10 Fun Things To Do Near Mount Vernon, NY (Westchester County)
Looking for easy day trip ideas near
Mount Vernon, New York in Westchester County? You’re in a great spot. Mount Vernon sits right on the border of the Bronx, which means you get the best of both worlds: small-city feel with quick access to big-time attractions.
Whether you’re local or just visiting friends and family, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Mount Vernon that are perfect for weekend plans, quick visits, or even a mini staycation.
1. Step Back in Time at St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site
Just a few minutes from Mount Vernon, in nearby Pelham, you’ll find
St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site. It’s one of those places that looks quiet at first glance, but has a lot of stories to tell.
Inside the small stone church, you can:
- See a historic pipe organ from the 1800s
- Walk through a cemetery with graves dating back to the 1700s
- Learn how this area played a role in the American Revolution
If you’re into history, or you just enjoy peaceful spots with character, it’s worth an hour or two. Park staff often share short talks that make the past feel surprisingly close.
2. Ride Through the Bronx River Parkway – One of the Prettiest Drives Nearby
The
Bronx River Parkway runs right by Mount Vernon and into Westchester, and it’s one of the nicest drives in the area, especially in fall when the leaves change color.
You can:
- Take a scenic drive north toward White Plains
- Stop at small park areas along the river
- Use the trail for biking or long walks
On certain Sundays in spring and fall, parts of the parkway are closed to cars for “Bicycle Sundays,” turning it into a huge open path for walkers, runners, and cyclists. If you like being outdoors but don’t want to go far, this is an easy win.
3. Explore Nature at Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study Woods
Need a quick escape from city streets? Head to
Twin Lakes Park & Nature Study Woods right over the border in New Rochelle and Eastchester, about a 10–15 minute drive from Mount Vernon.
Here you’ll find:
- Wooded walking trails with gentle hills
- Lakes where you can relax and watch the water
- Plenty of birds and wildlife if you look closely
The trails are pretty easy, so they’re good for families and casual walkers. It’s the kind of place where you can bring a coffee, stroll for an hour, and feel like you took a mini vacation without ever leaving Westchester County.
4. Shop, Dine, and Stroll at Cross County Center
If you like to mix shopping, food, and people-watching, check out
Cross County Center in Yonkers, just a short ride from Mount Vernon.
This open-air shopping center offers:
- Popular stores like Macy’s, H&M, and more
- Casual restaurants and fast-casual spots
- Seasonal events, from summer concerts to holiday displays
On a sunny day it’s nice just to walk around, grab an ice cream or a coffee, and sit on a bench while the world goes by. It’s an easy, no-stress outing, especially if you don’t want to go all the way into Manhattan to shop.
5. Visit the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy – A Hidden Gem in Yonkers
About 15–20 minutes from Mount Vernon,
Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers feels like stepping into a different world.
This historic garden sits on a bluff above the Hudson River and includes:
- A stunning walled garden inspired by Persian designs
- Long walkways, fountains, and detailed stonework
- Beautiful views of the Hudson and the Palisades
It’s one of those places that’s perfect for photos, quiet walks, or a peaceful date. If you like Central Park or the New York Botanical Garden, you’ll probably love Untermyer too—but with smaller crowds.
6. Get Cultured at the Hudson River Museum
Another solid stop in Yonkers is the
Hudson River Museum, which is about a 20-minute drive from Mount Vernon.
What you’ll find there:
- Art galleries featuring regional and American art
- Exhibits about the Hudson River and local history
- A small planetarium with family-friendly shows
They also offer programs for kids and adults, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for something low-key but interesting, this is a nice choice. Plus, the museum overlooks the Hudson River, so the views are a bonus.
7. Enjoy the Waterfront at Glen Island Park
If you’re craving water views without trekking all the way to the ocean, head to
Glen Island Park in New Rochelle, about 15 minutes from Mount Vernon.
At this park, you can:
- Walk along the Long Island Sound
- Relax on a small beach area (seasonal)
- Have a picnic at a table or on the grass
On warm days, it’s a great spot to bring lunch, spread out a blanket, and watch the boats go by. Parking rules and fees can vary by season, so it’s a good idea to check Westchester County’s park website before you go.
8. Catch a Game or Concert at Yonkers’ Empire City Casino (Now MGM Yonkers)
If you’re looking for nightlife near Mount Vernon, consider a short drive to
Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway (MGM Yonkers).
Depending on what you’re into, you can:
- Try the slot machines
- Watch live harness racing
- Grab dinner or drinks
- Catch special events, shows, or viewing parties
Even if you’re not a big gambler, the energy and live events can make for a fun night out with friends. Just set a budget before you go and treat it like entertainment, not a money-making plan.
9. Visit the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx
One of the biggest perks of being in
Mount Vernon, NY is how close you are to the Bronx—and that means quick access to the incredible
New York Botanical Garden, only about a 10–15 minute drive away.
Highlights include:
- Huge seasonal flower displays (like the Orchid Show)
- A glass conservatory that feels like a mini rainforest
- Walking trails, lawns, and quiet corners for relaxing
It’s easy to spend a few hours there just wandering, taking photos, and enjoying the fresh air. If you’re visiting Mount Vernon with kids, there are also family-friendly activities and a children’s garden area at certain times of year.
10. Say Hello to the Animals at the Bronx Zoo
Right next to the Botanical Garden is the famous
Bronx Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the United States and an amazing day trip from Mount Vernon.
Some of the must-sees:
- Gorilla Forest and Tiger Mountain
- The monorail (seasonal) through natural-style habitats
- Children’s Zoo with hands-on experiences for kids
Plan at least half a day, especially if you like to move at a relaxed pace. Wear comfortable shoes—it’s big. This is one of those places that appeals to almost everyone, from families to couples to groups of friends.
Why Mount Vernon Is a Great Base for Exploring Westchester and the Bronx
When you look at a map, you realize
Mount Vernon, New York is in a sweet spot. You can:
- Head north into Westchester County for parks, gardens, and river views
- Head south into the Bronx for major attractions like the zoo and botanical garden
- Reach Manhattan in under an hour by train or car (traffic willing)
If you live in Mount Vernon, you don’t need to go far to find something fun to do. And if you’re visiting family or staying nearby, this little pocket of New York gives you easy access to both nature and city life.
Share Your Favorite Things To Do Near Mount Vernon
Have you spent time in
Mount Vernon, NY or around Westchester County? Maybe you’ve found a neighborhood restaurant, a cozy café, or a small park that deserves more love.
- What’s your favorite thing to do near Mount Vernon?
- Which place from this list would you visit first?
I’d love to hear your ideas.
Drop your recommendations and experiences in the comments, and feel free to
share this post with friends or family who are planning a trip to Mount Vernon or looking for easy day trips from the New York City area. The more local tips we collect, the better this guide becomes for everyone.
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