Several times a year I find myself outside on my tiny patio at all odd hours, staring up at the sky in hopes I will catch a glimpse of some spectacular astronomical happening in the skies over Westchester. There are meteor showers, comets, planet alignments, super moons, eclipses, oppositions and conjunctions--not to mention man-made events like shuttle launches and space station pass-overs.

Recently, a friend asked if I knew of any public spaces in the area where the skies are dark enough for stargazing--places that welcome families and amateur astronomers to observe the skies. Happily, there are several places in Westchester and the surrounding area where families can see and learn about the night sky and we've rounded them up for you.

Pack a thermos of hot chocolate, grab some warm blankets and check out these local astronomical viewing sites and activities--one might even say the views are out of this world!

Even though it is a small town, North Salem has become something of a foodie destination in Westchester County. Surrounded by open fields and small farms, many local businesses focus on making the most of the fresh foods available in the spring, summer and fall months. Seasonal dishes and daily specials are common at many of the restaurants and farms in North Salem, Purdy and Croton Falls and it only takes a few bites to understand why.

We continue our month-long coverage of North Salem with a look at the best places to dine or take out with kids in tow. Our picks offer delicious food to satisfy the pickiest palettes and more adventurous diners, and indulgent desserts to top off any meal. 

Temperatures are on the rise in Westchester and if your kid is lucky enough to have a summer birthday, why not throw an awesome pool party to commemorate the occasion? Nothing beats a pool party for fun-in-the-sun summer memories--the smell of chlorine, the hot scratchy pavement on wrinkled toes, the endless games of Marco Polo. If you don't have a pool in your backyard, no need to fret! Three of the hottest water play locations in Westchester County are also some of the best places for  summertime pool parties!