5 Best Things to Do in New Rochelle, NY

By VI Staff on July 13, 2020 - Updated

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Only about a thirty minute trip by train from New York CIty’s Grand Central Terminal, New Rochelle offers a great escape from the city and fun day trip or weekend getaway. The town features a historic downtown district featuring stunning architecture just a few steps outside of the train station, as well as a creative-minded and diverse population, beautiful waterfront parks, and an internationally flavored food scene. With an urban-suburban feel, New Rochelle offers a bit of history with the Thomas Paine Cottage Museum, outdoor recreation at the Glen Island Park, and tasty food at several restaurants. CDC information for travelers. Hours/availability may have changed.

1.Glen Island Park

The Glen Island Park is one of the jewels of Westchester County, encompassing more than one hundred acres and is connected to the town of New Rochelle, New York by a historic drawbridge dating back to the 1920’s. The park features a gorgeous crescent-shaped beach and access to the scenic Long Island Sound. There are also several open picnic areas, picnic pavilions, a restaurant, numerous pathways, and boat launches. Many events and activities also take place throughout the year at Glen Island Park, and a number of buildings and sculptures can be seen from the park’s days as a resort area.

Weyman Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10805, Phone: 914-813-6720

2.Thomas Paine Cottage Museum

The former residence of Thomas Paine, the Thomas Paine Cottage Museum highlights the local history and the life of the man whose pamphlet titled Common Sense helped ignite the American Revolution. The house is now the Huguenot and New Rochelle Historical Association’s headquarters and displays a number of exhibits featuring furniture and artifacts that date back to the eighteenth century up to modern day. The Thomas Paine Cottage Museum also features a variety of temporary exhibits during the year, as well as provides tours of the museum during which guests can ask questions and learn more about the site.

20 Sicard Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10804, Phone: 914-633-1776

3.KI Martial Arts

KI Martial Arts is named after the Japanese character of “KI” which means “Life Force, Breath, Energy, Vital Energy, Spirit, Spiritual Energy” and something that “enables life and the existence of things in the universe.” The martial arts studio in New Rochelle, New York offers a variety of classes, including self defense, fitness and conditioning, kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, Israeli Self Defense, Krav Maga, and World Champion Shotokan Karate. KI Martial Arts welcomes people of all ages and skill levels to join one of the many fitness or martial arts classes and offers a free-trial class to anyone interested.

50 North Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10805, Phone: 914-961-1111

4.AJ's Burgers

The mission of AJ’s Burgers is to serve the thickest shakes, freshly cut fries, and great burgers. However, the restaurant is much more than a simple burger joint, offering a contemporary menu of Italian and American dishes within a friendly and relaxed environment right in the heart of town. The menu at AJ’s Burgers includes a combination of seasonal and regional American cuisine, Italian classics, hearty salads, barbecue, creative sandwiches, and seafood. With a mission to prepare delicious and clean food, the restaurant strives to use the freshest natural ingredients available and nearly everything is made from scratch.

542 North Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10801, Phone: 914-235-3009

5.Alvin & Friends

Alvin and Friends serves a menu of contemporary cuisine with influences from the Caribbean and the southern United States in a sophisticated and elegant setting. The dining room contains dozens of Matisse-inspired beautiful oil paintings that were created by Alvin Clayton, the owner of the restaurant, himself and have become part of the signature look of the local eatery. Alvin and Friends has been called a “darling of downtown New Rochelle” by The New York Times and has received the Diner’s Choice award by OpenTable. Live music can often be heard during the evening on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

14 Memorial Hwy, New Rochelle, NY 10801, Phone: 914-654-6549