The weather is getting chillier and that fall feeling is in the air! Why not head to a corn maze, a quintessential autumn experience! These local Westchester County and nearby farms offer corn mazes and plenty of other fall activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, cider donuts and hayrides. Don't forget to make advance reservations and pack your mask! Have an a-mazing time!

Outhouse Orchards
139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY 

Offering a full suite of fall fun, Outhouse Orchards has a beautiful day ready for you. Their 2020 corn maze is open for you to solve! Purchase your ticket and take a walk through the twists and turns of the maze to see if you can find your way out. Use the map as your guide to find the hidden clues so that you may solve the puzzle and learn some interesting facts about space. While you are there you can also pick your own apples, pumpkins or enjoy a hay ride. Be sure to make advance reservations.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm
1335 White Hill Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY 

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm has been around for over 100 years and is a "no frills farm.” They sell a wide variety of apples, pumpkins and peaches, all available to “Pick-Your-Own” during harvest season. They have three farm markets that sell everything from their own pressed apple cider to freshly baked pies, famous apple cider donuts and gift items. 

Their corn maze is open Wednesdays-Mondays 10am-5pm. For safety, all individuals except 2 and under entering the corn maze will be required to wear face masks and practice social distancing. Tickets may be purchased in the Farm Market, Bakery or at the Pick-Your-Own Pavilion.

Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY (Dutchess County)

Barton Orchards is a 175-acre apple orchard and vegetable farm located in Poughquag, New York, that has been in the Barton family for over 40 years. They have a pick your own farm with food, fun park, petting zoo, ice cream and tons more to do. 

Their massive five acre corn maze is open on festival weekends only (no weekdays). The corn maze theme for 2020 is Drive-in movies and designed and grown with multiple paths and plenty of places to get stuck! Perfect for all ages. Visit their website for details. ​
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Hurd's Family Farm
2187 State Route 32 Modena, NY

There's a lot to do at Hurd's! First of all there are four corn mazes! Then there are family wagon rides, pony rides, gem mining, duck racing, pick your own apples and tons more. On Mondays activities are open to Pre-K and kindergarteners only. All activities, picking and the store are open to the public Wednesday through Sunday. Advance reservations are required for weekend & holiday apple picking & activities. Open through November 8th. 

The Corn Maze Train
99 Elizabeth Street, Phillipsburg, NJ

This is definitely not close but worth mentioning for the ambitious day-trippers! You can head to the only corn maze accessible only by steam train in about two hours. Ride the train to the beautiful century old Snyder farm. At the farm the fun begins! There are two games you can play in the 13 acre Cats Vs. Dogs themed corn maze. Enjoy the picnic grove while visiting the farm and return on any train during the day.  Open Tuesday, September 1st - Tuesday, October 27th. Trips leave 11am, 12:30 and 2pm . There are 3:30 trips added in the month of October on Saturdays. You will spend 1 1/2 hour round trip on the train and will also visit the Ol' Susquehanna Mine onsite. Purchase tickets in advance.
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Wright Family Farm
329 Kings Highway, Warwick, NY

The Wright Family Farm is located in scenic Warwick. This family-run farm in Orange County offers a variety of seasonal outdoor fun with an old-fashioned farm theme! Enjoy the corn maze and Barnyard Pumpkin Patch (open through October 31st). Grandparents can take advantage on Thursdays- beginning September 24th, one grandparent will be admitted free with one paid grandchild admission.

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Boo! It's time for costumes, candy, thrills and chills. While Halloween will look different this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, some attractions are back. Special safety precautions like advance reservations, masks, distancing and an all outdoor experience have been implemented. Sadly, some of our favorites like The Haunt at Rocky Ledge, Scared by the Sound and White Plains Zombie Walk are cancelled this year.

Important: since distancing, masks and limited capacity is a must, it's important to purchase tickets well in advance for these attractions as they will sell out.

Check out our list of upcoming frightfully fun Halloween events in and near Westchester County, NY in 2020. Wishing all of our readers a safe, fun and healthy Halloween!

