Lakes are a great way to beat the heat and have some safe, socially distanced fun. Relax and take in the beauty of nature, enjoy the calm waters and build sand castles. 

The following two lakes are New York State Parks and are currently open. NY State Park guidelines and restrictions are in place so please wear a face covering and maintain safe social distance. Park density limits are in effect, so have an alternate plan ready in case the park you are visiting reaches capacity. For additional information about camping, swimming and other activities, visit: COVID-19 UPDATE.  

If you are interested in going often it may be worth considering an Empire Pass card for $80, which provides all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more.

If you are looking to have a family day in the “country” then Canopus Lake is the right spot for you! Just north of Westchester County, off the Taconic State Parkway, this quiet and easily accessible lake with a sandy beach is great for relaxing. After parking, you walk towards the beach and will pass large bathrooms on your left. Along with swimming, Canopus Lake offers visitors fishing on a dock (and row boats available for rent, but currently closed). With beautiful scenery among the mountains Canopus Lake is a wonderful day trip.
​
Address: 1570 Route 301, Carmel, NY (Putnam County)

Vehicle Entrance Fee: $8/car
​
Open: 5/22-6/26, weekends & holidays, 6/27-9/7, daily

Inside the beautiful Harriman State Park, this wonderful Lake is a delight, which includes grills, picnic areas, fishing, hiking and a beach to swim. Lake Welch is a must see being a man-made lake with a half mile long sandy beach amongst the mountains. The calm water is great for young children.

Important Restrictions: Currently Lake Welch's parking capacity is being reduced by 50%, about 1,250 spaces. Lake Welch often fills to capacity early in the day and closures are expected so it is encouraged that you call ahead to the office at 845-947-2444 for closure information and for road conditions or by visiting 511NY throughout the day. Palisades Interstate Parkway Exit 16 (Lake Welch Parkway) will remain closed, so visitors will enter via Route 106. 

Barbecue grills near the lake are available but picnic tables have been removed to discourage large gatherings. Bathrooms will be open and cleaned regularly but showers, spray pads and fountains are turned off. Concessions will be closed and vending machines will not be available. Sports areas also will be off limits.

Address: 800 Kanawaukee Road, Stony Point, NY (Rockland County)

Fee: $10/car parking fee (cash only) applied during the swimming season from 8:00am to 4:00 pm weekdays & 7:00am to 5:00pm weekends/holidays

​Swimming hours: 
5/23/20 - 6/21/20 Weekends/Holiday only: 10:00am - 5:45pm
6/22/20 – 9/7/20 Weekends/Holidays: 9:00am - 7:00pm, Monday-Friday: 10:00am - 6:00pm

Time to get swinging! Westchester County residents can now enjoy outdoor mini golf at three county courses. Don't forget your masks and expect social distancing.

​Surrounding pools and beaches will be opening soon as well- find out more in our pool and beach update.
​

​Playland's Mini Golf 
​1 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY 
Playland's mini golf course opens today, June 20th and will also be open tomorrow, June 21st. Then Wednesday through Sunday beginning June 26, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fee is $5 per person.
​
Brookside Mini Golf at Tibbetts Brook Park
Midland Avenue, Yonkers, NY
Brookside mini golf course at Tibbetts Brook Park opened this past Thursday is now open daily, 12 noon – 7 p.m.,  The fee is $8 per person.

Saxon Woods Mini Golf
1800 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY
Saxon Woods mini golf course at Saxon Woods Park opened this past Thursday is now open daily, 12 noon – 8 p.m.,  The fee is $9 per adult and $7 per child.

While we have not heard other local mini golf venues have opened yet, we anticipate they will.
​

For the past 16 years, outdoor summer movies at Kensico Dam has been a tradition in Westchester county. And this year the show will go on! Entergy Screenings Under the Stars outdoor movie series at Kensico Dam Plaza will be transformed into a drive-in! This will allow families to enjoy the movie experience in a safe, socially-distanced way. Movies included are The Secret Life of Pets (PG, 2019) on Friday, July 17 and Wonder Park (PG, 2019) on Friday, Aug. 14.

County Executive George Latimer said: “With COVID-19 still a reality, our Parks Department is coming up with new ways for county residents to experience parks and programs that they’ve come to enjoy over the years. Watching a movie from your car will be a novelty for some and nostalgic for others, but fun for everybody.”

​Both movies will be ticketed-admission events, with purchase available by online pre-sale only.
Tickets go on sale for The Secret Life of Pets on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 online at 2 p.m. at wcparks.ticketleap.com/drivein. Tickets are $20 per car and there will be a 125-car limit due to capacity and distancing protocols. Wonder Park tickets will go on sale at the same link on Monday, July 20, also starting at 2 p.m..

Moviegoers will be asked to maintain a six-foot distance from others when exiting their vehicles, and to wear a mask at all times when outside their vehicles. No gatherings will be permitted. Exiting your vehicle will be permitted when using the restrooms; while sitting in your lawn chairs which must be placed up against the front or back of your vehicle; or while sitting in the bed of your pickup truck. Restrooms will be serviced routinely and hand sanitizer will be available.

Entergy Screenings Under the Stars is presented by Westchester County Parks and Sharc Creative with Westchester Parks Foundation, and support from Westchester Talk Radio, 100.7 WHUD, 107.1 The Peak, Rey Insurance, Hamlethub. Robison, Inspiria Outdoor Advertising, Metro-North Railroad and Westchester Magazine.

The ticket link will be listed at www.westchestergov.com/parks.

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More good news for parents! Westchester County announced yesterday that county summer camps will open July 6th and registration begins Monday, June 15th. County Executive George Latimer said: “Because of the State’s structuring of summer camps, we are able to open some of our County day camp programs. While the camps have certain parameters that may be a little different – we are opening them and that is the important part.”

This is another step forward in the reopening process following last week's pool opening announcement. Also worth noting is that Bicycle Sundays on the Bronx River Parkway has now been extended to include July and August dates (June 7, 14, 21, 28; 10 am – 2 pm; Additional Sundays Added are July 12, 19, 26; August 2 , 9, 16, 23, 30; and Sept. 13, 20, 27)!

