10 Top-Rated Things to Do Near Yankee Stadium!

Ah, the New York Yankees. 

The Yanks. The Pinstripes. The good ol’ Bronx Bombers. 

It’s not just a New York thing. For baseball fans all over the world, Yankee Stadium is a must-visit spot whether they’ve got tickets to a game or even if it’s the off season. When the game is over and the team’s gone home, the peanuts and cracker jacks have all been chowed down, and the bats are back on the racks, the excitement is still far from over…

The Bronx is a vibrant borough full of different cultures, amazing restaurants, and (you guessed it) tons of cool things to do near Yankee Stadium. Just a stone’s throw (or, uh… underhand pitch?) from the most iconic stadium in the MLB, you’ll find museums, zoos, historic monuments, and so much more. 

All of the spots on our list today get rad reviews, and we’ll give you everything you need to know to plan your visit whether you're a New York native or just visiting for the weekend. Plus, we’ll shout out anywhere you can use a GiftYa digital gift card to treat your favorite Yankees fan next time they stop in to any of these fine establishments. 

GiftYa Digital Gift Cards Are Always a Home Run ⚾️

If it’s  your first time on our blog, welcome! We sell convenient digital gift cards that take gifting to the next level. In just a few taps, you can send a gift right to your loved one’s email or text messages for any of the thousands of local and national brands in our catalog. Wrap it in a photo or video, add a message – it’s the little touches that make it so special. Then they can redeem it any way they want, from connecting it to their credit card so they never forget to use it to cashing out the balance to exchanging it for another merchant – it’s totally up to them.

Your favorite Yankees fan is sure to appreciate a GiftYa to fine establishments in the Bronx like the ones below, but you can also send gifts like these in seconds!

• Text a Fanatics gift card so they can get some new MLB gear for their favorite team
• Buy a Champs gift card so they can get in the game themselves
• Grab a Game Stop gift card so they can pick up the latest MLB The Show for their favorite console
• Buy a Barnes & Noble gift card so they can read up on on baseball’s history or grab a biography of their favorite player
• Or even text a GiftYa Select gift card so they can take their pick out of all the merchants in the catalog from the get go

If you wanna know more, head over to our main website and click on any merchant that strikes your fancy for more details. 

Otherwise, it’s game time – so let’s dive into our list of the best things to do near Yankee Stadium to turn a trip to the ballpark into a whole day of fun!

1. The Bronx Zoo

Text a Bronx Zoo gift card

2300 Southern Blvd | The Bronx | bronxzoo.com

Distance from Yankee Stadium: < 1 hour on the subway

Starting strong, the Bronx Zoo is one of the most famous attractions in the Bronx—and it’s just a quick 20 minute drive from Yankee Stadium! Or if you don’t feel like fighting NYC traffic on game day (and honestly, I wouldn’t), you can also take the line 2 and line 4 subway and be there in under an hour including transfers.

Kids will love the zoo, but it’s tons of fun for grown ups too. Home to over 4,000 animals and lots of cool exhibits, you can easily spend a whole day wandering through its tropical habitats, interactive experiences, and conservation talks. The zoo itself recommends setting aside 2-2.5 hours to soak it all in.

You’ll go wild for attractions like:

• The Congo Gorilla Forest: A lush, immersive experience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the heart of Africa.
• JungleWorld: This exhibit brings the Asian rainforest to life, complete with gibbons, leopards, and tapirs.
• Butterfly Garden: A magical spot to observe hundreds of butterflies up close.

Text a Bronx Zoo gift card

2. New York Botanical Garden

2900 Southern Blvd | The Bronx | nybg.org

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 10-minute drive or 30 minute train ride

Looking for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple? Take some time to stop and smell the flowers at the New York Botanical Garden  (NYBG) – 250 stunning acres of green space made up of curated gardens, walking paths, and seasonal exhibits. It’s the perfect place to unwind before or after a game, and it’s especially beautiful in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

The NYBG is known for its rotating exhibitions and art installations, including the annual Orchid Show and Holiday Train Show, which are huge hits among locals and tourists alike.

These highlights will plant a big smile on your face:

• Rose Garden: Thousands of roses in bloom during the warmer months—perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• Enid A. Haupt Conservatory: A breathtaking greenhouse filled with tropical plants, cacti, and rare flora from around the world.
• Native Plant Garden: A serene space to explore the natural beauty of New York's native plants.

3. Hard Rock Café Yankee Stadium

Get a Hard Rock Cafe gift card

1 E 161 St |  cafe.hardrock.com

Distance from Yankee Stadium: It’s located in the stadium at Gate 6!

Did you know that there’s a Hard Rock Cafe location right in Yankee Stadium? It’s the perfect place to grab a bite if you’re following the official recommendation and getting there 90 minutes before first pitch. 

(Although, the Hard Rock Cafe is open to ticketed and non ticketed guests both!)

With a menu full of American classics like burgers, sandwiches, and nachos, it’s the go-to spot for anyone who doesn’t want to stray too far from the stadium. Plus, this location swaps out the Hard Rock’s usual music memorabilia for a sportier alternative. If you’re a Yankees fan, the mementos covering the walls makes this an even better stop—think signed jerseys, historic photos, and plenty of team pride. With tributes to Yankees legends like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Derek Jeter, it’s giving the ultimate game day atmosphere.

