Adventurous children and families, this one is for you! 

Embark on a thrilling, outdoor family-friendly adventure this spring or summer at a nearby aerial adventure park! Navigate your way through treetop obstacles, fly across the forest on a zip line, swing from tree to tree and climb your way up to extraordinary views. Kids and adults of all skill levels will relish in the thrill, excitement and achievement they will experience at these scenic and challenging aerial courses.

Check out these outdoor adventure parks featuring high ropes, zip lines, tight ropes, elevated bridges and climbing obstacles in and near Westchester County, NY. Challenge yourself, push boundaries and try something new. It will be an adrenaline pumping and bonding experience you will remember for years to come!

Boundless Adventures
Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY

Boundless Adventure aerial adventure park combines high ropes courses with zip lining. High in the trees are elements that require adventure-seekers to swing, climb, balance, traverse and zip line. They have nine courses that meet the needs of all skill levels. Beginner courses are closer to the ground, and do not require much strength and stamina. Advance courses are higher up in the canopy, and require more strength, stamina, and courage. Participants must be at least 7 years old to participate. Pricing is available on their website.

Spins Hudson
5 John Walsh Blvd., Peekskill, NY

Spins Hudson has the only outdoor/indoor ropes course in the Northeast challenging even the best climbers! The arial outdoor course has four levels and over 70 elements... and an incredible view once you reach the top at over 50 feet.

Pricing is $15 for 60 minutes for children with a minimum standing reach height of 56" unless accompanied by an adult (one adult per two children); $30 for 90 minutes for anyone with a minimum standing reach height of 69".

In addition to the outdoor rope course there is also a 5,000-square-foot, two story laser tag arena outfitted with lights, fog, and bridges (children must be at least 42 inches tall, and seven years or older to play).  

They also have axe throwing for teens and adults ages 16+. Last but not least there is and a 5,000 square feet massive redemption arcade for all you gamers out there.  With over 50 of the top industry games to play, VR gaming, and is the only video gaming entertainment center on the Hudson.

In addition to adventure and fun, Spins Hudson also serves homeschooling networks throughout Westchester to provide physical exercise via their ropes course and laser tag arena. The average  calories burned in laser tag  for 10 minutes is anywhere from 200-500 calories!  

With the cost effective Hudson Passport you can get an all access pass to all Spins Hudson Play including one pass to access the indoor/outdoor aerial ropes course, laser tag arena, virtual reality game  and redemption arcade.

Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure
Bronx River entrance to the Bronx Zoo, Bronx River Parkway at Boston Road, Bronx, NY

Climb, crawl, and swing through the Bronx Zoo's adventure ropes course and zip line. Soar 400 feet across the Bronx River and back on the zip line or try one of seven different ropes courses. Participants can swing from rope to rope, skateboard high above the ground, and navigate their way through the trees as part of their Treetop Adventure. Courses range in difficulty from beginner to expert and consist of challenge obstacles including rope bridges, wobbly bridges, tight rope walks, ladders, rolling and swinging elements, zip lines and more!

All participants must must fit properly into harness, be at least 7 years old and between 50 and 275 pounds. They must also be able to reach 5 ft 6 in with feet flat on the ground. Due to strict capacity restrictions, advanced tickets and reservations are strongly encouraged. On-site reservations can be made when there is availability.  Tickets and prices are available on their website.

Barton Orchards Treetop Adventures
63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY

Located on the vast farm at Barton Orchard, Tree Top Adventures is an exciting aerial adventure with five courses for all skill levels. Spend the day climbing, swinging, and zipping from tree to tree in one of the Hudson Valley’s most beautiful locations! The course includes two Yellow Courses (Easy), two Green Courses (Medium) and one Blue Course (Hard).

Tickets must be purchased online In advance. ​The price is $39.95 per person for a three-hour block. All climbers must weigh between 60 - 275 lbs, and be able to reach a minimum of 72 inches.

While you are there you can take advantage of the farm activities like the petting zoo, special events and playground. Don't miss the baked treats and outdoor dining, including their delicious ice cream (try the Apple Cider Donut Sundae)!

Additional Outdoor Aerial Adventure Parks, Ropes Courses and Zip Lining

If you are looking for more adventurous excursions, here is a list of additional adventure courses, zip lines and more in the tri-state area. 

