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JFK Marina and Park

4.3
·205 reviews·Yonkers, United States

A scenic waterfront park offering free kayaking, stunning river views, and the intriguing backdrop of an abandoned power plant.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Thu afternoons

Free kayaking sessions

CrowdLow
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JFK Marina & Park - Image 1

JFK Marina and Park

Best Time

Wed & Thu afternoons

Free kayaking sessions

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic waterfront park offering free kayaking, stunning river views, and the intriguing backdrop of an abandoned power plant.

4.3
(205 reviews)

"Great park to spend some time relaxing watching the Hudson River passing by and it the perfect for flying your Drone."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Kayak Days

Join free kayaking on Wednesdays & Thursdays! Check for special community events too. :kayak:

🚗 Parking Fees

Yonkers residents pay $5, non-residents $25. Street parking is an alternative. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Kayaking Program

Free Kayaking Program

JFK Marina

Paddle the Hudson River for free on select days. A fantastic way to experience the water and community spirit.

Instagram+1
Hudson River Views

Hudson River Views

Park overlooks

Enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River and a distant NYC skyline. Perfect for relaxation and drone flying.

Reddit
Abandoned Power Plant

Abandoned Power Plant

Adjacent to park

Explore the intriguing ruins of an old factory, offering a unique backdrop for photos and exploration.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Kayaking & Community Events

Experience free kayaking on Wednesdays and Thursdays, often with community events. Check local listings for STEM adventures or healthy kids' days. It's a great way to enjoy the Hudson River and connect with the community. Instagram+2

Parking & Access

Parking fees vary for residents and non-residents. Consider street parking if fees are high. The park is accessible via Metro-North, making it an option for those without a car. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wed & Thu afternoons
Why
Free kayaking sessions
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Community events and picnics
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How do we practice kindness here in Yonkers!? By hosting a free paddling program every Wednesday & Thursday JFK Marina & Park in Yonkers. Come on down and be apart of the @kindhumans_movement. #hudsonriverriders #kindnessmatters #bekind #community #freekayaking #yonkersny #kindhumans #beautiful #work #love
hudsonriverriders
112 likes • 2.4K views

🎯 Free Kayak Days

Join free kayaking on Wednesdays & Thursdays! Check for special community events too. Instagram+1 :kayak:

🚗 Parking Fees

Yonkers residents pay $5, non-residents $25. Street parking is an alternative. Reddit :car:

Spuyten Duyvil 10K 2025! Red Tide held it down for this swim! Start Location: JFK Marina and Park, Yonkers, NY! Finish Location: Inwood Canoe Club, 360 Dyckman St, New York! #USMS #openwaterswimming #swimming #summer #Labordayweekend #competitiveswimming #nyc #Yonkers
swimredtidenyc
23 likes • 465 views
Come try out our drinks today 6/17 we are at JFK Marina and park Yonkers NY and Lexington between 42-47th st NY NY. #aguasfrescastlaxcalita #aguasfrescas #aguasfrescasnaturales #horchata #lemonade #pinacolada #Yonkers #yonkersny #nyc #juneteenth
tlaxcalita_krazy_fresh_juice
14 likes • 279 views

🏞️ Scenic Views

Great spot for Hudson River views and drone flying. Bring a picnic! Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚻 Restroom Check

Restrooms are available but may need maintenance. Reddit :toilet:

🚣‍♀️🌿 Dive into a FREE STEM adventure with us and Hudson River Riders! Join our Kayaking Tour at JFK Marina and Park, Yonkers, NY, on August 1 and 8, from 4-7 PM. Learn the science behind kayaking and explore the Hudson River ecosystem. Register now: https://form.jotform.com/242053385647460 #STEMExploration #HudsonRiverRiders #Kayaking #FreeEvent #OutdoorAdventure
joannasmiththeartist
2 likes • 65 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Kayak Days

Join free kayaking on Wednesdays & Thursdays! Check for special community events too. Instagram+1 :kayak:

🚗 Parking Fees

Yonkers residents pay $5, non-residents $25. Street parking is an alternative. Reddit :car:

🏞️ Scenic Views

Great spot for Hudson River views and drone flying. Bring a picnic! Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚻 Restroom Check

Restrooms are available but may need maintenance. Reddit :toilet:

🚲 Metro-North Access

A Metro-North station nearby makes it accessible without a car. Reddit :train2:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(205 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the scenic Hudson River views, the unique abandoned power plant, and the availability of free community activities like kayaking. While parking fees can be a deterrent for non-residents, the park offers a generally peaceful escape. Some reviews mention that restrooms could use better maintenance and that occasional issues with loud music or dirt bikes detract from the tranquility.

"Plenty of space to roam around and enjoy the views of the Hudson and NYC skyline from afar. There is an old factory on the premise to its open to explore. You can have a picnic, fish, or just park up and enjoy alone time. Doesn’t get crowded, there are picnic style benches and a grilling area but you might need a permit. Parking is $5 for westchester resident and $25 for non resident but there are plenty of street parking."

Catherine

"Park doesn't offer much, 1st thing if your not a resident of yonkers they wanna charge you $25 to park,I just parked right outside and walked in. Sorry no way I'm paying that much. 2nd I didn't see a playground, but atleast it has restrooms. The best part of the park is the abandoned plant next to it. If you don't drove there's a metronorth station there."