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze
Dates: September 18- October 31; November 1; 6-8; 13-15; 20-21, Advance reservations required. No tickets will be sold on site.
​​Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S Riverside, Croton-on-Hudson, NY

A local favorite, experience the glowing magic of fall in the beauty of Van Cortlandt Manor, Walk through an 18th-century landscape and discover a breathtaking display of more than 7,000 illuminated jack o’ lanterns—all designed and hand-carved on site by our team of artisans. New for this year, a fire truck—making a special rescue—and witches stirring up a spell. Tour the Museum of Pumpkin Art, where classic paintings get the gourd treatment, see who let the (pumpkin) dogs out, listen for the Headless Horseman—and watch out for swooping jack o’lantern bats. Learn more about "The Blaze"  in our blog. Suitable for all ages.
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​Home of the 'Legend
Dates: September 18-20, 25-27, October 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 30-31, November 1, 6-8, Advance reservations required. No tickets will be sold on site.
Location: Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, 3 W Sunnyside Lane, Irvington, NY 

​Take a spooky tour on the historic grounds of Washington Irving’s estate and then go on a literature-themed scavenger hunt. Check out the special exhibit highlighting how the Legend has lived in the imagination of popular culture through the centuries since its publication.
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Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours
Dates:
The Original Knickerbocker: Washington Irving & “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”- Monday through Friday in October from 11:00 a.m. – 12 noon and 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
The Classic Evening Lantern Tour- Friday and Saturday nights from September 18 – November 21, plus Sunday evenings in October and early November.
Location: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, 540 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 

For the suspense loving crowd, what's more "Halloween" than a tour of a Sleepy Hollow Cemetery? Whether you are a history buff, love sculpture, interesting cemetery symbolism, or just want to enjoy the pretty scenery, a visit to historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery’s 90-acre grounds is a treat.  Select from either The Original Knickerbocker: Washington Irving & “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” or The Classic Evening Lantern Tour to unlock some of the secrets behind the stones!

Boo at the Zoo
Dates: Thursdays-Sundays October 1st - November 1st including Monday, October 12
Location: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard Bronx, NY
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The Bronx Zoo's annual Halloween tradition is back- it's time for Boo at the Zoo! Costumes are welcome while children travel around the vast Bronx Zoo and take part in safe, family-friendly activities. Some highlights include Magic & Mind Reading, Extinct Animal Graveyard, Scavenger Hunt, Pumpkin Caring Demos and a Wildlife Theatre.  Suitable for all ages, especially young children.

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 Kevin McCurdy's Haunted Mansion
Dates: October 1 - 31
Location: 38 Sheafe Rd, Wappingers Falls, NY

The Wicked Woods are coming! This year, the Haunted Mansion event will be held all outdoors on a newly expanded trail. There will be close to a full mile of Halloween chills and thrills. Some of the frightening experiences include The Killer Clown Carnival, The Mummy's Tomb, Dinousaurs, Aliens and Scary Tale Land. This is a scary yet entertaining experience and is not recommended for very young children.

Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Mansion
Dates: Fridays-Sundays Oct 2- 31, Childrens' Days: Oct 10th and 24th with rain dates of Oct 11th and 25th.
Location: 778 Broadway, Route 9W Ulster Park, NY
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The mature crowd can take part in suspense and fear with a Drive Thru Haunt Experience - "Dare to Ride the Horseman's Trail".  You can walk through the Corn Maze Attractions and Haunted Houses. The attraction is not recommended for children under the age of 13.

​However, the little ones can enjoy Children's Day, when the park tones down its scare level, offering a daytime in-car Drive Thru "I Spy Halloween Game Experience". Children will visit friendly characters along the drive. Afterwards you can park and walk thru the Magic Moon Maze, Haunted Gardens, Witch Hazel's Halloween House, enjoy music, and other surprises. This is a great attraction  for families with young children.

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Good news, The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, is a go for fall 2020!

Tickets are already in pre-sale for members and Twitter followers. Tickets officially go on sale tomorrow, August 25. The Blaze is a very popular event that typically sells out and requires advance purchase tickets so if you are interested this is the time to reserve yours.  Tickets are $32 per child (3-17) and $40 per adult.

