Hudson Valley families have their standbys. Whether it's their favorite park, river town, or farmers market, there's always a fallback and fun activity to do.

When we say trendy, we mean shake it off and try something new. From alpacas to onigiri, there is so much in our area to explore that is new, unique, and off the beaten path. Check out our list of fun new options below. 

Our Guide to News and Openings in the region will help you keep your finger on the pulse of noteworthy new activities, and be sure to look at our constantly updated Activity Calendar for great things to do every day. 

Looking for the best swimming pools in Westchester and the Hudson Valley? Here are our picks to add to your list.

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool, and there's no shortage of spots in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley to take a dip. Many have concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, mini golf, and other activities worthy of a summer day trip. We've rounded up 16 favorite family-friendly pools in the region. Some of these—particularly the Westchester pools—require county residency, so take note before heading out.

For more summer fun, be sure to check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Bear Mountain State Park makes for a great day trip for families any time of year, but in warmer months it bursts with kid-friendly activities. The Rockland County park, which is nestled against the Hudson River, offers spectacular scenery, nature experiences, and lots of things for kids to do. Bear Mountain is one place our family has returned to each year.

With hiking, paddleboat rentals, a playground, ample room for picnicking, and even a zoo, the park has plenty of options to fill an entire day. Our summer readers will be especially happy to learn the swimming pool is open from mid-June to Labor Day. We recently visited the park and can fill you in on what you need to know about this year-round destination, including our top 15 favorite things to do.

If you're looking for other great activities in nearby parks, check out our rundown of easy New York State Park hikes or our look at Westchester's top destination parks. For even more on local parks, check out our Guide to Playgrounds & Parks in Westchester. 

As you plan your summer must-dos, a lazy day at one of these beaches in or near Westchester is worth adding to your list. There are great local beaches in Westchester, which boasts 36 miles of coastline along the Long Island Sound, as well as a whole slew of beautiful beaches nearby in Connecticut, Long Island, and New Jersey.

Here’s a look at our favorite beaches near Westchester, where kids can play in the sand and you can bask in the sun. Be sure to bookmark our Guide to Summer Activities for Westchester Kids for more seasonal fun.

The 4th of July is almost here, and fireworks will be lighting up the night sky all over the Hudson Valley. We have rounded up the top spots to watch these holiday sparklers throughout the region on July 4th proper and on the surrounding dates.

Our picks for festivities include the ultra kid-friendly Mamaroneck Fireworks Spectacular and Fireman's Carnival at Harbor Island Park, and Red, White, and Boom at Legoland New York, which features all-day entertainment and a unique fireworks extravaganza in which the fireworks transform into Lego bricks. 

Looking for other great things to do with your kids this season? Check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide, and bookmark our Family Activity Calendar, which is constantly updated.