For more ideas to have fun with kids in Westchester County, check out our Outdoor Fun and Indoor Fun pages.

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The day is done. Everyone is tucked into bed and you’re finally able to sit down (with a glass of wine, or a pint of ice cream, of whatever your vice may be these days!) and then you hear it….the sound no parent wants to hear after everyone has been tucked into bed…footsteps. “Mom….I can’t sleep.” Before you resign your sacred alone time to a bedtime battle, here are some tips to keep in mind.

​Words Matter

Believe it or not, your kids ARE listening to what you say. When we speak about sleep, we want to make sure we’re using positive language. Often kids see sleep as a punishment that ends the fun of the day and not a great time to get cozy in our beds so our bodies can grow stronger and taller, and recharge so we have energy for the next day. Ask your child if they know why we sleep. I find this a fascinating question to ask kids. They often have no idea! Tell them all the great reasons why our bodies need to rest.

When speaking with children, the specific words you say matter. I encourage parents to use the work “rest” instead of sleep. For a child who is anxious, saying “go to sleep” can actually become a stressful proposition for them; we cannot will ourselves so sleep, no matter how hard we try. In reality, the harder we try, the harder it is. When we tell our kids to “close your eyes and rest,” we’re asking them to do something they have the power to do.  


Something to Think About

Often kids will say they’re bored when trying to sleep, or they may keep thinking about worry thoughts, or scary thoughts. Help your kids brainstorm a list of things to think about when they rest in bed, and pick one each night. Topics can be as tangible as “think about the time we went to the beach” to whimsical ideas like “think about flying on a unicorn to a beach filled with cotton candy that you can build a castle with instead of sand.” Get creative! 

A fun activity to do is to come up with a list of items and locations and put each on an index card. Before bed, have your kids pick 2-3 cards from the pile and use these words to create a new story for them to think about as they rest in bed.


Counting

Counting can be a simple activity to help quiet our minds and a very useful tool for children when they can’t sleep. A young child may love the challenge of “see how high you can count while you rest in your bed.” Tell them that you can’t wait to hear what number they got to when they wake in the morning.  

A child who is struggling with worry thoughts can also benefit from counting. Counting is a benign activity that is boring enough to allow the brain to fall asleep, and concrete enough to be a distraction from our worries. Older kids can count by twos, or tell them to count backwards by twos from 200. (Please note if your child is really struggling with anxiety they should see a licensed therapist.)


Belly Breathing

Similar to counting, belly breathing helps quiet our bodies and minds. Children can put a stuffed animal on their belly and watch it go up and down while they slowly breath in and out. Counting while they breath can help ensure breathing is slow enough to promote sleep. Have your child count in for four to five seconds and out for four to five seconds (slightly longer intervals is fine too if they can handle it). This is a great tool to practice during the day time so kids know what to do, and can do it on their own in bed.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

Screens, whether on an iPad, TV, phone or computer, can stimulate our brains and make it hard for people (yup, you too grown ups!) to fall asleep.  If your child is having a hard time falling asleep at night, set a screen time curfew at least an hour before bedtime.  


It’s OK to Rest and Not Sleep 

Its important for kids to know that sometime we all lay in bed waiting to sleep and that’s ok! Talking to your kids about your own sleep can really help.  Tell them what you do to get cozy and comfy in bed before sleep, and you can also tell them that sometimes you rest and let your mind wander before you fall asleep.  The tools listed above should help empower our children so they aren’t worried or frustrated when they can’t sleep. Instead, they have a way to quiet their minds as they rest in bed and you can regain your adult time, too! ​

Written by Lauren Lappen. She is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

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Spring is here with thoughts of daffodils, warmer days, and...spring cleaning! While this prospect can be daunting--especially for busy moms--we have some great tips on how to declutter and organize kids’ bedrooms and playrooms without the panic. 

Brave the Bedroom
The first and most simple step when tackling a child’s bedroom, whether it belongs to a wee one or a pre-teen, is to remove all trash from trash cans, as well as hidden trash from under the bed,  on closet floors, and even behind furniture. Once that’s done, the real decluttering can begin. An easy starting point is with clothing. Closets, dressers, and bureaus might be filled to the brim with clothing that your child has outgrown, or which is simply damaged or stained beyond repair.  Combine clothing by size to expedite sorting. Then, divide all clothing into three piles: Keep, Donate, and Store (for younger siblings or anyone you’d like to pass them onto). Clearly label what you’re storing, so you don’t need to dig through boxes and bins in the future, when you’re looking for items like that special holiday dress for the baby!