​Day Camps will be open! Locations include Muscoot Farm, Cranberry Lake Preserve, Lenoir Preserve, Marshlands Conservancy (6 week, 5 day sessions, July 6 – Aug 14), Trailside Nature Museum (7 week, 5 day sessions Friday, July 6 – Aug 21), Hole-in-One Junior Golf Camp at six golf courses (6 week, 5 day sessions, July 6 – Aug 14).

For safety purposes there will be a reduction of campers and social distancing and masks required as per New York State Guidance. Registration begins online Monday, June 15th at 2pm https://parks.westchestergov.com/activities/childrens-camps. 


Additional details:

• The camps held at the nature centers will operate outdoors only because of limited indoor space; therefore, the camps will close on inclement weather days. Muscoot Farm camp will be held outdoors and, during inclement weather, inside the large activity building.
• Muscoot’s curriculum will be modified due to State and County Health Department guidelines. Muscoot camp registration is currently full and waitlisted. Tuition is $250 per camper, per week.
• At Cranberry Lake Preserve in North White Plains and Lenoir Preserve in Yonkers, camp groups will be smaller than in typical years, with eight campers per session in order to achieve proper social distancing. Camp runs in six, five-day sessions, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting Monday, July 6. Tuition is $350 per camper per week. Camp will be cancelled if heavy rain or thunderstorms are forecast. A make-up day will be scheduled at the end of camp for any missed days.
• At Marshlands Conservancy in Rye, which also begins Monday, July 6 and runs for six, five day sessions. Camp day will be split into two daily sessions: 9 a.m. to noon for children in grades 1 – 3 and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for children in grades 4 – 6. Tuition is $175 per camper per week. Camp will be cancelled on days with heavy or thunderstorms forecast. A weather make-up day will be available at the end of camp.
• Age range is grades 1 – 12 at the nature center camps and age 4 to grade 12 at Muscoot.
• A new family camp concept is being introduced at the Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Cross River. There will be seven, five-week sessions starting July 6. Prior to their session, families will pick up a “Family Camp Box” containing materials and supplies for their week of on-site activities, once at camp, each day will consist of one to two hours of self-guided activities combined with one naturalist-led activity. Heavy rain and thunderstorms will cancel camp.
• The Parks Department’s Hole-in-One Junior Golf Camp for ages 10 to 17 will take place at the six county-owned golf courses: Mohansic in Yorktown Heights, Hudson Hills in Ossining, Maple Moor in White Plains, Saxon Woods in Scarsdale and Dunwoodie and Sprain Lake, both in Yonkers. Sessions times and start dates vary with location; tuition is $75 per participant. Registration will be limited to 10 participants per session to assure social distancing.

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Things are looking up! Outdoor pools in Westchester County are opening, with social distancing and safety measures in place.  Here is an update on the latest county pool and beach information.

As information changes regularly, we suggest keeping an eye on these websites for the latest updates regarding outdoor openings and closings:

• Westchester County Parks COVID-19 Updates 
• Westchester Parks updates on Facebook & Twitter
• Westchester County Beaches and Pools
• ​NY State Parks COVID-19 Page
• NY State Region Tracker (see Mid-Hudson)​​

Yesterday, Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced that four county pools will open this summer. On Friday, June 26 Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains and Sprain Ridge Pool in Yonkers will open followed by Willson Woods Pool in Mount Vernon and Tibbetts Brook Pool in Yonkers on July 3. The County will not be opening Playland Pool this summer

The details:

• Two daily sessions, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. All tickets sold at the pool day of visit. When Session One is sold out at locations, Session Two tickets will go on sale. Only day of tickets will be sold.
• Admission – $4 adults and children; free for children under 5 but counted as part of maximum occupancy. No issuance of seasonal Swim Passes.
• Open to Westchester residents only - Visitors will be required to verify their residency with their Westchester County Park Pass or driver’s license with a Westchester address.
• Pools – 50% capacity for sunning and swimming.
• Food concessions – Open under NYS social distancing protocols.
• Bathrooms – open
• Showers – closed
• Swimming features closed - Saxon Woods aqua playground; Sprain Ridge aqua splash pad; Willson’s Woods no waves, aqua playground, Splash Pad, Slides; Tibbetts Brook no tubes, aqua playground, basketball court or slides.
• Social distancing – Visitors must wear a mask if they cannot social distance within six feet. Small families in specific sand areas do not have to wear mask when sitting. Mask not required in the water.

Currently Playland and Croton Point Beaches are open only Saturdays and Sundays. On June 26, Croton Point Park beach will be open Thursday-Sunday and Playland beach will be open every day but Monday.  The following beach stipulations apply now:

• 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., no admittance after 6 p.m.
• Admission - $4 adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 11 and free for children age 5 and under.
• Parking - $5 with Park Pass; $10 without.
• Beach and Park – Open to Westchester Residents only. Visitors will be required to verify their residency with their Westchester County Park Pass or driver’s license with a Westchester address.
• Beach - 50% capacity for sunning and swimming, no concessions.
• Bathrooms – Open
• Showers – Closed
• Concessions – Closed
• Coolers – with food and non-alcoholic beverages in plastic containers only.
• Social Distancing – Visitors must wear a mask if they cannot social distance within six feet. Small families in specific sand areas do not have to wear a mask when sitting. Mask not required in the water

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Westchester County, NY is home to several nature centers and preserves for children to enjoy the magic of nature. The county's nature centers provide undisturbed habitat for wildlife and a peaceful oasis for people to explore and learn about their natural environment. Explore, take a hike, see the animals and savor the delights of nature. Best of all, most of the outdoor spaces are free (parking fees are required in some cases)!

At this time, only outdoor spaces are open and some restrictions are in place. Please check the venue's website for the latest details before heading over.

