Consider Westchester County if you're looking for a weekend getaway. It's just a few miles away from New York City. The county offers endless entertainment. The Hudson River and Long Island Sound surround the county, which is home to bustling communities and charming villages. You can explore everything from historic sites to haunted house, and there are many other places to see.
In addition to the many attractions, the county has a number of parks and nature preserves. With your children, you can share information about the natural world. Cranberry Lake Preserve is one example of a family-oriented natural program that includes interactive displays and programs.
Another great destination is the Bronx River Parkway Reservation. 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 enjoy a stroll on the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail during spring, summer, or fall. The path passes through many small towns and is popular with thousands of tourists each year. The trail is accessible for walkers, cyclists, and in-line skaters.
Another unique place to visit is the Mario Cuomo Bridge Walkway. This is a 3.6-mile path over water that has six overlooks. On weekends, the path is open to walking, bicycling, and jogging.
The bridge offers spectacular views. The road is closed to cars Sundays. To reach the park, take the Metro-North train to Tarrytown and then walk to the entrance on National Road.
Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival is a popular event in the region. The 43-year-old festival features bluegrass music and is family-friendly. The event features activities for both children and adults, such as the headless horseman.
Barton Orchards BBQ Weekend is a great place to go outdoors on Labor Day Weekend. Children under 12 years old and their parents are free to attend the festival. Visitors can stop by Barton Orchards' Farm Markets for local fruits and vegetables, as well as take in the sights of the festival.
Sleepy Hollow Craft & Street Fair is another great event. October 12th will see the return of this Halloween extravaganza. Over 7,000 pumpkins can be carved and visitors can enjoy haunted carousels and live music.
There are several farmers markets throughout Westchester County. These farmers markets typically take place in the spring and fall. They feature local farmers, artists, as well as artisans. Special events will be held at some markets 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 local non-profit accepts donations, and hosts free art exhibitions and shows. Summer on the Sound concert program is open throughout the summer. Many small art centers offer the chance to see some of the most exciting up-and coming artists.
FAQ
What are the best activities you can do together?
There are many different ways you can spend your time with your loved ones. There are two types you should avoid. One type involves spending time together while talking about yourself. This type of activity typically ends when the conversation stops.
This second activity involves disagreeing about who is better than you. When you do this, you make your spouse feel bad about himself or herself and hurt your children.
You might think, "Well then, we need these arguments." That's right. We do. Sometimes though, we can find more productive uses of our time. You could spend time with your children reading, going on walks, helping them with homework, cooking dinner, and other activities. These activities are great because you and your entire family get to work together.
Instead of fighting about who is the smarter, why can't you agree to compete against one another in a board game? Or why not choose a book that everybody likes and read it together?
You could also make time for a movie with your friends. Why not eat dinner together and discuss how well you did today? What about playing board games?
These activities are fun and give you a way to enjoy each other's company without fighting. You also get to learn from your fellow participants.
What are the 5 best outdoor activities for kids?
You can find endless outdoor activities no matter where your home is located. These are five of the most enjoyable activities that we believe every child should experience at least once.
-
Go to the Zoo. Zoos provide a wonderful place for quality family time. Going to a Zoo allows you to be close to the animals. It's also an excellent opportunity to teach your children about conservation. 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.
-
Visit a Nature Center - Nature centers are wonderful places to learn about the natural world. These centers often have interactive displays and exhibits. There are also lots of hands-on activities. All the cool things they can do with will be a surprise to your kids! Visits to nature centers are a great excuse and opportunity for your kids to enjoy a walk through nearby forests or parks.
-
Take a Bike Ride - When was the last time you took your kids on a bike ride? You'll find that they will enjoy riding bikes just as much as you did growing old. Bike riding isn’t just great exercise. It’s also a great way for you to get to see your community and discover hidden gems.
-
Play a Sports Game - Sports games aren't just for kids who grew up playing them. Sports games are still popular with people of all ages. The key is to find the best game for your group. All of these options are great for families who want to spend time together.
-
View a Movie under the Stars. If you have a big yard, this is one of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy the outdoors. You will need a blanket, lawn chair, picnic basket, food and drinks, as well as a grill. Get your blankets out and go outside. You will be amazed at the comfort it gives you to relax under the stars.
