Westchester County is a great place to go for weekend getaways. It's only a few minutes from New York City. There are endless activities. It is surrounded by Long Island Sound and the Hudson River. The county is home to many bustling cities as well as charming villages. You can explore everything from historic sites to haunted house, and there are many other places to see.
There are many attractions in the county, but there are also many nature preserves and parks. It is possible to share your knowledge about the natural surroundings with your children. Cranberry Lake Preserve has a number of nature programs for families and interactive displays.
Bronx River Parkway Reservation makes a great getaway. This park is Westchester County’s oldest and most well-known linear park. The park is 13.1 miles long, and can be accessed by foot or bicycle. Many scenic overlooks can be found along the route. Audio tours are also available for a nominal fee.
The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail can be walked during the spring, fall, and summer. The path passes through many small towns and is popular with thousands of tourists each year. The trail is available for cyclists, inline skaters, as well as walkers.
A unique place worth visiting is the Mario Cuomo Bridge Walkway. This is a 3.6-mile path over water that has six overlooks. The path can be used for walking, biking, and running on weekends.
This bridge is an excellent place to view the breathtaking views. The road is closed Sundays. Metro-North train to Tarrytown. Walk to National Road entrance to reach the park.
The Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival is one of the most popular events in the area. The 43-year-old festival features bluegrass music and is family-friendly. All ages are welcome to join the fun, even the headless horsesman.
Barton Orchards' BBQ Weekend and Brews Weekend are great ways to get outside during Labor Day Weekend. Kids under 12 years of age and their parents can enjoy the festival for free. Barton Orchards' Farm Markets will be open for visitors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables as well as enjoy the festival's sights.
The Sleepy Hollow Craft & Street Fair are two other great events. October 12th is the return date for this Halloween celebration. You can find over 7,000 pumpkins carved by visitors, as well as haunted carousels rides and live entertainment.
There are many farmers' markets throughout Westchester County. These typically run in the spring and fall and feature local farmers, artists, and artisans. Special events may be offered at certain markets for children.
Blue Door Art Center should be on your list of things to do while you're there. The Blue Door Art Center is a non-profit that accepts donations. They also host free art exhibits and shows. Summer on the Sound concerts are also open to the public throughout the summer. Several small art centers will also offer opportunities to catch some of the best up-and-coming artists.
FAQ
Which 5 outdoor activities are best for children?
Outside activities are endless, regardless of whether you live in the city or the suburbs. These are five of the most enjoyable activities that we believe every child should experience at least once.
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Visit the Zoo - Zoos offer great places to spend quality time with your family. Going to the Zoo is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your family and to learn more about conservation and animal welfare. Some zoos offer special programs that help educate visitors about issues facing endangered species worldwide. 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. All the cool things they can do with will be a surprise to your kids! You can also visit a nature centre to go on a hike through the nearby forests and parks.
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Take your kids on a bicycle ride. As much as you enjoyed riding bikes growing up, your kids will also enjoy it. Bicycling isn't just a good way to exercise; it's also a great method to get to understand your community and find hidden gems.
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Play a sports game - Sport games aren’t just for kids. Sports games are still popular with people of all ages. It is important to find something that suits 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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Enjoy a Movie Under The Stars - This may be the best way to take in the great outdoors if you have a large yard. You will need a blanket, lawn chair, picnic basket, food and drinks, as well as a grill. Grab your blankets and head outside -- you'll be surprised at how nice it feels to sit under the stars.
How old is my child before I allow them to go outside?
Every day, children need sunshine and fresh air. Do not forget to encourage your children to get as much sun as they can, no matter whether they are toddlers, preschoolers or elementary school students.
Limit snow exposure for those who live in cold climates. Protect your children's skin from the sun when they are young by wearing sunscreen and hats.
Children under age five should only spend 10 minutes at one time outside. The length can be increased until it reaches a maximum of 2 hours per day.
Is it safe for my child to climb trees?
Trees are very sturdy structures. If you don't evaluate your child's abilities, climbing trees can pose risks.
To climb higher on a tree, you will need to use both your legs and hands. Your child should be able and able to use both their arms and legs to balance.
You child must also be able move between branches quickly and easily. This requires strength and agility.
Don't force your child to climb trees if she isn't ready.
You can still enjoy climbing a tree together by sitting on the lower limbs or using a ladder. Or, you can both sit on a branch together and read to one another.
How can I determine if my child is ready for a ride on a bike?
Children just learning how to walk will need to learn balance skills before pedaling a bicycle. Start by having your child stand up on one foot and then gradually increase the length she stands on her feet. Once she has mastered this task, she should try standing on both feet simultaneously.
Children who are able walk should be capable of riding a scooter or tricycle. Your pediatrician will tell you if your child requires special equipment to make sure he or she is safe.
Your child is at least four years old when you can start to ride a bike. Your child will need to learn how to balance on the two-wheels. Then, teach him or her to steer using hand signals. Show your child how safe it is to apply the brake.
Safety must always come first, no matter how old your child may be. Your children should learn to look both ways when crossing roads and to wear helmets when riding a bicycle.
Statistics
- Ask yourself, 'What do I want to accomplish, and is this likely to produce that result?'" 2. (webmd.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)
- You can likely find a 5K to get the family signed up for during any part of the year. (family.lovetoknow.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 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)
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How To
What's the best outdoor activity for kids in the summer?
No matter how many sports you had growing up there was nothing like spending time with the family outdoors. Whether learning to ride a bike together, camping, fishing, or even just enjoying nature, spending time out of doors is an important way to bond with your children.
But while the benefits of spending quality time with your kids are plentiful, finding activities that appeal to adults and children alike can sometimes be difficult. This is why we compiled our list of the best outdoor activities that families can enjoy.
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Fishing is an excellent activity for children because it teaches them valuable life skills such as patience, teamwork and problem solving. When you fish with your kids, you teach them conservation, respect for water, wildlife awareness, among other things.
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Parents and children love camping. Although it can seem daunting to set camp, once you have done it a few times you will realize how easy it is to do. Plus, having a weekend away from home gives everyone a break from daily routines.
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For kids, hiking is a great activity because they can explore the outdoors without ever leaving their home. Children love to hike because they are explorers and adventurers. They also learn about their surroundings and themselves along the way.
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Because it is easy to do anywhere and requires minimal equipment, riding bikes can be a family-friendly activity. Kids can learn balance, coordination and strength by riding bikes.
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Playgrounds have many benefits for children, including the chance to make new friends and socialize. Play spaces can also be used by older children who love to work on difficult projects.