Get a Hard Rock Cafe gift card

4. Grand Concourse Historic District

Grand Concourse | The Bronx

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 5-minute walk

Okay, so this one is a little tough to pinpoint because the Grand Concourse is actually a 5-mile long road in The Bronx that makes its way through several neighborhoods, including Concourse (duh), Bedford Park, Fordham, Tremont, and others. But for history buffs and anyone who appreciates NYC’s incredible architecture, you won’t want to miss it. 

This area is known for its Art Deco and Art Moderne buildings, many of which date back to the early 20th century. A stroll along the Grand Concourse gives you a peek into The Bronx’s fascinating architectural history, with landmarks like the Bronx County Courthouse and the Andrew Freedman Home along the way. The district has undergone a renaissance in recent years, becoming a hub of arts and culture… and placing it high on our list of things to do near Yankee Stadium!

Keep an eye out for:

• Andrew Freedman Home: Historically a retirement home for the wealthy, this gorgeous mansion now serves as an art gallery and cultural center.
• Bronx Museum of the Arts: A free-entry museum featuring contemporary art exhibitions and a strong connection to Bronx culture and history. But we’ll get into this more in a sec. 
• Stunning Architecture just everywhere: From pre-war buildings to modern renovations, the Grand Concourse offers a unique marriage of past and present design.

5. Bronx Museum of the Arts

1040 Grand Concourse | Concourse | bronxmuseum.org‍

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 10-minute walk

Speaking of the Grand Concourse, the Bronx Museum of the Arts is a short walk from the stadium and offers free admission—making it a budget-friendly activity for art lovers. The museum focuses on contemporary art, showcasing works from local artists as well as international exhibitions. Their permanent collection includes 20th- and 21st-century art from artists of African, Asian, and Latin American ancestry, and anyone else whose creative practice has been influenced by the vibrant Bronx borough.

It’s a great spot for anyone looking to explore The Bronx’s rich cultural scene and catch thought-provoking exhibits on social issues, identity, and the urban experience!

6. Arthur Avenue (Little Italy in the Bronx)

Arthur Ave | bronxlittleitaly.com

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 10-minute drive

Arthur Avenue is often referred to as the "Real Little Italy," and for good reason. This charming neighborhood is packed with authentic Italian restaurants, bakeries, and specialty stores. So if you’re feeling disappointed by Manhattan’s Little Italy, you’ve still got plenty of options for fresh pasta, pastries, or a full Italian feast on Arthur Avenue!

(PS – There are good authentic Italian restaurants in NYC’s Little Italy… you just need to know where to look! 👀) 

Popular with locals and tourists alike, Arthur Avenue in The Bronx is the perfect place to explore for a meal after a Yankees game. From classic pizzerias to butcher shops and cheese markets, there’s no shortage of delicious options.

There are tons of amazing Arthur Avenue restaurants in The Bronx’s Little Italy, but here are just a few of the big names to look out for:

• Tino’s Deli: Known for its classic Italian sandwiches, Mike’s Deli inside the Arthur Avenue Market is a local institution. Text a Tino’s Deli gift card here >>
• Catania’s Pizza Cafe: Grab a fresh slice before you hit the stadium. Grab a Catania’s Pizza Cafe gift card here >>
• Dominick’s Restaurant: A no-menu, old-school Italian restaurant where you tell the server what you're in the mood for, and they whip up a delicious meal.

7. Yankee Tavern

72 E 161 St | Concourse Village | yankeetavern.nyc‍

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 2-minute walk

A staple for Yankees fans, the Yankee Tavern has been serving up drinks and pub fare since 1927. Located just steps away from the stadium, it’s a popular spot for grabbing a beer and burger before or after a game. The tavern has a great mix of history and local flavor, making it a favorite hangout for both locals and tourists alike!

8. Roberto’s Restaurant

603 Crescent Ave | Belmont | robertosbronx.com

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 10-minute drive

Roberto’s is another must-visit for Italian food lovers. Located on Crescent Avenue in tBelmont, it’s a favorite among locals for its rustic Italian dishes and cozy atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a big win or simply enjoying a great meal, Roberto’s delivers on both food and ambiance.

9. Mill Pond Park

150 E 53 St | The Bronx | nycgovparks.org

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 5-minute walk

Need a peaceful spot to unwind before or after the game? Mill Pond Park is a hidden gem right by Yankee Stadium, offering scenic views of the Harlem River and plenty of green space to relax. It’s a favorite for picnics, leisurely strolls, and even tennis, thanks to its public courts.

Music fans will also love that The Hip Hop Museum (THHM) is located on the park grounds. If you didn’t know, hip hop was born in The Bronx, just like many of its prominent early artists! Stop in anytime after doors open in 2025 to scratch the official record of hip hop.

10. Highbridge Park and High Bridge

2301 Amsterdam Ave | nycgovparks.org

Distance from Yankee Stadium: 15-minute walk (across the Harlem River)

Highbridge Park and the historic High Bridge are located just across the river from Yankee Stadium, making them an easy and scenic stop for anyone looking to take a walk and enjoy some fresh air. The High Bridge, which connects Washington Heights in Manhattan to Highbridge in The Bronx, itself is the oldest standing bridge in New York City, and the park offers trails, playgrounds, and plenty of green space.

That’s it for our list of things to do near Yankee Stadium.

We hope you found the perfect way to spend an afternoon! And if you’re still searching, check out our full list of brands partnering with GiftYa in New York City for some more inspiration. Have a great trip to The Bronx!