Westchester County is a great place to go for weekend getaways. It's a few miles from New York City and offers endless fun. The county is bordered by the Hudson River, Long Island Sound, and is home both bustling cities and charming villages. From historic sites to haunted houses, there are plenty of places to explore.
The county also has many parks and nature preserves. You can learn about the natural environment with your children. Cranberry Lake Preserve has a number of nature programs for families and interactive displays.
Bronx River Parkway Reservation is another excellent destination. This park is Westchester County’s oldest and most well-known linear park. It is 13.1 miles long and traffic-free. You can enjoy scenic overlooks and audio tours at no cost.
You can walk the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail in the spring, summer and fall. It passes through several small communities, and is a popular destination that draws thousands of visitors every year. The trail is accessible for walkers, cyclists, and in-line skaters.
The Mario Cuomo Bridge Walkway makes for a unique experience. This is a 3.6-mile walk over water with six overlooks. On weekends, the path can be used to walk, cycle, and run.
This bridge is an excellent place to view the breathtaking views. On Sundays, however, the road is not open to traffic. Metro-North trains run to Tarrytown. From there, you can walk to National Road to reach the park.
The Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival is one of the most popular events in the area. The event, which is 43 years old, is family friendly and features live bluegrass. The event features activities for both children and adults, such as the headless horseman.
Barton Orchards' BBQ Weekend and Brews Weekend are great ways to get outside during Labor Day Weekend. For children under 12, and their parents, the festival is free. Barton Orchards' Farm Markets is open to all visitors.
The Sleepy Hollow Craft & Street Fair are two other great events. This Halloween extravaganza is back on October 12. The Halloween Extravaganza returns on October 12.
There are several farmers markets throughout Westchester County. These markets are held in spring and autumn and feature local artists and farmers. Some markets offer special events that are suitable for children.
Blue Door Art Center, which is located in the same area as the Blue Door Hotel, should be visited while you are there. This non-profit organization accepts donations and offers free exhibits and art shows. Summer on the Sound concert series is also available throughout the summer. You will find opportunities to catch the top up-and–coming artists at several art centers.
FAQ
What are the 5 best outdoor activities for kids?
You can find endless outdoor activities no matter where your home is located. Here are five fun activities every child should be able to enjoy.
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Visit the Zoo - Zoos offer great places to spend quality time with your family. Not only does going to a zoo allow you to get up close and personal with animals, but it's also a great opportunity to teach your kids about conservation and animal welfare. Many zoos offer educational programs that will help visitors learn about endangered species. Online information is available. You can also call ahead to inquire about classes and events at your local Zoo.
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Visit a Nature Center. These are great places to learn more about the natural environment. There are usually interactive displays, exhibits, and many hands-on opportunities. The cool things your kids can do will amaze you! Visits to nature centers are a great excuse and opportunity for your kids to enjoy a walk through nearby forests or parks.
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Take your children on a bike ride - When is the last time that you took them on a bike trip? They'll enjoy riding bikes as much as you did growing up. And biking isn't just good exercise -- it's also a great way to get to know your neighborhood and discover hidden gems.
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Play a Sports Game - Sports games aren't just for kids who grew up playing them. Sports games still entertain people of all ages. The key is finding something that works well for your group. There are many great ways for families to spend their time together, such as basketball, hockey, baseball, and even soccer.
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Watch a Movie Under the Stars - If you've got a big backyard, this may be one of the easiest ways to enjoy the outdoors. A blanket or lawn chair, a picnic bag with food and drink, and perhaps a grill are all you need. Grab your blankets and head outside -- you'll be surprised at how nice it feels to sit under the stars.
How long should I stay outside with my kids?
Weather conditions determine how much time you spend outdoors. It is important to avoid exposing your children too much heat or humidity.
It is important that children are not left out in the sun for prolonged periods during hot weather. They should limit their outdoor time at most to 30 minutes.
During rainy weather, you should avoid letting children play outside for more than 15 minutes. You can leave your children unattended for longer periods of time if you have to, but make sure to bring water and snacks.
How do you get kids to engage in outdoor activities with you?
Outdoor play is something that kids love. Most parents don't realize the joy that children have when they get out in nature. There are many ways to have outdoor fun. Children can have fun exploring the natural world, whether they are playing in the dirt or climbing trees.
It isn't always easy to make sure kids are safe while they travel. You can keep your kids safe outdoors while allowing them to have fun. Children who have the proper clothing and equipment will be more comfortable in the great outdoors.
Children can enjoy the outdoors, regardless of whether it is raining, wet, windy, and cold. Kids can safely climb rocks, jump in the water, ride bikes and run on trails if they have the right gear.
