Summertime Relaxation on the Sound
Bordered on the east side by the Long Island Sound, Westchester is the place to kick back and relax this summer. Enjoy outdoor fun, cool off on our beaches, sail away on the Long Island Sound and treat yourself to delicious frozen treats.
Day One
Begin the day at historic Playland, the only Art Deco amusement park in America on the National Registry of Historic Places. Challenge your crew to some friendly competition on the bumper cars, brave Zombie Castle, play games and take the little ones to Kiddyland for pint-sized rides. When it's time to cool off, savor a refreshing dip in the Playland Pool or visit Playland Beach to take in beautiful views, sandy shores and plenty of swimming in the calm waters.
Recharge by taking a quick walk to On the Way Cafe for a lunch of classic American favorites served in a quaint cafe atmosphere. Then, visit Westchester Children's Museum to check out their new physics lab featuring Micah’s Gravitram - a kinetic art maze with tracks, ramps, corkscrew turns, and racing balls. Continue the discovery and exploration in the architectural zone, learn about play around the world and participate in educator-led MakerSpace activities.
Ready for a sweet treat? Drive to Longford's Ice Cream in Rye where ice cream, sorbet and gelato are made daily in small batches. The result is a fresh, creamy indulgence in flavors like Cookie Monster, Dulce de Leche and Mud Pie. Continue on to idyllic Purchase Street, a pedestrian mall with something for everyone, including clothing for children and adults, toys and tempting candy shops.
End the day at Billy & Pete's in Larchmont for al fresco dining, mouthwatering burgers, Detroit-style pizza, and creative cocktails. Then, catch a Westchester Soccer Club game to watch all the action as the men's team plays its USL League One inaugural season at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon.
Tuck in for the night in one of the suites at the Courtyard by Marriott - Rye with plenty of room for the whole family plus a pool where the kids can squeeze in one more swim. Indulge in the upscale, contemporary surroundings of Hotel NoMA in New Rochelle, or stay in the heart of the action at Cambria Hotel White Plains.
Day Two
Get ready for a day of adventure with a hearty breakfast at Mamaroneck Diner and Pizza. Then, take part in a Westchester summertime favorite - Bicycle Sundays - where a stretch of the Bronx River Parkway is closed to motor vehicles so bikers, joggers and walkers can enjoy this weekend tradition. Rent a bike at one of the Danny's Cycles locations to take part in the experience on two wheels. Or, head to Jay Heritage Center in Rye to visit the grounds and gardens of American Founding Father John Jay's home. Follow the mown path behind the mansion to access Marshlands Conservancy, a 147-acre wildlife sanctuary with three miles of trails. While there, count how many different birds you can spot and visit the nature center to learn more about the property and wildlife.
Grab lunch at Village Social Kitchen + Bar in Rye for a wide selection of seasonal fare sure to please the whole family. Then, travel to Rye Town Park Beach and experience the Long Island Sound from a different view - out on the water with a rented kayak or stand up paddleboard.
After a busy day, wind down at The Rye Roadhouse for some Cajun and Creole cuisine with a kid-friendly menu. Finish your meal with a delicious slice of pecan pie or one of the many dessert specials.