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Exploring Westchester and the Hudson Valley

If you're in the market for local itineraries, check out some of our posts on the best things to do in Hudson Valley towns like Rhinebeck, Beacon, and Cold Spring, or in Westchester towns like Rye, Tarrytown, and Yonkers. 

Money-Saving Tips for Exploring Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Check out our list of FREE museums in the area and more money-saving ideas in our roundup of 41 FREE things to do with kids in Westchester. 

Top Things To Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley for Visitors

If you've got family in from out of town or you and your family are just starting to explore the region, take a look at our Guide to Getaways and Day Trips from Westchester and the Hudson Valley. We've also got a curated three-day itinerary for exploring the Hudson Valley, plus an entire guide devoted to exploring the Adirondacks and Catskills with kids. 

Best Things To Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley with Kids By Age 

Here are some helpful guides featuring great things to do with kids of different ages: 

• Baby Guide for Pregnant and New Parents

• Guide for Preschoolers

• Tweens & Teens Guide

Don't miss spending a day or weekend at Legoland New York. Photo courtesy of Legoland

Can't-Miss Attractions in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

1. Legoland New York

Lego lovers and kids of all ages will not want to miss a visit to this top attraction located in the Hudson Valley town of Goshen. The sprawling theme park features roller coasters, giant Lego builds, a water playground, and multiple seasonal events, including a Halloween Monster Party and the Legoland Holiday Bricktacular. Keep the fun going after dark at the Legoland New York Hotel.

2. Mohonk Mountain House

This family resort is definitely a splurge, but the beautiful location and plethora of kids' activities make it worth the price. Day hiking passes are also available for a low price that allows you to explore the lake and hiking trails, including the Labyrinth, a series of rock scrambles inside caves. Check out our Daytripper's Guide to Visiting Mohonk Mountain House.

Jack-o'-lanterns stretch as far as the eye can see at the Great Jack-o'-Lantern Blaze Hudson Valley.

3. The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze

Marvel at more than 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated jack-o'-lanterns displayed mosaic-style to create flora, fauna—even the Statue of Liberty—held at the historic Van Cortlandt Manor.

4. Sleepy Hollow

Visit Washington Irving country and the associated landmarks of Sleepy Hollow that reflect his legacy, including Irving’s stately home on the Hudson River and the Old Dutch Church. Spend the Halloween season—all of it!—in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. The area in and around Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, in particular, is booming from late September through early November as an homage to Washington Irving's creations. Spot the Headless Horseman at multiple appearances throughout the season. 

5. Fall Foliage

Devote an outing to delight in the splendor of autumn with these top viewing spots for leaf peeping. Or check out our favorite fall day trips for Westchester families.

6. Storm King Art Center

Experience modern sculpture as you walk among it outdoors at the awe-inspiring Storm King sculpture park. The park offers free admission on first Fridays and special activities for children and families on select days.

7. Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark

For year-round water play, suit up and visit the Kartrite, featuring water slides, a lazy river, and surfing simulator.

8. Rye Playland

Enjoy amusement park rides, concerts, the boardwalk, and more at this famed, beloved icon—it's almost a century old! Do you dare to ride the historic Steeplechase?

9. Catskill Mountain Railroad

Take a scenic train ride through the Catskills, with special kid-friendly rides including the Ice Cream Express in the summer, the Pumpkin Express in the Fall, and the Polar Express at Christmastime. 

10. SplashDown Beach

Cool off at the elaborate Splashdown Beach water park in Fishkill. The park features a lazy river, high-speed water slides for older kids, and a huge toddler splash pad area with small slides for little kids. Make sure to arrive early, as the park can get packed on hot summer days.

11. Minnewaska State Park

Hike to waterfalls, swim in a glacial lake, and even explore ice caves in this majestic state park located just outside New Paltz. Popular hikes include the hike around Lake Minnewaska, Castle Point, Sam's Point Ice Caves, and Awosting Falls.

12. Kaaterskill Falls

See the highest cascading waterfall in New York State right in the Catskills. Take the short (but not stroller-friendly) hike to the viewing platform, or put on your hiking shoes and hike to the base of the falls. Parking and admission are free, but the lots fill up quickly on weekends, so try to visit during the week and arrive early. The falls are also walking distance from North-South Lake Campground. 

13. Bear Mountain State Park 

Savor the fall foliage, explore the zoo, go sledding, take a hike, ice skate, ride the animal carousel, and more at Bear Mountain State Park.

14. Walkway Over the Hudson

Walk, bike, or trike the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and traverse the Walkway Over The Hudson, the 1.28-mile, 212-foot-high pedestrian bridge that’s hailed as the “world’s longest elevated park.”

