original 150-acre sprawling estate. It's situated on a bluff overlooking the banks of the Hudson River and provides stunning views from certain lookout points. You're greeted by a huge trees towering over a lily pond which is immediately followed by a long pathway with running fountains and a grand courtyard with beautiful trees and flowers. This particular area was popular with couples taking engagement and wedding shoots. Off to the left side is a beautiful turquoise marble pool (do not get in) which is immediately followed by the most stunning Mountain View's you've seen on this side of NY. Beyond this point, it's a beaten path that is quite rocky so I def recommend good sneakers. This leads you down past a cascading staircase ( see photos) of easily 100 steps that connects to the very end of the property. The views are just breathtaking from the stairs. Off to the right of the stairs they have an Ornamental Garden with vegetables that were ready for harvest. Once you get to the bottom, you'll probably need lots of water, an energy bar and rest before hiking back to the top. On the day I visited, it was 98 degrees and to say it felt like we could touch the sun would be an understatement. I def recommend going early morning, wearing sunscreen and a hat. Overall, the garden is magical. Bring lunch and have a picnic like the many families who seemed to be using the property for just that. There's a plaza about 5 mins away either way Dunkin and a convenience store should you need one. read more

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Untermyer Gardens is stunning and peaceful, with beautifully maintained landscapes, waterfalls, and incredible views of the Hudson River. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, photography, or enjoying a bit of history and nature all in one visit. read more

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Free? Sign me up. This place is great as a date or just to take your parents. The grounds are completely free and there are some cute trails that take you through the venue. Untermyer has really beautiful locations that make for really nice photo opps, including the water fall and gazebo. Columns and Sphinx also inhabit this place, and we were really surprised at how beautiful (and free!) everything was. read more

I went to the Untermeyer Gardens this past weekend. What a beautiful way you spend my sunday. The place has alot of history dating back to the 1300s. Beautiful green space with with great views and a great way to relax. We spent the day thete. We picnicked and just layed out and had a great stressfree and relaxing day. Did I mentioned iits free and free parking is available. Totally a must do this summer.. read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - Smelling the roses - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

I attended the Grand Holiday Illumination here. The location is decorated with Christmas lights and there is free hot chocolate provided by the Girls scouts. The grounds and buildings looked beautiful. I would like to return in the day time to see more architectural details and to check out the hiking trails. The grounds have free parking and restrooms. read more

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It's great in all seasons! We just got done with a very quick and very cold visit to the winter illumination on a Saturday night. We got there at 4 and everything was already lit and music was playing. Hubby got a few moments of "good light" for photography. At 4:30 a good number of folks rolled in and parking would be a squeeze. Bathrooms are open. Enjoy! read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - The sunflower garden within a garden. - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

One of my absolute favorite places in all of NY. If you haven't been to this glorious park yet its totally worth a short trek from the boroughs. Upon entering you will feel transported into a Venetian garden surrounded by stunning landscaping, ponds, pools, waterfalls, lush plants and endless vistas throughout. As you make your way though the park the views of the Hudson just add the to juxtaposition of this gem. Excellent location for photographers and anyone looking to disconnect and relax, and forget you are still in New York. I make it a point to drop in every time I can. *Professional photographers may request permission for wedding and commercial shoots in advance. read more

I really enjoyed this place! My husband surprised me by taking me here on a "dateventure" as we call them. :) The gardens are gorgeous, and the history of this place is so interesting. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable. We enjoyed talking to them! We spent about 2 hours here, and that was with stopping and taking many photos, as well as sitting on the many benches along the way to take in the sights. I highly recommend visiting here! read more

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Came back again this year for the light show. It has been a tradition that we pick up during the pandemic & plan to continue. Beautiful light display, with calming music. They finished doing the mini pool this year which make our visit more beautiful. They had free chocolate this year too. A fan of this place, entrance is free, with street parking available. Don't forget to donate if you can afford. read more