Mikeyy Lunarezz

"Great park to spend some time relaxing watching the Hudson River passing by and it the perfect for flying your Drone. The only downside was the bathroom which needed more maintenance."

Jorge Andon

What People Like

Scenic river views
Free kayaking
Abandoned factory exploration

What People Dislike

High non-resident parking fees
Restroom maintenance
Occasional noise/dirt bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

JFK Marina and Park is accessible by car and public transport. There's a Metro-North station nearby, making it convenient for those without a vehicle. Reddit Parking is available on-site, though fees vary for residents and non-residents. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. Westchester residents typically pay $5, while non-residents are charged $25. Street parking is also an option if the on-site fees are too high. Reddit

Absolutely! JFK Marina and Park offers free kayaking on Wednesdays and Thursdays. It's a popular community activity. Instagram+2

While JFK Marina is on the Hudson River, which is tidal, it's a popular spot for kayaking. Some users suggest it's calmer than Long Island Sound, but it's still a tidal waterway. Reddit

Specific operating hours can vary, especially for events. However, free kayaking sessions are often held in the afternoons on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free, but there are parking fees for non-residents. Specific events might have separate admission costs. Reddit

Parking fees are $5 for Westchester residents and $25 for non-residents. Reddit

Yes, free kayaking is a major draw on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The park also hosts various community events like Healthy Kids Day. Instagram+2

While free kayaking is offered, information on rentals is less common. It's best to check with local organizations like Hudson River Riders for specific rental availability. Reddit

The park itself does not typically have an entrance fee, but parking fees apply, especially for non-residents. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic Hudson River views, have picnics, fish, fly drones, and explore the adjacent abandoned power plant. Free kayaking is also a highlight. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, families can enjoy picnics, open spaces, and community events like Healthy Kids Day. The free kayaking is also a great family activity. Instagram+1

Restrooms are available, but reviews suggest they could use more maintenance. Reddit

Yes, the park is noted as a good location for flying drones due to its open spaces and scenic views. Reddit

Generally, the park is not overly crowded, making it a good spot for relaxation and enjoying personal space. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Hudson River views, the distant NYC skyline, and the intriguing abandoned power plant offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit+1

Yes, it's considered a great spot for drone photography due to the open space and scenic vistas. Reddit

Landscape photography capturing the river and skyline, as well as urban exploration photography of the old factory ruins, are popular. Reddit+1

No specific restrictions on general photography have been mentioned, but always be mindful of private property and other visitors. Drone usage might have local regulations. Reddit

Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, would likely offer beautiful lighting for the river and skyline views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

JFK Marina and Park offers a great, often free, outing for families. The free kayaking program is a fantastic way to introduce kids to water activities in a safe environment. Instagram+1 Look out for community events like Healthy Kids Day, which often feature activities specifically for children, such as bounce houses and face painting. Instagram The open spaces are perfect for picnics and letting kids run around. Remember to check restroom conditions beforehand. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This park is a gem for budget-conscious travelers. The free kayaking on Wednesdays and Thursdays is a major highlight, offering an incredible experience without any cost. Instagram+2 If you can find street parking or are a Westchester resident, the parking fees are minimal. Reddit Packing a picnic is also a great way to save money, as there are picnic benches available. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty to capture at JFK Marina and Park. The scenic Hudson River views and the distant NYC skyline provide beautiful backdrops, especially during golden hour. Reddit The abandoned power plant offers a unique, gritty subject for urban exploration and artistic shots. Reddit It's also noted as a prime location for drone photography due to the open space and expansive views. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Community & Free Activities

JFK Marina and Park is more than just a scenic spot; it's a hub for community engagement. Hudson River Riders frequently hosts free kayaking sessions on Wednesdays and Thursdays, making the Hudson River accessible to everyone. Instagram+2 These programs often extend to educational opportunities, like STEM adventures focused on kayaking and the river ecosystem. Instagram Beyond paddling, the park hosts events like the Yonkers YMCA's Healthy Kids Day, featuring bounce houses, food, and community vendors, showcasing its role as a gathering place. Instagram

These initiatives highlight a commitment to providing free, enriching experiences. Travelers looking to connect with the local community or enjoy outdoor activities without cost will find JFK Marina and Park particularly appealing. The emphasis on accessibility and shared experiences makes it a unique destination. Instagram+2

Exploring the Abandoned Power Plant

Adjacent to the main park area lies an abandoned power plant, which has become a point of interest for visitors. While not an official attraction, its imposing structure and industrial decay offer a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the Hudson River. Reddit This site is popular for urban exploration photography and adds a unique, albeit slightly eerie, dimension to the park experience. Reddit

Many visitors find the ruins fascinating, with some suggesting it could be transformed into an art center or unique venue. Reddit It provides a compelling backdrop for photos and a sense of history. However, it's important to exercise caution if exploring the immediate vicinity of the structure, as it is an abandoned industrial site. Reddit+1

Navigating Parking and Access

Getting to JFK Marina and Park is relatively straightforward, but understanding the parking situation is key. For Westchester residents, parking is an affordable $5. However, non-residents face a significantly higher fee of $25. Reddit This disparity has led some visitors to opt for parking on nearby streets and walking in, especially if they are not local. Reddit

For those who prefer not to drive, the park is conveniently located near a Metro-North train station, offering an accessible public transportation option. Reddit This makes it a viable destination for day-trippers from the city or surrounding areas who want to avoid the parking costs and hassle. Reddit

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