Next, tackle the toys. Begin the process of sorting through toys one by one, dividing them into our three categories of Keep, Donate, and Store. After toys, you can focus on a library overhaul by sorting through your child’s books. Again, keeping the trifecta of Keep, Donate, and Store in mind, you can ensure there will be space for new favorites as your child grows.

After curating and sorting what remains in the room, it is an excellent time to thoroughly clean all surfaces, especially the floors (now that you can reach under the bed and deep inside the closets). A clean bedroom provides the opportunity to implement new storage solutions. Remember, organization is much easier to maintain when everything has a home. Bins, baskets, and dresser drawer dividers will help you and your kids stay organized going forward. Don’t forget to use coordinated space-saver hangers in closets to maximize your space! With systems in place, your child can help maintain their organized space on a daily basis.


Plow Through the Playroom
The playroom can easily become the most unruly area in your home, but conversely might be the most straightforward to organize. Imaginations run wild in the playroom, but that doesn’t mean you need to live in disarray. Again, we call on our trusted trifecta to guide us through the playroom makeover journey: Keep, Donate, and Store. As children outgrow toys, it’s fairly easy to determine under which category items fall. Pro tip: do not include the kids in the toy sorting process--they’ve been known to fall in love again with long-forgotten favorites which can make organizing take infinitely longer. Once finished decluttering and purging, you can begin reorganizing the room. Miniature cubbies, baskets, and clear (or colorful) bins are the key to a neat and orderly playroom. If you don’t have clear bins, be sure to clearly label the outside of the bin with the name of its contents (or with a picture label, for younger children).  

Divide the room into activity zones: a craft area, a reading nook, a game section—and store all necessary items for the activity in their respective zone. 

When reorganizing a playroom, make sure that your children can comfortably reach whatever they need. This fosters independence and encourages participation in cleanup. Returning a toy, book, or art supply to its rightful home is much more likely to happen if it is easy to do. We call that a win-win for parents and children alike!

If you need to purchase new furniture for your playroom, be sure to look for multi-use storage solutions like tables with shelves or drawers underneath, ottomans that open for additional storage, or benches with organizing cubbies. You never need to compromise style for function.

Need assistance conquering your kids’ clutter? 123organize is here to help!
 
As the #1 Move Management company in Westchester, with more than 15 years of experience offering premium organizing, staging, and moving services in Westchester County and the surrounding areas, our team is enthusiastic about helping our clients achieve their organizing goals!
 
With our non-judgemental approach, we are dedicated to providing you with a supportive and stress-free experience every step of the way.
 
For Westchester NY Moms, this spring we’re offering a complimentary in person or virtual consultation on all of our services - organizing, staging, and move management - if you book before June 1st, 2021.  Just mention the code SPRING10 !
 
Contact us at: inquiries@123organize.com or visit our website at www.123organize.com for more information.
 
We look forward to simplifying your life!​​

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​Do you have growing children and a basement, closet or attic brimming with their hand-me-downs? Perhaps you are looking for a local place to volunteer and donate your time. Have you wondered how you can give back locally and make a difference in the lives of your neighbors, particularly now during the pandemic? 
 
The Sharing Shelf is your place. The Sharing Shelf, Westchester's Clothing Bank for Children, was founded in 2009 as a grassroots program to combat clothing insecurity and meet basic material needs, such as diapers, underwear, socks, period products and toiletries, for low-income children and families in our community.

They collect new and gently used clothing which is distributed to local children at no cost through nonprofits, schools, hospitals and community groups in Westchester County. Volunteers are the energy behind the program’s success. They sort donations and create customized clothing packages for each child served. Each bag contains a week’s worth of seasonally appropriate outfits - at least seven outfits, as well as new socks and new underwear (or diapers for babies and toddlers). All children receive a toiletry kit and every menstruating girl gets period products.

​The Sharing Shelf also hosts a semi-annual free shopping day for teen girls called Teen Boutique (re-imagined during the pandemic), and every summer launches its Backpacks to School initiative to provide new backpacks filled with grade appropriate school supplies. 

Do you want to get involved and make a difference? There are countless ways you can help.

