One Tank Trip: The Bronx
The Bronx may be one of the five boroughs, but for many people, it feels like an undiscovered country. If you've never ventured to this getaway at the outer limits of the city, you're in for an astonishing treat. History, art, nature and one of the best zoos on the planet are just a one-tank trip away.
Getting There
Take FDR Drive north to the RFK Bridge. Follow signs to the Bronx and Bruckner Expressway. Bear left and take the Bruckner towards New Haven after the drawbridge. Exit right for the Bronx River Parkway North.
What To See
Wave Hill
W. 249th St.
Bronx, NY 10471
(718) 549-3200
www.wavehill.org
Located in the Hudson Hill section of the Bronx, Wave Hill's 28 magnificent acres provide breathtaking, aerial views of the Hudson River and surrounding greenery. The estate boasts an unending array of flower gardens, greenhouses and seasonal celebrations that tie in nature to craft exhibitions, workshops and educational lectures. The walking tours are not to be missed and are typically free with admission. Tours take place at various times of day, from early morning birding expeditions to twilight explorations of the grounds and gallery. Wave Hill's history is chronicled in the on-ground cultural center and includes juicy, insider tidbits on the famous residents of Wave Hill Hall, who have included Mark Twain and Theodore Roosevelt.
The Cloisters
99 Margaret Corbin Drive
New York, NY 10040
(212) 923-3700
www.metmuseum.org
Sitting atop the boundary of upper Manhattan and the Bronx is The Cloisters Museum and Gardens, a tranquil, outlying branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Cloisters contains over 2,000 pieces of art, architecture and artifacts devoted to medieval Europe, including tapestries, manuscripts and sculpture. The carefully curated gardens follow suit and are planted along the horticultural design patterns and styles made popular during medieval times. Ancient art objects date back as far as the 2nd century B.C., but much of the Cloisters' collection centers upon early Christianity, primarily from the 12th to 15th centuries.
Bronx Zoo
2300 Southern Blvd.
Bronx, NY 10460
(718) 220-5100
www.bronxzoo.com
The Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the world, featuring natural habitat replicas for the 4,000 species of animals living there, such as Tiger Mountain and Butterfly Garden. Situated on 265 acres, the Zoo is a day trip unto itself, with an unending parade of special exhibits, rides and educational programs. The underlying ideology of respect and conservation for both wild animals and places permeates the visitor experience, bringing with it knowledge and compassion for all living things. Kids will love the 4-D Theatre, Bug Carousel and Camel Rides. Grown-up, tired feet will be grateful for the sight-seeing Zoo Shuttle at day's end.
Dining
Zero Otto Nove
2357 Arthur Ave.
Bronx, NY 10458
(718) 220-1027
www.089bx.roberto089.com
Come very hungry for Salerno-inspired, old-style Italian cooking, featuring an unending array of Neapolitan, wood-oven pizzas and pasta dishes. A sprawling trattoria is as welcoming for families as it is for first dates. Zero Otto Nove's fish specialties are to die for, but if you love Cornish game hen, the Galleto al Mattone is not to be missed.
Jake's Steakhouse
6031 Broadway
Bronx, NY 10471
(718) 581-0182
www.jakessteakhouse.com
Creative flair takes standards like filet mignon and porterhouse steak to a new level. A relaxed atmosphere and extensive selection of craft beers make this a regular stop for those in the know. The Grill Room is the perfect place to kick back and watch the game on big screen TVs while hanging out at the 30-foot long, mahogany bar. Don't miss Jake's legendary specials, like Monday's all-you-can-eat ribs or the served daily Sunset Menu. Even if you regularly haunt Jake's Steakhouse in East Meadow, you deserve a trip to this urban and legendary shrine to steak. You may know Jake's from Long Island, but Jake's Steakhouse in the Bronx takes it to a whole new level.
Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.