Riverdale Y: A Community Hub in the Bronx
A vibrant community center in the Bronx offering programs for all ages, from early childhood to senior activities, fitness, and cultural events.
Since its establishment in 1967 by Gerald Goldsmith, the Riverdale YM-YWHA has evolved into a vibrant community center at 5625 Arlington Ave in the Bronx. This multifaceted institution offers a wide array of programs designed to cater to individuals of all ages and interests. For young children, the Riverdale Y boasts a trusted Early Childhood Center with nursery school programs for children ages 2 through 5, including Pre-K for All, with early drop off and extended day options, as well as after-school enrichment programs, summer camp, and infant and toddler classes. The Y is also home to The Theater at Riverdale Y, which stages multiple productions each year and houses three resident theater companies: Riverdale Rising Stars, Jr. Rising Stars, and Riverdale Rep. The Rhoda Grundman Music School offers music and dance lessons for children and adult ballet classes. Adults can take advantage of the fitness center, group classes, and the indoor, heated, 25-yard, saline pool for lap or open swimming. The Riverdale Y also provides various programs focused on Jewish life. The Riverdale Y's New Beginnings program, dedicated to those 60 and older, provides free membership, including weekday kosher lunches, social work services, transportation, field trips, and classes covering technology, arts, culture, health, and wellness. The Y also hosts the Sunday Market, adding to its appeal as a community gathering place. The Riverdale Y is accessible by car and public transportation. It has a small parking lot for members and visitors, but users must be on-site while their car is parked in the lot.
Local tips
- Check the Riverdale Y's website for a detailed schedule of programs, events, and any temporary closures.
- Consider using public transportation as parking is limited. The BX7 and BX10 buses stop near the Y.
- If you plan to use the pool, remember to bring your own towel and appropriate swimwear.
- Take advantage of the free programs for seniors, including weekday kosher lunches and social activities.
- Explore the Sunday Market for local goods and a taste of the Riverdale community spirit.
A brief summary to Riverdale Y
- 5625 Arlington Ave, Bronx, West Bronx, New York, 10471, US
- +1718-548-8200
- Visit website
- Monday 5:30 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-9 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-9 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Riverdale Y is accessible via public transportation. From Manhattan, you can take the 1 subway line to 242nd Street/Van Cortlandt Park. From there, transfer to the BX10 or BX7 bus. These buses stop near the Y. The subway fare is $2.90. Bus fare is also $2.90 and can be paid with OMNY, MetroCard, or coins. OMNY provides free transfers between subway and bus within two hours. Alternatively, take the Metro-North Hudson Line to the Riverdale Station. From there, you can walk uphill for about 15 minutes or connect with the Hudson Rail Link, a weekday shuttle bus service. Metro-North fares vary depending on the origin. Hudson Rail Link accepts OMNY, MetroCard and coins.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Bronx. From a central location in Riverdale, such as the intersection of Riverdale Avenue and West 259th Street, a short taxi ride to the Riverdale Y would typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Note that surge pricing during peak hours may increase the fare.
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Driving
If driving, the Riverdale Y is accessible via the Henry Hudson Parkway (NY 9A). Limited parking is available for members and visitors in a small on-site parking lot. Several parking garages are also located within a mile of the Riverdale Y, with hourly rates ranging from $10 to $20. Free parking may be available on nearby streets, but availability can vary.
