The “Bronx Riviera” is officially back in business starting this weekend, and we couldn’t be more excited!
New York City’s only public beach in the borough just got a massive upgrade that locals have been waiting on for over a decade.
After sitting completely closed off to the public since 2009, the stunning 140,000-square-foot Orchard Beach Pavilion is set to open its doors once again.
This massive milestone marks the end of a 17-year wait for Bronx locals who have been eager to see the iconic landmark restored to its absolute best.
A $114 million glow-up for a historic gem
Originally built in 1936 with funding from the Works Progress Administration, this waterfront destination was meant to be a grand communal space for everyday New Yorkers.
Unfortunately, the elements and time took their toll, leading to severe structural and safety concerns that forced a total closure of the pavilion.
Fast forward to today, and a whopping $114 million reconstruction project has completely transformed the area.
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani officially unveiled the space alongside NYC Parks and the NYC Economic Development Corporation earlier this week.
As noted in the official mayoral press release, Mamdani emphasized that the Bronx can no longer be treated as an afterthought and celebrated the return of a space truly worthy of the community’s rich history.
The renovation thoughtfully revived the pavilion’s signature 1930s Art Deco design while bringing the facilities into the modern era.
Here is a quick look at some of the major upgrades you will spot on your next visit:
- Gorgeous restorations: Expect perfectly restored limestone cladding, stunning terrazzo flooring, and those incredibly vibrant bright blue tiles that give the space so much historic character.
- Upgraded greenery: Crews added fresh landscaping and brand new trees to make the promenade even more inviting for a sunny afternoon stroll.
- Modern accessibility: A sweeping, curved brick-clad ramp now connects the upper level to the lower plaza, ensuring equitable access for all visitors to navigate from the landside entrance straight down to the sand.
Epic views & amazing local eats
A major focus of this project was making sure absolutely everyone can enjoy the waterfront and take in the sweeping views of the Long Island Sound from the upper balconies.
But of course, a proper beach day requires top-tier snacks.
Historic concession spaces inside the pavilion have been totally rebuilt to make way for fresh local flavors.
Unwind Hospitality Group is stepping up to operate the food service spaces, and they are partnering directly with Bronx vendors to serve up delicious bites.
Those food spots are expected to start opening up later this summer. There’s also a more formal, beautiful sit-down restaurant already in the works for a 2027 debut too.