Cranberry Lake Preserve
1609 Old Orchard Street
North White Plains, NY

Cranberry Lake Preserve is a 190-acre park in North White Plains (see the map). Opened in 1967, the park is a safe haven for animals and plants, including migratory birds, turtles, and dragonflies. Check out a variety of habitats including a four-acre lake, cliffs and scrubland, mixed hardwood forest, vernal pools, and a swamp. The History Trail provides a history lesson about the remains of a 19th-century farmhouse and early 20th-century stone-mining operation. 

The Nature Center offers live animals, displays and nature programs for the whole family (on weekends).

COVID-19 Update: To promote social distancing, one-way traffic is in place on paths and trails. Parking lots may close intermittently on high-volume days. The grounds are open. The Nature Center building is temporarily unavailable until further notice. 

Croton Point Nature Center
1 Croton Point Ave.
Croton-on-Hudson, NY

The Croton Point Nature Center is located at the 504-acre Croton Point Park, the largest peninsula on the Hudson River (see the map). The building has exhibits on local flora and fauna including Hudson River specimens, local and Native American history and hands-on activities. The nature center is equipped with a restroom, maps and information.

COVID-19 Update: Grounds are open but the Nature Center building is temporarily unavailable until further notice. 

​Greenburgh Nature Center
99 Dromore Rd.
Scarsdale, NY

Located on 33 acres, the Greenburgh Nature Center includes an indoor building, woodland preserve with hiking trails, a pond, organic garden, Nature's Discovery Playground, native plant meadow and over 100 animals. Animals are located inside and outside. Outdoor animals include birds of prey and farm animals. Programs for all ages and events are available as well. Grounds are open daily dawn to dusk throughout the year. Please note, because they are a nature preserve, dogs are not allowed on the property.

COVID-19 Update: Currently the Manor House and playground are closed, however, the GNC encourages you to continue to take advantage of the healing powers of nature. From dawn till dusk, enjoy the 33-acre property with its hiking trails, native meadow and vernal pond, and say hello to the outdoor animals. 

Rye Nature Center
873 Boston Post Rd.
Rye, NY

The Rye Nature Center is a 47-acre wildlife preserve with over two miles of hiking trails, ponds, streams, and granite outcroppings. The Nature Center has a museum space as well as indoor and outdoor classrooms. Grounds are open everyday from dawn to dusk. The building and offices are open from 9 to 5, Monday through Saturday. Dogs are not allowed on the grounds or trails. They offer online programs, events, camps and parties.

COVID-19 Update: Currently the building and playground areas are closed, and classes and events suspended. Please see the website for how this affects specific programs, events, and classes. Unless otherwise required by law, the Nature Center grounds and trails will remain open daily from dawn until dusk.

​Sheldrake Environmental Center
685 Weaver St
Larchmont, NY

Sheldrake Environmental Center offers nearly 60 acres of outdoor space to enjoy.  Explore the woods, stroll past the meadow, relax by the pond and enjoy abundant wildlife everywhere! Trails are pet-friendly and dogs are welcome on a leash. Check out their trail map.

COVID-19 Update: since there is no indoor space at this center, all is open.

Teatown Lake Reservation
1600 Spring Valley Rd.
Ossining, NY

Teatown is a nature preserve and environmental education center with 15 miles of hiking trails, a two-acre island refuge for over 230 species of native wildflowers, programming, wildlife exhibits, and natural science day camps. Teatown has 1,000 acres, making it the largest privately held nature preserve in Westchester! The Nature Center and nearby Raptor Loop Trail have birds of prey and animal displays, programs and events.  Hiking trails open daily dawn to dusk.

COVID-19 Update: Teatown is welcoming an unprecedented number of visitors during this time. Please be advised of the following:

• The Visitor Center and restrooms remain closed until further notice. The trails remain open from dawn till dusk.
• Parking tags are again required. Parking tags are required from Friday to Sunday and on holidays, from 9am to 5pm until November. Click here for more information on their parking policy.
• Please park safely in designated parking lots and not along public roadways. Cars parked on the public roads in the Teatown neighborhood are creating a safety hazard for pedestrians, neighbors, and could make it difficult or impossible for first-responder vehicles to pass in the event of an emergency.
• Weekday visitation levels have remained manageable. To reduce overcrowding, we ask those who are able to please visit the preserve during the week instead of on the weekend.

​Weinberg Nature Center
455 Mamaroneck Ave.
Scarsdale, NY

Built in 1958, the Weinberg Nature Center contains 7.7 acres of land with ponds, live animals, nature trails, a trailside museum and campsite. They also offer birthday parties and nature programs. Check out a map of their grounds for more details.

COVID-19 Update: Trails open seven days week, sunrise to sunset. Please follow guidelines and practice social distancing and be safe. The Nature Center building is closed to the public, but by all means enjoy the trails. Do not feed the animals outdoors nor try and touch them.

Westmoreland Sanctuary
260 Chestnut Ridge Road
​Mount Kisco, NY

Westmoreland is a wildlife preserve offering 640 acres of land, including woodland and streams.  The nature sanctuary also offers a variety of environmental education, conservation and recreational programs and events serving nearly 15,000 visitors every year. 

Westmoreland’s Sanctuary’s Nature Center and Museum is a historic reconstructed 200-year old church. Inside the building are exhibits of local flora and fauna, live animals, a bird observation window and an auditorium. 

Hiking trails are open dawn until dusk, 365 days a year (see the map).

COVID-19 Update: Westmoreland Museum was closed through June 1, trails remain open. It is not indicated whether the museum has reopened yet.

Wolf Conservation Center
7 Buck Run
South Salem, NY

The Wolf Conservation Center (WCC) is a not-for-profit environmental education organization located in South Salem, NY that teaches people about wolves. They offer both on and off-site programs. On-site education programs offer peopleof all ages opportunities to learn about and see wolves. The programs run approximately 1.5 hours and all visitors are required to pre-register.

