Close enough to feel the energy of New York City, yet far enough away to appreciate the quiet, Westchester delivers a New York experience with an appeal that’s all its own. With historic sites, idyllic main streets, outdoor adventures and more, it’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or even just a day trip.
Mansions and Museums
Armour-Stiner Octagon House
Irvington
The beautiful Armour-Stiner Octagon House, built in the 19th century, was part of an architectural fad based on the writings of phrenologist Orson Squire Fowler. The footprint of the house is shaped like an octagon, which was thought to provide more living space and natural light. The Armour-Stiner House is the most ornate of the few surviving octagon houses today. Looking to add some spooky thrills to your tour? The house is said to be haunted, of course, and ghost tours are available.
Image courtesy of Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
Image courtesy of Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
Katonah
With its picturesque estate and gardens as a backdrop, the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts is home to many enjoyable programs. Caramoor was built in the 1920s for Walter and Lucie Rosen, who fostered the estate into a hub for live music. Their legacy as music-lovers and patrons of the arts lives on today. Caramoor’s events include music festivals, cabarets, acapella groups and solo artists.
Image courtesy of Hudson River Museum
Image courtesy of Hudson River Museum
Hudson River Museum
Yonkers
Opened in 1919, the Hudson River Museum has been a central fixture for American art, history and interstellar science for more than 100 years. Visitors of all ages can discover a range of individual works of art and rotating exhibitions, as well as tour Glenview, the Gilded Age home that served as one of the museum’s earliest locations.
Fans of the cosmos will be delighted to take a seat within the state-of-the-art planetarium, where three shows on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year transport kids and adults to space (virtually, of course).
Image courtesy of Westchester County Tourism
Image courtesy of Westchester County Tourism
Kykuit
Sleepy Hollow
Take a stroll through history at Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate recognized for its stunning architecture, gardens and art galleries. This sprawling mansion was home to four generations of the Rockefeller family, including John D. Rockefeller himself. Today, it’s a historic site that hosts tours through its opulent, meticulously maintained property. It’s a must-see for those visiting the Hudson Valley.
Image courtesy of Lyndhurst Mansion
Image courtesy of Lyndhurst Mansion
Lyndhurst Mansion
Tarrytown
Lyndhurst is a 19th-century Gothic Revival mansion overlooking the Hudson River, complete with a restored and operational bowling alley, touted as the oldest regulation lanes in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can explore the quirky castle and the rolling landscape that surrounds it. No matter the time of year, there’s always something going on at the Lyndhurst Mansion. Check out the calendar for upcoming theater shows, concerts, Halloween celebrations, Christmas events and more. The mansion even gets decorated for the seasons, with special attention to Halloween and Christmas.
Image courtesy of Historic Hudson Valley
Image courtesy of Historic Hudson Valley
Washington Irving’s Sunnyside
Tarrytown
Washington Irving, who wrote “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle,” often took inspiration from his Westchester home. At his Sunnyside estate, you’ll feel transported back in time as guides in 19th-century costumes walk you through the restored rooms of Irving’s romantic, red-roofed cottage overlooking the Hudson River. If you’re dreaming of a Sleepy Hollow Halloween, Sunnyside hosts a dramatic retelling of “Irving’s Legend” every October. You may even catch a glimpse of the Headless Horseman, so make sure to reserve tickets in advance.
Main Streets and Small-Town Charm
Hastings-On-Hudson
Hastings-On-Hudson has been a magnet for artists ever since Hudson River School artist Jasper Cropsey moved there in 1885. His former residence and studio, Ever Rest, can be found on Washington Avenue. While you’re in town, stop by the small businesses, including a handful of shops focused on thrifting, antiquing and eco-friendly shopping. Take in the views on the Aqueduct Trail, shop at the farmers market, then end your day with dinner at one of the town’s many local restaurants.
Katonah
This hamlet of Bedford Village was designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the landscape architecture firm formed by the sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, famous for his design of New York City’s Central Park. Its walkable downtown area makes it look like a village from a storybook, and it has a thriving arts scene to boot. Check out the local Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts for live music or the Katonah Museum of Art for rotating fine art exhibits. The small businesses of Katonah really make it special, so be sure to take a look around all the unique, independent storefronts. From art walks to sidewalk sales, there’s always something to do in this cozy small town.
Mamaroneck
The vibrant town of Mamaroneck, overlooking the Long Island Sound, is the perfect destination for shopping and relaxation. Take in the waterfront views at Harbor Island Park, catch a show at the Emelin Theatre, and don’t forget to grab a bite at Walter’s. Walter’s Hot Dogs has been a Westchester favorite since 1919, and it’s not about to go out of style anytime soon.