Are there any tips I can offer parents who want to get their kids exercising?
Parents who want to encourage their children to exercise should encourage them try other activities. Kids will likely continue to exercise if they do more physical activity.
Parents shouldn't pressure their kids into participating in certain activities. Instead, they should help their kids explore various options, such as swimming, running, hiking, dancing, martial arts, basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, baseball, softball, and many others.
Should my child go barefoot when running around?
Yes! Running barefoot strengthens muscles and bones, promotes hygiene, and improves posture. It prevents cuts, bruises, blisters, and scrapes.
But, if your child is sensitive to the touch, it may be worth considering wearing shoes. You may also want to wash your child's feet if they are greasy or sweaty.
You should always supervise your children while they are playing outdoors. When doing so, ensure you provide adequate supervision by watching your child from a distance.
And when your child plays in the grass, ensure she doesn't eat plants or drink water. Avoid high grass and keep your child from it.
How can i tell if my kid is ready to ride the bike?
Children just learning how to walk will need to learn balance skills before pedaling a bicycle. Your child should start by standing on one side. Gradually increase her height on the other. Once she's mastered this task she can then stand on both of her feet simultaneously.
Children should be able, if they are already walking, to ride a tricycle/scooter. Ask your doctor if your child will require special equipment to ensure safety.
If your child is four years or older, you may be ready to teach him/her how to ride a bicycle. Your child will need to learn how to balance on the two-wheels. Next, show your child how to steer by using hand signals. Your child should learn how to safely stop using hand signals.
Safety must always be top priority, regardless of your child's age. Teach your children to look both ways before crossing streets and wear helmets when riding a bike.
Which five outdoor activities are best for families?
You can spend your time outdoors in many different ways, whether you are an outdoorsman or city dweller. There are many ways for families to bond and enjoy the outdoors, such as camping, fishing or hiking.
These are our top picks of outdoor activities for children of all ages.
-
Hiking - Explore a state park or hike along trails near you. You should bring water and snacks with you on the trip. If you plan to observe wildlife while walking, be sure to bring binoculars. If you plan to stay overnight, pack tents and sleeping bags to keep everyone warm.
-
Camping - Camping offers another way to explore nature without having to leave the comforts of home. Pack light and choose a campsite that is close to restaurants and stores. Lightsabers are a must for nighttime adventures.
-
Fishing – Fishing can be enjoyed by both adults as well as children. Fishing is a great activity for children. They love to catch fish and learn how they hook the line. Adults enjoy watching their children catch fish and sitting back to watch. A stream, lake or pond is a good place to cast a line for catfish, trout or bass.
-
Kayaking is a great way to get a fresh perspective on nature. Kayaking is a great way to explore rivers or lakes. During your excursion keep an eye on birds, turtles and even whales.
-
Bird Watching – Bird watching is one the most loved hobbies in America. It's easy to see why: it requires little equipment and provides hours of entertainment. Find a local bird sanctuary or national park to visit. Have fun spotting owls, eagles, hawks, and other feathered friends.
Statistics
- 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)
- Later in life, they are also more likely to result in delinquency and oppositional behavior, worse parent-child relationships, mental health issues, and domestic violence victims or abusers10. (parentingforbrain.com)
- 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)
- So you're less likely to breathe in enough of the respiratory droplets containing the virus that causes COVID-19 to become infected if you haven't had a COVID-19 vaccine. (mayoclinic.org)
External Links
How To
What is the difference?
A swing is an enclosed structure made of wood or metal. A slide is equipment that allows you down a slope. Both slides and swings can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
Swinging is a great exercise because it strengthens core body parts like your back and abdomen. Sliders are fun and can make you feel light.
But there are important differences in swings and slides.
-
While swings are more expensive than slides, they are still safer. These are usually equipped with safety features, such as rails and brakes.
-
Swings are portable, while slides require permanent installation.
-
Swings have more space than slide's.
-
You can use swings indoors and outdoors. But slides can only be used outdoors.
Buy a slide that is well-anchored. Make sure the slide is securely anchored so that it won't slip.
Also, keep in mind that slides are often dangerous for young children. So if you plan to give one to your child, check with local authorities before buying it.