Croton-on-Hudson is a quaint and picturesque village with a rich history and an plenty of activities for all ages. With parks, nature centers, delicious dining, and unique events, there are plenty of things to do in this charming Hudson Valley town. Are you ready to explore the wonders that Croton-on-Hudson along the banks of the Hudson River has to offer? Let’s dive into the things to do in Croton on Hudson, NY!
Quick hits:
- Explore Croton-on-Hudson, NY, from birdwatching to horseback riding and more
- Enjoy delicious food & drinks at local spots like the Green Growler
- Take a day trip to nearby towns for unique attractions & activities
A Brief History of Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Croton-on-Hudson has a fascinating history that dates back to around 7000 BC. At the time, Native Americans, including the Kitchawanc tribe, inhabited the area. As the village evolved, Stephanus van Cortlandt began acquiring land in the area in 1677 to form a manor.
The historic lower village is situated along the banks of the Hudson River in Westchester County, part of New York State. So the town is an integral part of the development of the Hudson Valley. The village eventually incorporated in 1898 and is most famous for its train station, for some reason. Considering it connects it to New York City and offers residents and visitors easy access to the bustling metropolis, I guess it makes sense.
Map design by Stanton House Inn with elements from Flaticon
Top Things to do in Croton-on-Hudson, NY
The town is most famous for being a commuter’s community for workers in New York City. That said, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and attractions in Croton-on-Hudson. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy during your visit to Croton-on-Hudson.
Discover the Beauty of Croton Point Park
Croton Point Park is a huge park with an area of 508 acres. Situated along the eastern sides of the Hudson River, it stretches out on a peninsula near the Croton River. As an Important Bird Area (IBA), the park is home to many species of birds, including bald eagles in the winter.
The park provides opportunities for a variety of activities, including:
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Walking trails
- Playground
- Pavilions
- Beach for swimming and fishing
Visitors can also attend events like the Hudson River EagleFest and the Clearwater Festival throughout the year.
Experience Nature at the Croton Point Nature Center
Nature lovers, add the Croton Point Nature Center to your itinerary. The museum features displays of local animals, plants, and historical artifacts.
The nature center is the perfect place for bird-watching and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. It has four miles of beachfront along the Hudson River, after all.
Enjoy a Scenic Walk at Croton Landing Park
Croton Landing Park is great for a relaxed walk. From here, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Hudson River, including the Tappan Zee Bridge. The park features:
- A mile-long paved path
- A footbridge
- Benches
- Informative plaques about the river
Open from dawn till dusk, the park is a perfect spot to relax, take in the scenery, and learn more about the area’s history.
Wander Through the Jane E. Lytle Memorial Croton Arboretum
The Jane E. Lytle Memorial Croton Arboretum, a 20-acre wildlife sanctuary, is also worth a visit. The arboretum has trails and programs to explore nature and learn about wildlife and ecology.
Experience Half Moon Bay Marina
If you’re a boating enthusiast, Half Moon Bay Marina offers boat slips for overnight stays, seasonal rentals, and even purchases. Famous for its protected spot from extreme weather, the marina can accommodate up to 170 boats, with a maximum vessel length of 165 feet.
Trek the Trails at Brinton Brook Sanctuary
Brinton Brook Sanctuary, the largest sanctuary of the Saw Mill River Audubon, spans 156 acres and is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Hike through diverse ecosystems and connect to the Highland Trail for an unforgettable trek through nature.
The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and more.
Admire the Croton Dam at Croton Gorge Park
Visiting Croton Gorge Park? The park offers:
- Stunning views of the Croton Dam
- Waterfalls
- Reservoir
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Winter sports opportunities
Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery surrounding the dam!
Step Back in Time at Van Cortlandt Manor
A visit to the 17th-century Van Cortlandt Manor is a fascinating dive into the colonial history of the Hudson River Valley. Take a guided tour to learn about the Van Cortlandt family and their contributions to the property’s growth.
This historic estate is a fascinating stop for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
Experience the Magic of the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
For a truly unique experience, attend the annual Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor. This spectacular event features over 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins and fall-themed treats.
This magical event is definitely one for the books!
Paddle Along with Hudson River Recreation
Explore the scenic Hudson River with Hudson River Recreation. Join a guided kayak tour or rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards to discover the beauty of the river and its surroundings.
This activity offers a fantastic way to experience the Hudson River during the warmer months.
