Hugging the east bank of the Hudson River, Westchester County sprawls north-east of New York City. It was named after the English city of Chester when it was founded in 1683 and is home to the headquarters of several multinational corporations.
Things to do in Westchester County
Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of the Rockefeller family or escape to the trails of the Hudson Highlands, Westchester County is worth the trip.
Visit the former Rockefeller home of Kykuit. Nestled in the hamlet of Pocantico Hills is Kykuit, a 40-room mansion built for the oil tycoon, John D. Rockefeller. Protected as a National Historic Landmark, it offers magnificent views toward New York City. Join a guided tour to marvel at the estate’s outstanding art collection, which includes works by Henry Moore, Andy Warhol and Isamu Noguchi.
Hike through the Hudson Highlands. In the far north-west of Westchester County is the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, which encompasses an area of formerly mined, logged and quarried land that has been regenerated. Follow the steep, rocky trail that leads to Breakneck Ridge, from where you can enjoy sweeping views across the Hudson River. Traversing the south-east corner of the park is a section of the long-distance Appalachian Trail.
Get up close to wildlife at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain State Park is a rugged protected area that offers everything from hiking to mountain biking and cross-country skiing. Within its bounds is the Trailside Museums & Zoo, where native animals such as black bears, eastern coyotes and bald eagles are rehabilitated. In the Amphibian, Reptile, and Fish Museum, you can get up close to tiny peeper frogs while the Geology Museum details the origins of the Hudson Highlands.
Getting around Westchester County
Westchester County Airport is around 10 minutes’ drive from White Plains and has flights to destinations across the United States. The Hudson, Harlem and New Haven railway lines travel through Westchester County and connect south to New York City. A network of buses also serves the county.