Just in time to celebrate our 15 year anniversary, #CityImages offers a new and improved Orchard Beach with retro.
Orchard Beach, NYC first officially opened to the public on July 25, 1936, with over 18,000 attendees. Built as a "man-made beach" by Parks Commissioner Robert Moses, it connected several islands in Pelham Bay Park and was quickly dubbed the "Riviera of New York City".
Our blog first appeared online 15 years ago with a story about the Morris Yacht Club burning down. https://cimages.me/content/morris-yacht-beach-club
The man-made beach was expanded to its current 1.1-mile length in 1947. Additionally, the historic, sprawling Orchard Beach Pavilion officially just reopened to the public in May 2026 after completing a $114 million restoration project. And what a difference from 1936 to 2026.
If you are planning a trip to the beach, this can help you:
- Find transit or driving directions from your location
- Provide information on parking fees and operating hours
- Check the amenities and concession offerings available
PLEASE Let us know what information would be most helpful for your visit to City Island - A Slice of NYC Paradise