Donate Clothing
The Sharing Shelf accepts donations of clothing in all sizes, from newborn to XXL, for infants, children and teens. Clothing should be in clean, wearable condition ready for immediate distribution, free of rips, stains and tears. Donations of seasonally appropriate clothing are preferred. In addition to gently used clothing, The Sharing Shelf seeks donations of new socks and new underwear. In the fall and winter, they accept donations of new hats and gloves particularly in toddler and youth sizes. 

To learn more, visit sharingshelf.org/donate-clothing or visit their Target registry for up-to-date needs.
 
If you work in a school or chair the PTA, consider taking charge of your school’s lost and found, tap a couple volunteers to wash any dirty items, and bring the donations to The Sharing Shelf. 
 
All clothing donations are by appointment. Visit signup.com/go/EgKfokm to schedule a time.

Volunteer at The Sharing Shelf

Volunteers are critical to The Sharing Shelf. Volunteers sort and pack clothing in the warehouse, organize collection drives in the community, support the backpack packing and distribution, and run Teen Boutique.  Each year, hundreds of volunteers - students, individuals, families, special needs adults, community groups and businesses - log more than 10,000 hours in The Sharing Shelf's warehouse or from their homes.

The program has adopted safety protocols during COVID-19, with socially distant workstations and open doors for fresh air to best protect the health and safety of their volunteers. The program is open weekdays, Monday to Thursday and either Saturday or Sunday most weekends (during the school year). Volunteers must be at least 14 years old and everyone ages 14- 17 must be accompanied by their own parent or guardian who actively volunteers. To learn more: sharingshelf.org/volunteer.

Virtually Volunteer At-Home (and diaper donations)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, The Sharing Shelf has tapped volunteers countywide to support their work with at-home projects. Volunteers are tasked with filling toiletry kits for infants, children, teens and families, creating layette sets with items like baby towels, bibs, burp cloths and washcloths, or encouraged to organize drives for new underwear and diapers. The National Diaper Bank Network estimates that, at minimum, diaper banks and programs like The Sharing Shelf are distributing 50% more diapers monthly to families in need than before COVID-19. 
 
During the summer, volunteers will be needed to fill pencil cases for back-to-school backpacks and organize school supply drives. 
 
Sign up to organize your own drive or learn more about The Sharing Shelf’s needs, visit: sharingshelf.org/organize-a-drive. To sign up for an at-home project: signup.com/go/FTFYrEb.

Other Ways to Help

The Sharing Shelf’s success depends on community collaboration and partnership. Sponsors support the Teen Boutique program and the Backpacks to School initiative. Contact Deborah Blatt (dblatt@sharingshelf.org), The Sharing Shelf’s Executive Director, to learn how your business can become a named sponsor or help underwrite these vital programs.

​Drives organized at area schools, businesses, houses of worship, and community groups ensure that The Sharing Shelf has the clothing and basic essentials needed to aid those in need. The program welcomes youth who are becoming a B’nei Mitzvah, having a Confirmation, or who are earning their Silver or Gold Award, or their Eagle Scout rank, and offers a range of age-appropriate projects and ideas. ​

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Spring is here and it is a beautiful time of year to enjoy playing mini golf in Westchester County. Have some classic, socially distanced family fun as a group. On the off months, or on a rainy day, try indoor mini golf. Here's our list of nearby Westchester Mom recommended mini golf courses.

Social distancing  and health protocols are in place so check in advance if reservations are required and don't forget your mask!

Westchester County Parks has three outdoor 19-hole miniature golf courses:
​

Additional outdoor mini golf courses include:
​

Yorktown Golf & Baseball Center
2710 Lexington Avenue, Mohegan Lake, NY
Experience Yorktown's 18 hole mini golf course complete with picturesque waterfalls and beautiful ponds. Soda, ice cream and light snacks are available to eat at picnic tables or shaded tents. You can also enjoy the batting cages during your visit as well. Now open daily 10am - 8pm. Fee is $7 per adult and $5.50 per child under 12.

Red Rooster
1566 Route 22, Brewster, NY (just outside Westchester County)
The retro Brewster drive-in, known for its burgers, shakes and ice cream has a large dining room and outdoor deck. Founded in 1963, it is a great spot to sit outside, eat and enjoy some no-frills miniature golf — now open for the season. Adults are $8 and children $6. Hours are 10am - midnight. Keep an eye out for celebrities if you go: Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon have been spotted there.