Saddle Up with Westchester Trail Rides
For a unique adventure, saddle up with Westchester Trail Rides and explore the local trails on horseback. This activity is perfect for both experienced riders and beginners alike, thanks to skilled guides and friendly horses.
Food and Restaurants in Croton-on-Hudson, NY
Croton-on-Hudson offers a variety of delicious dining options to satisfy your taste buds. From comfort food to homemade ice cream, you’ll find something to please your palate in this charming Hudson Valley town.
Savor Comfort Food at Croton Colonial Diner
This writer is a fan of classic diners for brunch. And for a taste of home-cooked comfort food, head to the Croton Colonial Diner. Serving the community for over 50 years, this local favorite offers great food with a diverse menu. Typical of diners, the extensive menu features breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
You’ll find classic diner fare like burgers and fries as well as more creative dishes like the Croton Colonial’s.
Indulge in Homemade Ice Cream at the Blue Pig
Treat yourself to some mouthwatering homemade ice cream at the Blue Pig. Their eco-friendly ice cream is made with local, natural ingredients and comes in many tasty flavors.
It’s the perfect way to cool down on a warm day.
Taste Tradition at Thompson’s Cider Mill
Sample the small-batch ciders made from heirloom and rare apples at Thompson’s Cider Mill. Along with their delicious ciders, you can also enjoy specialty foods like cider donuts and pies.
Unwind at the Green Growler
Relax and unwind with unique beers and beverages from independent breweries at the Green Growler. A weekend visit is ideal, as you can enjoy food trucks and live music. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends and family on a chill weekend afternoon.
The Green Growler offers a wide selection of craft beers, ciders, and other beverages.
Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay in Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Croton-on-Hudson is about a 45-minute drive from our Greenwich, CT, bed and breakfast. So this cute little town makes an ideal Hudson Valley day trip. If you’re looking to spend the weekend, Croton-on-Hudson doesn’t have many options.
Instead, you’ll have to head a little out of town anyway.
Head to nearby Chappaqua, NY, about 23-minutes away, to maybe bump into the Clintons. No promises, though. Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn was built in 1790 as a carriage house. It’s most famous for its farm-to-table restaurant. To be fair, it does have an award-winning wine cellar, which occupies what was once the stables for the estate. When you’ve had your fill of drinking and dining, retire to one of the bed & breakfast’s twelve rooms for some rest and relaxation.
Other nearby options are hotels in Peekskill, NY, a 13-minute drive up Route 7. Or head 22 minutes south on the same route to hotels in Tarrytown, New York.
More Towns to Explore near Croton-on-Hudson, NY
If you’re looking to explore further, there are plenty of nearby Hudson Valley towns to discover, each with its own unique attractions and activities. With interests ranging from history and outdoor adventures to local cuisine, you’ll find something to enjoy in nearby towns such as:
- Cortlandt
- Ossining
- Haverstraw
- West Haverstraw
- Stony Point
- Peekskill
- New City
- Mount Kisco
- Yorktown
- Sleepy Hollow
- Tarrytown
tl;dr
Croton-on-Hudson is a charming village in the Hudson Valley and Westchester County. It has many things to do, see, and eat for people of all ages and interests. This town has a lot to offer. You can explore its history and parks, try local food, and attend unique events. So why not plan your visit to Croton-on-Hudson and discover all that this enchanting village has to offer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Croton-on-Hudson worth visiting?
Croton-on-Hudson is worth visiting, offering a peaceful escape just 35 miles from midtown Manhattan. Packed with history, outdoor activities, and good eats, it’s a great destination for any kind of traveler.
Is Croton Harmon and Croton-on-Hudson the same?
Croton Harmon is a Metro-North station in Croton-on-Hudson. The train station is on Metro-North’s Hudson Line and Amtrak’s Empire Corridor.
Is Croton-on-Hudson a nice place to live?
Croton-on-Hudson has been named the best place to live in New York by USA Today, and offers a dense suburban feel with most of its residents owning homes.
What activities are available at Croton Point Park?
Croton Point Park offers a range of activities, such as boat launch, camping, picnicking, hiking and walking trails, playgrounds, pavilions, and a beach with swimming and fishing.
Visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty, with its wooded hills, meadows, and wetlands. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching, with over 200 species of birds having been spotted in the park.
The park also offers a variety of educational programs, such as the park’s children’s programs.