The ability to recognize and avoid danger should be taught to children. This includes learning to look ahead and behind them while hiking, biking, or running.
Parents should help their children recognize danger signs and avoid getting into trouble. If a child spots someone alone walking on a trail, ask him or her questions like if anyone is missing, hurt, or lost. Children should learn from their parents how to handle strangers.
Children should be taught first aid and CPR by their parents so that they can assist each other in an emergency. These lifesaving techniques give children the confidence to take on any situation.
The last piece of advice we have is to share our knowledge with the next generation. The lessons we have learned must be passed on to the next generation so they can live long, happy lives.
We hope you find this article helpful and encourages you to get out with your kids. We hope that you continue to enjoy our articles on making the most out of your time together.
Statistics
- A 2019 study found that kids who spend less time in green spaces are more likely to develop psychiatric issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders. (verywellfamily.com)
- According to the Outdoor Foundation, about half the U.S. population participated in outdoor recreation at least once in 2018, including hunting, hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing among many more outdoor activities. (activeoutdoors.info)
- Remember, he's about 90% hormones right now. (medium.com)
- The U.S. outdoor recreation economy supports about 5.2 million jobs, generates nearly $788 billion in consumer spending, and accounts for 2.1 percent of GDP. (wilderness.org)
- A 2020 National Recreation and Park Association survey found that about 82 percent of people in the U.S. consider parks and recreation “essential.” (wilderness.org)
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How To
Why are outdoor activities so important for children
Outdoor activities can help children develop their physical, social, and emotional skills. Playing outdoors helps children become more self-reliant and social. Outdoor time helps children feel more well-rounded, which can help them concentrate better in school.
Outdoor play can help children develop motor skills, coordination as well as balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Outdoors, children can explore nature and learn about plants and animals. While playing together, kids can make friends.
Exercise improves children's concentration and memory. Playing games such as tag, hopscotch, and hide-and-seek enhances problem-solving skills. Working together with peers teaches children responsibility and teamwork.
Children who spend more time outside have higher self-esteem. Children who feel confident in themselves tend to be more responsible and adhere to the rules. This will make them more likely succeed in school.
Outdoors provides children with the opportunity to experience success, failure, or even danger. These experiences teach children life lessons and prepare them for real-life situations.
Children can take time to observe and collect wildlife while they are outdoors. These observations help children gain an understanding of the natural world and promote environmental awareness.
Outdoors is where children have their best senses. Children see colors, hear sound, smell odors, taste scents, and can sense flavors. Children's senses of smell, taste, and sight stimulate their appetites. Outdoor activities are a great way to keep them active and healthy as they age.
Children who spend more time outside are likely to have stronger bones and muscles. Research shows that children who spend a lot of time outside have less injuries than those who don't.
Outdoor activities offer children the chance to develop social skills. Children have to work together for tasks like gathering food or building a fire. Children learn to be kind and share what they have.
Additionally, outdoor activities are good for the body. They increase muscle mass and bone density. You can also benefit from outdoor activities by improving your mental health through lowering stress levels.
Outdoor activities promote family bonding. For healthy child development, it is important to spend time with the family. It is often difficult for parents to give up their home and work responsibilities. Outdoor activities are a great way for families to connect and bond.
Outdoor activities are great for your soul. The beauty of nature gives us all the things we need: sunshine, water and trees, flowers, birds, and fresh air. If you're looking for something fun and exciting to do with your kids, consider taking them camping! Camping is a great place to reconnect with nature. It also creates memories that last a lifetime.
Camping is a great activity for all ages. Even if your child has never been camping before there are several ways to make it a safe experience. For example, you could start by taking a day trip to a state park. The park offers many activities for both adults and children. It's a good idea to bring some snacks or drinks with you so you can relax and enjoy your children while they play.
It is important to plan ahead if your goal is to go camping frequently. Check out camping supplies stores to determine which items you might need. You should also consider how you will transport everything. A large tent may weigh as much as 100 pounds. It is best to keep as much gear as possible.
You can still include camping in your day if you want to be closer to home. Consider going hiking at a nearby state park. Take a hike through the woods or along a stream. Enjoy the outdoors with a picnic lunch. This is a perfect way to introduce children to the wonders of nature.
You can also make a camp in your backyard. Make use of any space available. Use branches, leaves and cardboard boxes to create a shelter. You can then build a firepit nearby the shelter. Make a ring with stones around the fire pit. Your children can sit inside the circle and roast marshmallows over the flames.
Once you're ready, pack up quickly. Don't forget to clean up after yourselves. Leaving trash behind can hurt animals and plants. It also makes it difficult for others to enjoy the same natural beauty.
It doesn't really matter if you camp or go camping. It doesn't really matter what you do, as long as you have fun and spend time together.