15. Visit a Winter Wonderland

Westchester and the Hudson Valley sparkle during the winter holidays. Check out one of these top holiday experiences that include dazzling light displays, festive characters, and a chance to meet Santa or the Grinch!  

RELATED: Amusement Park and Water Park Discounts: How to Score Ticket Deals

The Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark is an all-ages pleaser for a Hudson Valley getaway. 

19. Explore the Hudson River

Get to know the Rivertowns, where we’ve identified 75+ things to do up and down the Hudson River. Work your way downriver as you conquer our list of things to do in the Rivertowns. Both riverfront and downtown fun await in these cute towns and villages.

20. Picnic at a Concert

Enjoy free live music at one of the free summer concerts in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Some of these concerts feature bonuses like kids' activities or food trucks.

21. Catch a Free Outdoor Movie

Families can watch movies under the stars in multiple parks throughout the area.

22. Do Some Time Travel

Step back in time at a living-history museum by visiting either Museum Village or Historic Huguenot Street in the Hudson Valley.

23. Attend a Spring Festival

Work your way through the area's many spring fairs and festivals—from Earth Day celebrations to Japanese cherry blossoms and more.

24. Have Fun on the Sound

Enjoy sweeping views of the Long Island Sound and play among the German-inspired castles at Glen Island.

25. Volunteer

Teach your kids to contribute and keep it going. Help out at Pitch in for Parks or I Love My Park Day.

26. Take a Ride

Hop on your bikes and cruise the car-free Bronx River Parkway during Bicycle Sundays or follow one of these other family bike paths.

27. Head to the Catskills

Book a day pass to enjoy the grounds and recreation at The Ashokan Center. Or check out our Catskills Guide for the best things to do and places to stay in this beautiful area.

28. Hit a Local Beach

Soak up the sun and hone your sand-castle building skills at one of Westchester's beaches.

29. Get to Know Harbor Island Park

Play in the nautical-themed park, ride your bike, and enjoy lovely marina views at Harbor Island Park.

30. Take a Hike

Get out and savor all that great green space around us. Try one of these great local hikes or hike in one of the area's amazing state parks.

RELATED: Guide to Indoor Fun for Westchester & Hudson Valley Kids

Situated about 60 miles outside New York City in Goshen, the 150-acre Legoland New York is the biggest Legoland yet. 

31. Attend a Summer Festival

Work your way through the list of fun summer festivals in the region.

32. Pick a Pumpkin

Grab a wheelbarrow and pick the perfect pumpkin at one of these patches. Your visit might even coincide with face painting, bouncy houses, and other fun.

33. Take in a County Fair

Budget a whole day for the Dutchess County Fair, the second largest county fair in New York State, featuring rides, eyebrow-raising entertainment, agricultural and horticultural exhibits, culinary competitions, and eclectic attractions from racing pigs to dock-diving dogs.

34. Take a Day Trip

Make a day (or two) of it in charming Rhinebeck.

35. Participate in the Second-Largest NYS Halloween Parade

March in or watch the second-largest Halloween parade in New York State: the Nyack Halloween Parade.

36. Catch a Holiday Light Show

Get in the holiday spirit with a driving tour of Christmas light displays in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley. 

37. Ring in the New Year 

Check out a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration, many of which feature an early countdown for kids and other fun activities like a balloon drop or fireworks. 

Top Attractions in Westchester and the Hudson Valley for Kids Who Love Animals

38. Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo

Take a trip to Millbrook School's Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo, a hidden gem in the Hudson Valley that features animals from around the world, including red pandas, lemurs, and kangaroos. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, but it requires that you make a reservation online.

39. Wolf Conservation Center

Visit the wolves at the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem, which features special events on weekends and select days, including sleeping with wolves and the junior wolfkeeper program.

40. Hudson Highlands Nature Center

This scenic nature center, located near the village of Cornwall, features hiking trails, a nature center with locally rescued animals, and special programs for kids throughout the year. Don't miss a visit to Grasshopper Grove, the center's nature playground.

41. Westmoreland Sanctuary

Kids can meet new animals every week at Westmoreland's Mommy and Me Animal Kingdoms program and explore the beautiful nature trails on the property.

42. Roam the Historic Farm

See what the farm animals are up to and view the historic buildings and tools at Muscoot Farm in Katonah, where admission is FREE.

43. Teatown Reservation

Visit the animals in the nature center or roam the trails around the lake and see them in the wild. Check their website for special kids' nature programs.