COVID-19 Update: The Wolf Conservation Center is temporarily closing to the public effective March 12 - June 30 as a measure to help slow the spread of COVID-19. However, you can check out their webcam! The Wolf Conservation Center is excited to offer free distance learning programs to classes adapting to new learning environments as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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As our region continues to be "closed" due to COVID-19, summer is quickly approaching and we are all eager to get out and have fun. Thankfully, there are plenty of open places, like parks, hiking trails, nature preserves, golf courses and beaches to have fun in the sun in Westchester County, NY!​

​"We'll also open certain businesses statewide, which are low risk," Cuomo said in early May. "Landscaping, gardening, low-risk recreational opportunities like tennis, drive-in movie theaters. Talk about going back to the future. Back to drive-in movie theaters."

Please keep in mind that social distancing, CDC, Department of Health and state guidelines are a must. So don't forget your face masks (for now).

IMPORTANT: As information changes regularly, we suggest keeping an eye on these websites for the latest updates regarding outdoor openings and closings:

• Westchester County Parks COVID-19 Updates 
• Westchester Parks updates on Facebook & Twitter
• Westchester County Beaches and Pools- no updates posted yet but could be if pools open
• ​NY State Parks COVID-19 Page
• NY State Region Tracker (see Mid-Hudson)

To search and find a NY State Park that is right for you, visit their website. You can search by name, location or amenity. 
​
While indoor spaces and restrooms at State Parks and DEC’s public facilities may be closed to prevent community spread of COVID-19, parks, grounds, forests, and trails are open during daylight hours, seven days a week. Many park facilities including playgrounds, athletic courts/fields, and visitor and nature centers are closed. While enjoying outdoor spaces, please continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/State Department of Health (DOH) guidelines for preventing the spread of colds, flu, and COVID-19.  If you do plan on visiting, visit parks close to home, avoid crowded areas, and wear face coverings where you cannot maintain safe social distance.

For specific guidelines and up to date information, please visit the NY State Parks COVID-19 page on their website.

IMPORTANT: Many parks have reduced parking by 50% and local roads may have closures in effect. The bottom line: if you want to go to a popular park, head out early and know your route.
​

The beaches at Playland and Croton Point parks will open Memorial Day weekend for county residents only. 

County Executive George Latimer stated on May 19 "We don't want to have an influx of people coming from a different geography that could overwhelm us. We'll try to manage that process and it will be a reduced capacity," Latimer said. "You may find that the beach is closed when you arrive because we hit the maximum number of people on the beach. We're going to try very hard to maintain a reasonable amount of social distancing as much as we can on a beach. We'll see if that works."

Both beaches will open Friday through the holiday, according to County Executive George Latimer. However, it is not confirmed whether they will remain open for Saturdays and Sundays. It is contingent on beachgoers maintaining proper social distancing. "If they want to enjoy the outdoors, they have to do it at a distance from the next person," Latimer said.

According to LoHud, "the logistics of opening beaches along the Hudson River and Long Island Sound will follow state protocols, Latimer said, with smaller than usual capacity and increased staff to limit crowding. Concession stands will not open and beachgoers must wear masks and stay six feet from others. He said that if the openings are unsuccessful, the beaches could be closed again. If they work out, they will open again each Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Officials would also then look at the possibility of opening county pools — although the closer proximity of swimmers in pools makes it more difficult, the county executive said."

Update May 21, 2020
Playland and Croton Point Beaches – Opening Friday, May 22 through Memorial Day Monday, May 25, then Saturdays and Sundays.

• 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., no admittance after 6 p.m.
• Admission - $4 adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 11 and free for children age 5 and under.
• Parking - $5 with Park Pass; $10 without.
• Beach and Park – Open to Westchester Residents only. Visitors will be required to verify their residency with their Westchester County Park Pass or driver’s license with a Westchester address.
• Beach - 50% capacity for sunning and swimming, no concessions.
• Bathrooms – Open
• Showers – Closed
• Concessions – Closed
• Coolers – with food and non-alcoholic beverages in plastic containers only.
• Social Distancing – Visitors must wear a mask if they cannot social distance within six feet. Small families in specific sand areas do not have to wear a mask when sitting. Mask not required in the water.

Did you know that Westchester has over 50 parks and recreational areas to explore?  Check out this map to get inspired! You may also want to check out the comprehensive list on the I Love NY Westchester County website. Or search and find a park on the Westchester Parks website. 

As expected, not all outdoor areas are currently open... and some have restrictions. Westchester County Parks has been issuing helpful updates every few days in social media so you can keep up with openings and closings easily. Currently, the below parks and areas are open.

• Public outdoor areas in parks, nature preserves, recreational trails, Muscoot Farm, Lasdon Park and Arboretum, Playland Park: To promote social distancing, one-way traffic is in place on paths and trails at Kensico Dam Plaza, Cranberry Lake Preserve and Marshlands Conservancy. Parking lots may close intermittently on high-volume days. 
• Sportsman Center/Ranges - open during regular operating hours. Minimal number of guests inside office at one time. 
• Ribbons of Remembrance at Lenoir Preserve (behind Wightman mansion). A temporary memorial for residents who have been lost to COVID-19. Loved ones can write a message and tie a purple ribbon on a tree or the memorial structure. Markers and ribbons are provided.
• Boat launching ramp at George's Island Park.
• County Center East and North White Plains parking lots – open for free parking.
• Public bathrooms, where available and have direct entrance/exit.
• Glen Island Harbour Club - building is open for prospective clients/bookings
• North Street Tavern at Maple Moor Golf Course - for curbside pickup only, after 4 p.m. only.
• Parks Department administrative offices at 450 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley.
• Weekend parking fees at Blue Mountain, Croton Point, Croton Gorge, George’s Island, Ward Pound Ridge. $5 w/park pass; $10 without. Charges are weekends only until Memorial Day weekend when daily parking fees go into effect. Playland beginning Friday, May 22 at $10 per car.
• Park Passes – expired passes are being accepted until locations can begin park pass operations.
• Twin Lakes Farm, for owners with boarded horses only.
• Playland and Croton Point beaches – Opening Friday, May 22 through Memorial Day Monday, May 25, then Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., (No admittance after 6 p.m), at 50% capacity for sunning and swimming. No concession stands will be open.

