10 Fun Things To Do Near White Plains, New York (Westchester County)
If you’re looking for a fun day trip or a weekend escape just outside New York City,
White Plains, New York in
Westchester County is a great place to start. It’s about 30 miles north of Manhattan, easy to reach by car or train, and packed with things to do for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Whether you love shopping, nature, history, or food, you’ll find something here. Let’s dive into 10 of the best things to do in and around White Plains.
1. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch at The Westchester
If you enjoy a good mall day,
The Westchester in White Plains is a must. This is not your basic shopping center. It’s an upscale, bright, and clean mall with a mix of luxury brands and everyday favorites.
- High-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom
- Popular brands for clothes, shoes, and home goods
- Casual spots and sit-down restaurants when you need a break
It’s the kind of place where you can wander for hours, grab a coffee, and just relax. On a rainy or cold day, this is one of the best things to do in White Plains.
Tip: If you’re driving, there’s plenty of garage parking. If you’re coming from NYC, you can take the train to White Plains and grab a quick ride-share over.
2. Stroll Around Downtown White Plains
White Plains has a surprisingly lively downtown. It feels like a small city with a laid-back suburban vibe.
Walk along
Mamaroneck Avenue and you’ll find:
- Bars and pubs with happy hour specials
- Casual restaurants, pizza spots, and cafes
- Ice cream and dessert shops
- Plenty of people out and about, especially on weekends
If you like to just walk, look at storefronts, and pick a place that “feels right,” downtown White Plains is perfect. At night, the area has a fun, social atmosphere without feeling overwhelming.
3. Relax in Nature at Saxon Woods Park
Need a break from traffic and screens? Head to
Saxon Woods Park, just a short drive from downtown White Plains.
This large county park offers:
- Hiking and walking trails through the woods
- Picnic areas and open fields
- A huge public pool (open seasonally)
- A playground for kids
If you like to walk through the trees and hear birds instead of car horns, this is your spot. The trails are not very difficult, so it’s great for families or anyone just looking for some fresh air.
Pro tip: Bring a small cooler, a blanket, and have a chill picnic after your walk.
4. Play a Round at Saxon Woods Golf Course
If you enjoy golf, you’re in luck. Right next to the park is the
Saxon Woods Golf Course, one of Westchester County’s public courses.
Why golfers like it:
- 18-hole course set among trees and rolling hills
- Reasonable greens fees compared to many private clubs nearby
- Driving range to warm up or just hit a bucket of balls
You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy it. It’s a great way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially in spring or fall when the foliage is beautiful.
5. Learn Local History at the Jacob Purdy House
If you’re into American history, White Plains has a hidden gem: the
Jacob Purdy House. This simple farmhouse played a role in the
American Revolutionary War and is believed to have been used by General George Washington before and after the Battle of White Plains.
While it’s not a flashy museum, it’s meaningful. You can:
- See an original-style 18th-century home
- Learn about the Revolutionary War in Westchester County
- Get a feel for what early American life was like
Check ahead for visiting hours or special events. It’s a great stop if you enjoy connecting with the past in a real, physical place.
6. Visit the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla
Just a short drive north of White Plains, you’ll find one of Westchester’s most impressive landmarks: the
Kensico Dam in Valhalla.
At
Kensico Dam Plaza, you can:
- Walk along the wide plaza at the base of the dam
- Look up at the massive stone structure towering overhead
- Enjoy open lawns, picnic areas, and paths
- Attend seasonal events and cultural festivals
The scale of the dam is surprising the first time you see it. It’s a fun spot for photos, a casual walk, or a relaxed afternoon with friends or family.
Family idea: Bring a ball, a frisbee, or bikes for the kids. There’s a lot of space to play.
7. Wander the Gardens at Untermyer Park in Yonkers
A little farther south in Westchester County, but absolutely worth the drive from White Plains, is
Untermyer Park and Gardens in Yonkers.
This place feels like a secret garden from a movie:
- Beautiful terraced gardens and stonework
- A “walled garden” with fountains and detailed designs
- Stunning views of the Hudson River
If you enjoy photography, peaceful walks, or just pretty places, this is one of the best things to do near White Plains. It’s also a romantic spot for couples.
Note: Admission is typically free, but check if reservations are needed for special tours or events.
8. Explore Playland Park in Rye
Looking for something more active and playful? Head east to
Rye Playland, about a 20–25 minute drive from White Plains.
This historic amusement park sits right on the shore of
Long Island Sound and offers:
- Classic rides, including a wooden roller coaster
- Family rides, kiddie rides, and arcade games
- A boardwalk and beach area
- Seasonal fireworks and events
It’s old-school in the best way. If you grew up going to amusement parks, this place hits that nostalgic feeling.
Tip: Check the season schedule. Playland usually runs spring through early fall, with special events on some holidays.
9. Enjoy the Trails and Views at Rockefeller State Park Preserve
If you’re willing to drive about 20–30 minutes from White Plains,
Rockefeller State Park Preserve near Sleepy Hollow is a top choice for outdoor lovers.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Miles of wide, well-kept carriage roads (great for walking and jogging)
- Open fields, forest areas, and peaceful ponds
- Beautiful views, especially in fall with all the colorful leaves
The trails are mostly gentle and easy to follow, so you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. It’s a perfect spot to clear your head, take photos, or go for a quiet walk with a friend.
Parking: There is usually a small fee per car, so bring some cash or a card depending on the system in place.
10. Eat Your Way Through White Plains and Westchester
No trip is complete without good food, and the
White Plains area has a strong and growing food scene.
Around White Plains and nearby towns, you’ll find:
- Downtown White Plains: Burgers, tacos, sushi, Italian, and more along Mamaroneck Ave.
- Port Chester: Known for excellent Latin American food and lively restaurants.
- Rye & Bronxville: Charming main streets with cafes, bakeries, and bistros.
If you love trying new spots, you could easily build a whole day around brunch, a walk, coffee, and then dinner somewhere new.
Idea: Plan a mini “food tour” by picking one place for appetizers, another for your main meal, and a third for dessert or drinks.
Planning Your Visit to White Plains, NY
Here are a few quick tips to make your trip smoother:
- Getting there: White Plains is about a 40-minute train ride from Grand Central Terminal in NYC. By car, it’s roughly 30 miles north of Manhattan.
- Getting around: Downtown is walkable, but a car or ride-share helps if you want to see parks, the dam, or the Hudson River towns.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are especially nice, with comfortable temperatures and colorful scenery.
Whether you’re a local from the New York City area or visiting from out of state, White Plains and the rest of Westchester County offer
plenty of things to do without the stress of the big city.
What Would You Do First in White Plains?
Would you start with shopping at
The Westchester, a walk at
Kensico Dam Plaza, or a day of rides at
Rye Playland? There’s no wrong answer.
If you’ve been to White Plains or anywhere in Westchester County:
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Do you have a restaurant or park you’d recommend?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments so other travelers can discover new ideas too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip near New York City. It might just inspire their next day trip to
White Plains, New York!
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