44. Seek Out the Raptors

Bring your binoculars to Croton Point Park for the Hudson River EagleFest. This annual event typically features birds-of-prey shows, children’s activities, and communing with nature lovers.

45. Meet the Animals

Take a romp through the Discovery Playground, view the animal exhibits, and check out the Native American Replica Village at the Greenburgh Nature Center.

46. Roam the Contemporary Farm

Experience farm life at Pocantico Hills' Stone Barns Center with a tour of the grounds. Kids can see animals, dine on farm-to-table fare, and enjoy family programming. 

47. Marine Education Center

Make like a marine biologist and go seining or crabbing with the Marine Education Center in Mamaroneck. Check the calendar for free kids' programming.

Top Action-Packed Things To Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley With Kids

48. Go Skydiving

“Drop” in for indoor skydiving at iFly.

49. Climb to New Heights

Change your view as you ascend the trees at Boundless Adventures in Purchase.

50. Cheer on the Home Team

Attend a New York Boulders baseball game in Rockland County and take advantage of the small-team perks, like giveaways, running the bases, special events, and low ticket prices.

51. Watch an Air Show

Watch aerial maneuvers, parachute jumps, and more at the New York Air Show at the Orange County Airport.

52. Go Skiing

Take advantage of our proximity to awesome ski slopes.

53. Make a Big Mess

Abandon self-restraint at the Muddy Puddles Mess Fest in Carmel and stew in goop-like pie tosses, food fights, splatter paint, muddy puddles, and more (all while supporting a charitable cause, to boot).

54. Head to the Ranch

Experience year-round resort fun at the Hudson Valley's Rocking Horse Ranch, with its indoor water park, horseback riding, tubing, skiing, and more.

55. Float Away

Gaze at the rainbow-hued hot-air balloons as they are inflated and take to the sky during the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival, or book your own balloon ride. Linger longer for the nighttime illumination glow.

56. Take to the Water

Go fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, or cool off in one of the area's swimming lakes.

RELATED: Swimming Lessons for Babies and Toddlers

The zero-depth entry at Willson's Waves makes it a perfect pool for tots. Photo courtesy of Willson's Waves.

Indoor Things to Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley With Kids

57. Build Something New

Build, view the exhibits, and race through the kids-only indoor play structure at Westchester’s Legoland Discovery Center.

58. Romp in the Children’s Museum

Bring your little ones to the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum to enjoy the play area, exhibits, and events.

59. Palisades Center

This huge mall in West Nyack features tons of family-friendly indoor activities, including an ice rink, a go-kart track, a ropes course, and rock walls.  

60. Make Like a Firefighter

Allow plenty of time to explore the 50,000 acres of cool artifacts and interactive exhibits at the FASNY Museum of Firefighting, and don't miss the artsy area of Hudson and its interesting downtown architecture. Check the calendar for the FREE super Saturday special events.

61. Tire Them Out at an Indoor Play Space

Stay active and have fun year-round at one of the area's top indoor play spaces, featuring activities from bowling to ninja courses.

62. Ride the Go-Karts

Enjoy the ultimate indoor go-kart experience at K1 Speed indoor race track, with locations in Mount Kisco and West Nyack. 

63. Bounce Off the Walls

Bounce off the walls and floors at adrenaline-inducing indoor trampoline parks.

64. Spoil Your Doll

At Girl AGain, a resale boutique for American Girl dolls in White Plains, you can find some new-to-you treasures for your 18-inch doll or attend a hands-on workshop. It's a wonderful shop run by a charitable organization that helps young women with autism learn key job skills, like merchandising and more. 

65. Enjoy STEM Fun

Summon your child's inner engineer, artist, or scientist at the Westchester Children's Museum.

66. Jacob Burns Film Center

Catch one of the well-curated flicks or join a film-making activity at the Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville. The center also features sensory-friendly screenings of family movies and special events with activities for kids.

67. Emelin Theatre 

Catch one of the many (and very popular—i.e., they sell out fast!) family-friendly stage productions and movie screenings at the Emelin Theatre in Mamaroneck.

68. Experience Historic Flight

See a World War I air show, view historic aircraft, model period costumes, and fly in a biplane at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome.

69. Visit a Family-Focused Museum

Journey to the stars at Hudson River Museum's planetarium, tour the historic Glenview mansion, and don’t miss the Red Grooms “bookstore.” Numerous exhibitions of interest and family activities are offered year-round. Check out more awesome children's museums in the area.

70. See a Play

Many local theaters offer kid-friendly stage productions, some even featuring child actors. Check out the offerings at the Center for the Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, the Yorktown Stage, and the Tarrytown Music Hall. 

