White Plains

Top Playgrounds for Toddlers and Preschoolers in Westchester

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 08/04/2019 - 9:00am

There are lots of great parks and playgrounds in Westchester, no matter which city or town you live in. But finding a playground that’s suitable for the under-5 set can sometimes be a challenge—you want them to be safe; they want to try that giant, twisty slide with a group of wild 7-year-olds on it.

Happily, there are a number of toddler-friendly playgrounds throughout the area, with plenty of safe options for keeping them occupied and having fun. We've rounded up a few of our favorites.

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8 Westchester Parks Perfect for Kids' Outdoor Birthday Parties

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 07/26/2019 - 12:00pm

Summer is a great time to throw an outdoor birthday party, but if you don’t have the space (or the desire) to host a bunch of high-energy kids at your house, one of Westchester's beautiful parks can be a great alternative.

Whether you’re looking to have a small party or a big bash, there are lots of parks in the area to accommodate your needs—and many have tons of fun amenities too, from splash pads and swimming pools to playgrounds and soccer fields. Here, we’ve rounded up eight of our favorites.

Looking for even more fun birthday party ideas? Check out our Kids' Birthday Party Guide for Westchester Families, and sign up for our 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.

Mommy and Me Music Classes in Westchester

Submitted by Melissa Kagan on Tue, 07/02/2019 - 12:00pm

It's never too early to get started on music appreciation with your child. Taking a baby & me music class can boost your tot’s brain power, help develop social skills, and foster creativity. It’s also the perfect excuse to let your guard down and boogie to your favorite kid tunes.

Here's our comprehensive list of the best music classes for babies and toddlers in Westchester. Looking for even more classes for kids? Consult our Classes Guide and sign up for our newsletters!

Top Swim Lessons and Classes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Mon, 07/01/2019 - 11:00am

Hoping to get your child more comfortable in the swimming pool? You’re in luck: there are lots of swim class options for Westchester kids, from babies through teenagers. With classes focusing on everything from basic swimming skills and safety to mastering specific strokes, there’s something for every level of swimmer. Choose from group lessons, private lessons, or even lessons in your home pool.

Ready to dive in? We've rounded up a list of swim schools to get you started.

For more ideas, check out our Classes Guide for a full rundown of classes available in the area. Or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the know!

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.

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.

Affordable Summer Camps for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 04/05/2019 - 3:15pm

There are tons of fun summer camp options in our area, no matter what your child is interested in—from traditional camps to STEM programs. If you're looking for budget-friendly options that won't break the bank, we’ve rounded up a slew of affordable day camps in Westchester.

For this list, that means a camp that’s $350 and under a week. Many of the camps featured offer half-day sessions as well as early-bird or sibling discounts. Plus, there are often options for financial aid and/or scholarships—and even if you don’t see the information listed, you can always ask to see if it’s a possibility.

For even more options, check out our Summer Camps Guide for Westchester Kids, or search our Camp Directory. And be sure to sign up for our free newsletters to find even more fun things to do this summer!

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.