Need a coastal city escape just outside Manhattan? Head to New Rochelle! Enjoy waterfront parks, vibrant downtown dining, and a rich mix of history and modern attractions. Whether you're looking for beaches, culture, or easy urban access, New Rochelle offers a refreshing, lively getaway right on Long Island Sound.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit New Rochelle is from late spring to early fall (May through October). Warmer months are ideal for beach outings, boat tours, outdoor festivals, and enjoying waterfront parks. Fall brings gorgeous foliage throughout Westchester County.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: New Rochelle is located off I-95 and the Hutchinson River Parkway, about 30 minutes northeast of Midtown Manhattan and 20 minutes south of White Plains.
- By Train: Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line stops at New Rochelle Station, offering fast access to and from Grand Central Terminal in NYC.
- By Air: Nearby airports include Westchester County Airport (HPN) about 30 minutes away and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) about 25–30 minutes away.
Where to Stay
- Residence Inn New Rochelle – All-suite hotel with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays and steps from downtown dining and shopping.
- Hotel NoMa – Modern hotel with a pool and views of Long Island Sound, close to the Metro-North Station.
- Hyatt Place New York/Yonkers – Nearby option in Yonkers with spacious rooms, a pool, and easy access to New Rochelle and the Bronx.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Stroll, Picnic, and Soak Up the Views at 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.
Address: Weyman Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10805, Phone: 914-813-6720
⮕ If You Love Revolutionary History, Tour the 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
Where to Eat:
⮕ Bite Into Classic Comfort Food with a Twist at 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
⮕ If You’re Craving Soulful Cuisine and Stylish Vibes, Dine at 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
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Explore Hudson Park and Beach – Stroll along the waterfront, swim in summer, or attend outdoor concerts and festivals.
- Walk through New Roc City – Family-friendly entertainment complex featuring mini-golf, bowling, an arcade, and a movie theater.
- Enjoy waterfront dining at the Marina District – Dine with views of boats and sunsets along Long Island Sound.
More Places to Eat
- NoMa Social – Trendy Mediterranean-inspired spot perfect for tapas, cocktails, and lively weekend vibes.
- Posto 22 – Classic Italian-American fare with a cozy atmosphere and great wine list downtown.
- A Place 2 Go West Indian Restaurant – Vibrant Caribbean flavors served in generous portions in a casual setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- New Rochelle ArtsFest (October) – Celebrate the city's vibrant arts scene with gallery tours, public art, performances, and family activities.
- New Rochelle Farmers Market (Summer–Fall) – Weekly market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts downtown.
- New Rochelle Thanksgiving Parade (November) – One of the largest parades in New York State featuring floats, marching bands, and entertainers.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of New Rochelle, New York:
- Bronx Zoo (20–25 min) – Visit one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world, with wildlife exhibits and a children's zoo.
- Wave Hill (20–25 min) – Explore beautiful gardens and views overlooking the Hudson River in the Bronx.
- City Island (20–25 min) – Quaint island neighborhood known for its seafood restaurants and New England vibes.
- Pelham Bay Park (15–20 min) – NYC's largest park, offering trails, beaches, and golf courses just a short drive away.
- White Plains (20–25 min) – Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment at The Westchester mall or downtown White Plains.
- Rye Playland (20–25 min) – Classic amusement park and beach fun along the Long Island Sound shoreline.
- Yonkers Waterfront (20 min) – Walk along scenic piers, visit waterfront restaurants, and explore urban parks along the Hudson River.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How far is New Rochelle from New York City?
- 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 a fun day trip or weekend getaway.
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What can visitors see in downtown New Rochelle?
- The town features a historic downtown district with stunning architecture just a few steps outside of the train station, along with a creative-minded and diverse population.
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What outdoor attractions does New Rochelle offer?
- New Rochelle boasts beautiful waterfront parks and offers outdoor recreation at Glen Island Park.
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What historical and cultural sites are in New Rochelle?
- Visitors can explore a bit of history at the Thomas Paine Cottage Museum and enjoy an internationally flavored food scene with several excellent restaurants.
At a Glance:
Driving Times to New Rochelle, New York
| From | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Boston, MA | 4-5 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 4-5 hours |
| New York, NY | 1-2 hours |
| Albany, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Portland, ME | 5-6 hours |
Map of New Rochelle, New York Attractions:
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