Orchard Beach Boasts 1.7 Million Visitors in 2014

Lifeguards Keep a Keen Watch at Orchard Beach

The Daily News reported that New York City beaches gained in popularity by 22% during the summer of 2014, but the largest increase was seen at Orchard Beach. The stunning crescent shoreline, and the many recreational and picnic facilities available at this Pelham Bay Park gem, attracted 1.7 million people. Also, while concerts have been annual events at Orchard Beach, this year marked the return of Jennifer Lopez for the first concert in her home borough of the Bronx. All and all, it was a spectacular season for the Park’s man-made beach, opened in 1936 as the brain-child of Parks Commissioner Robert Moses and the celebrated New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. They envisioned this “Bronx Riviera” as a magnet for those who make the borough their home, as well as for visitors from well beyond the area. Their dreams were certainly fulfilled in the summer of 2014.