20 Great Places to Spend Winter Break With the Kids in Westchester
With the winter break right around the corner, now’s the time to start planning for your kid’s time off from school. One great thing about living in Westchester is that there is plenty to do with your family year-round. From ice skating to visiting local museums, there are many fun and affordable activities to do this winter break. Check out some of our local favorites this year!
Psst.. check out these 25 Free Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Westchester
Have Fun Outdoors
For a great winter experience, consider visiting Playland Ice Casino in Rye or the rink at The Harvey School in Katonah for ice skating. Families can also enjoy winter hiking on the scenic trails of Teatown Lake Reservation or Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Just remember to wear warm clothes! If you like winter sports, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation has good trails for snowshoeing, especially when there’s enough snow. These activities offer fun and adventure while helping you stay healthy during the cold months.
Holiday Attractions
Visit the holiday lights display at Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers. Enjoy the beautiful lights that fill the gardens during the festive season. Also, check out the Kensico Dam Plaza Winter Wonderland. This event includes lights, ice skating, and lots of holiday fun. Both are great places for families and friends to celebrate together and will be available to view during the break.
Indoor Fun
Take your family to the Westchester Children’s Museum in Rye for a fun day out. The museum has hands-on activities that spark creativity and curiosity with kids. Kids can enjoy many interactive exhibits that provide educational entertainment for hours.
After the museum, visit the Hudson River Museum. Families will find a variety of art and science exhibits there. A local favorite is the Andrus Planetarium, where you can watch shows about space that will amaze the entire family. If you’re in the mood for a little more excitement, go to The Puzzle Parlour in White Plains. This family-friendly escape room lets you and your loved ones work together to solve puzzles and unlock mysteries.
Theater and Shows
For families with little who love the idea of live performances head to Tarrytown Music Hall this winter break. Tarrytown Music Hall offers plenty of family-friendly performances. Check their schedule for dates and times. The Jacob Burns Film Center is also a great option for families who love shows and movies for kids and hosts special programs just for them. For families looking for sensory-friendly experiences, we recommend checking out The Bedford Playhouse. This space often provides sensory-friendly screenings for all ages to enjoy.
Cozy Crafts
Craft workshops offered at art studios like A Maze in Pottery in Briarcliff Manor and Muse Paintbar in Yonkers provide excellent opportunities for engaging in winter break activities. At A Maze in Pottery, families can explore their creativity by painting ceramics, working with clay, and enjoying a hands-on experience that fosters artistic expression.
Meanwhile, Muse Paintbar combines painting with a fun, social atmosphere, allowing families to create their own artwork while sipping on beverages and enjoying light snacks. Both venues cater to all skill levels, making them perfect destinations for families, friends, or even a fun solo date for moms.
Fun with Animals
Looking for fun with animals? Head to Greenburgh Nature Center or Muscoot Farm during the break. At Greenburgh Nature Center, visitors meet animals, explore winter nature trails, and join seasonal programs for all ages. Muscoot Farm offers a chance to walk and see farm animals while enjoying nature. Both places provide fun experiences that connect families with the outdoors.
Day Trips
If you want a great outdoor experience or are looking for a day trip, visit Bear Mountain State Park. In winter, you can enjoy a fun ice skating rink perfect for all families. The park also has many hiking trails that suit all skill levels. The Bear Mountain Inn is a cozy place to relax.
Also, just a short drive away is the New York Botanical Garden. The Holiday Train Show this season is a must-see, featuring detailed model trains surrounded by beautiful plants. This fun experience is perfect for families and friends who want to create lasting memories over the break.
