Discover the Bronx: History, Flavors, and Unexpected Nature

The most authentic New York awaits you:  Discover the Bronx! 

When people think of New York City, Manhattan’s skyline often steals the show. But beyond the glass towers lies the Bronx — a borough rich in culture, community, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Today, the Bronx is reclaiming its place on the map as a vibrant destination full of stories, authentic food, urban art, and green escapes.

The Birthplace of Hip-Hop

Few know that the Bronx is where Hip-Hop was born. In the 1970s, block parties with DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa gave rise to a music revolution that forever changed the world. Street murals, local clubs, and walking tours still celebrate this cultural legacy — a living museum of beats, graffiti, and freestyle dance that started in these very streets.

Arthur Avenue: The Real Little Italy

No visit to the Bronx is complete without a stroll down Arthur Avenue in Belmont — known by many as the most authentic Little Italy in New York. Since the early 1900s, this neighborhood has kept Italian culinary traditions alive. Family-run bakeries, butcher shops, cheese stores, and pasta shops have been here for generations.

The Arthur Avenue Retail Market, opened in the 1940s, is a sensory adventure: fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, hand-rolled cigars, and old-school baristas. Belmont’s tight-knit community spirit is felt in every slice of pizza or cannoli. Films like The Godfather and A Bronx Tale have paid tribute to these streets — a symbol of immigrant pride and resilience.

Green Oases: Bronx Zoo & Botanical Garden

Think the Bronx is all urban? Think again! The borough is home to two of NYC’s green treasures. The Bronx Zoo, which opened in 1899, is the largest urban zoo in the United States. With over 6,000 animals, recreated habitats, jungle trails, and rope bridges, it’s a favorite for families and wildlife lovers alike.

Nearby, the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is one of the biggest and most respected botanical gardens in the world. Inspired by London’s Royal Botanic Gardens, it features Victorian greenhouses, a stunning Rose Garden, and seasonal events like the famous Orchid Show and Holiday Train Show. Beyond its beauty, the NYBG plays an essential role in research, sustainability, and education.

Taste the Bronx

Belmont and Arthur Avenue remain a paradise for food lovers. From classic trattorias like Roberto’s and Emilia’s to local favorites like Mike’s Deli and the Neapolitan-style pizzas at Zero Otto Nove, you’ll find old-world flavors in every bite. New wine bars and pastry shops add a modern twist without losing the neighborhood’s authentic vibe.

Practical Tips to Explore the Bronx

Getting to the Bronx is easy with the subway or Express Bus from Manhattan. Many attractions are within walking distance, so you can plan a day that includes the zoo, the gardens, and a delicious Italian lunch on Arthur Avenue. Families, friends, and curious travelers will all find a piece of New York that feels real and welcoming.

The Bronx You Didn’t Expect

Today’s Bronx is a symbol of pride and renewal. From urban murals and community gardens to historic markets and sprawling parks, the borough is writing a new story. Discover the side of New York where resilience, tradition, and multicultural energy thrive side by side.

Read our full updated guide on our website

for practical tips, what to see, and local secrets to help you experience the Bronx like a true local!