Map Of Westchester County Travel Guide
Introduction
Westchester County is located in the southern part of the state of New York. It is a beautiful county that boasts of a rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. The county is home to several attractions that are worth visiting, from historical landmarks and vibrant nightlife to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. If you’re planning a trip to Westchester County, this travel guide will provide you with information on the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Hudson River Museum
The Hudson River Museum is located in Yonkers and is a must-visit attraction in Westchester County. The museum features a collection of art, science, and history exhibits that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage. The museum also hosts several events and programs throughout the year, including live music, lectures, and art exhibitions.
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
The John Jay Homestead State Historic Site is located in Katonah and is a popular attraction for history buffs. The site was once the home of John Jay, one of the founding fathers of the United States and the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Visitors can tour the historic house, explore the gardens, and learn about the life and legacy of John Jay.
Lyndhurst Mansion
The Lyndhurst Mansion is a stunning Gothic Revival mansion that is located in Tarrytown. The mansion was built in the mid-19th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Hudson River. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion, explore the gardens, and learn about the history of the estate.
Hidden Gems
Katonah Museum of Art
The Katonah Museum of Art is a hidden gem in Westchester County that is worth visiting. The museum features a collection of contemporary art exhibits and hosts several events and programs throughout the year. The museum also has beautiful gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Untermyer Gardens
The Untermyer Gardens is a beautiful public park located in Yonkers. The park features several gardens, including a Walled Garden, a Vista, and a Temple of Love. The park also has several historic structures, including a Grecian Temple and an Amphitheater. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
The Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a beautiful park located in Pleasantville. The park features several hiking trails, horseback riding trails, and fishing spots. The park also has several historic structures, including a stone barn and a carriage house. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the park and learn about its history.
Food Scene
The Cookery
The Cookery is a popular restaurant located in Dobbs Ferry that specializes in Italian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and farm-to-table ingredients. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and craft beers.
The Inn at Pound Ridge
The Inn at Pound Ridge is a beautiful restaurant located in Pound Ridge that features a seasonal menu of American cuisine. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table ingredients and beautiful decor. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and cocktails.
Bridge View Tavern
The Bridge View Tavern is a cozy pub located in Sleepy Hollow that features a menu of classic American cuisine. The pub is known for its delicious burgers, craft beers, and live music. The pub also has a great view of the Hudson River.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the Free Attractions
Westchester County has several free attractions that are worth visiting, including the Kensico Dam Plaza, the Greenburgh Nature Center, and the Jacob Burns Film Center. Visiting these attractions is a great way to save money while still experiencing the beauty of the county.
Take Public Transportation
Westchester County has a great public transportation system that includes buses and trains. Taking public transportation is a great way to save money on transportation costs while still being able to explore the county.
Pack a Picnic
Westchester County has several beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for a picnic. Packing a picnic is a great way to save money on food costs while still being able to enjoy the natural beauty of the county.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on the Hudson River
Kayaking on the Hudson River is a popular outdoor activity in Westchester County. There are several companies that offer kayaking tours and rentals, including Hudson River Expeditions and the Croton Sailing School. Kayaking on the Hudson River is a great way to explore the county’s natural beauty.
Hiking in the Rockefeller State Park Preserve
The Rockefeller State Park Preserve has several hiking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty. Hiking in the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
Biking on the North County Trailway
The North County Trailway is a 22-mile paved trail that is perfect for biking. The trail runs from Mount Pleasant to Putnam County and offers stunning views of the county’s natural beauty. Biking on the North County Trailway is a great way to explore the county at your own pace.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Westchester Children’s Museum
The Westchester Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum that is perfect for families with young children. The museum features several exhibits that allow children to explore science, art, and history in a hands-on way. The museum also hosts several events and programs throughout the year.
Playland Amusement Park
Playland Amusement Park is a classic amusement park located in Rye. The park features several rides, including roller coasters and water rides, as well as games and attractions. Playland Amusement Park is a great place to spend a day with the whole family.
The Greenburgh Nature Center
The Greenburgh Nature Center is a beautiful nature center located in Scarsdale. The center features several exhibits that showcase the county’s natural beauty, as well as live animals and nature trails. The Greenburgh Nature Center is a great place to learn about the environment and spend time with the family.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture
The Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture is a unique attraction located in Pocantico Hills. The center features a working farm and several programs and events that focus on sustainable agriculture and food education. Visitors can take a tour of the farm, attend a cooking class, or enjoy a farm-to-table meal at the center’s restaurant.
The Hudson Valley Writers’ Center
The Hudson Valley Writers’ Center is a literary center located in Sleepy Hollow that hosts several events and programs throughout the year. The center features a writing workshop, a reading series, and a literary festival. The Hudson Valley Writers’ Center is a great place to connect with other writers and learn about the literary scene in Westchester County.
The Westchester Broadway Theatre
The Westchester Broadway Theatre is a dinner theater located in Elmsford that features Broadway-style shows and a gourmet dinner. The theater has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years and is a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Westchester County.
Natural Wonders
The Croton Gorge Park
The Croton Gorge Park is a beautiful park located in Cortlandt that features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Croton Dam. The park is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of Westchester County.
The Teatown Lake Reservation
The Teatown Lake Reservation is a nature preserve located in Ossining that features several hiking trails, a nature center, and a lake. The preserve is home to several species of wildlife and is a great place to learn about the environment and enjoy the outdoors.
The Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
The Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is a 4,700-acre park located in Cross River that features several hiking trails, a nature center, and a Native American museum. The park is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Westchester County and learn about its history.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Peekskill Coffee House
The Peekskill Coffee House is a cozy coffee shop located in Peekskill that features live music and a great selection of coffee and craft beer. The coffee house is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike and is a great place to enjoy the nightlife in Westchester County.
The Tarrytown Music Hall
The Tarrytown Music Hall is a beautiful theater located in Tarrytown that features concerts, plays, and other performances. The theater has been entertaining