Bronx’s City Island makes push to court tourists

Bronx’s City Island, a small, somewhat gritty enclave across Pelham Bay from Orchard Beach, is making a push to attract both tourists to New York and Manhattanites looking to get out of the city, the New York Post reported. In an effort to attract high-end day-trippers, the City Island Chamber of Commerce and the New York City Association of Hotel Concierges are organizing City Island Day — a tour for concierges — on June 26.

Local politicians envision the island as a getaway for weary tourists to New York City and an alternative to destinations such as Martha’s Vineyard for busy Manhattan residents. The biggest challenge, they tell the Post, is building awareness about City Island.

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“There are enough trains and buses,” said Marlene Cintron, president of the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corp. “No one knows. It’s an oasis for tourists. Once you cross the bridge, you’re [transported] into another era.” [Post]