23+ Exciting Things To Do In Peekskill NY: Westchester County, NY
If you’re wondering about Peekskill, I am here to tell you that Mrs. Garrett and her girls’ school is definitely not there anymore. I know that I am showing my age, but whether you get there by train or by car, there are so many things to do in Peekskill that you will wonder why it took you so long to go there.
Taking a trip to Peekskill may take some planning. Due to an abundance of things to do in Peekskill, this makes it the perfect place to spend a day or a weekend in New York State.
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Where is Peekskill, NY?
Located near the Bear Mountain Bridge and Route 9 in Westchester County, sits the city of Peekskill, an amazing Hudson River city full of art, food and culture. This city is offers opportunities to explore its rich history, including some wonderful historic sites.
Peekskill New York sits along the Hudson River sandwiched between Cortlandt, NY and Garrison, NY (Putnam County). When looking at a map of Westchester County, NY, Peekskill sits on the Northwest corner of the county.
Directly across the Hudson River you can see Jones Point in Rockland County.
Things To Know Before Your Visit To Peekskill, NY
- Make sure you plan your day in advance because there are a lot of things to do in Peekskill NY
- Check the individual websites to confirm the operating hours of the businesses you plan to visit.
- Reservations may be required to visit certain locations and/or eat at certain restaurants.
How Far is Peekskill NY from NYC?
Peekskill NY is located approximately 40-50 miles north of New York City.
There are several ways one can get to Peekskill NY.
By Train: The Peekskill train station is located on the Hudson Line of the Metro North Railway System.
Approximately 60 minutes from Grand Central, this makes it the ideal place for a day trip from NYC.
By Car: Peekskill New York is also conveniently located off of Route 9. Route 9 can be accessed from Route 9A through the Taconic State Parkway.
By car, though, the ride time may differ. It can be anywhere between 60 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the day and time of day that you decide to travel.
Due to its close proximity to the Hudson River and having its own Metro-North Train Station, Peekskill NY is the hub of activity when people think of the Mid-Hudson Valley Region and Westchester County.
It’s also the place most likely to attract the type of tourist who might be going away from a long weekend or taking some time for a day trip from NYC.
Because of this popularity, Peekskill NY can be more crowded than other, lesser known, and not easily accessible towns in Westchester County.
Everything you Need to Know about Westchester County
Reference this Guide to Westchester County, NY and see all the wonderful things there are to do in the county. This list comprises of information and links to websites for many things you can enjoy. Don’t make any plans without checking out this guide first.
Looking for free things in Westchester County? This article will help you out!
What is Peekskill NY known for?
Once an American industrial center, Peekskill NY gained popularity when the city decided to make artists’ studios and galleries as part of its revitalization process. Due to creating affordable living and working spaces for artists, the artist population increased and also brought people who are interested in art to Peekskill.
Best Days & Time to find Things to do in Peekskill NY
In my opinion, the best day to find things to do in Peekskill NY is during the weekend.
The streets are bustling with people, the shops are eager to welcome patrons and the galleries showcase the best exhibits around.
There are so many things to do in Peekskill NY that you may need to visit several times in order to appreciate and take it all in.
Are Things to do in Peekskill NY within Walking Distance from Each other?
It’s easy to take a stroll up and down Peekskill New York’s Main Street.
It’s approximately 1+ mile in length and full of museums, shops and restaurants. One can make an afternoon of wandering around and not only admiring beautiful pieces of art but also outside at the Peekskill Sculpture Park.
From the train station, you can walk to both the Lincoln Depot Museum and to Main Street and Hudson Valley Museum of Contemporary Art.
15+ Exciting Things to do in Peekskill NY
- Blue Mountain Reservation – The hike up Mt. Beacon Park begins at a staircase that once was the area where the Beacon Incline Railway existed. I’m not a hiker but have seen photos on Instagram and the view from the top looks amazing. It is free, open year-round and welcomes leashed dogs. I’ve also heard that South Mount Beacon Fire Tower offers a view of Manhattan and Albany on a clear day.
- Get coffee at Bean Runner Coffee or The Peekskill Coffee House – This favorite coffee place of the locals is open early and closes late while offering a menu not only consisting of coffee and tea, but also beer, and snacks.
- Charles Point Park – Providing amazing views of the Peekskill Bay, Bear Mountain, as well as, the Bear Mountain Bridge, this expansive pier is a favorite of many. The park offers stunning views, lots of park benches and picnic tables, art installations, a walking and bike path, a children’s playground. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic.
