Accessible Adventures Along the Hudson River
Westchester has an abundance of historic homes and lush, rolling landscapes dotted with parks and trails, many that are either fully or partially accessible. With the glorious backdrop of colorful autumn leaves, rich foliage viewing opportunities await, as well as historic treasures, hikes and strolls that suit many levels of ambition and experience.
Day One:
Prepare for a busy day of exploration by fueling up in Tarrytown at Coffee Labs Roasters on Main Street, where the coffee is roasted daily and can be paired with fresh, local and delicious bites. Then, head to the main attraction - the mesmerizing Hudson River. Take a quick ride to the Westchester Landing of the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge located at 333 South Broadway (Rte. 9) in Tarrytown. There, you can access the welcome center and restrooms before venturing out on the accessible pathway spanning the bridge. Along the path, visit each of the six overlooks featuring exhibits that highlight the art, history and geology of the area.
For a shorter, but equally as stunning walk, travel to Pierson Park in Tarrytown and the adjacent Riverwalk pathway. Hop on the Riverwalk going north toward Kingsland Point Park. The wide 1.2 mile section has plenty of benches and is flanked by flowers and plants and shaded by overhanging trees.
On the way back to your starting point, stop at Rivermarket Bar & Kitchen near the entrance to the Riverwalk for some delicious farm-to-fork New American fare. After your meal, visit the gourmet shop to pick up locally produced honey, soaps, baked goods, and more.
Take a short drive to tour Union Church of Pocantico Hills, built in 1921 by the Rockefeller family and containing stained-glass works of art including Henri Matisse's last work, the Rose Window, and nine windows by Marc Chagall. Tours begin with a brief educator talk followed by time for leisurely exploration.
After the tour, travel to nearby downtown Sleepy Hollow for coffee and snacks at Sleepy Coffee Too, which employs people with disabilities. Still feeling energetic? Spend some time strolling among the shops in downtown Tarrytown.
For dinner, indulge in Chef Dale Talde's delicious take on Hong Kong cuisine with a modern twist at Goosefeather. This popular spot fills quickly so advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
When it's time to settle in, spend a night in the recently updated Westchester Marriott or the spacious guest rooms and suites at Sheraton Tarrytown.
Day Two:
Get ready for another full day with brunch at Sweetgrass Grill in Tarrytown, then take to the trails.
If you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid and want to experience hiking in various terrains, reach out to Westchester Park Foundation's Trails Without Limits. This program offers free guided hikes using all-terrain track chairs in parks around the county. Remember to register for your hike at least 48 hours in advance.
After your hike, settle in for lunch of New American cuisine along the shores of the Hudson River at The Sailhouse.
Then, head to Philipsburg Manor, located about 1/2 mile from the Sleepy Hollow Metro-North Railroad Station, to gain a deep appreciation of the historic role of pre-Revolutionary Westchester County. Part of the African-American Heritage Trail, Philipsburg Manor showcases the stories and lives of the community of slaves who lived and toiled there in the mid-18th century and beyond. The property has wheelchair accessible parking spaces, and the Visitor Center and its bathrooms are accessible. Visitors can pick up sensory backpacks, social narratives, fidget tools and assistive devices at check-in. The main floor of the manor, most of the historic outbuildings and walking paths are accessible (note that there are some grassy areas and gravel along these paths).