Monster Mini Golf
​Ridge Hill Shopping Center, 221 Market Street, Yonkers, NY
Newly opened just last year, this indoor glow golf venue is a great way to enjoy the game when the weather isn't cooperating. The exciting indoor monster themed glow in the dark 18 hole miniature golf course that offers a variety of entertainment attractions.Hours are: Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday: 11am – 10pm, Saturday: 11am – 10pm and Sunday: 11am – 8pm. Kids are $11 and adults $12, Seniors, Military, College Students are $9.


Space Adventure Glow in the Dark Mini Golf
Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Dr. West Nyack, NY 10994
Check out the only 18-hole indoor miniature golf course in Rockland County and the largest indoor miniature golf course on the East Coast! Space Adventure Mini Golf takes visitors on an exciting kaleidoscopic space adventure. Each hole offers a new challenge with spacemen and alien encounters along the way. Everything lights up under the luminescent glow of black lights, even the putters and golf balls. Hours are Monday to Thursday: 11am – 8pm, Friday: 11am – 9:30pm and Saturday & Sunday: 11am – 10pm. Prices are ages 3 - 64 $18, Seniors 65+ & Military $16.

For more ideas to have fun, check out our Indoor Fun and Outdoor Fun pages.

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​Celebrations and private affairs of all kinds were forced to a halt last year as the world faced the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that the vaccine rollout is kicking in and the warmer weather is upon us, it’s time to consider rescheduling that postponed event, throwing a birthday party for your kids, celebrating graduation, or planing a socially distant gathering.
 
We understand private events will look very different now and for the foreseeable future. Taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus is the responsible thing to do and will continue to be on the minds of hosts and guests well into 2021 and beyond.
 
Lakeside Productions offers these tips to plan an event that’s safe AND fun:

1. Limit Your Guest List 
Depending on where you live the number of people allowed to attend a gathering will vary.  We suggest starting small and focusing on the family you’ve only been able to see on zoom over the past year and a few friends in your inner circle that you’ve been wanting to reconnect with. Anyone who has already gotten the vaccine is a plus!

2. Take it to the Great Outdoors
With the warmer weather upon us this makes lot of sense.  If you’re having an event at your house or even at a venue go for the outdoor option if you can.  It’s easier to keep your distance and nature can provide a beautiful setting for the festivities as well.  Just remember you may need shade or a tent depending on location and the forecast to keep your guests comfortable.

3. Maintain Social Distance It’s important to remember to keep your distance.  Space chairs and tables far enough apart and any games or activities should be thought out so that everyone maintains their distance

4. Practice Safety First
Require and provide facemasks, provide sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. You can have disposable masks for anyone who needs them, or you can take it a step further by customizing face masks to commemorate the event.  Also, go for the oversized hand sanitizers and station them throughout the venue along with disinfectant wipes. ​

5. Offer an Online Streaming Option
Creating a schedule for the event and offering people who can’t be there in person to join for a part of the festivities could be a nice idea.  Joining on zoom for 20 minutes while you’re singing happy birthday, opening presents, or the cutting of the cake can be a good way for your loved ones to still feel connected to you and the occasion without being there physically.

6. Time to Eat and Be Merry 
Serve plated meals, individualized desserts (cookies or cupcakes), juice boxes, can sodas, etc.  This will make your guests feel more comfortable and limits the risk of spreading germs.  

7. Dance in Pods  Opting for no dance floor may be the better choice in some areas or venues but if you just can’t help yourself, we suggest dancing in groups with your family and keeping your distance from others.

8. Communicate the Party Guidelines in Advance  It’s a good idea to communicate the precautions you are taking and your expectations to everyone beforehand.  This will help ease any anxiety about what will most likely be the first event being attended for many since the pandemic started.  Over communicate with your venue and vendors as well.  Remember that celebrating safely and keeping everyone healthy while having fun is the key!

Keep in mind that the restrictions and guidelines will vary depending on your location.  Stay up to date by visiting the CDC website here.

Lakeside Productions is a full-service DJ Entertainment & Production Company located in the Westchester, New York Area with over twenty years of experience. 
 
Our entire team is following all of the safety protocols, providing great flexibility, and offering many tools and advice on celebrating safely.  
 
