Things To Do With Kids in Westchester, NY

Untermyer Gardens is a breathtaking 43-acre historic estate that feels like stepping into a secret fairy tale world. Kids will be captivated by the dramatic walled Persian gardens with colorful mosaics, the impressive Greek-style amphitheater perfect for imaginative play, and stunning fountains that create a magical atmosphere for exploration and photos.

Wave Hill offers 28 acres of stunning gardens, woodlands, and nature trails overlooking the Hudson River, making it a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Kids can explore greenhouse conservatories, participate in hands-on family art workshops, and roam through meadows and forests while parents enjoy breathtaking views and beautifully curated gardens.

Marshlands Conservancy offers 147 acres of pristine wilderness right in Westchester County, making it an ideal escape for families who want to introduce kids to nature without traveling far. With easy salt marsh trails, an engaging nature museum, and exceptional bird watching opportunities, it's a hands-on outdoor classroom where children can spot herons, egrets, and dozens of other species while learning about coastal ecosystems.

The Rye Free Reading Room is a beloved community gem that goes far beyond typical library offerings. With its stellar 4.9-star rating, this library delights families with engaging story times, hands-on educational programs, and a thoughtfully curated children's section that will have your little bookworms excited to explore.

The New York Botanical Garden offers 250 acres of stunning landscapes where kids can explore nature right in the heart of NYC. With interactive children's gardens, seasonal exhibitions, and plenty of space to run and discover, it's an educational outdoor adventure that feels like escaping to the countryside without leaving the Bronx.

Stone Barns Center is a working farm and educational center where kids can experience sustainable agriculture firsthand. While the famous Blue Hill restaurant operates on-site, families visit for the weekend farm tours and pasture walks that let children meet heritage breed animals, explore vegetable gardens, and learn where their food comes from in a beautiful Pocantico Hills setting.

Flat Rock Brook Nature Center offers families 150 acres of peaceful woodland trails perfect for little explorers. Kids can wade in the shallow brook searching for tadpoles and crayfish, discover hands-on nature exhibits in the center, and join seasonal programs like maple sugaring and owl prowls that make learning about nature exciting and interactive.

Muscoot Farm is a sprawling 777-acre working farm in Katonah that offers an authentic farm experience completely free of charge. Kids can get up close with livestock including cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep, enjoy seasonal hayrides, explore miles of nature trails, and participate in hands-on agricultural programs that teach them where their food comes from.

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is Westchester's largest park, spanning over 4,700 acres of pristine wilderness perfect for outdoor-loving families. With gentle hiking trails suitable for little legs, a fascinating Trailside Nature Museum featuring live animals, and family camping opportunities, this natural escape offers year-round adventures just an hour from New York City.

Lasdon Public Gardens offers families a perfect blend of natural beauty and kid-friendly fun in Katonah. Beyond the stunning formal gardens and peaceful walking trails, kids can cool off at the splash pad, burn energy on the playground, and explore the grounds while parents enjoy one of Westchester's hidden gem destinations.

Cranberry Lake Preserve offers 190 acres of pristine nature right in Westchester, perfect for introducing kids to the outdoors without a major trek. The well-maintained, easy trails wind through forests and around a scenic lake, while the hands-on nature center features live animals, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that make learning about local ecosystems fun for little ones.

Crawford Park is a beloved neighborhood gem in Rye Brook that offers everything families need for an active day outdoors. With well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, spacious open fields perfect for running around, tennis courts, and plenty of shaded picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for both planned activities and spontaneous play dates.