Bring a picnic and blanket to Caramoor to enjoy a night of music. 

Top Calm Things To Do in Westchester and the Hudson Valley With Kids

71. Peace Out

Get groovy with a visit to the site of the Woodstock Music Festival in the Catskills.

72. Follow the Footsteps of George Washington

Spend the night in the historic Beekman Arms in the Hudson Valley, the oldest continuously operating inn in the US. Even George Washington slept here!

73. Go Antiquing

Take a day trip to the low-key village of Cold Spring for family-friendly antiquing, river-watching, “ruins” exploration, and more. The spot is particularly popular during leaf-peeping season.

74. Tour the Octagon House

Tour the Victorian house known for its octagonal shape.

75. See Matisse and Chagall

View the stained-glass windows created by Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall at the Union Church of Pocantico Hills.

76. Take a Cemetery Tour

Tour the historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, reading markers from centuries ago and spotting the resting place of Andrew Carnegie, Washington Irving, and other notables. Eerie tours are offered at Halloween time.

77. Learn About the Grist Mill

Go back in time at Philipsburg Manor and learn about life at the historic grist mill.

78. Tour a Mansion

Gawk at the extravagance of the Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park.

79. Visit the President’s Home

While you're there, visit the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the museum, including the grounds and historic cars. For a deeper dive, tack on the FDR Presidential Library & Museum. 

80. Discover Boscobel

Explore the stunning historic home and grounds of Boscobel House and Gardens and marvel at the view of the Hudson.

81. See How the 1% Lived

Take a tour of Kykuit, the glorious Rockefeller estate in Sleepy Hollow.

82. Try Shakespeare

Introduce the kids to the Bard via the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, whose schedule includes family-friendly productions in an outdoor setting.

83. Experience Culture

Soak up high art in a bucolic setting when Caramoor and Jazz at Lincoln Center join forces for the annual outdoor Jazz Festival. Bring a picnic.

84. Savor Afternoon Tea

Another favorite activity at Caramoor: Join in an elegant afternoon tea or just explore the beautiful grounds.

RELATED: The Best Zoos in the US: Take Your Kids on a Family Animal Adventure

Meet cute little friends at the Greenburgh Nature Center. Photo courtesy of the center

85. Visit the CIA

Dine in the student-run Apple Pie Bakery Cafe at the renowned Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, then peek through the classroom windows to watch culinary instruction in the works.

86. Find Your Way Through a Corn Maze

Navigate your way through one of the many giant corn mazes in the area's farms.

87. Pick Apples

Usher in fall with some of the best apple picking in the area.

88. Spice Up Grocery Shopping

Shop for groceries and prepared food at a Stew Leonard's location, allowing time to watch Chiquita Banana, the Farm Fresh Five, and others do their mechanical-toy performances.

89. Tour West Point

Visit the West Point Military Academy for a guided tour.

90. See Apple Cidering

Watch apples get pressed into cider.

91. Roll Up to the Movies

Go retro at one of the area’s drive-in movie theaters.

92. Get Ice Cream

Cool down with a tasty treat at a picnic table beside King Kone in Somers or at one of these local ice cream shops in Westchester.

93. Tap a Tree

Watch tree sap get converted to syrup during maple-sugaring season and learn about the history of this sweet creation, which started with Native Americans in the region.

94. Cavort with Characters

Stroll through Elizabethan England, recreated in farcical style, encountering roving monarchs, jesters, jugglers, wenches, and other questionable blokes at the New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park.

RELATED: Historic Hudson Valley Mansions Where Families Can Step Back in Time

Stroll the grounds of Rockefeller Park. Photo by Sara Marentette

95. Visit New Paltz

Spend the day in New Paltz, a well-rounded destination for hiking and scenery, historic sites, a bohemian downtown, and a bit of a hippie vibe. Time your visit to coincide with one of the family events that frequently occur…

96. Explore the City of Beacon

Spend the day in charming Beacon.

97. Take a Boat to Bannerman's Castle

Book a ferry, or even a kayak, to Pollopel Island in the Hudson, open for tours from April through October. Learn about the rich history of this iconic castle, which can be seen from Route 9D near Beacon.

98. Pick Berries 

Fill your basket with all sorts of pick-your-own berries—whether you're into strawberries, blueberries, or other fruit. 

99. Chop a Tree

Choose and chop down your conifer at a Christmas tree farm.

100. Sleep at Wing's Castle

Spend a night at the quirky and unique B&B Wing's Castle and have lunch at the nearby throwback Millbrook Diner.

This post, originally published in 2016, has been updated.