Outdoor activities to do in Westchester County
Stay active this season, whether it’s being on the water, in it, or riding on a new journey.
By Kayla Garritano
Get out on the water
Hudson River Recreation
Also known as Kayak Hudson, the business launched in 1998 and wanted to promote the benefits of kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, all while teaching the importance of protecting local bodies of water and how to safely navigate them. It’s all about having fun while being educational and safe. With them, you can enjoy tours, lessons, and rentals at various locations throughout Westchester.
Kingsland Point Park, Kathryn Davi Riverwalk Center, Sleepy Hollow, NY
Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Avenue, Croton Point, NY
Tarrytown Lakes Park, Neperan Road, Tarrytown, NY
Rye Town Park, 95 Dearborn Avenue, Rye, NY
18 Veterans Plaza, Croton on Hudson, NY | 914.682.5135
Annsville Creek Paddlesport Center
Rent out canoes or paddles and drift along the Annsville Creek, Peekskill Bay, or the Hudson River. If you’re a beginner, the smooth and shallow waters of the Annsville Creek will help carry you along, making it an excellent place to learn how to paddle. Passing under the Route 202 Bridge will welcome a wide and quiet section of the creek. If you’re up for more of a challenge, make your way to the Hudson River.
1 Annsville Circle, Peekskill | 914.739.2588
Wampus Pond
Located in a park full of rich history, Wampus Pond, meaning “opossum,” was named after an Native American the land was bought from in 1696. Several Native American artifacts and remnants of historically significant residential developments were discovered in the area. This natural pond was also once part of the NYC water supply, but was purchased by the county in 1963 and now can be used for rowboat rentals.
811 NY-128 Armonk | 914.273.3230
Go for a swim | Beaches
Glen Island Beach
The second most widely used park in the County Parks system. Totaling 130 acres, this crescent-shaped beach will make you feel relaxed on the Long Island Sound. Just outside of the sandy beach, you’ll be enthralled in a park featuring picnic pavilions, pathways, and open grass to lie and play on.
Weyman Avenue, New Rochelle | 914.813.6720/6721
Playland Beach
Playland Park opened in 1928. Its amusement park brings joy to all who attend. But it’s more than just rides. The beach offers a wide perspective of the Long Island Sound, where you can relax or walk the boardwalk. The beach area also consists of restaurants with scenic views.
1 Playland Parkway, Rye | 914.813.7010
Croton Point Beach
The beach, situated within a 508-acre park, outlines the property, offering numerous options for tanning and relaxation, with views overlooking the Hudson River. Those who love history will also enjoy their time here, as archaeologists have dated human life in the area from approximately 7,000 years ago.
1A Croton Point Avenue, Croton-On-Hudson | 914.862.5290
Go for a swim | Pools
Saxon Woods Pool
Splash around Westchester County’s largest swimming pool, which sits on a 700-acre property consisting of a playground and an 18-hole golf and miniature golf course. The pool also consists of a children’s aquatic playground and picnic areas, making it a fun day for the whole family!
1800 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains | 914.995.4480/4481
Sprain Ridge Park Pool
Located on a ridge alongside the Sprain Brook Parkway, the similarly named park and pool is heavily wooded, giving plenty of shade while also offering a variety of hiking and mountain bike trails. The park was obtained by the county from a botanical research center, the Boyce Thompson Institute, which is why it is home to many exotic and abnormal woodland plants.
149 Jackson Avenue, Yonkers | 914.231.3450
Ride Horses
Echo Farm
If you’re new to equestrian, this long-standing stable is the perfect place to start. Established in 1826 as a dairy farm, it changed its trajectory to a horse farm over 130 years later in 1959. Open to all ages and skill levels, the center offers summer camps and lessons on its 28-acre open farm for adults, children, the IEA team, the horsemanship program, and boarding.
91 Spring Street, South Salem, NY | 914.438.3523
Kentucky Riding Stables
A long-standing, family-owned and operated equestrian facility, these stables can be found right off the highway and have access to miles of trails along Westchester County. Opening in 1928, the establishment hosts four USEF-rated horse shows a year as well as schooling shows. It’s open to all beginners or accomplished riders looking for a competitive outing.
325 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY | 914.381.2825