​
IMPORTANT: check the Westchester Parks website or with the specific location before heading to a park/venue as openings/closings and restrictions change frequently. You can also check Westchester Parks for updates on Facebook or Twitter.

Did you know there may be specific areas available only to residents of your town? Check your local town website for the latest regarding openings and closings of parks, nature centers, beaches and pools. Many town parks are open to all.  So if you want to explore beyond the county list, go for it! It does not include all of the great town spots. Here is a list of town recreation departments.

NOTE: See above section regarding County Parks openings and restrictions.

Biking
​​Don't miss Bicycle Sundays on the Bronx River Parkway! During Bicycle Sundays, the parkway is open exclusively for bicyclists, in-line skaters, scooters, walkers and joggers. The course will be slightly modified this year, beginning at Main Street in White Plains (instead of Westchester County Center) and continue south to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers. The road is closed to automobiles in that stretch of parkway. Admission is free.  Details are on the Westchester Parks Foundation website.

2020 Bicycle Sunday Dates
10a.m. – 2p.m.
June 7, 14, 21, 28
July 12, 19, 26
August 2 , 9, 16, 23, 30
Sept. 13, 20, 27

If you enjoy trail riding, a trail list can be found here.

Hiking
A hike is good for the body and mind. Get some exercise and take in the beauty of nature. Here are some suggestions to get started.

• County Trailways for Hiking & Biking
• County Hiking Only Trails
• Hudson River's RiverWalk

Golf & Tennis
Fore! Sports without contact that can be played with social distancing have been placed on the approved list! Here's a list of county golf courses. For tennis, there are specific guidelines in place to minimize possible exposure. Check to find out which courts are open and what is required before you play.

We're going old school. New York’s outdoor movie theaters are open! Check out Westchester Magazine's article on the best Hudson Valley drive-ins all within a 1-hour drive of Westchester for location information and details. Don't forget to bring popcorn.

NOTE: See above section regarding County Parks openings and restrictions.
​
Take advantage of the beautiful nature centers in Westchester County, NY. Go for a hike, see live animals and explore nature with no fee!  You can visit their sites to see what outdoor areas are currently open.​ If animals are your thing, also check out Muscoot Farm.

Now get out and have fun!

​Did we miss something? Please share any recommendations you have in the comments below!

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Update: Bicycle Sundays on the Bronx River Parkway has now been extended to include July and August dates (June 7, 14, 21, 28; 10 am – 2 pm; Additional Sundays Added are July 12, 19, 26; August 2 , 9, 16, 23, 30; and Sept. 13, 20, 27).


Westchester Parks Foundation and Westchester County Parks today announced the dates for its 46th Annual Bicycle Sundays 2020 season. The program kicks off on May 3 and continues Sundays in May, June and September – except Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. During this annual event, bicyclists, skaters, joggers and walkers take over several miles of the Bronx River Parkway. The course will be slightly modified this year, beginning at Main Street in White Plains (instead of Westchester County Center) and continue south to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers.

It is recommended that participants wear a mask or a face covering in situations like this where social distancing may not always be able to be maintained.
 
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “We understand the need to strike the correct balance between maintaining important social distance guidelines, and providing people with an escape from the pandemic. We are excited to be able to continue this Westchester County tradition that many look forward to all year long.”
 
Joe Stout, Executive Director of Westchester Parks Foundation, stated: “Now more than ever we need to #StandUpForParks and the essential service they provide for all Westchester residents. We are thrilled to continue this iconic event that provides a healthy lifestyle and promotes importance of environmental preservation for generations to come. We are grateful to Con Edison for their generous support and commitment to parks and open space.”
 
Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said: “Seeing Bicycle Sundays return is extremely gratifying. We thank County Executive Latimer for believing in the power of parks to help people get through this challenging time, and we also thank the Parks Foundation and our great sponsors for the funding they provide.”
 
Bicycle Sundays runs between White Plains and Yonkers. There are numerous points of entry along the route. Although parking will be available in the Westchester County Center east parking lot, participants will follow signs and directions to enter the route at Main Street once they exit their cars. Bicycle Sundays are free and open to the public.
 
Residents and visitors can enjoy Bicycle Sundays this year on the following dates between 
10 a.m. and 2 p.m.:

• May 3, 10, 17, 31
• June 7, 14, 21, 28
• Sept 13, 20, 27

 
Bicycle Sundays are a beloved Westchester tradition since 1974. Since 2012, this program has been funded solely by Westchester Parks Foundation and its partners. No public funding goes towards keeping this program going. Each year, more than 60,000 thousand cyclists, joggers and others come out to enjoy the curves and wooded scenery that make the nation’s first parkway a national historic landmark. The path winds alongside the wooded Bronx River Reservation.
 
For more information visit: https://www.thewpf.org/programs/bicycle-sundays/
 
Go to westchestergov.com/parks to find out more about the parks, programs and services offered by County Parks.

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Cold weather has arrived and 'tis the season for ice skating. Indoor rinks are the go-to place for children to learn to skate, play hockey, attend skating camp, have a birthday party and more-- all in a warmer setting than the great outdoors. Most indoor ice rinks have concessions (phew!) and skate rentals. Be sure to check the rink's schedule for open skate times. Perhaps best of all, skating rinks give kids an opportunity to stay active during the colder months, which everyone desperately needs!

On the other hand, outdoor skating rinks offer the magic of the season, with a classic backdrop to take in the authentic Upstate New York winter experience. Photoworthy indeed! Take in some fresh air and get those muscles working. Don't forget your earmuffs and mittens!

What is your favorite place to skate? Share in the comments below or take a selfie and share with us on Instagram!

Westchester County

​Cross County Shopping Center Pop-Up Holiday Skating Rink
8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers, NY (at Center Court near Gap)
Limited time offer! Open now through January 5th  on select days. Admission is $10 per person and includes skates and a one hour skate session. You may bring your own skates, however, admission is the same. Must be 5 years old to skate or 42" tall. Character skating events are detailed on their website. 

