Featured Hotels Near Willowbrook Park

The Westin New York Grand Central is a top choice, just a 15-minute walk from Willowbrook Park. It offers family-friendly amenities such as children’s entertainment zones and spacious rooms. Located near a subway station, it provides easy access to Manhattan attractions. The hotel’s rooftop bar delivers panoramic city views, perfect for unwinding. Nearby green spaces and walking trails also make it ideal for family outdoor activities.

Walk about 10 minutes along Broadway Avenue to reach The Rustic Table, a modern American bistro featuring locally sourced ingredients and an artsy ambiance. Another option is Bella Vista Café on Park Avenue South, offering Italian-inspired breakfasts and coffee until 4 PM. Both spots showcase local character and have outdoor seating areas—ideal for a relaxed afternoon break while soaking in the authentic New York vibe.

Beyond the park’s jogging paths and picnic areas, join weekend eco-guided tours hosted by the NYC Parks Department to explore local wetlands and bird habitats. Just a few minutes away, the Hudson River Greenway offers scenic bike routes with views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. For cultural flair, enjoy the annual Outdoor Film Series held on the lawn—free screenings paired with food trucks and community spirit, making it a highlight of summer in NYC.

A 15-minute walk from Willowbrook Park leads to Grand Central Terminal, where you can take the Metro-North Railroad or NYC Subway (4, 5, 6 lines) for a 20-minute ride into Midtown Manhattan. Additionally, the East 57th Street Bus Stop offers multiple city bus routes directly to Times Square and Central Park. Use a MetroCard or Apple Pay for seamless transit payments. With its dense transportation network, this area is a prime choice for efficient commuting.

The Willows at Willowbrook Park is a top-rated boutique hotel located just steps from the scenic trails of Willowbrook Park. Offering private courtyard rooms and nature immersion programs, it features child-friendly amenities like an indoor play area, family workshops, and on-site garden tours. Many rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat within the city.

Conveniently situated within a 5-minute walk of the nearest subway station, guests enjoy easy access to Manhattan and other major attractions. The hotel hosts monthly Community Nature Days, including guided walks, outdoor yoga sessions, and wildlife spotting—perfect for families seeking a blend of urban convenience and natural serenity.

The most convenient option is taking the MTA Bx12 bus, which runs directly to the park entrance from Manhattan, with a travel time of about 30 minutes. Alternatively, ride the Metro-North Railroad to Yonkers Station, then transfer to the free shuttle bus that drops guests right at the park’s main gate—total journey under 40 minutes. The park also offers multiple parking lots, including EV charging stations and accessible spots for visitors with disabilities. For real-time updates on schedules and traffic, use Google Maps or Citymapper to avoid peak-hour congestion.

Willowbrook Park is renowned for its eco-education tours, including daily Forest Discovery Walks led by certified naturalists exploring native red oak forests and wetland habitats. The park features an 8-kilometer hiking trail network with interactive signage and birdwatching stations along the way. During summer, it hosts Stargazing Campout Days, offering tent rentals and access to telescopes for observing the night sky amidst urban surroundings.

The central Children’s Nature Discovery House provides hands-on workshops and specimen-making activities, making it ideal for families seeking immersive, educational outdoor experiences.