Picture this: a light dusting of snow on a historic mansion, the sound of ice skates scraping across a fresh rink, and the warm glow of a million holiday lights reflecting off the Hudson River.
That’s Yonkers in winter. While most folks think of the city in its sunny summer glory, the winter season carves out a quieter, cozier, and downright magical side of Westchester’s hidden gem.
Forget what you thought you knew. This list is your secret guide to the most memorable spots, from dazzling light displays to tucked-away historical treasures.
This is the season to discover Yonkers like a true local, so bundle up and let’s dive into the very best places to visit in Yonkers this winter.
1. The Grand Holiday Illumination at Untermyer Gardens
Let’s start with a scene that looks straight out of a storybook. From early December through early January, the breathtaking Untermyer Park and Gardens is transformed into a glowing wonderland of lights and color.
This isn’t your average string of bulbs; it’s the spectacular Grand Holiday Illumination, and it’s absolutely free to enjoy. You’ll walk winding paths lined with thousands of twinkling lights, making the famous Walled Garden and its intricate Persian-style design shine like a jewel.
Imagine the crisp winter air, a warm drink in your hand, and these historic gardens painted in light. It’s one of the most magical holiday activities you can do in Westchester, and it’s right here in Yonkers.
This is a top-tier destination for your winter trip to Yonkers, offering a peaceful and utterly romantic evening that will be the highlight of your season. You’ll be pinching yourself to make sure you’re still in New York.
2. E.J. Murray Memorial Skating Center
When the temperature drops, it’s time to lace up. The E.J. Murray Memorial Skating Center is the premier spot for winter fun in Yonkers.
This public ice rink is where locals go to glide, laugh, and make the most of the chilly weather. They even host a fantastic Winter Ice Festival in mid-December, packed with special activities that bring the whole community together.
Whether you’re a graceful skater or a total newbie clinging to the wall, the atmosphere is pure joy. It’s the perfect place to create classic winter memories with family and friends.
For a dose of active, affordable, and authentic winter fun in the heart of Yonkers, you can’t beat a few hours on the ice. This is the definition of a quintessential winter activity.
3. Ridge Hill Shopping Center
Sometimes the best winter activity is a fantastic shopping trip where you can stay warm. Ridge Hill is more than just a shopping center; it’s a bustling winter hub.
You’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to popular national stores, all decorated for the season. It’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts, indulge in some retail therapy, or simply enjoy a stroll in a festive, climate-controlled environment.
The center often hosts seasonal events, making it a lively place to be. You can shop for everyone on your list, grab a bite at one of the many eateries offering options for both veggie lovers and meat enthusiasts, and soak up the holiday spirit.
For a complete and cozy day out during your winter visit to Yonkers, Ridge Hill delivers.
4. Yonkers Riverfront Library (Atrium)
When you need a quiet escape from the bustle, head to the stunning Yonkers Riverfront Library. Its grand atrium, with soaring ceilings and modern architecture, is a serene sanctuary.
It’s a wonderful place to curl up with a good book, get some work done, or just enjoy the peaceful views of the Hudson River.
The library is also a vibrant community center, hosting special winter events like cultural book giveaways that celebrate the season.
It’s a warm, welcoming, and intellectually stimulating spot that proves one of the best places to go in Yonkers in winter can be a haven of quiet warmth and inspiration.
5. Sherwood House Museum
Step back in time at the Sherwood House Museum, a beautifully preserved 1740 farmhouse on the National Register of Historic Places. This Yonkers Historical Society gem feels extra special in winter.
While the society’s season ends with a lovely Candlelight Tour in early December, the exterior and grounds are worth a visit to appreciate its history.
Picture the historic clapboard siding against a gray winter sky—it’s a beautiful and pensive scene. Learning about Yonkers’ deep roots is a fascinating way to spend a winter afternoon.
It offers a unique, educational layer to your trip and is a key stop for any history lover exploring Yonkers this winter.
6. The Winter Wonderland at Kensico Dam Plaza
Just a short drive north in Valhalla, the Kensico Dam Plaza transforms into a legendary Westchester Winter Wonderland through December.
We’re talking a full-on drive-thru holiday light extravaganza with massive tunnels of light, animated displays, and enough festive spirit to fill your car with oohs and aahs.
It’s a hassle-free, totally magical experience the whole family will adore. You stay cozy in your car while enjoying a spectacular show.
For an unforgettable and easy winter night out near Yonkers, this iconic light display is a can’t-miss attraction that defines holiday magic in the region.
