Family Things to Do in Westchester, New York

Playland Amusement Park, located in the city of Rye, is one of America's oldest amusement parks. The ideal destination for those who want a mix of old-world attractions and modern thrills, the park also offers mini-golf, an arcade, an ice rink and a boardwalk with direct access to the beach, where boat rental and kayaking are possible. The Kiddyland section of the park offers rides like bumper karts, a pirate ship, a kiddie coaster and various spinning and flying rides. Grown-ups can take on the major rides, such as Double Shot (an 85-foot shooting tower), the 75-year-old Dragon coaster, a 50-foot water plunge and a Ferris wheel.

Rye Playland
Playland Parkway
Rye, New York 10580
(914) 813-7000
ryeplayland.org

For older kids who won't spook too easily, Sleepy Hollow is the destination legends are made of. Made famous in Washington Irving's tale of the headless horseman, Sleepy Hollow offers lots of historical landmarks, including the Old Dutch Church Cemetery, where Irving is buried and full of deer just wandering around among the trees. Philipsburg Manor is a 17th century living history museum offering visitors a chance to see a working mill, a colonial house and a farm. Kids will love the animals and parents will appreciate the short clips offering a view into the living conditions of the time.

Village of Sleepy Hollow
28 Beekman Avenue
Sleepy Hollow, New York 10591
(914) 366-5100
sleepyhollowny.gov

Hilltop offers plenty of opportunities for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors. Apple or pumpkin picking are popular here, but visitors can also see farm animals, visit historical buildings (some dating back as far as the 1600s) and enjoy the butterfly garden. There is also an environmental center which offers kids programs and over 3 miles of hiking trails.

Hilltop Hanover Farm & Environmental Center
1271 Hanover Street, Yorktown Heights 10598
(914) 962-2368
hilltophanoverfarm.org