Introduction to New Rochelle, New York
New Rochelle, New York, in Westchester county, is 15 miles NE of New York, New York. New Rochelle is situated on the beautiful Long Island Sound in the southeast part of the state. It's a bedroom community for New York City. It's a popular destination during the summer. The downtown area has gone through extensive revitalization and includes numerous offices, shopping areas, luxury residences, condominiums and apartments.
Outside of the downtown area the city is filled with extensive residential neighborhoods. New Rochelle features some of the most expensive real estate in the nation. The local schools have been given the Blue Ribbon Award from the United States Department of Education on numerous occasions. Manhattan's Grand Central Station is approximately a 35 minute train ride from New Rochelle.
New Rochelle History
The Siwanoy Indians were the original inhabitants. The town was established by Huguenots in 1688. They came to America to escape the powerful Catholic pogroms in France. The name New Rochelle was taken due to the large number of the residents who formerly lived in La Rochelle France. During the 18th century the town was primarily an agricultural community. The population significantly grew during the late 1800's and it became a popular summer resort after the arrival of the New York & New Haven Railroad. A large number of residents commuted to New York city for work.
New Rochelle Attractions
- The downtown entertainment complex, known as New Roc City includes a large movie theater complex, an indoor ice-hockey facility, go-karts, restaurants and other venues
- Execution Rocks Lighthouse
- St. John's Wilmot Church is a historic Episcopal parish
- Trinity St. Paul's Episcopal church is included in the National Register of Historic Places
- New Rochelle City Hall is an impressive structure
- Huguenot Children's Library
- New Rochelle Opera Company
New Rochelle Activities
The beautiful coastline provides residents and visitors with excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Long Island Sound area includes yacht, rowing as well as sailing clubs. Numerous beach associations are located on Davenport Neck. The New York Athletic Club is situated on Travers Island which borders New Rochelle. The municipality runs a large marina which includes a vast number of slips and mooring spaces.
New Rochelle has a notable group of parklands and nature preserves. Glen Island includes an impressive castle structure and an excellent beach. It's accessible from the mainland by a drawbridge. Five Islands Park is a collection of islands which are connected by footbridges and walkways and are used for hiking, camping and outdoor activities. Hudson Park is situated on the harbor and features a beach area and a station of the United States Coast Guard as well as yacht and rowing clubs.
David's Island includes a wife variety of birds and wildlife and features sandy beaches. Ward Acres includes forest areas, meadows and is popular for hiking. The Leatherstocking Trail is enjoyed by hikers. Twin Lakes Park features wooded areas, marshlands, two lakes and numerous trails. Golf enthusiasts enjoy the Wykagyl Country Club and Pelham Country Club.
New Rochelle Transportation
The city includes a commuter railroad station. Service is provided by Metro North and Amtrak.
New Rochelle Higher Education
The city is home to the College of New Rochelle, Iona College and Monroe College.