Yonkers

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.

Top Swim Lessons and Classes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 08/10/2018 - 11:00am

Hoping to get your child more comfortable in the 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 Sun, 07/15/2018 - 10:00am

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

For even more restaurant suggestions, sign up for our newsletters and follow us on Facebook.

Best Swimming Pools for Westchester and Hudson Valley Families

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Fri, 06/22/2018 - 12:00pm

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool. Lucky for us, there’s no shortage of spots in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley to take a dip. These area pools offer families everything from water slides and three-foot waves to a lazy river! Need a swimming break? At many of the pools, there are concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, 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. Prefer splash pads instead? Check out our list of go-to spots—and look to our Summer Guide for even more outdoor fun.

July 4th Fireworks in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 06/17/2018 - 2:00pm

Independence Day means summer fun, barbecues, and, of course, stunning pyrotechnics. We’ve identified fireworks displays over the course of an entire week (the benefit of Independence Day falling on a Wednesday!) along with lots of added attractions—a carnival, a fair, concerts, sports, bouncy houses, a parade, and other perks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the famous Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is best visited strategically, and we have the best spots to watch with your family; there’s also a show-stopping fireworks display that’s less frenetic over the bridge in Jersey City, which also features a full agenda of fun.

Be sure to keep tabs on our Event Calendar, and sign up for our newsletters to stay on top of our frequent updates and announcements!

Splash Pads and Water Playgrounds in Westchester and Hudson Valley

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 06/10/2018 - 11:35am

Ready to cool off this summer? There are plenty of local pools and beaches, but if you’re looking for something a little different, a splash pad or sprayground is a great choice. The setting—particularly the smaller splash pads—is especially fun for younger kids, who can run through the sprinklers and water jets. Lucky for us, there are a whole 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. Looking for even more outdoor activities? Be sure to check out our Summer Guide.

12 Great Places to Trick-or-Treat with Westchester Kids

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Wed, 05/16/2018 - 4:00pm

Whether it’s because the homes are too spread out, they’re lining a busy road, or the neighbors are super cranky, some families just don’t live in neighborhoods that are great for trick-or-treating. There are a few sites out there known for rating the best trick-or-treating in the country, but we’ve done a little of our own local research. All kids deserve a safe and candy-filled Halloween, so check out some of these family-friendly areas and events if you need an alternative.

For more Halloween-related fun, visit our Halloween Fun Guide and Event Calendar. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook!

Mini Golf with Westchester Kids: Top Putt-Putt Spots

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 05/06/2018 - 12:00pm

Between splash pads, swimming pools and amusement parks, there’s so much to see and do in and around Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley this summer. But we'd be remiss if we didn't include one tried-and-true family favorite to the list: mini-golf!

Whether you’re looking for a fun, traditional putt-putt course or something a little different—glow in the dark, perhaps?—we’ve got you covered. Below, we've rounded up a few of our favorites.

For even more great activities, check out our Event Calendar and follow us on Facebook.

Mother's Day Brunch: Where to Celebrate Mom in Lower Westchester

Submitted by Lisa Johnston on Fri, 04/20/2018 - 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. Whether you're honoring your mother, grandmother, aunt or sister, one of the most popular ways to appreciate the special woman in your life is to treat her to brunch.

Westchester offers a variety of great restaurants featuring Mother’s Day brunch, and we've rounded up some of our top picks for those 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!