Located at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, NY, The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze is a breathtaking display of more than 7,000 illuminated jack o’lanterns. This year the event runs from September 18- October 31; November 1; 6-8; 13-15; 20-21.
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​The Blaze is operating in strict compliance with New York State-issued “Low-Risk Outdoor Arts & Entertainment Guidelines.” To ensure the safety and enjoyment visitors, Historic Hudson Valley is limiting capacity. By purchasing a ticket, visitors agree to follow our COVID Courtesy Code, which includes wearing a mask and maintaining at least six feet of social distance. 

New this year, tickets are exchangeable to another date/time slot if that date/time has availability, up to 72 hours in advance of your reserved time slot. There is a $2 per ticket exchange fee. 

If you have not been to this before, you could equate it to the New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show in the sense that this is a seasonal display of sculptures built out of plants, in this case pumpkins. What makes this event even more spectacular is the nighttime ambiance, featuring synchronized lighting and thousands of glowing pumpkins. Amazingly, all of the displays, including 7,000 hand-carved jack o’lanterns, are designed and hand-carved on site.  New for 2020, a fire truck—making a special rescue—and witches stirring up a spell.

​Unlike many other Halloween spectaculars and events, this one is very family friendly and appropriate for kids and adults of all ages-- assuming your children can handle staying up. For the early birds, you could consider going later in the season when the sun sets earlier and show times begin as early as 6:00pm. There are no scary zombies or haunted creatures lurking in the shadows. You can walk through the entire display in about 30-45 minutes. Enjoy!
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The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze 2019 

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Apple picking season is here! It's the perfect way to get outside and have some socially distanced fun with your family. Sadly this year will not be filled with hayrides, bounce houses and festivals. But there will be live music, farm animals, corn mazes and other safe attractions that the whole family can enjoy. 

We've rounded up a list of nearby apple orchards that local moms in Westchester County, NY recommend. For each upstate NY farm we have highlighted their opening day for apple picking and specifics around reservations, distancing, events and more. Enjoy!

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY  (Westchester County)

Harvest Moon is a local favorite. It is a family owned and operated farm market and U-Pick fruit and apple orchard in Westchester County. Typically it is open seasonally April-December. During the Fall they do pick-your-own apples and pears and throw a Fall Festival every weekend from Labor Day to Halloween.

Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status: Apple picking begins Saturday, September 5th and runs through the end of October. All apple picking is by reservation only, during weekends, in season. The store and orchard will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9am - 5pm. Online reservations will open on Wednesday, August 26th. There will not be any fall festival activities this year. Due to government regulations in New York State, your visit may not exceed two hours. Additional safety guidelines are provided on their website. 

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Outhouse Orchards
139 Hardscrabble Rd, North Salem, NY (Westchester County)
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A seasonal orchard open only in the fall for apples, peaches and pumpkin picking. Donuts, pies, corn maze, live music and more will be available in September and October.

Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status:  Reservations are available on their website. Walk up to the barn and grab yourself a half bushel, pick your own bag and take a tour of our orchard as you find the best apples to fill your bag with. Come early or come late there will always be apples, pears and peaches to pick through the months of September and October even if you have to barrow a pole picker for hard to reach apples, pears and peaches. Pre-pay $30.00 for a small bag (15 lbs of fruit) or $45.00 for a large bag (25 lbs of fruit) for your bag and the orchard and it’s glorious views are yours for the day.In order to ensure the safety of all of our guests and employees this fall season we will be implementing a reservation policy for those wanting to visit the farm. The purpose of this so that we can better control the large volume of visitors to the farm to ensure social distancing is maintained and CDC procedures are followed.
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​Stuart's Fruit Farm
62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY (Westchester County)
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Stuart's Fruit Farm is a family-operated farm since 1828 located in Westchester County, New York. Seasonally they offer a varied selection of flowers and vegetable plants in the spring, apple and peach picking as well as a pumpkin patch in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter. Stuart’s has a very “home-like” feel.

Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status: Apple picking begins September 5th. Reservations are not available or required. Social distancing and masks are a must. The Corn Maze will be open on the weekends. Due to social distancing rules there are no hay rides.  Cash or checks only.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm
1335 White Hill Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY (Westchester County)

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm has been around for over 100 years and is a "no frills farm.” They sell a wide variety of apples, pumpkins and peaches, all available to “Pick-Your-Own” during harvest season. They have three farm markets that sell everything from their own pressed apple cider to freshly baked pies, famous apple cider donuts and gift items. 

Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status: Apple picking begins September 5th. No reservations are required or available. Because capacity is limited, it is recommended that you come early on weekends or consider picking anytime on a weekday so you are not turned away. Picking begins at 10am, seven days a week.

They are diligently following guidelines set forth by CDC and the New York State government. This includes limiting capacity to 50%, masks, social distancing, hand washing and sanitizing stations, no pets or food/picnicking. Due to social distancing rules they will not be offering a tractor ride to and from the orchard. You must be able to walk to and from the orchard. No outside food or bags is allowed (only small diaper bags), containers will be provided for picking. Corn Maze tickets can be purchased in the Farm Market, Bakery or at the Pick-Your-Own Pavilion. The Farm Market & Bakery will be open. Additional safety guidelines are provided on their website. 

Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY (Dutchess County)
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Barton Orchards is a 175-acre apple orchard and vegetable farm located in Poughquag, New York, that has been in the Barton family for over 40 years. They have a pick your own farm with food, fun park, petting zoo, ice cream and more. 

​Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status: Apple and other fruit and vegetable picking is now open! And that is not all. Barton Orchards has a mot more than apples. Attractions include a playground, animals, Pick-Your-Own veggies, Ice Cream Stand, Gem Stone Mining, Mini Golf, concessions and Farm Stand. Tree Top Adventures, an exciting new climbing and zipline aerial adventure course, is open Thursday-Sunday and requires advance online reservations. There is also music on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5-8 pm. There is no entry fee except during festival weekends (see below). Barton Orchards is open daily, Sun-Wed 11a-6pm, Thurs-Sat 11a-8p.

​Fishkill Farms
9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell JCT, NY (Dutchess County)

Fishkill Farms is an apple orchard and diversified fruit and vegetable farm in the town of East Fishkill, New York. They grow apples, peaches, berries, cherries, and other fruits, all of which are available in season for pick-your-own. Visitors can get produce at the farm store.
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​Fall 2020 COVID-19 Status: Apple  and other fruit/vegetable picking is open. Socially distant picking is available by reservation only. They do not take reservations far in advance (usually no more than 7 days) to ensure they have sufficient crop availability when you visit. They are diligently following guidelines set forth by the CDC and state government. Full details are available on their website.
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When you are in a small boat with your family, keeping your distance from others is easy! That is why this summer is a great time to get out and enjoy the nearby waterways in a raft, kayak, or canoe. Take in the beautiful nature views, experience the thrill of the rapids, row alongside your family and breathe in the fresh air. Boating is relaxing, exhilarating, active and safe fun for all ages.

Check out these nearby boat companies that offer daily rentals in or near Westchester County, NY. Openings and closings are subject to change in the world of COVID so please check with the companies before heading over.
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Kayak Hudson
Kayak Hudson conveniently offers kayak and paddle board rentals at Rye Beach, Croton Point Park and Tarrytown Lakes (kayaks only). They also offer a variety of tours for all ages at scheduled times throughout the day. Single kayaks are $29 for 1.5 hours, double kayaks and SUPs $49 for 1.5 hours. Tours range in price and are around $80 for a 2-3 hour adventure. To ensure safety, several measures are in place. All programs, including hourly kayak & SUP rentals, are by reservation only, face coverings are required upon arrival and post trip (not once you have launched). More details are on their website.

Update: Kayak Hudson will be open through September, possibly through Columbus Day weekend depending on weather.

Westchester SUP
This August you can paddle, sail or walk for a cause... to help Save the Sound. Participate in a friendly virtual competition to support regional environmental protection. Prizes for the farthest distance, most money raised through social fundraising, and more will be given to active participants who paddle, sail and walk on Long Island Sound over two weeks, from August 14 – 31. Ticket and price information can be found on the event site.

Currently Closed:
Hudson River Expeditions
Wampus Pond
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park

Mountain Valley Guides (Orange County)
Mountain Valley Guides offer a range of kayak adventures on the Hudson River for kids, families, adults (sunset paddles with wine anyone?) and dogs! Family Kayaking for families with kids ages 8-14 will run you $25 for a kids kayak for 2 hours, $30 for an adult or $60 for tandem. Tours range in price. Most of the tours this summer are out of the Cornwall location. Check out the Kids Only Kayaking Program. In response to COVID MVG will be limiting paddlers on all tours to promote social distancing in a small group setting, additional tours will be added to accommodate reservations. In addition MVG will be sanitizing all equipment prior to and after each use.