While you're in the area, make a stop in Larchmont. This small village is right next door and features Victorian-era architecture, nature trails and quirky shops.
Sleepy Hollow
Once known as North Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow officially adopted its famous moniker in 1996. Here you’ll find the Old Dutch Church and churchyard, described as the Headless Horseman’s headquarters in Washington Irving’s “Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” You can also visit Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Irving is buried.
Tarrytown
Tarrytown features a vibrant and walkable downtown, filled with scenic charm and character. You’ll find local coffee shops, antique stores, restaurants and more. Don’t miss the award-winning TaSH Farmers Market in Patriots Park. As evening sets in, you can catch a show at Tarrytown Music Hall and take a sunset stroll along the water at Scenic Hudson RiverWalk Park.
White Plains
If you want to shop till you drop, White Plains is the place to be. The Westchester Mall and the City Center shopping complex cater to locals and visitors from around the New York metropolitan area. The downtown area is also full of places to catch a bite or enjoy a sit-down dinner. Plus, you can find a Walter’s hot dog shop here, too!
Attractions & Amusements
Image courtesy of Legoland Discovery Center
Image courtesy of Legoland Discovery Center
Who doesn’t love Lego? Legoland Discover Center features a factory tour, rides, play areas and more. Don’t miss Miniland, where you can see miniature New York landmarks rendered in Lego bricks. It took almost two dozen builders to construct the iconic scenes, including a hybrid Yankees and Mets stadium.
AAA members can save on tickets.
Image courtesy of of Playland Park
Image courtesy of of Playland Park
Offering a mix of modern thrills and historic charm, Playland Park in Rye is a great destination for kids of all ages. Visitors can enjoy thrill rides like Dragonator, explore Kiddyland and enjoy scenic views of the Long Island Sound. The park is free to enter, with ride passes available for purchase.
Image courtesy of Westchester Children's Museum
Image courtesy of Westchester Children's Museum
Just steps from the beach, this museum provides opportunities for younger children to play and learn. Highlights include the colorful, 48-foot-long Pool Noodle Pixel Wall for creative experimentation and a physics lab for kinetic fun.
The Great Outdoors
Teapots created by Frank Kara. Image courtesy of Hammond Museum and Stroll Garden
Teapots created by Frank Kara. Image courtesy of Hammond Museum and Stroll Garden
Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden
North Salem
You’ll find a relaxing getaway at the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden. In addition to the museum’s art exhibits, gift shop and cafe, there’s a
3½-acre Japanese garden. Twisting paths take you on stepping stones, over hills, around ponds and across manicured landscapes. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the garden, from the lush foliage to the crunch of pebbles beneath your feet.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville
The Rockefeller State Park Preserve is the site of the former Pocantico Hills and Rockwood Hall country estates, which were owned by the Rockefellers. In 1983, the family donated over 1,425 acres to the State of New York, and the preserve is now open to the public. Go walking, biking or jogging among the lush hardwood forest on 45 miles of crushed stone carriage roads, laid out in the first half of the 20th century. The preserve is also home to a wide range of birds, with over 180 species sighted on property.
Saxon Woods Park
White Plains
Saxon Woods Park is a 700-acre property with a wide variety of outdoor activities. Open year-round, the park is home to the county’s largest swimming pool and a children’s aquatic playground that’s perfect for hot summer days. There’s an 18-hole golf course for the grown-ups and an 18-hole mini golf course for when it’s time to have a little fun with the kids. You can also wander through miles of hiking trails that connect to both the Leatherstocking Trail and Colonial Greenway.
Untermyer Gardens
Yonkers
Take a leisurely stroll through Untermyer Gardens and enjoy Grecian landscapes designed in the beaux arts style. The property was originally owned by Samuel Untermyer, who bought it in 1899 and turned it into one of the most famous gardens in the country. Seasonal flowers bloom throughout the restored areas of the property.
Westchester Farm Trail
Westchester County has long been associated with farming and agriculture, with some of the farms in the area dating back hundreds of years. You can visit many of them on the Westchester Farm Trail, a 17-mile string of orchards and farms with activities for the whole family. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about Westchester County’s agricultural heritage. Experience hands-on farming workshops at Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center, field tours at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, a farm museum at Muscoot Farm and more.
Wolf Conservation Center
South Salem
The Wolf Conservation Center is dedicated to helping ensure the survival of wolves, most of which are considered endangered species. There are two ambassador wolves that can be viewed by the public, as well as about 21 Mexican gray wolves and 10 red wolves that reside off the exhibit. Education programs at the center allow visitors to learn about the mythology, biology and ecology of wolves. More adventurous visitors can spend a night sleeping with wolves — a program that attracts visitors from around the world.
Where to Stay
Book and save at these AAA-recommended hotels in Westchester.
Resources and Discounts
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