Things to Do with Grandkids in New Rochelle, NY

New Rochelle is one of the more versatile grandkid destinations in Westchester — it has genuine waterfront access, a major park with beach swimming in summer, and a well-reviewed multiplex that’s been a reliable indoor option for years. The city is easy to reach by car or Metro-North (New Haven Line), and parking at the main parks is straightforward.

The centerpiece is Glen Island Park, a causeway-connected island in Long Island Sound with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and lawns that work for all ages. Combine it with a movie at Regal New Roc and lunch on the water and you have a full-day plan that costs very little.

Quick Reference: Top New Rochelle Venues

Venue	Category	Price	Rating	Best For
Glen Island Park	Beach / Park	Paid	4.6 ★	All ages
Hudson Park & Beach	Beach / Park	Free	4.6 ★	All ages
Regal New Roc	Cinema	Paid	4.4 ★	Ages 4+
Colombian House	Restaurant	Paid	4.7 ★	All ages
Surf Club on the Sound	Waterfront / Dining	Paid	4.6 ★	All ages

Top Picks

Glen Island Park

The main event in New Rochelle for grandkids. Glen Island is a causeway-connected island in Long Island Sound with a sandy beach, concession stand, picnic tables, playgrounds, and views of the Sound. The beach is staffed by lifeguards in summer; the park is open year-round for walking. Westchester County residents pay a lower admission fee; non-residents pay more — check current fees before going. Arrive early on summer weekends as the lot fills by mid-morning.

Glen Island Park | Glen Island, New Rochelle | 4.6 ★, 3,710 reviews

Hudson Park & Beach

A free public park on New Rochelle Harbor with a beach, fishing pier, and lawns. Not as large as Glen Island but free to enter and a good option for a quick waterfront stop, fishing with older grandkids, or a late-afternoon walk. Easy parking in the adjacent municipal lot.

Hudson Park & Beach | New Rochelle | 4.6 ★, 1,372 reviews

Regal New Roc

A large multiplex in the New Roc City complex — 19 screens, stadium seating, and consistent reviews for sight lines and sound quality. Good rainy-day anchor; the adjacent entertainment complex has food and arcade options if you want to extend the outing. Parking is in the New Roc City garage.

Regal New Roc | 33 LeCount Pl, New Rochelle | 4.4 ★, 5,083 reviews

Colombian House

A highly rated Colombian restaurant that’s a local institution in New Rochelle — 4.7 stars on over 3,000 reviews. The menu covers arepas, bandeja paisa, and a wide range of traditional Colombian dishes. Portions are large, the environment is casual and family-friendly, and it’s a good choice for grandparents who want to introduce grandkids to something beyond chain restaurants.

Colombian House | New Rochelle | 4.7 ★, 3,257 reviews

Surf Club on the Sound

A waterfront venue with outdoor seating, harbor views, and a menu that spans casual dining to a full bar. Better for grandkids who can sit at a table and appreciate a waterside setting — it’s not a playground destination. Worth it for the harbor view and the quality of the food. Reservations recommended for dinner.

Surf Club on the Sound | New Rochelle | 4.6 ★, 990 reviews

Practical Notes

Parking: Glen Island and Hudson Park both have dedicated lots. New Roc City has a large parking garage with direct elevator access to the cinema.

Summer plan: Glen Island Park (morning swim) → Colombian House or Surf Club (lunch) → Regal New Roc (afternoon film if needed).

Winter / rainy day: Regal New Roc is the primary indoor option. New Roc City has additional indoor dining if you want to spend a few hours.

Age range: Works well for all ages. Glen Island beach is ideal for toddlers through teens.

Browse all New Rochelle venues at grandkidsguide.com/westchester-ny.