Westchester Parks Outdoor Skating
Multiple locations
Looking for a nostalgic outdoor skating experience? Westchester County’s ponds and lakes are the perfect scene for a family skating day. Mountain Lakes Park (North Salem), Tibbetts Brook Park (Yonkers), Twin Lakes (Eastchester), Wampus Pond (Armonk) and Willson's Woods (Mount Vernon) all offer skating in the winter.  No rentals are available so pack your skates! The ice is checked daily at all locations for safety. When the white flag with the green ball or sign is posted indicating safe conditions, ice skating is permitted seven days a week during daylight hours. For your own safety, it is suggested that you check conditions before venturing over to the park. For more information call (914) 864-PARK. Admission is free with the exception of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation where parking is $5 with a Park Pass, $10 without a pass.
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Westchester Winter Wonderland
Kensico Dam Plaza, One Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla, NY
​Uniquely Westchester! Open only during the holiday season, Westchester Winter Wonderland invites you to come skate and enjoy many other festive attractions at the Kensico Dam. The outdoor rink is lit and surrounded with twinkling holiday decor. It is open November 29th through January 4th (closed December 24th and 25th).  Admission includes unlimited skating (with skates included) on the outdoor ice rink. General admission is $20 per person and children ages 0-3 are free. 

​Notable, Just Outside Westchester County

Bear Mountain Ice Rink
Bear Mountain State Park, 3020 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY
Picturesque skating at the scenic Bear Mountain State Park may be one experience to add to your holiday bucket list. The large, uncovered rink is open for public skating from November 2nd through March 1st. Skating hours extend into the evening. The rink does close occasionally if the weather does not cooperate or if there are mechanical issues. It's best to call ahead to make sure skating is open before trekking over there. Figure skate rentals are available as well as lockers and refreshments. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here. You can view their special holiday events and hours here. You may also wish to venture over to the Bear Mountain Inn while you are there, and perhaps reserve a breakfast with Santa. The Skating Rink is on the south end of the parking field bear the Merry-Go-Round.

Central Park
Wollman Rink (Enter at 59th Street and 5th or 6th Avenue), Lasker Rink (North end of Central Park, nearest street entrance is 110th St and Lenox Ave.)  and Conservatory Water (East Side between 72nd and 75th Streets )
How about outdoor skating with scenic views of the New York City skyline?  Then Central Park it is! There are two main ice skating rinks in Central Park, Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink. Each have skate and locker rentals. Wollman Rink is open from late October to early April, weather permitting. Details are available here.  Lasker Rink is open from late October to mid-March, weather permitting. Details are available here. Conservatory Water offers free ice skating (when the ice is deemed safe).. No rentals are available so don't forget to pack your skates. Call ahead to confirm skating is open before your trip.

The Rink Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, 5th Ave between 49th and 50th Streets, New York, NY
The it-rink! One of New York City’s most celebrated attractions, The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a New York City tradition for all ages. Located in midtown, the rink is the perfect spot to visit during a holiday trip to the city, as it is just steps from the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and other attractions like shopping, Radio City Music Hall's Rockettes, Times Square, Broadway and the American Girl store. Open skating, lessons and exclusive wintertime experiences are all on the menu here. Online advance reservations are available. General Admission skating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. No advance reservations or online sales are available for General Admission - tickets are sold only in the Skate House. To avoid waiting on line during the busy holiday season, you can make advance reservations to skate through the VIP Igloo.

Westchester County
Ebersole Ice Rink
Delfino Park , 110 Lake Street, White Plains, NY
Skate lessons for all levels, hockey teams, and public skating sessions are offered here throughout the season. The rink is open from mid October through late March. Access their pricing and schedule here.

Hommocks Park Ice Rink
140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont, NY
The season runs September 28th through June 14th. The Hommocks Park Ice Rink offers lessons, public skating, Stick and Puck Sessions, appreciation days, character skates and more year-round recreational community events.   Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Ice Hutch
 655 Garden Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 
The Ice Hutch serves the skating community all year-round by offering skating lessons for all levels (ages 4+), weekly public skating, figure skating and hockey sessions. Freestyle sessions for figure skaters and hockey Stick Time sessions are also available. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Murray's Skating Center
348 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers, NY
Public skating hours are open early September through the end of April. Offering skating lessons, hockey and recreational skating, Murray's Skating Center offers the largest weekly public skating schedule in the area. Most weekend sessions feature a live DJ.  Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Playland Ice Casino
100 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY
Public skating, tot programs, learn to skate lessons, camps, hockey programs and more are all available. Two rinks are used for public skating and are equipped with state-of-the-art music systems and dance lighting. Additional skating sessions are added around the holidays. Friday night teen skating featuring a DJ and lights is held between September and April. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

The Harvey School: Evarts Rink
The Harvey School, 240 Jay Street, Katonah, NY
The fully enclosed ice rink is home to Harvey Hockey and offers a variety of instructional skating programs. The arena operates year-round. Please note skate rentals are not available. Access their public skating (walk-on) pricing and schedule here.

Westchester Skating Academy
91 Fairview Drive, Elmsford, NY
Westchester Skating Academy is one of the premiere skating facilities in the area. It is one of the only NHL twin rink facilities in Westchester County. They offer public skating, holiday camps & clinics, learn to skate lessons, hockey lessons & camps plus hockey leagues for children and adults. Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

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​Notable, Just Outside Westchester County

American Dream Rink
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ
Ready for something new? The Rink is a NHL-size ice skating and hockey facility, located inside the brand-new, ginormous American Dream mall in East Rutherford, NJ. It has three viewable tiers and can hold thousands of spectators. Activities include open skating, figure skating, hockey tournaments, events and more. Open seven days a week, hours vary. Open skate tickets can be purchased in person at the rink, access their pricing here. 

Brewster Ice Arena
63 Fields Lane, Brewster, NY
Similar to the indoor facilities in Westchester County, this arena offers learn to skate programs, hockey programs, clinics, camps, travel hockey, adult hockey, fitness programs and freestyle figure skating. Access their winter skating schedule here. Pricing can be accessed here.

