Lower Hudson Valley

A Dozen Drop-In Play Spaces for Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 08/19/2018 - 1:55pm

Kids complaining they're bored—or you just have your eye out for something new for them to do? Whether you’re looking for something on the weekend, tween-appropriate activities, or spaces for the toddler set, we’ve rounded up a dozen drop-in play spaces and fun zones, from trampoline parks to play cafes.

Looking for even more activities? Check out our newly updated classes guide.

Canoe, Kayak, and Paddleboat Rentals for Westchester Families

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Sun, 07/22/2018 - 4:00pm

Westchester County and the Hudson Valley boast plenty of pools and spray parks to keep kids and adults splashing their way through the sticky summer months. But for New York families seeking a more active outdoor adventure, paddling down one of the state's many natural local waterways can't be beat.

Novices can take guided tours or lessons offered by kayak companies, and children as young as 3 can help power a paddleboat with some of that energy they never seem to burn off. More adventurous paddlers can take on half-day tours of the Hudson River and its aquatic ecosystems or conquer stand-up paddleboarding.

Read on for nearby spots where you can flex those rowing arms with canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, rowboats, rafts, and more. And for even more water fun, check out our list of the best lakes and rivers for swimming in Westchester and the Hudson Valley.

Pick-Your-Own Strawberry Farms and Festivals in the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 05/20/2018 - 11:00am

If apple picking is the perfect fall activity, then strawberry picking is surely the early-summer equivalent. Not only are you able to stock up on the sweet stuff, but you’re able to visit and support local farms and, of course, spend time as a family.

Best of all, there are plenty of places throughout the Hudson Valley where kids of all ages can try their hand at picking their own strawberries. The season usually starts around the beginning of June, but be sure to call ahead first. Not into picking them yourself? Westchester and the Hudson Valley have a few strawberry festivals you can check out, instead.

Share your picking photos with us on Facebook!

Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Westchester

Submitted by Alison Reiser on Sun, 10/15/2017 - 11:00am

Even if Christmas isn’t your holiday, its hard not to smile when the distinctive smell of fresh pine, balsam or fir fills the air this time of year. The smell can only be sweeter when you've picked through live trees to choose the perfect one then, with your family, chopped it down, loaded it on your car and brought it home as a labor of love. The experience offers a chance for family bonding, photo opportunities and surely lots of laughs.

Following is a list of farms in our area where families can choose and cut their own Christmas tree. Not quite sure you're up to the challenge of chopping a tree? Don't worry. Many also offer fresh-cut trees all offer help to make sure your experience runs smoothly. (Not all farms are open every day, so be sure to call ahead.) Most of the farms here begin selling trees the day after Thanksgiving.

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10 Best Holiday Things To Do with Kids in the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Tue, 12/06/2016 - 10:25am

There are only so many weekends left in December left to celebrate the holiday season, which can put some pressure on parents. Just which family fun is worth the trip and your time? Fret not, for Mommy Poppins has come up with a list of our 10 favorite things to do with kids in the Lower Hudson Valley during the holiday season.

We’ve already told you our favorite things to do with kids in Westchester during the holidays, and now we’re going to turn our attention to the rest of the area. All of these family-friendly attractions are worth the drive and are a great way to explore the counties around Westchester. Check out our Holiday Guide for more Christmas and Hanukkah fun, or our Event Calendar for the latest doings. Be sure to follow us on Facebook to share what you’ve done!

Leaf Peeping: 9 Stunning Places to See Fall Foliage for Westchester Families

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Thu, 10/06/2016 - 1:00am

Though the timing of the progression from the green trees of summer to the magnificent red and orange hues of autumn changes a bit every year, the magical transformation that takes place during fall foliage season in Westchester is unmistakable. Running along the shores of the Hudson River and set in the foothills of the Hudson Highlands, Westchester’s towns come alive with leaf peepers and fall seekers during the months of September and October.

With so many lovely parks and the some of the best spots for hiking and cycling, Westchester and the Hudson Valley provide countless stunning backdrops to enjoy the autumn leaves and scenery. Not sure where to get the best view? We’ve got that covered. Read on for nine of our favorite fall foliage spots in and around Westchester.

A Peaceful Trip Back in Time at Boscobel House and Gardens

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Sat, 07/23/2016 - 8:00pm

Overlooking West Point, Constitution Island and the Hudson River, Boscobel House and Gardens is a wonderful place to step back in time and take a break from our modern rush-around world. Originally built in Montrose, N.Y., and moved to its current location in Garrison in the 1950s, Boscobel House dates back to the early 1800s.

Throughout the year Boscobel hosts a variety of family-friendly events, in addition to the tours, picnicking, hiking and sight seeing opportunities that are available April through December. We have what you need to know about visiting these immaculately restored grounds, which reflect the grandeur of when it was home to one of Westchester’s wealthiest women.

10 Swimming Pools and Splash Pads in the Hudson Valley with Day Passes

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Tue, 07/05/2016 - 4:00pm

It’s full-fledged summer and we know you’re looking for ways to cool off. We’ve already directed our Westchester-residing residents to the swimming options at the county parks, but what about the rest of the Lower Hudson Valley? Fear not because we’ve got those areas covered as well.

We’ve gathered up a list of great swimming pools and splash pads in Rockland, Orange and Dutchess counties. While some town pools are open to residents only, the ones on this list offer daily passes (at a minimum) to everyone—so pack a lunch and take a day trip somewhere new!

Glamp Out: Alternative Camping and Glamping for Westchester Families

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Mon, 06/13/2016 - 4:00pm

Though hard-core campers may find it hard to believe, hauling a hundred pounds of gear out into the middle of nowhere to spend a night communing with mosquitos and tree frogs is not everyone's idea of a vacation. Perhaps you've never been camping and would like a low-risk way to get your feet wet (so to speak, of course) or you've been camping many times and are ready to try a trip where digging your own latrine isn't part of the charm. You're in luck! In addition to many conventional campsites, the Lower Hudson Valley also boasts several places that offer an alternative camping experience- one where you just show up and most of the work is already done for you!

More Father’s Day Fun: Ways To Celebrate Dad in Lower Hudson Valley

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Thu, 06/09/2016 - 4:00pm

As Father’s Day approaches, our attention turns to the guy who helps make it all happen. We recently shared our top ways to celebrate Father's Day in Westchester. Now we're heading across the river to highlight more ideas for honoring dads.

We've compiled a range of activities to help you plan a great day, no matter what the man's into—from sports to outdoor fun, and everything in between. If you're coming from Westchester, these events are worth the drive! Looking for more activities? Consult our Event Calendar.