For more information on socially distant events, our availability, the precautions we are taking, and how we can celebrate safely together please email us at info@lakesideproductions.com or visit lakesideproductions.com.
 
Written by: Dan Pearson
Lakeside Productions, LLC
info@LakesideProductions.com
Phone: 516-993-9446

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It is wonderful to see your kids graduate from high school. Your teen has just reached a huge milestone and you are so proud of them. As wonderful as it is to watch your child graduate, it’s also painful to have them leave home and go off to college. Here’s how you can deal with the ups and downs of getting your teen off to college.

The first thing you can do is support your child and let them know how proud you are of them. Tell them how much you love them and how you admire your teen completing high school. Ask them how they feel about graduating. Are they excited? Nervous? Give your teen the feedback they need to feel good about their upcoming transition. You can even share stories about what it was like for you to leave home. How did you feel, and what was college like for you? Your child will appreciate your support and advice.

You can also prepare them for moving out of the house by helping them set goals. What are five things your teen wants to be able to do before they leave home? Do they struggle with cooking or keeping things tidy? Is it difficult for them to keep a schedule? Help them learn how to accomplish these tasks. Brainstorm solutions to these issues with your teen, and write out a timetable for when to tackle each problem. Encourage your teen to stay on track with these goals. You can even work out a reward system with them. Keeping their room tidy for a week means you both go out for ice cream. If your teen cooks for two weeks, then you take them out to dinner. Rewards will help them be excited about their goals and help them succeed. 

After that, you can let yourself acknowledge how hard this is for you. Let yourself feel sad about this new, difficult life change. You can express to your teen how much you will miss them. But for emotional support, reach out to a good friend or a professional. Your teen has a lot going on at this time, and you don’t want to stress them out too much. A friend or therapist is much better equipped to help you deal with your emotions. And you’ll feel grateful for another adult’s perspective on this issue. 

You may be worried about dealing with graduation in the middle of a pandemic. COVID-19 has made everything in our lives more difficult. With social distancing and mandatory mask wearing, staying connected with loved ones is proving to be a huge challenge. Your teen may be concerned about leaving home during a pandemic, or you may have trouble finding someone to talk to about your own struggles. Thankfully, modern technology can help alleviate some of these issues. You can your teen can reach out to their prospective schools and find out what they are doing to help slow the spread of the virus and make housing safe for students. If you need someone to talk with, you can always reach out to loved ones via social media. Instagram, Facebook, and similar platforms are also an effective way to stay in touch with your graduate once they leave home.

Finally, you should celebrate your teen’s graduation by sending out announcements. Not only will it be fun for your graduate to take grad photos and personalize announcements, it’s a great way to keep in touch with people during COVID. Get pictures of them in their graduation robe, either by hiring a professional photographer, or just using your phone. Your teen can choose the photos they like best to go on their announcements. If you don’t know where to order the cards, try Basic Invite. All of their designs are customizable, so your teen can make sure their custom graduation invites look perfect. I love their graduation invitation designs, be sure to check them out.

Despite the heartache of seeing your teen move on to new things, I hope you are also excited for them. Celebrate this new life change by sending out grad announcements, helping your child set goals, and telling them how proud you are. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend and talk about your struggles through this as well. You’ll feel better after talking things through. Remember to cherish every moment right now, while you can. Congratulations to you and your grad!

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​Spring is here and everyone is dying to get out and enjoy some fun activities and adventures. Westchester  County is filled with beautiful parks, attractions, beaches, hiking trails, playgrounds, natures centers and tons of other ways to enjoy the outdoors.   

While the pandemic lives on it is a good idea to check with your destination before heading over to determine if they are open, if advance reservations are required and what health and safety requirements are in place.

Check out this 2021 Spring Bucket List filled with ideas from local moms on where to go with kids for a great day outside in Westchester or within an hour's drive. Enjoy!

For more ideas check out our Outdoor Fun page, constantly being updated with the latest and greatest things to do with kids in Westchester.

