Orange County

Best Places To Trick-or-Treat in and Near Westchester

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Sun, 10/13/2019 - 1:00pm

All kids deserve a safe and treat-filled Halloween, so we've rounded up some family-friendly areas and events where little goblins and ghouls can trick-or-treat to their hearts' content.

Whether you're looking for an alternative to your neighborhood or you want to add another stop to your trick-or-treating route, check out our picks, including Cross County's Halloween Spooktacular and the best neighborhood for trick-or-treating in the whole state (right here in Westchester)!

Find more Halloween happenings in our Halloween Fun Guide and Event Calendar. And don't forget to follow us on Facebook!

Legoland New York Announces Summer 2020 Opening

Submitted by Michelle Vames on Thu, 10/03/2019 - 1:30pm

Get ready for brick-tastic fun in the Hudson Valley next summer: Legoland New York Resort will open on July 4, 2020. Situated about 60 miles outside New York City in Goshen, the 150-acre park will be the biggest Legoland yet.

The amusement park, geared toward ages 2-12, will be the third Legoland to open in the U.S., joining the parks in California and Florida. Visitors to the Hudson Valley park will be able to explore seven themed "lands" featuring more than 50 rides, attractions, and shows—including a brand-new ride exclusive to the New York location.

Where To Go Pumpkin Picking in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Fri, 09/20/2019 - 11:00am

We've rounded up our favorite places to go pumpkin picking in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Sure, you can buy your pumpkins from the supermarket or your local nursery, but if you're looking for a more authentic experience, head to one of these nearby farms, many of which offer fall fun activities like hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and more.

Looking for more fall activities? Consult our Fall Fun Guide and follow us on Facebook.

Hayrides and Fall Farm Fun for Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Janine Annett on Sun, 09/15/2019 - 10:00am

Hayrides are our favorite mode of transportation when it comes to fall fun. We've gathered up some of our favorite family farms and orchards in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with hayrides and other awesome autumn activities, including apple picking and corn mazes.

Many of these hayrides are free, or at least included with the admission price.

For more ideas for kid-friendly fall fun, sign up for our newsletters and follow us on Facebook.

Best Corn Mazes for Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Fri, 09/06/2019 - 12:00pm

Get ready to get lost in an amazing corn maze at family-friendly farms in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. In addition to corn mazes, the farms on this list offer other fall activities, including apple picking, hayrides, and more—so you can make it a day filled with fall fun.

For even more ideas, be sure to check out our Event Calendar and follow us on Facebook.

Where To Go Apple Picking with Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Sat, 08/24/2019 - 9:00am

Apple picking season is here! I used to look forward to apple picking every year as a child, and now I have just as much fun watching my little ones run through the orchards—not to mention the fresh-pressed apple cider and hot, delicious cider doughnuts! Many Westchester and Hudson Valley farms also have family-friendly entertainment and activities including live music, corn mazes, and hayrides.

So get your apple recipes ready and read on for our top picks for apple picking with kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Remember to contact the farms before heading out. Many are family-owned and -operated, and hours may change with little or no notice.

Looking for even more fun fall activities? Sign up for our newsletters.

Pick Your Own Blueberries and More at These Hudson Valley Farms

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 07/12/2019 - 10:00am

Strawberry-picking season may be coming to an end, but never fear: we've got the scoop on Hudson Valley f arms and orchards where you can pick your own blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and more all summer long.

Here are a few of our favorite places to go berry picking in the lower Hudson Valley, whether you decide to go for the morning or to make an entire day of it. Either way, be sure to call ahead to make sure the farm has berries on hand.

Looking for even more outdoor fun? Check out our Summer Activity Guide for Westchester Kids.

Best Swimming Pools for Westchester and Hudson Valley Families

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 06/07/2019 - 11:00am

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. These area pools offer everything from water slides and three-foot waves to a lazy river! Need a break? Many have concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, mini-golf, and other activities to truly make it a great day out.

Here, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites. Some of these—particularly the Westchester pools—require county residency, so take note before you head out. Another note: Yonkers' Sprain Ridge Pool remains closed for repairs, but a 2019 reopening may still be in the cards, so stay tuned!

Prefer splash pads instead? Check out our list of go-to spots—and look to our Summer Guide for even more warm-weather fun.

Top Playgrounds for Kids in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Sun, 05/19/2019 - 10:00am

Beautiful parks are plentiful throughout Westchester and Lower Hudson Valley—and while picnicking, hiking, and gorgeous views are great, what kids tend to care about most is the playground.

It's generally easy enough to find a playground nearby, but sometimes it's worth heading out past your neighborhood park for a playground that packs a little more punch. We've rounded up seven fun spots that are worth the drive. All boast imaginative play structures, shade, and other amenities that add up to a day of fun for the whole family.

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

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 05/05/2019 - 12:00pm

With spring in full swing, it's almost time to head out to the Hudson Valley's pick-your-own farms to gather some sweet, sun-ripened strawberries. There are plenty of places throughout the Hudson Valley where kids of all ages can try their hand at picking, and we've rounded up a few of our favorites here.

The season usually starts around the beginning of June, but be sure to call ahead first. Not into picking them yourself? We've also included a few strawberry festivals you can check out instead!