Storm King Adventure Tours (Orange County)
Offering guided kayak tours on the Hudson River, Storm King Adventures also offers a whole slew of excursions including Fishkill Creek, Hidden Cove, Sunset, Little Stony Point, Full Moon and Moodna. Check out the Kids In Colorful KayakS (KICKS) program for ages 9-16, which runs every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm, end of June through August for $40/session. Tours range from $40-$120 per child or adult. For health and safety they have also taken a number of steps to make the experience COVID friendly.

Silver Canoes (Orange County)
Escape for the day and enjoy a float trip on this pristine section of the Delaware River while surrounded by the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania and the Catskill Mountains in New York. Silver Canoes offers excellent service with convenient transportation to and from the river from their office in Port Jervis, NY. They are open seven days a week by reservation only. They offer ratings, canoes, kayaks and tubes. Rates are around $40 per person. Children 50″ and under float for $23.50 or one-half of the adult weekend rental rate when accompanied by 2 adults (except for tubing & kayaking).

Indian Head Canoes & Rafts  (Orange County)
Just around the corner from Silver Canoes, Indian Head offers similar options for a lower price. Service is not as good as Silver Canoes but still a great experience. They have three locations so depending on the excursion you choose you may be starting or ending from either Barryville, NY, Knights Eddy (Sparrowbush, NY) or Matamoras, PA. Rafting for the day from NY to PA was pretty cool! In addition to water trips they offer cabins and camping as well.

Currently Closed:
Bear Mountain Canoe & Paddleboats (Rockland County)
Boat rentals are currently closed, they are hoping to reopen in a few weeks, you can check at the Bear Mountain Inn website for updates. Once open hourly paddle and row boat rentals will be available from 11am to 5pm during weekdays and 11am to 6pm on weekends (weather permitting).

Fahenstock State Park Row Boat Rentals at Canopus Lake (Putnam County)

​The Town Tinker Tube Rental (Ulster County)

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A visit to the farm or orchard is a great way to experience the outdoors while keeping your distance. The kids can enjoy berry picking, homemade ice cream, live animals and more at these nearby spots. Social distancing is required at this time so don't forget your masks!

Westchester County families, have fun at these nearby farms and orchards!
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Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY (Dutchess County)
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Barton Orchards is a 175-acre apple orchard and vegetable farm located in Poughquag, New York, that has been in the Barton family for over 40 years. They have a pick your own farm with food, fun park, petting zoo, ice cream and more. 
Status: Open daily Sunday-Wednesday 11am-7pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-8pm.
Animals: Yes, petting zoo and a dog park
Pick Your Own: No
Market: Yes, curbside and delivery available, farm store is open 11am-6pm daily
Dining: Ice cream

Now Open: Tree Top Adventures where you can spend a full day climbing, swinging, and zipping from tree to tree.
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​Fishkill Farms
9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell JCT, NY (Dutchess County)

Fishkill Farms is an apple orchard and diversified fruit and vegetable farm in the town of East Fishkill, New York. They grow apples, peaches, berries, cherries, and other fruits, all of which are available in season for pick-your-own. Visitors can get produce at the farm store.
Status: Open
Animals: No
Pick Your Own: Yes, by reservation only Tuesday - Sunday
Market: Online only, contactless grocery pick up available
Dining: No


Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY  (Westchester County)

Harvest Moon is a family owned and operated farm market and U-Pick fruit and apple orchard in Westchester County. Open seasonally April-December. During the Fall they do pick-your-own apples and pears and throw a Fall Festival every weekend from Labor Day to Halloween.
Status: Open Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm
Animals: During fall festival events
Pick Your Own: Yes, blueberry picking is currently open, check for daily updates, the largest season at this orchard is apples in September and October every weekend 
Market: Yes
Dining: Yes, seating available outside and inside the Farm Store

