The Grand and Beautiful Untermyer Park in Yonkers NY
Untermyer Gardens sphynxes from southeast by Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0
|
Untermyer Park is located in the Glenwood/Greystone neighborhood of Yonkers, NY on a hillside above the Hudson River. The park features Roman Style Amphitheater, Classical Pavilion and lovely gardens - it even has 2000 year old Roman columns imported from Italy. Many newlyweds, grads, and family portraits book timeslots to take their special occasion pictures here among koi ponds and a waterfall.
As part of the Yonkers Public Parks system, the garden is free to visit. Donations are welcome to help with the continued restoration efforts. Though it fell into disrepair between caretakers, the passion and belief in the park curators have had have made it the breathtaking and calming place that it is today. The park offers paid tours and educational programs so visitors can delve deeper into the hidden life and offerings of the park. Knowledgeable tour guides help point out species to burgeoning bird watchers, share knowledge on the plantlife that thrive in the park, or provide insight to the various nuggets of history hidden in the park's 40 acres. Additionally, the park offers school tours specifically geared to various ages to have the most fun and educational experience in the park. From focusing on sensory adventures that allow little ones to touch and feel various features in the garden, to discussing the mythology of the many sculptures and statues, the tours pique class curiosity and wonder. |
Untermyer Garden Temple of Love - Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0
|
The Untermyer Garden and Park has many wonderful places to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting. The babbling brook, the picnic lawn, and the overlook all provide unique and incredible vistas. A trail winds through the park, allowing visitors to have a self-guided experience to every feature.
The park features classical architecture and sculptures and a plethora of plants and pollinators. The founder of the gardens was an avid horticulturist, and the garden reflects his love of plants. In the winter, the park is lit up with Christmas lights. In the warmer months, flowers are in full bloom. Throughout the year, the restored canals, mosaics, and views across the river amaze. Beyond the gardens, the park also offers concerts in the classical-styled ampitheatre. Other programs, like open-air yoga and photography tours encourage visitors to interact with the park in new ways. You can learn more about what is going on at the park each season by visiting their website. Untermyer Park and Gardens is a cherished and revered landmark of Yonkers, just like the founder hoped when he donated his estate in 1940. His goal of making 'the best gardens in America' is realized every day by the dedicated park staff and volunteers, and the visitors who derive so much joy from the wondrous sights, sounds, and scents of the extensive gardens and grounds. |