Ardsley

Best Christmas and Holiday Light Displays in Westchester

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 11/25/2018 - 9:00am

It’s about that time again: Families all over Westchester and the Hudson Valley are decking their halls—and their houses—with holiday decorations. And while you can drive through neighborhoods and spot pretty lights, festive wreaths and lots of Frosty inflatables, there are certain houses that merit a trip all their own.

Here, we’ve rounded up several of our favorite light displays, perfect for getting your crew into the holiday spirit. (May we suggest stopping by one of these delicious places to pick up a hot chocolate for the road?)

If you're looking for even more holiday happenings, check out our Event Calendar and our Holiday Fun Guide.

Breakfast with Santa for Kids and Families in Westchester

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 11/04/2018 - 8:00am

Though Santa is busy preparing for his famous ride on Christmas Eve, he still somehow has time to break bread (or pancakes) with children in Westchester this holiday season. These cozy get-togethers have become increasingly popular, typically featuring a full breakfast and holiday activity, with added perks at some. The best part? Quality time and a photo-op with St. Nick.

We’ve rounded up some top picks for Breakfast with Santa throughout Westchester to help you spread some holiday cheer. Advance registration is either required or recommended, so don't delay. And don't forget to bring your wish list!

If you're looking for more holiday activities, check our Event Calendar and sign up for our newsletters.

Top Indoor Birthday Party Places for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Mon, 09/24/2018 - 11:30am

Hey, it isn't always park or pool party weather, but kids can still have a blast celebrating inside! And trust us: There is no shortage of places for Westchester kids to get their party on—whether the birthday boy or girl wants to jump on trampolines, scale a rock wall, bake cookies, do yoga, or race go-karts.

Here, we’ve put together a list with choices for a variety of ages (and invite lists)—from preschoolers to tweens and teens. Looking for even more options? Check out our full Party Planning Guide or head straight to our directory.

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.

8 Bakeries Making Outrageous Birthday Cakes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Susan Miele on Wed, 01/17/2018 - 4:31pm

Kids’ birthday parties have become way more elaborate than when we were kids, with large guest lists and elaborate entertainment. Birthday cakes have stepped up their game, too. While some parents opt for simplicity, like buying a sheet cake from the supermarket or Carvel, there’s a definite market for sensational cakes with a heftier price tag.

Below we’ve rounded up Westchester bakeries that have the chops to create cakes worthy of The Food Network. Whether you seek a simple layer cake frosted in buttercream or a three-tiered tower adorned with elaborate fondant figurines, these shops—pardon the expression—really take the cake!

Read on for the skinny and sign up for our e-newsletters to stay in the know about all kinds of resources for Westchester families!

Indoor Play Space for Big & Little Westchester Kids: LIFE, The Place to Be

Submitted by Susan Miele on Tue, 09/19/2017 - 12:58pm

Looking for a place to burn off energy (and maybe some calories)? Our profile of indoor play spaces in Westchester continues with a recent visit to LIFE, The Place to Be in Ardsley.

Perfect for those bad-weather days and indoor fun, the assorted activities at the 29,000-square-foot facility will keep kids occupied for a couple hours, with something for every taste. The only dilemma my kids faced was which one to do first!

Read on for our first-hand review of why this is indeed the place to be. To find more indoor fun, check out our Event Calendar and sign up for our newsletters.

Indoor Play Spaces: Where Westchester Kids Can Burn Off Energy

Submitted by Judith Frost on Wed, 12/14/2016 - 5:30am

Even if you have a backyard and rooms full of toys, we still run into the problem of stir-crazy children in need of exercise. While many of the beautiful nature centers and great hiking trails are still options for families in the winter, its good to know there are a number of fantastic indoor play place options in Westchester that range from steals to splurges. Read on to find out where to play and what to know before you go!

Looking for more indoor ideas when inclement weather dampens outdoor fun? Check out our Event Calendar and sign up for our newsletters. We also have a list of indoor play spaces in the rest of the Lower Hudson Valley that are worth the drive.

Lax Lover: Where Kids Can Learn to Play Lacrosse in Westchester

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Sat, 01/23/2016 - 10:00am

Lacrosse has long been a fun option for kids but—unlike certain activities like soccer—not every town has its own league. Thankfully for lax-loving kids, there are several facilities in Westchester that offer camps or classes where kids can learn and have fun, as well as several private leagues that operate in various locations around the area.

We’ve rounded up some of these options for kids to play lacrosse that extend beyond town rec leagues. Looking for other types of classes for kids, sports or otherwise? Consult our Classes Guide, check out our Camp Directory and sign up for our FREE newsletters to stay up to date.

Best Karate Classes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Christi O'Donnell on Sun, 08/17/2014 - 9:00am

Karate is one of the most popular extracurricular activities for children of all ages. It is a sport that promotes self discipline, concentration, self control, respect and perseverance. While just about every town in Westchester County has a dojo, a few locally owned and operated establishments have earned reputations as Westchester’s best.

In addition to improving focus and motor skills from tots to teens, karate is also a fun way to introduce ancient customs and practices while instilling life-long lessons in respect, confidence, strength and skill.

We've rounded up seven outstanding karate centers throughout Westchester County. Who knows--you may even be inspired to be join the fun with family sessions!

Indoor Rock Climbing Classes and Centers for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Danielle Feldman on Tue, 03/18/2014 - 11:00am

Looking for an active, family-friendly outing that can be enjoyed year round? Rock climbing is a great workout for everyone, targeting muscles all over the body that can often be hard to reach via traditional exercise. It can increase muscle tone and improve cardiovascular health with regular participation. And because climbing requires a combination of physical exertion and creative thinking, even less athletic kids will feel immense pride and satisfaction looking down at what they have accomplished.

Children who are regular climbers credit this activity with helping them concentrate, building their strength and endurance and increasing their overall confidence. Indoor rock climbing facilities provide all of the benefits of this activity without having to worry about the weather. Read on for details on indoor rock climbing in Westchester. Also, be sure to check our Winter Fun Guide for more ways to stay active in Westchester.