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Photo Courtesy of Adobe Stock/ Scott Heaney
Embrace the great outdoors in Westchester by taking a trip to Playland with the family or unwinding at Kensico Dam Plaza.
Playland
Revelers of all ages have been flocking to the iconic Playland since 1928 for its good old-fashioned fun. Beyond its family-friendly Kiddyland section and thrilling Crazy Mouse, Double Shot, Sky Flyer, and the newest pulse-pounder, the Dragonator, the Art Deco amusement masterpiece appeals to the leisurely strollers, fitness buffs, and beachgoers who gravitate to the boardwalk, beach, and lake areas. Playland is also the home of the recently renovated Westchester Children’s Museum, featuring enhanced opportunities for hands-on learning, STEM activities, and interactive programs to inspire curiosity and critical thinking for toddlers to tweens. The museum is also available for kids’ private birthday parties.
1 Playland Pkwy, Rye; playlandpark.org
Photo Courtesy of Playland
Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden
Experience all the sensory nuances of a Japanese garden as you ramble its carefully orchestrated paths. With a shared mission to promote global awareness and understanding, the museum and gardens intermarry Eastern and Western cultures. Check hours and times before visiting or drop in on curator Bibiana Huang Matheis’ monthly virtual exhibitions on the first Saturday of every month. The Hammond also offers a variety of special events in addition to culturally authentic events and educational experiences.
28 Deveau Rd; North Salem; hammondmuseum.org
Photo Courtesy of Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden
Kensico Dam Plaza
Soaring 307 feet into the sky and spanning 1,843 feet, this dam is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Festivities include concerts, fitness classes, cultural celebrations, outdoor films, and Westchester Magazine’s famous Wine & Food Festival. In addition to the fitness course, picnic spaces, trails, nature study, inline skating, and more, it’s home to The Rising, a 9/11 memorial.
1 Bronx River Pkwy; parks.westchestergov.com/kensico-dam-plaza
Photo by Ken Gabrielsen
Related: There’s So Much to Do Outside at Kensico Dam Plaza
Untermyer Park & Gardens
Previously named the No. 1 tourist attraction in Westchester County by TripAdvisor, Untermyer Gardens bursts with flowers and greens. The pristine grounds, which once belonged to lawyer/investor Samuel Untermyer, are sprawled over 150 acres that overlook the Hudson River. Don’t miss Rhododendron Walk or the Rock and Stream Garden. Meanwhile, the majestic Temple of Love is the perfect place to proclaim one’s undying affection, with magnificent views of the Hudson and Palisades to heighten the occasion.
945 N Broadway, Yonkers; untermyergardens.org
Photo Courtesy of Untermyer Park & Gardens
Spins Hudson
Whether you’re seeking a bit of a rush on the aerial ropes, are curious about axe throwing, or simply wish to unwind with a cocktail, Spins Hudson is the place to do it all. This 40,000 sq. ft. complex — putatively the largest entertainment venue on the Hudson — overlooks the Charles Point Marina. Bonus: It has a brewery on the premises. 5 John Walsh Blvd; spinshudson.com
Photo Courtesy of Spins Hudson