Chelsea Piers Connecticut
One Blackly Road, Stamford, CT
For the sports-enthusiasts out there, it may be worth a trip out to CT to Chelsea Piers, located in Stamford. There is a whole slew of drop-in sports and activities to do. For skating, they offer a dual-rink facility that operates seven days a week. Skaters of all ages and ability are welcome. Activities include ice hockey, league play, figure skating, general skating, birthday parties and more. Chelsea Piers is the premier ice skating facility in Fairfield County.

Palisades Center Ice Rink
Palisades Center, 4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY
Calling all shoppers! Similar to the rinks above, there is a full suite of skating offerings-- open skating, figure skating, hockey, camps. However, this rink sits inside the massive Palisades Center, just across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The mall is bursting with tons of entertainment options, shopping and food. So you can make a day of it.  Access their public skating pricing and schedule here.

Updated

Day Trip ideas are exactly what you need in your life! While you can just set up in your local playground, not all parks offer a spray park to cool off in or a beach available to swim in on those hot summer days. There are definitely parks that have special perks that can make day trips with kids a lot more fun, attainable and of course affordable. We are gearing up for continuous hot days so make sure you and your children enjoy every second of the sun with these awesome Day Trip Ideas in and around Westchester County!

Westchester Parks Pass
All Westchester County pools (except Playland) require a Westchester County Park Pass or photo ID and proof of residence. There are a variety of different park pass types available so select the one that is right for you. Here are a few worth highlighting.

The Westchester County Park Pass is $90 and is good for 3 years. With the adult pass, you’re allowed to bring four adult guests and up to five children ages 17 and younger. A pass entitles the holder entry to all county-owned pools and beaches and facilities, as well as discounted admission to all pools, beaches and parking. It also allows access to the boat launch at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle and the six all-weather tennis courts at Tibbetts Brook Park in Yonkers. It is available to residents 12 years of age and older.
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A Family Park Pass is also available for a fee of $180 and two adults and any children ages 12 to 17 living in the household to get their own individual park passes for one fee.

Park Pass holders may also purchase a money-saving Season Swim Pass, which allows residents to pay one price to swim as often as they like all summer long. The pass also includes parking fees. It may be used at Glen Island Beach in New Rochelle, Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains, Sprain Ridge and Tibbetts Book Pools in Yonkers, and Willson’s Woods Pool in Mount Vernon. The pass is not accepted at Playland or Croton Point Parks. It can be purchased at all five locations. Destinations that require a Westchester County Park Pass are marked with an asterisk *.

A Park Pass or proof of county residency with a valid New York State driver's license is required at all pools except Playland and at Croton Point Beach. 

Pool and Beach Fees
Entrance fees for county pools and beaches can be accessed here. 

*Tibbetts Brook Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
The main pool is a lazy river with a current that families love to relax in on a warm day. Keep in mind that this park requires a County Park Pass for entry. There is a spray playground for people of all ages and sports for some pool time fun. Although fun for everyone, Tibbetts does not have a pool like some of the many other parks on this list, but is a big area. As shared on the Westchester Moms Facebook group “Tibbetts may get crowded usually more on the weekends”.
Address: 355 Midland Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10704
Fee: County Park Pass holders $8, Children (under 5 free) $5

Pierson Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
Pierson Park is a beautiful site along the Hudson River in direct view of the Tappan Zee Bridge. As shared on Westchester Moms Facebook Group, this park is free entry and free parking. Having those awesome features can cause this beautiful not so hidden park to become very crowded on beautiful days. The park includes a splash pad and playground.
Address: 238 West Main Street, Tarrytown, New York 10591
Fee: No parking charge, no entry fee

Harbor Island Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
Harbor Island is the Largest Village Park in Mamaroneck, which has playground equipment that can keep your child busy for days! In addition to having a great spray park, Harbor Island is also home to a beach. Harbor Island can become very crowded because they do host a summer day camp; so make sure to keep that in mind when planning your day!
Address: Mamaroneck Ave Mamaroneck, NY 10543
Fee: $10 per car lot entry, Adults- $7, Children 2 and up- $4, Children under 2- free

Louis Engel Waterfront Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
As shared on the Westchester Moms Facebook page, this park like others can get very crowded on beautiful days. The trail and the exploration that can be done while visiting is well worth it though as this park sits nestled on the Hudson River in ear shot distance of the Metro North; this being one of the many reasons to be my daughter’s favorite park. Next to the spray park there is a great playground including giant train structures and slides. Although not large, this park is worth the visit for the scenery alone!
Address: Westerly Rd, Ossining, NY 10562
Fee: No parking charge, no entry fee

Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
This beautiful scenic park in the heart of the Taconic Region is a stunning site. The park boasts an enormous sized pool that can hold more then 3,000 swimmers at one time being twice the size of an Olympic sized pool. Along with the pool there is a Lake for fishing and boating, a track, basketball courts, picnic areas and pavilions, a wonderful renovated playground with climbing structures, swings and so much more! Be sure to head to FDR early to avoid the later day crowds and get a full day trip out of this destination.
Address: 2957 Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Fee: $10 per car entry, swimming $3 for all ages

*Saxon Woods Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
Saxon Woods contains a golf course as well as a miniature golf course, the county’s largest swimming pool, a children’s aquatic playground and picnic areas for lunch after some overdue swimming. Keep in mind that this park requires a County Park Pass for entry. Saxon Woods is also the site of the county’s only playground that is accessible to the disabled. A little note from Westchester Moms: Saxon is most often less crowded then Tibbetts Brook Park and can be easier to manage little ones. Saxon has a kiddie area and a huge sand box with tables and a great playground near by to satisfy all the needs of your family. Throughout the summer many camps frequent Saxon Woods over the other area parks, so make sure to be mindful when planning day trips!
Address: 1800 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY 10605
Fee: County Park Pass holders $6, Children (under 5 free) $4

Also be sure to check with your town as many towns have their own pool!