- Depew Park – Located in the middle of Peekskill, this wonderful open space boasts a track, basketball courts and a playground. Enjoy the picnic pavilion overlooking Lake Mitchell, and enjoy hiking trails that lead over to blue mountain.
- Hudson Valley Museum of Contemporary Art – Although tours and visits are done my appointment only, there is a interactive digital exhibition, called “How We Live”.
- Lincoln Depot Museum – Open seasonally, the Lincoln Depot Museum is housed in a train station. This was the site of a ‘whistle stop’ speech by Abraham Lincoln on his way to his inauguration in 1861.
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- Paramount Hudson Valley Theater – Originally opened in 1930 this Peekskill icon and Westchester County Landmark is a wonderful performing arts center. You can purchase tickets for upcoming live performances online, including live music performances and special events.
- Peekskill Dog Park – If exploring the Hudson Valley with your furry friend is more your style, you will be happy to know that the Peekskill Dog Park offers a whole day of fun for you both. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Peekskill Farmers Market – Held on Saturdays from 8 am – 2 pm, from June through the end of November. The outdoor market takes place on Bank Street, which helps local businesses with increased foot traffic, while providing patrons with fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables and other local favorites.
- Peekskill Landing Park and Peekskill Riverfront Green Park – These waterfront parks are a wonderful place to visit any time of the year.
With a large playground, nature trails and beautiful artwork, these parks make a perfect outing for anyone. These parks are free and open year-round, sunrise to sunset.- The City of Peekskill Parks & Recreation offers Summer Programs.
- One of my favorite things is to pack a lunch and enjoy the city’s picnic areas while looking out at the Hudson River. This is also a great spot to take photos.
- Peekskill Museum – Located in the Herrick House, this quaint museum is open on Saturdays. Exhibits interestingly display nostalgic Peekskill and take you back in time.
- Peekskill Sculpture Park – With 28 art installations throughout Peekskill, this is one of the best things to do in Peekskill. Curated by the Hudson Valley Moca, these sculptures add beauty to the landscape while also offering inspiration. Many works are clustered at the waterfront and others are centered Main Street & Division Street. You can download a map on the website.
Hudson Valley Farmers Market Guide
Reference my List of Hudson Valley Farmers Markets before heading out to visit any Hudson Valley markets. Complete with a full list of markets and links to their sites in order to make your next visit to a farmers market easy.
- Stroll up & down Main Street – Take the day to stroll and go into shops, galleries, and eat along the way.
- Shop at Bruised Apple Books & Music – Since 1993, this Peekskill icon has been buying, selling and trading books, records, CD’s and movies.
- Trinity Cruises – Leaving from Riverfront Green Park, this 90 minute cruise offer its passengers an opportunity to witness the spectacular beauty of the land and the rich history weaved in and out of the Hudson Highlands. Seasonal on Saturdays and Sundays
Where to Eat and Drink in Peekskill NY
- Bean Runner Cafe – Located on S Division Street, this great coffee house offers a full menu, including smoothies, wine & beer. Open Tues – Sun.
- Birdsall House – Located on Main Street, this gatropub focuses on craft beer and great food. Open daily.
- Gleason’s – Located on South Street, this is a great place to grab flatbread pizza, pasta and/or panini. Open Tues – Sun.
- Taormina Trattoria – Located close to the train station serves specialty pizzas, pasta and other Italian cuisine. Open Tues – Sun.
- The Hudson Creamery – Located close to the Train station on Hudson Avenue, they serve Jane’s handmade ice cream from the Hudson Valley, plus premium soft serve, ice cream cakes, pies, sundaes, Milkshakes, flying saucers and ice cream cookie sandwiches.
- The Peekskill Coffee House – Located on S Division Street, this great local place offers coffee and a menu full of crepes and Belgium waffle choices. Open daily.
- Whiskey River – Located on N Division Street, offers a small menu to compliment their selection of whiskey, cocktails and beer. Open daily.
Things to do Near Peekskill NY:
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SEE THE ARTFUL TREASURE THAT YOU CAN ONLY SEE AT UNION CHURCH OF POCANTICO HILLS
Tips For A Successful Visit To Peekskill NY:
- Wear comfortable shoes, like these. If you’re there for a day of exploring, then there will be a lot of walking involved.
- There are plenty of places to stop and take a break while exploring Peekskill NY.
- Don’t try to do it all in one day. There are so many places to see, eat and drink that it’s almost impossible to do it all in a day.
Until the Next Adventure…