New York · Est. 1965
Wave Hill
A 28-acre public garden and cultural center overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades.
Founded
1965
Size
28 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 7b
Best Season
April to October
About Wave Hill
Wave Hill is a spectacular 28-acre public garden and cultural center situated in the Hudson Hill section of Riverdale in the Bronx. It offers expansive views across the Hudson River to the New Jersey Palisades. The estate features formal gardens, a conservatory, and a 10-acre native second-growth forest.
History & Heritage
The original Wave Hill House was built in 1843 by lawyer William Lewis Morris. Over the years, it hosted notable figures including Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, and Arturo Toscanini. In 1960, the Perkins-Freeman family deeded the estate to the City of New York, and it officially opened as a public botanical garden in 1965.
Signature Feature
Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory
Named after Wave Hill's founding Director of Horticulture, this conservatory features three distinct environments. It includes the Palm House, the Tropical House, and the Cactus and Succulent House, which contains over 1,100 container-grown plants.
Photo Gallery
The Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory at Wave Hill
Beautiful flower gardens overlooking the Hudson River
Lush greenery and historic architecture at Wave Hill
Notable Collections
T. H. Everett Alpine House
Features a collection of alpine plants displayed in a specialized environment.
Herbert & Hyonja Abrons Woodland
A 10-acre native second-growth forest with a scenic woodland path.
Aquatic & Monocot Garden
Showcases a variety of water-loving plants and monocots in a tranquil setting.
Herb and Dry Gardens
A collection of aromatic herbs and drought-tolerant plants.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Tue-Sun 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Closed Mondays
Best seasonal window: April to October
Parking & Arrival
Limited onsite parking available; offsite parking with shuttle service on weekends.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Most garden areas and buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- National Register of Historic Places
- New York City Designated Landmark
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
April to October
Address
4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471
Phone
718-549-3200
Hours
Tue-Sun 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Closed Mondays
Admission
Adults $10, Students & Seniors $6, Children $4
Parking
Limited onsite parking available; offsite parking with shuttle service on weekends.
Accessibility
Most garden areas and buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Insider Tips
- 1Visit the Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory to see the impressive cactus and succulent collection.
- 2Take a walk along the Abrons Woodland path for a peaceful nature experience.
- 3Enjoy the stunning views of the Hudson River and Palisades from the Pergola.
- 4Check the schedule for art exhibitions at Glyndor House during your visit.
Nearby Attractions
- Van Cortlandt Park (1.5 miles)
- The Met Cloisters (4.5 miles)
- New York Botanical Garden (3.5 miles)