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I saw this place on TikTok so many times but I have not had time all summer really until literally the last week of summer. We took the MetroNorth train to Greystone which was a 35 minute train ride. It was a 20 minute uphill walk to the garden which was fine for me since I do stairmaster at the gym haha. You could probably take the bus from the train station but we were fine with walking. The garden was free which was amazing since it's pretty large (43 acres). There's restrooms near the entrance. They renovate parts of it periodically so it's very well maintained. I really liked the Temple of the Love and the Walled Garden areas. The Temple of Love looks better from the bottom. There's also walking paths along the Hudson River which was nice. I would definitely come back! They seem to light it up for Christmas as well. read more

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy - Temple of Love - Parks Near Me - Yonkers, New York

This park was full of cool stuff, some of it reminiscent of what I'd seen in Greece. It closed pretty early, but we had time to run around it real quick and explore. There was a cool waterfall and some views of the cliffs. It has a botanic garden feel to it, but is more than that. read more

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An aerial view of Untermyer Park really captures its beauty! I've been to the park countless times when I lived in New York, so I've had the chance to see it transform over the years through all the renovations. Every time I visit, it seems to get more and more beautiful, thanks to the dedicated work of the staff. The park offers a stunning view of the Hudson River, and there are so many picturesque spots, perfect for photos. People like create memories here, taking professional photosession. A lot of private and public events are performed here. Once I visited during Christmas time, and all the lights and decorations made it feel truly magical. Free parking lot, clean restrooms, free entry. It's a gorgeous park that I highly recommend to anyone--it's a place that just keeps getting better! read more

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A beautiful grounds filled with art and nature! It's like stepping back into time this well maintained grounds is perfect for walking, picnics, and just enjoying life! It's very beautiful garden with trails there is some shade and benches to sit down and enjoy ! There are several sculptures / points of interest to see scattered along the grounds. It can take a bit of a while to see them all and the grounds tend to get crowded in the summertime when we went but it is well worth it :) read more

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I'm not even sure how I heard of this place. May have been Yelp!, may have been online. I'm just glad that I found this place because it's simply magical! Came here a few weekends ago before hitting up some of the local breweries in the area. You're best, and only bet on getting here is driving since I didn't see any public transportation around. The parking is TIGHT! Especially on a busy summer weekend. We had to keep circling until someone pulled out. What's great about this is that not only is it a beautiful conservancy/garden, but they also have concerts, hold workshops and have classes! When you come in, they have people at a table that can give you all the information that you need. Across from them are the bathrooms. I didn't use them, but they seemed clean from what I saw. Definitely pick up a map so you can know where you are going and make sure not to miss anything. The place is deceptively huge so you can miss a lot. There's lots of history here and so many pretty spots to take pictures and soak in all of the beautiful scenery. There's a TON of walking to do here with many hills and steps. It's definitely a good hike, so wear good walking shoes and bring water. The Vista is one of the first overlooks that you will come to upon entering. Many flights of steps down, but once you get there, the view of the Hudson River is glorious. My favorite part of the garden is the Temple of Love. Surrounded by a stream and fountain. Once you climb up to the gazebo, you will have the best view of the Hudson Valley in the immediate area! Upon exiting, you have the ampitheater where they hold the concerts. In that area there are a few picnic tables so if you bring food, you can have yourself a little picnic. You can also bring chairs to set yourself up on the lawn to watch the free shows. I recommend coming here immensely!! The most amazing views with beautiful scenery. Great photo opportunities. You won't be disappointed. read more

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Overall rating: 5 I've been wanting to go here for years and it was totally worth the commute. Coming from Brooklyn, this was a 2hr commute!! I could speak on and on and on and on: the beautiful trees, the flowers, the space, no people, the air, the scenery, the clouds, the benches, everything. But the pictures do enough! Highly recommend. read more

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Some people go to New York for the hustle and bustle of NYC. I was able to enjoy the more nature driven side north of NY with the help with my sister driving us around! My lord what a gorgeous scene Untermyer was! Even writing this review I want to go back and see the sights again. You get a grand picturesque view across the hudson towards the cliff side of NJ and everything about the garden was just so breath taking! I just fell in love with the vast selection of maples they had here lol! And boy where they so many Japanese variations! Especially towards the temple of love where it was just lined with maples! Could spend hours here if we didn't have places to go and more things to see. Would 1000% recommend a visit if you love the nature and want to see a different side that NY has to offer. read more

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