Hilltop Hanover Farm
1271 Hanover St, Yorktown Heights, NY (Westchester County)
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Hilltop Hanover Farm is a bucolic 400-year old historic working farm in Yorktown Heights, Westchester County, New York.  Today the farm is a regional education center that offers programs on healthy and sustainable food production. Visitors can hike the farm's 3.5 miles of woodland trails, picnic on the farm grounds, purchase a CSA share, or produce from our farm stand or at U-Pick during the growing season, or attend any of our numerous classes and lectures. Hilltop Hanover Farm offers tours, classes and field trips to school groups, garden clubs, and scout troops.
Status: Open (Grounds are open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm. Trails remain open from dawn to dusk. All visitors must wear face masks in parking lots and while on the grounds of the farm, in addition to practicing social distancing while on the property. All public restrooms are temporarily closed.)
Animals: Yes
Pick Your Own: Closed for the 2020 season
Market: Yes, Farm Stand will be open every Saturday from 10am to 4pm
Dining: No

Muscoot Farm 
51 NY-100, Katonah, NY (Westchester County)
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At Muscoot Farm you can experience farm animals, agriculture, wildlife, and history in a family-friendly atmosphere. Once a working dairy farm, Muscoot Farm is now a Westchester County park open to the public 362 days of the year.
Status: Open (Please note that until further notice the Farm Complex and buildings at Muscoot Farm are closed. The parking lot and hiking trails however, remain open from 10am-4pm daily.)
Animals: Yes
Pick Your Own: No
Market: Yes (The Muscoot Farm Farmer's Market is open Sundays 9:30 a.m. to 2:30pm, walk-ins are now welcome, though it is still required that only one person per family attends. Face masks are mandatory and social distancing guidelines will be in place. A limited number of patrons will be allowed in at one time, so there may be a line at the entrance.)
Dining: No
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Och's Orchard
​4 Ochs Lane, Warwick, NY (Orange County)
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Och's Orchard is a family owned farm and market. They offer pick-your-own fruits and vegetables on their vast grounds. From berries to veggies, to fruit, their market is full of goodies, including cider, donuts and homemade ice cream. All available in season! 
Status: Open 
Animals: No
Pick Your Own: Yes (call the day you wish to visit as it is not available every day)
Market: Yes
Dining: No

Outhouse Orchards
139 Hardscrabble Rd, North Salem, NY (Westchester County)
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A seasonal orchard open only in the fall for apples, peaches and pumpkins picking. Donuts, pies, corn maze, live music and more will be available in September and October.
Status: Closed
Animals: No
Pick Your Own: Fall only
Market: No
Dining: No

​Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture
630 Bedford Rd, Tarrytown, NY (Westchester County)

Stone Barns occupies 80 acres in Westchester County, just 25 miles north of New York City and operates a highly diversified, four-season farm and an education center that hosts over a hundred thousand visitors each year. Live animals, dining, events and more are all here.
Status: Closed (Stone Barns Center remains closed to the public due to ongoing Coronavirus concerns. Public programs are canceled, and the Farm Store and Café & Grain Bar are closed during this time. We do not yet have further details about a timeline for reopening, but we look forward to sharing any change in status as soon as we can.)
Animals: Yes but currently closed
Pick Your Own: No
Market: Yes but currently closed
Dining: Yes but currently closed

Stuart's Fruit Farm
62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY (Westchester County)
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Stuart's Fruit Farm is a family-operated farm since 1828 located in Westchester County, New York. Seasonallly they offer a varied selection of flowers and vegetable plants, in the spring, apple picking, peach picking and a pumpkin patch in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter.
Status: Open for vegetable plants and flowers only
Animals: No
Pick Your Own: Yes but not until the fall for apples, peaches and pumpkins
Market: No
Dining: No

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm
1335 White Hill Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY (Westchester County)

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm has been around for over 100 years. They sell a wide variety of apples, pumpkins and peaches, all available to “Pick-Your-Own” during harvest season, starting in August. At that time there will be three farm markets that will open and sell everything from their own pressed apple cider to freshly baked pies, famous apple cider donuts and gift items. 
Status: Closed (they anticipate opening August 15th, 2020)
Animals: No
Pick Your Own: Yes (starting in August with peaches and then apples)
Market: Yes (three markets are expected to open in August)
Dining: Yes
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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.
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Address: 1570 Route 301, Carmel, NY (Putnam County)

Vehicle Entrance Fee: $8/car
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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.
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​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.
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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.
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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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