White Plains

Westchester Play Cafes with Fun for Kids and Perks for Parents

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 02/10/2019 - 9:00am

While it’s fun to take the kids to a dedicated play space—and trust us, there are lots of those to choose from in Westchester—there are times when you want to go somewhere that has something for both you (read: coffee, brownies, both) and the kids. You’re in luck: There are a few spots in our area where you can meet a friend for tea or linger over lunch with your spouse while your kids have fun—whether it’s reading a good book, drawing on a chalkboard wall, going down slides, or building with blocks and construction sets.

Looking for even more places to take the whole family? Check out our kid-friendly restaurant guide.

Indoor Action Centers Where Westchester Kids Can Burn Energy

Submitted by Michelle Vames on Fri, 01/11/2019 - 10:00am

When cold and rain makes outdoor play impossible, it's good to know there are a number of fantastic indoor play options in Westchester where kids can burn off all that excess energy. We've rounded up the biggest and best places where kids can run, jump, bounce, climb, and play when outdoors just isn't an option.

Looking for more indoor ideas when inclement weather dampens outdoor fun? Check out our Guide to Indoor Fun and Play Spaces for Westchester Kids, and look to our Event Calendar for tons of fun indoor happenings all year long.

Where Westchester Kids Can Find FREE Drop-in Storytimes

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Mon, 12/24/2018 - 4:21pm

Getting into a storytime group can be nothing short of cutthroat in some places. While the registration-only programs ensure you a seat on the carpet, drop-in programs can provide some much-needed flexibility. Who hasn’t suddenly found a morning with nothing planned (or plans abruptly canceled) and a burning desire to just get out of the house?

We’ve rounded up 15 places with drop-in storytimes—and, best of all, they’re all FREE! Looking for more things to do with your kids in Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley? Take a look at our Event Calendar and sign up for our FREE newsletters.

Best Family-Friendly New Year's Eve Events for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Susan Miele on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 10:15am

Think shelling out big bucks for a babysitter, staying home, or navigating massive crowds are your only New Year’s options as a parent? Think again! We’ve identified fun ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve for kids of all ages—from noontime countdowns to later nights for the older set. Read on for some of the ways we’ve identified to ring in the new year, family style.

Our Event Calendar also includes other activities happening on December 31. To stay in the know about all this and much more, sign up for our newsletters and follow us on Facebook.

Indoor Ice Skating Rinks for Westchester Families

Submitted by Judith Frost on Fri, 12/07/2018 - 1:38pm

Winter is here and many parents are looking for ways to keep little ones busy when its too cold for the park. We've mentioned several great indoor play spaces for kids to burn off excess energy. Now we've got the scoop on ice skating rinks in Westchester. Ice skating is a great way to get the whole family out and active when the weather is not cooperating. Ice skating can be lots of fun for kids of all ages and plus it's great exercise for you and the kids!

Ice skating is rapidly becoming one of my family's favorite activities. We are happy to find active ways to enjoy the cold weather. Some rinks are geared more toward the budding 3-year-old hockey star and some are better places for birthday parties. Read on for the scoop on indoor (or covered) rinks in Westchester.

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.

Christmas Tree and Menorah Lightings for Holidays in Westchester

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Sun, 11/18/2018 - 1:56pm

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to herald its arrival than with the lighting of Christmas trees and menorahs? You don't have to head to Rockefeller Center to enjoy that holiday magic.

Many tree lighting events in Westchester have live music, toasty refreshments, a visit from Santa himself and—in some cases—some extra bells and whistles. Menorah lighting celebrations include parties, music, and plenty of tasty treats.

We’ve rounded up several lighting festivities, ranging from big celebrations to cozy, small-town affairs.

Looking for more seasonal fun? Check out our November GoList and be sure to browse our Event Calendar. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletters to keep up to date on our latest info.

The Best Places to Go Sledding in Westchester with Kids

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Tue, 11/13/2018 - 4:00pm

The snow season is upon us—and while you may be considering the practical aspects of snow fall, like shoveling, commuting changes, and other (hopefully minor) disruptions and annoyances, kids see powdery snow blanketing the yards, sidewalks, and cars, and all they can think of is ... SNOW DAY!

We've rounded up the most popular sledding destinations across the county, along with some helpful tips for keeping little ones safe while they sled.

Be sure to check our Winter Fun Guide and Indoor Activity Guide for more ideas to keep kids busy this winter. Our Event Calendar is also full of kid-friendly events and activities happening around town.

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.

12 Holiday Craft Fairs and Markets in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Maria Colaco on Fri, 11/02/2018 - 12:00pm

‘Tis the season for holiday craft fairs, where an abundance of handmade goodies are presented by local makers across Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley. Whether it’s sweet-smelling soaps, handmade jewelry, or blown glass, you are sure to find something special for everyone on your Nice list.

We’ve gathered up some of our favorite holiday markets and Christmas craft fairs occurring across the area, many of which pack in extra kid-friendly events like games and photos with Santa. Looking for more holiday activities? Check out our Event Calendar and sign up for our newsletters!