Canopus Lake (Personal Recommendation)
If you are looking to have a family day in the “country” then Canopus Lake is the right spot for you! After parking, you walk towards the beach and will pass large bathrooms on your left and on the right you will find a small store with picnic tables. Along with swimming Canopus Lake offers visitors fishing and row bats available for rent. With beautiful scenery among the mountains Canopus Lake is a wonderful day trip with my daughters favorite part being the outdoor showers to clean her feet before the car ride home.
Address: 1498 Route 301 Carmel, NY 10512
Fee: $8 per car

Playland Pool and Beach
The only of its kind on this list, Rye Playland has an expansive beach as well as a swimming pool and not to mention a whole amusement park! Although pricey, for a day trip this can be great fun for young ones who wouldn’t even cost any money for entry. The views are amazing and there is a lot to do in the area. My family and I went to the beach last year and in my opinion it was just as good as any “big” beach I have ever been to, there were a perfect amount of people, swimming, walking, building sandcastles and just soaking up the summer sun. It is definitely a must do once in Westchester County but don’t take my word, go check it out! If you are looking for a break from the heat you can also check out the Westchester Children’s Museum right at the beach on the boardwalk (parking is the same for Playland).
Address: 1 Playland Parkway Rye, NY 10580
Parking Fee: $10 weekends/ weekdays, $15 holidays
Pool Fee: Adult $6, children 5yr-11yr $4, Under 5 free
Beach Fee: Adult $4, children 5yr-11yr $3, Under 5 free

Croton Point Beach (Personal Recommendation)
Camping, playgrounds and a swim in the Hudson? These are all available at Croton Point Beach. Be sure to check it out this Summer! Sadie and I have already started our frequent visits to this scenic park with two awesome jungle gyms and paths to walk for miles. The beach is quaint and it is definitely best to get there early and make sure you get a good spot. While there you can watch the boats come in and out, watch and listen to the trains and just absorb some of Mother Nature’s true beauty in Westchester County.
Address: 1A Croton Point Ave., Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
Parking Fee: $5 with Park Pass, $10 without Park Pass; daily beginning May 25 - Labor Day; weekends only in May and September until Sunday, Sept. 29.

Glen Island Beach (Westchester Mom recommended)
Open to Westchester residents only.
Looking for a beautiful sight? Glen Island offers a boat launch, pathways, and picnic tables both open and for reservation as well as swimming in designated areas. Glen Island is the 2nd most widely used park in the County Parks of Westchester system. Glen Island has several play areas as shared on Westchester Moms. Make sure to check it out!
Address: 1 Pelham Road, New Rochelle, NY 10801
Fee: Westchester Residents Only Adults $4, Children (under 5 free) $3
Parking: $4 with Park Pass, $10 without Park Pass -- weekends only in May and September until Sunday, Sept. 29. Daily 5/25 through Labor Day.

Lake Welch (Westchester Mom recommended)
Inside the beautiful Harriman State Park, this wonderful Lake is a delight, which includes grills, picnic areas, fishing, hiking and a beach to swim. Lake Welch is a must see being a man-made lake with a half mile long sandy beach amongst the mountains. The calm water is great for young children.
Address: 800 Kanawaukee Road Stony Point, NY 10980
Fee: $10 per car

Bear Mountain State Park (Westchester Mom recommended)
Bear Mountain State Park has amenities that can last for hours from swimming, nature walks, boating, museums, picnics, and playgrounds to so much more! The swimming pool is nestled in the trees next to the zoo that features animals to keep families busy. Don't miss the carousel. Be sure to check out Bear Mountain State Park at least once this summer!
Address: 3006 Seven Lakes Parkway Bear Mountain, NY 10911
Fee: $10 per car, Pool Admission $2 per person

Rockland Lake State Park
Rockland State Park is home to a more than 20,000 square foot swimming pool with diving boards and of course a kiddie pool. The park has picnic tables, grills, boat launch, hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley and a paved trail for those kids that need to do it all in one day!
Address: 299 Rockland Lake Rd. Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Fee: $8 per car, Pool Admission $3 per person.
 
Compo Beach
Compo Beach has a boardwalk, playground, bathroom facilities, lockers and a beautiful large beach. The beach is open year round however, a daily fee is charged to park from May 1 through Sept. 30. from 4am-10pm.
Address: 60 Compo Beach Road, Westport CT   
Fee: Valid CT Parks and Recreation vehicle parking emblem or pay daily fee, $40 weekdays, and $65 on weekends and holidays. Only 100 passes are given per day.

Sherwood Island State Park
Connecticut's first state park is still one of its finest. Have a leisurely lunch in the shade of the picnic grove, swim in Long Island sound, or view marsh life from the observation platform at Sherwood Island. Beware this beach is really rocky so bring water shoes.
Address: Sherwood Island Connector, Westport, CT 06880
Fee: Weekends/Holidays $22, Weekdays $15
 
Greenwich Point- Tod’s Point (Westchester Mom recommended)
Greenwich Point is a beach nearby in the beautiful Greenwich, Connecticut. Greenwich Point is open daily from 6:00 am until sunset. Activities include jogging, walking, cycling, nature study, boating, fishing, sailboarding, sun bathing, swimming, and picnicking. At various locations throughout the park one can find benches to just relax and hang out!
Address: 6 Tods Driftway Greenwich, CT 06870
Single Entry Pass: Single Entry Park (Beach) Passes are required for entry into Town of Greenwich parks and beaches from May 1 through October 31. Resident seasonal Park (Beach) Passes are required for entry into Town of Greenwich parks, beaches, and the pool at Byram Park.  Single Entry Park (Beach) Passes can be obtained per the details below and are not available for purchase on weekends or holidays.

• Online - for those who verified their Greenwich residency for the year
• In person – only at the locations and hours of operation listed below:
  
  • Eastern Greenwich Civic Center- May 1 - October 31 Monday - Friday-9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    
  • Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center- May 1 - September 15 Monday - Friday-9 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Written by Jenna Korn. Jenna holds a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education in Birth through 2nd Grade. She currently works as an Education Coordinator and Teacher in a private preschool in Bronxville. Jenna enjoys bringing local families together and loves exploring everything Westchester with her 2-year-old daughter. Jenna is so excited to write for Westchester NY Moms!

Photography by Dylan K.