7. Bernice Spreckman Community Center
This is where Yonkers’ community heart beats strong in winter. The Bernice Spreckman Community Center is a hub for hands-on, family-friendly fun.
They host wonderful seasonal workshops, like a Wreath Decorating Class where you can craft your own stunning seasonal décor.
It’s a chance to get creative, meet friendly locals, and take home a beautiful handmade souvenir.
These affordable, welcoming workshops represent the authentic, small-town community feel that makes Yonkers such a special place to visit in winter. Checking their schedule is a must for a truly local experience.
8. Historic Hudson River Museums & Mansions
Yonkers sits right on the edge of the Hudson Valley, famous for its stunning historic estates. While places like Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown are a quick drive away, they offer world-class winter programming.
Imagine touring a grand, decorated Gothic Revival mansion or attending a winter theater performance in a historic setting.
These nearby treasures offer a majestic and culturally rich winter day trip. Exploring these opulent homes and their festive decorations is one of the most splendid things to do near Yonkers in winter, connecting you to the grandeur of New York history.
9. Coyne Park & Playground
Don’t let the cold keep the kids from burning off energy. Coyne Park is a fantastic spot for simple, joyful winter play. With open fields perfect for a friendly snowball fight after a fresh snowfall and playgrounds for climbing, it’s a local favorite for family time.
The park also hosts wonderful community events, like a Project Friendship Holiday Party, bringing neighbors together for seasonal cheer. It’s proof that some of the best winter fun is free, easy, and found right in your own neighborhood park.
10. Local Dining Scene for Vegan & Meat Lovers
Winter is the season for great food, and Yonkers delivers. The city and surrounding Westchester area boast an incredible array of restaurants that will satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re seeking hearty comfort food, vegan and plant-based delicacies, or international flavors, the local dining scene is a major attraction.
From cozy Italian spots to innovative contemporary American kitchens, you can embark on a delicious culinary tour without leaving the area. Finding that perfect, warm restaurant for a long winter meal is absolutely one of the best things to do in Yonkers this season.
11. Cross-County Center
Another premier shopping and entertainment destination, Cross-County Center goes all out for the holidays.
They host festive events like tree-lighting ceremonies and are a noted spot where kids can meet the big guy in the red suit. It’s a one-stop shop for holiday errands, seasonal fun, and family entertainment.
The festive atmosphere here is contagious. Between shopping, grabbing a bite, and enjoying the decorations, you can easily spend a full day enjoying the winter spirit here. It’s a central and cheerful hub for your Yonkers winter activities.
12. Nodine Hill Community Center
This community center is the place for classic, frosty family fun. They host delightful seasonal events like “Breakfast with Jack Frost,” where families can enjoy stories, photos, and cookie decorating with the winter sprite himself.
It’s these kinds of charming, local events that create lifelong memories.
It’s affordable, it’s adorable, and it’s 100% focused on family joy. For a wholesome and picture-perfect morning during your Yonkers winter visit, this is the spot. Be sure to check their calendar when planning your trip.
13. Explore Nearby Nature & Winter Sports
The winter landscape around Yonkers is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby county parks, like the massive Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, offer incredible opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions are right. It’s a fantastic way to experience the silent, snowy beauty of the region.
Whether you’re gliding through a quiet forest on skis or trying your hand at ice fishing on a local pond, getting active outdoors is a refreshing and exhilarating part of any winter getaway in the Yonkers area. It’s the perfect counterbalance to all the cozy indoor fun.
14. Holiday Lane at Christmas in America (Mt. Vernon)
For a final dose of over-the-top holiday cheer, take a quick trip to neighboring Mount Vernon.
Holiday Lane at Christmas in America is a legendary walk-through spectacle featuring over 100,000 lights, animatronic characters, and nine themed areas. It’s immersive, it’s dazzling, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser.
Walking through this tunnel of light and imagination is a quintessential Hudson Valley holiday experience.
It’s a short drive from Yonkers but feels like a journey into the very heart of the season’s magic, making it an unforgettable finale to your winter exploration.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Yonkers in winter isn’t just a quieter version of its summer self—it’s a destination that sparkles with its own unique charm.
From historic homes and glowing gardens to community fun and culinary delights, this city offers a rich and varied winter getaway that’s just waiting to be discovered.
Now it’s your turn to make some memories. Pick a few spots that caught your eye, grab your coziest scarf, and go see why winter might just be Yonkers’ most wonderful secret. Which location will be the first stop on your adventure?