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Located in the Hudson Valley region, just north of New York City, Westchester County attracts commuters and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Here, you’ll find the cities of New Rochelle, Yonkers, White Plains, and Bedford, as well as the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. The area offers a mix of things to do and see—from the Rockefeller family’s opulent hilltop estate to kid-friendly attractions such as Playland and the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center.
Westchester County could be considered a year-round destination, and you can enjoy plenty of fun activities in each of the four seasons. In the fall, experience Westchester County's colorful foliage and go apple picking at one of the region's farms or orchards. Festivals and concerts take place throughout the summer, and from May through October, the Wolf Conservation Center invites guests to camp overnight with the animals. Wintertime activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice fishing.
Westchester County is easily accessible from New York City. Metro-North Railroad, which runs to and from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, has three main lines (Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven) that make stops along the east side of the Hudson River. Amtrak, too, serves the county with stops in Yonkers, New Rochelle, and Croton-on-Hudson. By car, you can easily reach the region via I-95. If you plan to explore the area, it’s best to rent a car for convenience, but rideshares are available.
In recent years, Bedford, a quaint little town in Westchester County, has attracted more and more New Yorkers looking for a quick getaway from the city. It features nature preserves, historic homes, and a thriving arts scene. By car, it’s about 1.5 hours from NYC. The closest train station is Mount Kisco, served by Metro-North’s Harlem Line; it is about 20 minutes away.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EST (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 1 | Tours 18 |
Westchester County is known for its many historic sites, including mansions, castles, and 18th-century homesteads, as well as outdoor recreational opportunities. As for quality of life, Westchester's public schools are rated among the best in the nation. That fact and its close proximity to NYC draw plenty of families to the region.
...MoreThe top attractions in Westchester County Van Cortlandt Manor, Lyndhurst Mansion, and Kykuit, the landmark estate of the Rockefeller family. Kids and their parents have been visiting Playland Amusement Park in Rye for almost a century, and outdoor activities like kayaking on the Hudson River and hiking are also popular activities.
...MoreWestchester County has no shortage of nice towns. Bronxville is a charming village with a picturesque downtown and historic architecture, while White Plains offers a variety of shopping districts and malls. In Sleepy Hollow, you’ll find the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, as well as a cemetery where Washington Irving and Andrew Carnegie are buried.
...MoreIt depends on when you visit. One year-round attraction is the African American Heritage Trail, a collection of historic sites that highlight the contributions of people of African descent. You can also stroll the gardens at the John Jay Homestead State Historic Site in Katonah or shop along Tarrytown’s main street.
...MoreYes, Westchester County offers something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the parks and outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, but you will also find lots of galleries, theaters, and music venues if that's more your speed. Plus, the dining scene alone is worth a visit, thanks to great locally produced foods.
...MoreBecause Westchester County is a year-round destination, any month is a good time to visit. The fall attracts lots of visitors who are looking to experience autumnal activities like apple picking and leaf peeping. The warmer summer months offer festivals and concerts, while the winter season brings those interested in cold-weather sports.
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