A Revolutionary Westchester Bucket List
To Experience America’s 250th
Hear ye, Hear ye! Calling all history buffs, families, couples, day trippers and anyone interested in experiencing an authentic slice of American history. Why read about the American Revolution in a history book when you can see it, hear it, and discover it right here in Westchester County?
From immersive living-history events to walking in our forefathers’ footsteps, we’ve curated our top Revolutionary War experiences to create the ultimate fall bucket list. And we’ve saved the best for last – REV FEST 250 – the culmination of the year-long celebration of Westchester’s place in the Revolutionary War and the moments that made America’s independence possible.
Discover the Private World of America’s Founders
Diplomacy at Home: The Domestic Lives of the Founding Fathers
Katonah Museum of Art, through October 4th
The American Revolution is often told through its defining battles, but Diplomacy at Home: The Domestic Lives of the Founding Fathers offers a more intimate perspective. At the Katonah Museum of Art, you’ll find a fascinating exploration of how domestic life, relationships, and hospitality helped shape America’s early political and diplomatic culture. With a special focus on John Jay and Alexander Hamilton, the exhibit of furniture, fine art, decorative objects, and personal belongings also highlights the contributions of women like Martha Washington and Sarah Jay.
Step Into the Revolutionary Era
Revolutionary Yonkers Walking Tour
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, October 10th
Join this 2.5 mile Revolutionary War walking tour of downtown Yonkers, where George Washington and the Continental Army spent time during the American Revolution. With stops at the Enslaved Africans Rain Garden, St. John's Episcopal Church, and Philipse Manor Hall, where British Army General Sir Henry Clinton once made his headquarters, you’ll discover the troop movements, skirmishes, and people of the American Revolution along the Albany Post Road and the Yonkers waterfront.
Experience a Revolutionary Encampment
Ossining Revolutionary War Encampment and Living History Day, September 26th
Ever wonder what everyday life was like during the American Revolution? In Ossining, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a recreated military encampment, meet historical interpreters and discover what it took to join the Continental Army. There you’ll learn about Revolutionary War spies, experience period music and demonstrations and take part in hands-on activities for people of all ages.
With living-history groups bringing the era to life, the Revolutionary War becomes something everyone can experience first-hand. Check it out for an ideal fall outing for families or anyone searching for educational and entertaining things to do in Westchester County in fall.
Make REV FEST 250 Your Ultimate Experience
REV FEST 250, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, October 24-25
REV FEST 250 is Westchester County’s signature celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and the perfect culmination of your Revolutionary War bucket list. On October 24th and 25th, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation becomes an immersive journey into Westchester’s Revolutionary past.
Explore Continental and British Army encampments, watch demonstrations from traditional artisans and browse local exhibitors. Hear local legends and ghost stories from Jonathan Kruk, watch Judith Kalaora portray Revolutionary heroine Deborah Sampson, experience dramatic reenactments of the plot between Benedict Arnold and Major John André, and enjoy live music from the West Point Benny Havens Band and Charles W. Dickerson Fife, Drum & Bugle Corps as well as a Hamilton sing-along.
With free admission and complimentary shuttle service from off-site parking, REV FEST 250 is the perfect fall day trip to experience American history.
Ready, Set, Revolutionary
The road to American independence runs right through Westchester County. Here you can explore historic sites, meet the dedicated people who are bringing the past to life, and hear the Revolutionary stories that unfolded close to home. Get ready to make a day of it with this bucket list or choose your own adventure here.