Southern Westchester

Westchester's Rivertowns with Kids: 75+ Things To Do

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 07/14/2019 - 10:00am

There's so much to do in Westchester’s Rivertowns, the scenic and charming cities, towns, and villages that line the eastern shore of the Hudson River, from Yonkers to Peekskill.

The best part about the Rivertowns, of course, is their location along the water. This affords them not only scenic views and aquatic activity, but also a rich history from centuries of settlement along its banks.

Below we've rounded up assorted highlights of Westchester's Rivertowns for family fun, including kid-friendly restaurants, cool museums, beautiful parks, historic mansions, and much more. There are also numerous family-friendly events—from festivals to performances—that can be found year-round on our Event Calendar and via our free newsletters.

10 Destination Parks for Westchester Families

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Sun, 07/07/2019 - 12:00pm

Westchester County and the lower Hudson Valley area are brimming with beautiful state, county, and local parks that are wonderful places to spend a day in the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley. We've rounded up several day trip–worthy spots that feature amenities like cool playgrounds, swimming in lakes and rivers, boat rentals, splash pads, picnicking, and hiking trails. Want to extend your stay? Some also offer camping.

Read on for more details about some of the area's best parks for all-day family fun. For even more outdoor activities, check out our Summer Activity Guide for Westchester Kids.

15 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Westchester with Outdoor Dining

Submitted by Janine Annett on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 10:00am

Beautiful weather practically begs for heading to one of these local kid-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating. We’ve got a roundup of 15 eateries worth trying—with varying price points, atmospheres, and cuisines—where Westchester families can get their alfresco dining fix.

Looking for more dining options? Check out our Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide.

New Ride Coming To Playland Amusement Park this Summer

Submitted by Michelle Vames on Thu, 06/27/2019 - 11:30am

This summer, Westchester families can take a spin on Playland Park's brand-new ride—the park's first new addition in more than a decade. Described as part roller coaster and part spinning ride, the new amusement park attraction is expected to be ready to roll in July, according to Park officials.

Best Beaches in and Near Westchester: Family Fun at the Shore

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 2:00pm

As you plan your summer to-dos, a few beach days are likely on the list—right up there with visits to swimming pools and splash pads. So where to go? There are a few local spots right in Westchester, which boasts 36 miles of coastline along the Long Island Sound, as well as a whole slew of beautiful beaches close by in Connecticut, Long Island, and New Jersey.

Here’s a look at a few of our favorite beaches in the area, where kids can play in the sand and you can (fingers crossed) make it through at least a few pages of your latest beach read.

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

Free Outdoor Summer Movies for Westchester and Hudson Valley Families

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 06/09/2019 - 9:00am

Summertime means loose schedules and later bedtimes, which is perfect for taking advantage of the abundance of FREE outdoor movies offered throughout Westchester and the Hudson Valley.

We’ve rounded up an assortment of outdoor flicks for your family’s enjoyment—films both old and new, and for a range of ages, with the added appeal of a Hudson River view or sand in your shoes. Some offer added amenities like pre-film entertainment (from live bands to magic shows and more), complimentary refreshments, or food for purchase. But all have one thing in common: FREE summer fun!

For an alternative take on outdoor movies, check out our roundup of drive-in movie theaters. Looking for outdoor concerts? We've got you covered there, too! And don't forget to consult our complete Summer Activity Guide and Event Calendar.

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.

Splash Pads and Water Playgrounds in Westchester and Hudson Valley

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 05/12/2019 - 9:00am

Ready to cool off this summer? There are plenty of local pools and swimming lakes, but if you’re looking for something a little different, a splash pad or sprayground is a great choice. The setting is especially fun for younger kids, who can run through the sprinklers and water jets, so swim vest required. Lucky for us, there's a slew of family-friendly sprinkler parks to choose from in Westchester and the Hudson Valley, whether you’re looking for a quick morning trip or an all-day adventure.

We’ve rounded up a few to check out, from Yonkers to Wappingers Falls, including several that offer FREE entry.

Family-Friendly Mother's Day Brunch Spots in Lower Westchester

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Sun, 04/21/2019 - 4:00pm

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and it's the one day a year we're mandated to celebrate all things Mom. Westchester offers a variety of great restaurants featuring Mother’s Day brunch, and we've rounded up some of our top picks in Lower Westchester. Many places require reservations, and we suggest hurrying.

Looking for more things to do on Mother's Day and in May? Check out our Event Calendar and follow us on Facebook!