• Westchester Parks
  • Bronx River Trail- Bicycle Sundays run spring and fall (sometimes summer too)
  • Cranberry Lake Preserve (the quarry side)
  • Croton Point Park
  • Croton Gorge Park
  • Kensico Dam
  • Rye Marshlands
  • Wilson's Woods
  • Tibbet's Brook Park
  • See the full list of Westchester Parks
    
    
• NY State Parks
  • Bear Mountain State Park & Carousel
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
  • Rockefeller State Park
  • Harriman State Park
  • Fahnestock State Park
  • Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park​
  • Search all NY State Parks
    
    
• Nature Centers
  • Cranberry Lake Preserve
  • Croton Point Nature Center
  • Greenburgh Nature Center
  • Rye Nature Center
  • ​Sheldrake Environmental Center
  • Teatown Lake Reservation
  • Weinberg Nature Center
  • Westmoreland Sanctuary
  • Wolf Conservation Center
  • Stamford Nature Center
    
    
• Bridges
  • Mario Cuomo Bridge Path
  • Walkway Over the Hudson
  • Brooklyn Bridge & Brooklyn Bridge Park
    
    
• Town Parks & Playgrounds
  • Ardsley Parks & Playgrounds
  • Bedford, Katonah Parks & Playgrounds- Caramoor, Lasdon Park & Arbortoreum in Katonah (check out the Magic of Spring Exhibit and the “Dinosaur Garden”) recommended
  • Briarcliff Manor Parks & Playgrounds
  • Bronxville Parks & Playgrounds
  • Cortlandt Parks & Playgrounds
  • Croton-on-Hudson Parks & Playgrounds- Trail map, Croton River Walk​
  • Dobbs Ferry Parks & Playgrounds
  • Eastchester Parks & Playgrounds
  • Greenburgh Parks & Playgrounds- Ridge Road Park & Hart's Brook recommended, more here
  • Harrison Parks & Playgrounds
  • Hastings Parks & Playgrounds
  • Irvington Parks & Playgrounds
  • Larchmont Parks & Playgrounds- Flint Park, Pine Brook Park & Manor Park recommended
  • Lewisboro Parks & Playgrounds
  • Mamaroneck Parks & Playgrounds- Harbor Island Park recommended
  • Mount Kisco Parks & Playgrounds
  • Mount Pleasant Parks & Playgrounds
  • Mount Vernon Parks & Playgrounds
  • New Castle, Chappaqua and Millwood Parks & Playgrounds- Gedney Park recommended
  • New Rochelle Parks & Playgrounds
  • North Castle, Armonk, Banksville, and North White Plains Parks & Playgrounds
  • North Salem Parks & Playgrounds
  • Ossining Parks & Playgrounds
  • Peekskill Parks & Playgrounds- Peekskill Waterfront Walk recommended
  • Pleasantville Parks & Playgrounds
  • Port Chester Parks & Playgrounds
  • Pound Ridge Parks & Playgrounds- Ward Pound Ridge Reservation & Trailside Nature Museum recommended
  • Rye Parks & Playgrounds- Rye Town Park And Beach recommended
  • Rye Brook Parks & Playgrounds
  • Scarsdale Parks & Playgrounds
  • Tarrytown Parks & Playgrounds- recommended Pierson Park
  • Sleepy Hollow Parks & Playgrounds
  • Somers Parks & Playgrounds
  • White Plains Parks & Playgrounds- Saxon Woods Park recommended
  • Yonkers Parks & Playgrounds
  • Yorktown Parks & Playgrounds
  • Complete list of Town Recreation Departments in Westchester County
    
    
• Westchester County- Other Parks and Areas
  • Untermeyer Gardens
  • Pepsico Sculpture Garden
  • Westchester Riverwalk
  • North-South County Trailway
  • New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
  • Historic Hudson Valley Historic Sites: Philipsburgh Manor, Kykuit, The Rockefeller Estate, Washington Irving's Sunnyside, Van Cortlandt Manor, Union Church of Pocantico Hills 
  • Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
    
    
• Outside Westchester County- Other Parks and Areas
  • Van Saun Park
  • Central Park
  • ​Turkey Mountain
  • Bruce Park Playground
  • New York Botanical Garden
  • Wave Hill in Riverdale

More ideas from our website: 

• ​15 Fun Spring Activities and Ideas From Moms in Westchester
• Nature Centers in Westchester County

