The Bronx is a place with lots of interesting and fun stuff to see and do. When it comes to tourist recommendations, Manhattan is commonly touted as the borough where to experience the vibrant energy and excitement of the Big Apple. The Bronx is without its own unique places. In this blog post, I’ll present you with 10 places in the Bronx I personally picked that are off the beaten path or infamous and not well known by most tourists.
Buckle up, because this tour is going to be a ride through one of New York’s most underrated boroughs.
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1.
St. Ann’s Church
~ 295 St Ann’s Ave ~
St Ann’s Church is the oldest surviving church in the Bronx and second oldest in New York City. This sacred ground serves as the final resting place for individuals of profound historical significance, such as Judge Lewis Morris (1671-1746), the esteemed first Governor of New Jersey, and Major General Lewis Morris (1726-1798), a distinguished member of the Continental Congress and signer of the Declaration of Independence.
2.
FreshDirect
~ 2 St Ann’s Ave ~
FreshDirect is an online grocery company founded in 1999. FreshDirect serves the New York metropolitan region as well as parts of Central New Jersey, Southern Connecticut, and Eastern Long Island. As of May 2024, FreshDirect serves 23 counties in the New York tristate area. They offer their services via a website and mobile app. In July 2018, FreshDirect opened a 500,000-square-foot distribution hub and corporate headquarters in the Bronx. The company was instrumental in promoting food sustainability and locally sourced products. FreshDirect custom-packages groceries and meals using just-in-time manufacturing to reduce waste and ensure quality and freshness. They focus on buying directly from farms and emphasize organic and locally grown items. FreshDirect also stocks and delivers numerous kosher foods and is recognized as a certified sustainable seafood vendor by the Marine Stewardship Council.
3.
Happy Land Social Club
~ 1959 Southern Boulevard ~
In 1990, a profound tragedy unfolded at this very site, forever etching its sorrow into the fabric of our collective memory. Even now, decades later, a poignant tribute persists: a delicate array of flowers, delicately lining the threshold of the once-bustling social club, serving as a solemn homage to the lives lost in that fateful event. Despite its historical significance, this somber locale seldom draws the attention of tourists. Personally, each contemplation of that tragic day evokes a profound sense of sadness within me, a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring weight of loss. May the souls of the departed find eternal peace. As custodians of this poignant chapter in history, I firmly believe in preserving the sanctity of this space, refraining from its commercialization or transformation into a mere tourist attraction. Some memories are too sacred to be commodified; they deserve to be honored with reverence and respect, allowing future generations to reflect solemnly upon the lessons of the past.
4.
The Hunts Point Cooperative Market
~ 355 Food Center Dr ~
Nestled within the southern reaches of the Bronx lies a sprawling complex, a bustling hub teeming with vitality and diversity. Here, amidst its expansive walls, one discovers a cornucopia of culinary delights, ranging from succulent poultry and fresh fish to vibrant fruits, vegetables, and an array of meats. For the adventurous traveler seeking a unique experience amidst the bustling streets of New York City, this hidden gem beckons with promises of culinary exploration and discovery. Far from the well-trodden tourist paths, this complex stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Bronx, injecting a palpable sense of revitalization into its surrounding environs. Frequented not only by discerning New Yorkers but also by curious visitors eager to sample its vast selection of meats and produce, this establishment embodies the rich tapestry of cultures and flavors that define the city’s culinary landscape. With each visit, patrons embark on a sensory journey, savoring the tastes and aromas of this thriving epicenter of gastronomic delight.
5.
Lee Harvey Oswald’s Residence
~ 825 East 179th Street ~
For a brief period during the 1950s, Lee Harvey Oswald and his family resided within the Bronx, weaving their lives into the tapestry of this vibrant borough. Their presence graced various locales, including residences along Southern Boulevard and another unnamed area within the Bronx. The enigmatic aura surrounding Oswald, steeped in historical notoriety, lends an intriguing dimension to these otherwise ordinary streets. It is this very fascination with Oswald’s past that prompts its inclusion among the ranks of unconventional destinations, beckoning curious souls to explore the lesser-known chapters of history hidden within the Bronx’s bustling thoroughfares.
6.
Woodlawn Cemetery
~ 4199 Webster Ave ~
This sprawling, 400-acre cemetery is the final resting place of numerous celebrities, including Florence Mills, Duke Ellington, Herman Melville, et al. It is located in the northern part of the borough, adjacent to Yonkers. Easily accessible via convenient public transportation, Woodlawn Cemetery welcomes visitors from near and far to pay their respects and explore its storied grounds. Whether wandering along its tree-lined avenues or admiring the intricate craftsmanship of its historic monuments and mausoleums, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and timeless beauty of this revered landmark. As one of the Bronx’s most cherished cultural treasures, Woodlawn Cemetery stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy of those who rest within its hallowed grounds.
7.
Yankee Stadium I
~ 1 E 161 St ~
“The House that Ruth Built,” as it was popularly known, existed from 1923 until 2008, when it was demolished. The Yankees now play in their new home less than a block north of the old stadium. The original Yankee Stadium knew many historic moments, including 39 World Series. If you’re in the need to quench your nostalgia, you can visit Heritage Park, site where once stood the original Yankee Stadium; if you’re also feeling playful, you may want to bring a bat and a glove and a buddy so you can practice on the field where legends once stood.
8.
Edgar Allan Poe Cottage
~ 2640 Grand Concourse ~
Located just off Grant Concourse, a renowned boulevard in the borough, it served as a haven of creativity and inspiration. For those inclined towards adventure, a visit to this quaint abode is a must, situated conveniently close to bustling shopping centers as well as Fordham University.
9.
The Bronx High School of Science
~ 75 W 205th St ~
Established in 1938, it has a long-standing reputation for excellence and has produced numerous distinguished alumni in various fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The school’s selective admissions process ensures that it attracts some of the brightest students from across the city. With state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty, The Bronx High School of Science provides students with unparalleled opportunities for intellectual growth and achievement. Its vibrant community fosters a culture of innovation, critical thinking, and academic excellence, preparing students for success in college and beyond. I myself took the exam for this school when I was in junior high in the fall of 1989 and missed it by 12 points [the minimum test score needed was 500]. I remember the first question. It was a multiple-choice for the word ‘squalor’. At the time, I didn’t know what that word meant. Instead, I was accepted to my second-choice school, Brooklyn Technical High School.
10.
Lehman Center for the Performing Arts
~ 250 Bedford Park Blvd W ~
This performing arts center, situated in close proximity to the Bronx High School of Science, has welcomed a multitude of both international and American performers over the years. Serving as a versatile venue for various events, it may not rival Manhattan’s Radio City Music Hall in scale of world renown, but it shines as a cherished jewel within the performing arts landscape. Residents of the northern part of the borough take pride in this cultural gem, which enriches the community with its vibrant performances and events.