Things To Do
in Westchester
Westchester is a county located in the state of New York, in the United States. It is known for its affluent communities, upscale shopping areas, and beautiful parks. The county offers a mix of suburban and urban environments, with easy access to New York City.
Westchester is also home to prestigious universities, cultural institutions, and a diverse population.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the beautiful Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, and explore its meticulously manicured gardens. Don't forget to take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
Head over to the Philipsburg Manor for a glimpse into colonial life along the Hudson River. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming town of Tarrytown.
Conclude your day with a sunset view at the Tarrytown Lighthouse. Dine at one of the local restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
Rent a bike and ride through the scenic bridle paths of Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you pedal along beautiful trails.
Stop for lunch at a cafe in Pleasantville before visiting the Jacob Burns Film Center for an afternoon screening. Engage with the local film community.
Join a fitness class or outdoor yoga session at one of the parks. Finish your evening with a refreshing smoothie at a nearby health food café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to New York City, allowing for easy commuting and access to urban amenities.
- Beautiful suburban landscapes with parks, nature reserves, and recreational opportunities.
- Strong public schools and educational facilities, contributing to a high quality of education.
- Diverse communities with a variety of cultural offerings, restaurants, and shops.
- Relatively low crime rates compared to other regions, providing a safe environment for families.
- Higher cost of living compared to national averages, which may strain budgets.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, can be a significant issue.
- Limited public transportation options compared to urban areas, potentially necessitating personal vehicles.
- Winter weather can lead to difficult travel conditions and added maintenance costs for homeowners.
- Some may find the suburban lifestyle less vibrant or exciting compared to city living.
Best Activities in Westchester
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous trails and parks in Westchester for a scenic outdoor experience.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic in one of Westchester's beautiful parks or waterfront areas.
Take a boat out on the Hudson River or enjoy the various lakes for a day of boating and water activities.
Discover the picturesque landscapes of Westchester by cycling through its many bike-friendly routes.
Play a round of golf at one of Westchester's scenic and well-maintained golf courses.
Tours
Uncover the best of Westchester with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Westchester
Visit one of these nice places.
Untermyer Park and Gardens offer breathtaking views of the Hudson River and picturesque gardens perfect for photography.
Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate, boasts stunning gardens, sculptures, and panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley.
Croton Gorge Park features a picturesque waterfall and scenic views of the New Croton Dam, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Teatown Lake Reservation offers beautiful hiking trails and a scenic overlook of Teatown Lake, providing excellent photo opportunities in a natural setting.
Food in Westchester
Westchester Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local delicacy, Hudson Valley Foie Gras is a must-try for food enthusiasts. Prepared with expert craftsmanship, this specialty dish can be enjoyed at high-end restaurants and specialty food stores.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the classic New York Style Pizza, known for its thin crust and delicious blend of toppings. Numerous pizzerias across Westchester serve up this iconic dish, ideal for a casual dining experience.
A delectable treat synonymous with the region, apple cider donuts are a local favorite. Visitors can savor these delightful pastries at orchards and farmers' markets, as well as bakeries and cafes throughout Westchester.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Westchester better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a wide array of local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products at the Downtown New Rochelle Farmers Market. This vibrant market also features food vendors offering an assortment of street food delights.
Discover a diverse selection of street food along the Yonkers Waterfront Esplanade. From food trucks serving global cuisine to pop-up stalls offering regional specialties, visitors can embark on a flavorsome journey along the picturesque waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Westchester, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
Being on time is highly valued in Westchester. It is important to arrive promptly for meetings, events, and social gatherings.
Politeness is valued in Westchester, so using phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions is seen as respectful behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Westchester with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Westchester
Ensure a smooth experience
In Westchester, tipping is a common practice in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and salons. A typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill, although it may vary depending on the quality of service received.
Payment methods in Westchester are diverse, with credit cards being widely accepted in most establishments. Cash is also commonly used, and mobile payment apps are increasingly gaining popularity. Contactless payments are becoming more prevalent, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Westchester.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Westchester with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the local gardens.
Summer in Westchester brings warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's a great time for enjoying the beaches and outdoor dining.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Westchester as the foliage starts to change colors. It's a great time for scenic drives and visiting pumpkin patches and apple orchards.
Winter in Westchester can be cold, but it's a cozy time to visit with holiday decorations and winter activities such as ice skating and skiing in the nearby mountains.
Westchester at Night
Hiking in Westchester
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park featuring trails through wooded areas, hills, and meadows, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Offers scenic views of the croton dam, various trails, and a pleasant picnic area for families.
Provides several hiking trails that wind through woodlands, wetlands, and along the picturesque Teatown Lake.
A challenging hike with stunning views of the Hudson River and the nearby Bear Mountain.
Features a network of carriage roads and trails through beautiful landscapes, including streams and woodlands.
The largest park in Westchester, offering numerous hiking trails, diverse habitats, and a pond area.
While primarily known for its gardens, there are also walking paths with views overlooking the Hudson River.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Westchester through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Westchester by plane.
Located in Queens, New York, JFK is one of the major international airports serving the New York City area.
Also located in Queens, LaGuardia primarily serves domestic flights but has some international services.
Situated in Newark, New Jersey, EWR is an important hub for international flights serving the New York metropolitan area.
Located in White Plains, New York, this is a smaller airport that serves some domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, PHL is a major airport serving as a gateway to the international market.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority demographic group in Westchester County, often reflecting a mix of European descents.
A significant demographic group, including individuals of various Latin American backgrounds.
A prominent demographic group, representing a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.
Includes various nationalities, such as Chinese, Indian, Korean, and Filipino individuals.
Individuals identifying as two or more races, reflecting increasing diversity in the region.
Includes various smaller ethnic and racial groups not classified above.
The Soul of Westchester
Discover the essence of Westchester through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Westchester, appealing to both children and adults, with many local leagues and clubs.
Lacrosse has gained significant popularity in Westchester, with numerous youth and high school teams participating in leagues.
Baseball remains a staple in Westchester, with many community leagues and youth teams playing in the spring and summer.
Basketball is widely played in Westchester, with many parks, schools, and recreational leagues available for players of all ages.
Tennis is a favored sport, with various public and private courts available, alongside clubs offering lessons and tournaments.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Westchester, with many local pools and swim teams for competitive and leisure swimming.
Running and jogging are common activities, with various parks and trails throughout Westchester attracting local runners.
Golf is a popular sport in Westchester, with several golf courses and country clubs available for enthusiasts.
Ice hockey has a solid following in Westchester, especially among youth leagues and high school teams during the winter season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Westchester.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Westchester's dining scene accommodates vegetarians and vegans with a plethora of establishments featuring dedicated plant-based menus. From cafes to upscale restaurants, visitors can easily find delectable meat-free options.
Individuals seeking gluten-free dining experiences can explore numerous eateries in Westchester that offer an assortment of gluten-free dishes. These establishments prioritize providing safe and delicious options for patrons with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Westchester with these cultural adventures.