• Muscoot Farm
• Stew Leonard’s
• Wolf Conservation Center​
• Stone Barns
• Bronx Zoo
• Central Park Zoo
• Bear Mountain Zoo
• New York Aquarium
• Green Chimneys
• Fishkill Farms
• Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
• Barton Orchards
• Hilltop Hanover Farm
• Och's Orchard
• Outhouse Orchards
• Penning's Farm
• Stuart's Fruit Farm
• Warwick Winery & Distillery
• Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm
• White Post Farms on Long Island
• Long Island Game Farm
• Bergen County Zoo in NJ
• Turtle Back Zoo in NJ
• Six Flags Wild Safari Drive-Thru in NJ
• Beardsley Zoo in CT
• Maritime Aquarium in CT
• Mystic Aquarium in CT

More ideas from our website: 

• 15 Fun Spring Activities and Ideas From Moms in Westchester
• Nature Centers in Westchester County
• ​See the Animals This Winter: Zoos, Farms, Nature Centers & Aquariums in or Near Westchester
• Farms, Pick Your Own Fruit and Orchards In or Near Westchester County

• Boundless Adventure
• Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure
• Spins Hudson
• Barton Orchards Treetop Adventures

More ideas from our website: 

• Outdoor Aerial Adventure Parks, Ropes Courses and Zip Lining In and Near Westchester

• Boats & Water Sports
  • Kayak Hudson
  • Westchester SUP
  • Mountain Valley Guides
  • Silver Canoes
  • Indian Head Canoes & Rafts
  • Bear Mountain Canoe & Paddleboats
  • Fahenstock State Park Row Boat Rentals at Canopus Lake
  • ​The Town Tinker Tube Rental
  • NYC Water Ski and Wakeboard School
  • Circle Line NYC Sightseeing Cruises
  • Hudson River Cruises
  • Norwalk Aquarium Boat Ride
  • Mystic CT Sailing Tour
  • Fire Island Ferries
    
    
• Splash Pads
  • Sprain Ridge Pool
  • Willson’s Waves Park
  • Tibbetts Brook Park
  • Pierson Park
  • Harbor Island Park
  • Louis Engel Waterfront Park
  • Carol Nichols Park
    
    
• Pools
  • County Pools
    • Playland Pool
    • Sprain Ridge Pool
    • Saxon Woods Park
    • The Brook at Tibbetts
    • Willson's Waves Pool
  • State Pools 
    • Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
    • Bear Mountain State Park
  • Town Pools- see the complete list of Town Recreation Departments in Westchester County

• Westchester Beaches
  • Johnston Beach at Harbor Island Park
  • Playland Pool and Beach
  • Croton Point Beach
  • Glen Island Beach
  • Rye Town Park
    ​
• Nearby Beaches
  • Rockland & Putnam County
    • Canopus Lake
    • Lake Welch
    • Rockland Lake State Park
  • Long Island
    • Jones Beach State Park
    • Robert Moses State Park
    • Fire Island
    • Hamptons
    • Naragansett
  • NYC- Coney Island
  • NJ Beaches​
  • Connecticut
    • Compo Beach
    • Sherwood Island State Park
    • Greenwich Point- Tod’s Point

​
More ideas from our website:

• Summer Bucket List Ideas for Families In Westchester County

• Rafting, Kayak, Canoe and More Boat Rentals in Westchester County and Beyond
• Westchester County Pool & Beach Update- June 2020
• Swimming Lakes Near Westchester County​​

• Attractions & Amusements
  • Baseball game at Yankee Stadium, Citi Field or Rockland Boulders
  • Playland
  • Legoland (opening in Goshen this summer)
  • Sesame Place
  • Quassy Amusement Park
  • Storybook Land
  • Diggerland
  • Field Station Dinosaurs
  • Splashdown Beach
  • Crayola Experience
  • Dutch Wonderland
  • Hershey Park
  • Land of Make Believe
  • Six Flags Great Adventure
  • Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
  • Lake Compounce
  • Stratsburg Rail Road
  • ​Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Ride
    ​
• Resorts & Destinations
  • Pine Ridge Dude Ranch
  • Mohonk Mountain House
  • Rocking Horse Ranch
  • Poconos (Skytop)
  • Mystic, CT
    ​
• ​NYC
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Empire State Building
  • Times Square
  • Broadway
  • More ideas at Time Out New York Kids
    
    

More ideas from our website: 

• Summer Camps, Indoor Family Entertainment Centers and Outdoor Amusement Parks Can Open in New York
• Mini Golf Is Open in Westchester County
• 60 End of Summer Ideas for Westchester Kids & Families​​

More Places to Find Ideas

• I Love NY website
• Visit Westchester County website

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