Top Treasures of Northern Westchester County Vol. 1
Whether you just moved here yesterday, or have been a resident for ten years, there’s always something new, fun, and exciting to do in Northern Westchester County. As one of the most beautiful suburbs in New York, there’s no better place to be, and no better time to be here. You probably haven’t discovered all of the wonderful places you can go to, yet. So, if you’re looking for something close to home to do this, or any, weekend, here are eight treasures in your backyard.
- Muscoot Farm
Full of year-round, family fun events, Muscoot Farm lets you fully emerge yourself in the simple life and enjoy an afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With everything from an art gallery to seasonal pumpkin picking, events and activities offered are changing all the time during the year, meaning that there’s always something new to do. Family memberships start as low as $75 a year, and with multiple activities a week, you’re guaranteed to not only get your money’s worth but also have a fantastic time.
- The Lasdon Estate
One of the most stunning pieces of land in the whole state, the Lasdon Estate hosts 15 stunning horticultural displays, as well as 13 different memorials, trails, meadows, including one of the finest conservatories in the nation. Be ready to set aside a whole day if you want to explore all the different features located here, and make sure to stop by for some of their special events such as music in the park, conservatory tours, and seasonal train shows. Open seven days a week, you don’t have to look any further for a years’ worth of entertainment in your backyard.
- Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
As the county’s largest park, this 4,315-acre wonderland is perfect for year-round outdoor activity. With miles of hiking and equestrian trails, a beautiful river to fish in, and some of the best sledding hills you’ll ever see, there’s no better place to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of New York. Only $10 to park without a season pass, and $5 with, there are so many different natural and manmade wonders to explore. Hosting some of the finest campgrounds in the county, and year-round educational events, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is one of the best places to spend a long weekend, or even just a few short hours, exploring.
- South Salem Winery
Located in the Gossett Bros. Nursery, the South Salem Winery is honored to claim the title of the Hudson Valley’s first micro-winery. Leave your kids at home for this one, because this is the perfect place for a night with friends, a romantic date, or a relaxing evening to yourself. Made in small batches of as little as 300 bottles, the winery is perfect for anyone looking to experience something uniquely local and will even let you take a peek back at their barrel room to see some of the magic for yourself. Surrounded by beautiful plants and good company, there’s no better way to spend the evening.
- Katonah Museum of Art
We talk about KMA a lot, we know, but what’s not to love about this local gem. Hosting 40,000 visitors a year, Katonah Museum of Art is home to multiple critically acclaimed exhibits and a stunningly serene sculpture garden. With rotating exhibits and events year-round, there’s always something new to do at the museum, even for kids! Including a learning center for the little ones to create their own art in and family days packed with events, this is a great place to begin to expose kids to their newest love: art. However, the museum is also fantastic for art lovers of all ages, with or without kids, and is guaranteed to give you your money’s worth.
- Mountain Lakes Park
The northmost park in the county, these 1,082 acres are home to five beautiful lakes and a stunning overlook. Perfect for hikers of any age, this rugged landscape is perfect for fishing, cross-country skiing, camping, ice skating, and simply taking in the beauty of nature. Along with the natural beauty, the sight includes a low/high ropes challenge course, as well as a yurt village that you can rent out for an overnight stay. So, get your hiking boots on, and get ready to have your breath taken away by one of the most beautiful sites in New York.
- Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard
Perfect for Fall fun, there’s no better place to get your seasonal fix than the Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard. Every weekend in September and October, the farm hosts a festival, complete with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, music, and much more! With local vendors on site, there’s plenty of food and drink to go around, and there are enough events to make a full day out of your visit. If you’re really looking to have an immersive experience, all month long in September you can go apple picking!
- Crabtree’s Kittle House
Though mostly known for being an inn, Crabtree’s Kittle House also offers a phenomenal wine collection, which they’re more than willing to share. Recipients of the Wine Spector Grand Award, there’s nothing quite like participating in an exclusive dinner in their Wine Tasting Room. Complete with a prohibition-era bar, this is a great place to stop after work to let your hair down, and even better place to meet up with some friends to drink until your heart’s content. With beautiful views and a farm-to-table menu, look no further for your new favorite date night spot.
Northern Westchester County is home to some of the most delightful, entertaining things in the whole state. With so much natural beauty, and so many creative, manmade activities, there’s no better way to spend your weekend than exploring all of the amazing locations around you. So, what are you waiting for? Go out there and see all the different reasons why we’re so ecstatic to call this area home. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite spot as well.