Croton-on-Hudson New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Croton-on-Hudson, New York.
1. New Croton Dam
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
The New Croton Dam stands as an impressive engineering achievement and offers visitors breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls flowing over its massive stone structure. Visitors can enjoy easy hiking trails around the dam area while learning about its historical significance in New York City's water supply system. The area surrounding the dam provides perfect picnic spots with scenic vistas making it an ideal destination for families and photography enthusiasts.
2. Van Cortlandt Manor
COLONIAL HISTORY ALIVE
Van Cortlandt Manor transports visitors back to the 18th century with its well-preserved stone manor house and brick ferry house that showcase colonial living in the Hudson Valley. Visitors can explore the heritage gardens and stroll along a peaceful country road by the Croton River to experience authentic domestic life from this historical period. The manor is also famous for hosting the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze during Halloween season, which has become a must-see attraction featuring spectacular pumpkin sculptures.
3. Croton Point Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION PARADISE
Croton Point Park spans 508 acres on a peninsula jutting into the Hudson River, offering beaches, hiking trails, and stunning river views for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features spacious pavilions perfect for summer barbecues, nature paths through diverse ecosystems, and recreational areas for various activities. Visitors appreciate the park's natural beauty in all seasons, with many enjoying the shade of numerous trees while taking in the impressive panoramas of the Hudson River.
4. Croton Landing Park
PEACEFUL RIVERFRONT ESCAPE
Croton Landing Park provides visitors with amazing views of the Hudson River and a refreshing breeze in a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation. People often bring chairs to sit on the grass and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while watching boats navigate the majestic river. The park forms part of the RiverWalk trail system, making it an ideal spot for both leisurely strolls and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities of the scenic Hudson Valley landscape.
5. Westchester Trail Rides
EQUESTRIAN ADVENTURE TOURS
Westchester Trail Rides offers visitors a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley region on horseback with knowledgeable guides. Riders of varying experience levels can enjoy scenic trails through the countryside while learning about local flora, fauna, and history from experts like Cowboy Bob and Dylan. These equestrian adventures provide a memorable outdoor experience that combines recreation with education in the picturesque landscapes surrounding Croton-on-Hudson.
6. Brinton Brook Sanctuary
NATURAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Brinton Brook Sanctuary encompasses 156 acres of protected land and serves as the largest sanctuary managed by the Saw Mill River Audubon Society. Nature enthusiasts can explore over three miles of hiking trails winding through diverse habitats that support a wide variety of local wildlife and plant species. The sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers seeking to connect with the natural environment in a serene, undeveloped setting.
7. Holy Name Of Mary Church
SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURAL GEM
Holy Name Of Mary Church stands as a prominent spiritual landmark in Croton-on-Hudson with its distinctive architecture and community significance. The church offers visitors a glimpse of local religious heritage while providing a peaceful place for reflection and appreciation of ecclesiastical design. Its presence in the community represents an important cultural and historical element of Croton-on-Hudson's development and continuing identity.
8. Senasqua Park
WATERFRONT COMMUNITY GATHERING
Senasqua Park offers visitors riverside relaxation with spectacular views of the Hudson River and the surrounding valley landscapes. The park serves as a popular community gathering spot for local events, casual recreation, and enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfront setting. Visitors can appreciate the park's amenities while watching boats sail by and experiencing the changing seasons along this scenic stretch of the Hudson River shoreline.
9. Black Rock Dog Park
CANINE RECREATION ZONE
Black Rock Dog Park provides a dedicated space for four-legged friends to exercise and socialize off-leash in a safe environment. Dog owners can interact with fellow pet enthusiasts while their canine companions enjoy the freedom to run and play in this community-focused park. The facility demonstrates Croton-on-Hudson's commitment to pet-friendly recreation and creates opportunities for both pets and their owners to enjoy outdoor activities together.
10. Croton Gorge Park
SCENIC WATERFALL DESTINATION
Croton Gorge Park sits at the base of the New Croton Dam, offering spectacular views of the waterfall created by water flowing over the massive dam structure. This lush, mountainous recreation area provides visitors with diverse seasonal activities, from picnicking and hiking in summer to cross-country skiing in winter. The park serves as an entry point to the historic Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and offers photographers stunning opportunities to capture the natural and engineering wonders of the area.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Croton-on-Hudson offers visitors unique retail experiences including specialty stores like The Green Growler, which began as a home brewing supply shop and has expanded to include a full-service taproom. Local boutiques and shops throughout the village provide distinctive merchandise reflecting the character of this Hudson Valley community. Visitors can browse for artisanal products, locally-made goods, and one-of-a-kind items while enjoying the charming small-town atmosphere of this riverside destination.
12. Dining
CULINARY RIVER EXPERIENCES
Dining options in Croton-on-Hudson include diverse establishments serving everything from casual fare to upscale cuisine, with many restaurants featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Thompson's Cider Mill stands out as a culinary destination where visitors can sample traditional cider pressed from heirloom apple varieties using time-honored methods without additives. The village's eateries often showcase Hudson Valley flavors while providing scenic river views, creating memorable dining experiences for both locals and tourists.
13. Hiking
TRAIL ADVENTURES GALORE
Hiking opportunities abound in Croton-on-Hudson with notable trails including the historic Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and the scenic paths through Brinton Brook Sanctuary. Nature enthusiasts can explore diverse ecosystems while traversing the extensive trail network at Croton Point Park, which offers varying difficulty levels suitable for different abilities. The RiverWalk trail system connects various waterfront areas, allowing hikers to experience stunning Hudson River vistas while enjoying the natural beauty of this Hudson Valley region.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S RIVER PARADISE
Fishing enthusiasts flock to Croton-on-Hudson for its excellent opportunities along the Hudson River, particularly at prime spots within Croton Point Park and Croton Landing. Anglers can catch various species including striped bass, American shad, and catfish while enjoying the peaceful riverside atmosphere and scenic views. The convergence of the Croton and Hudson Rivers creates diverse fishing environments that attract both casual and serious fishermen throughout the different seasons.
15. Camping
RIVERSIDE OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping facilities at Croton Point Park offer outdoor enthusiasts the chance to spend nights under the stars on a scenic peninsula extending into the Hudson River. The campground provides necessary amenities while maintaining a natural setting where visitors can connect with nature and enjoy spectacular river views. Campers can combine their overnight stay with daytime activities including hiking, fishing, and beachgoing, creating a complete outdoor recreation experience in this Hudson Valley destination.