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 Day Trips 
 
 
 
Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
 
Located on Route 35 in Ridgefield, Connecticut, The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum is a family-friendly place featuring monthly children's events and programs in all areas of visual and performing arts, from sculpture lessons to spoken-word poetry slams. The museum's mission is to promote challenging and progressive artwork. The Aldrich features both established and emerging artists. Recent events have featured performances by Philip Glass and Laurie Anderson, and readings by David Sedaris and Billy Collins. 258 Main St, Ridgefield,CT. (203)438-4519.   Visit the Aldrich 
 
Avon Theatre Film Center
 
The Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, CT is a classic theater which reopened its doors recently with a revitalized interior as well as a new outlook on life. A private investor reopened the Avon in 2004 and it now hosts great independent and classic films. Avon Theatre Film Center, 272 Bedford Street, Stamford, Ct., 203.967.3660 or visit   www.avontheatre.org 
 
Bruce Museum of Arts and Sciences
 
The Bruce Museum was founded in 1908. The building dates back to 1853 and was originally the private home of Robert Moffat Bruce. Today, its mission is to encourage the appreciation of art and science to enrich peoples' lives. In 1908, Robert Bruce bequeathed his home to the Town of Greenwich and stipulated that it be used "as a Natural History, Historical and Art Museum, for the use and benefit of the public." The Bruce Museum is located at One Museum Drive in Greenwich. Also part of the Bruce Museum is the Seaside Center which is a beachside museum located on Greenwich Point. The Seaside Center aims to educate visitors about the ecology of Long Island Sound and environmental issues with a touch tank, coloring area, weekly activities, and weekly guided walks. The Seaside Center is open to the public from July to September. For additional information, please call 203.869.0376 or visit   www.brucemuseum.org 
 
Bush-Holley Historic Site
Bush-Holley Historic Site, 39 Strickland Road in Cos Cob, features the circa 1730 National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House, home of Connecticut's first art colony. Guided tours of Bush-Holley House feature an American Impressionist art collection and historic interiors. The William Hegarty Gallery presents historically and artistically significant exhibits that focus on the art and artists of the Cos Cob art colony, museum collections and aspects of Greenwich history. Open Tues. through Sun.; 12 to 4 p.m. Admission to gallery, visitor center and house museum: $6 seniors, $4 adults and students. Children under six are free. House tours included with admission. Free admission Tuesdays. Take I-95, exit 4. 203-869-6899, x 10,   www.hstg.org 
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts
 
Caramoor is part of the former Rosen Estate located on 100 acres in Katonah. Included are eight gardens designed for walking and picnicking. Arts programming available with registration. Not the most child-friendly atmosphere, but Caramoor hold several family events throughout the year. Hours: May through October, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri, from 9 am to 5 pm. For informaiton, visit   www.caramoor.org 
 
Earthplace
 
Located on Woodside Lane in Westport, Earthplace is a 62 acre haven for those who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty! Founded in 1958, Earthplace is a private, nonprofit organization with a mission to educate the community about nature and how to take action in preserving and protecting our environment. There are many entertaining AND educational things to do at Earthplace. These include adventurous 'treasure hunts' on its 6 main trails through the woods, a visit to the Bird & Butterfly Garden or Animal Hall, as well as many more thrills to seek both indoors and outdoors. With daily events that can range from an African Violet Show to the Earth Day Festival, you and your children are guaranteed an eye-opening experience. Offering kid-friendly programs and workshops like Eagle Eyes: Nature Detective, Earthplace Explorers Club, Tots Mommy & Me, and Critters & Crafts, children are encouraged to explore the environment and enjoy each new discovery. Earthplace reaches out to adults through programs including Animal Care Volunteer Workshops and Stream Exploration & Monitoring as well as ongoing volunteer opportunities. Both you and your children together can learn something new about nature at Earthplace. Earthplace also offers a Preschool for 3-4 year olds, School Outreach Programs, as well as children's birthday parties. Hours: Grounds open daily 7AM-dusk, Building Open Mon.-Sat. 9AM-5PM, Sunday 1-4PM, Earthplace, 10 Woodside Lane, P.O. Box 165, Westport, Ct. For more information call 203.227.7253 or visit   www.earthplace.org 
 
Emelin Theater
 
The Emelin Theatre is a non-profit theater company that produces a full range of theater programs and activities. It was first founded in 1972 and since then it has been a Westchester institution giving stage time to young students, rising stars, musicians of all kinds, and actors of international acclaim. It is located on Boston Post Rd. in Mammaroneck. For additional information, call the box office at (914) 698-0098 or visit   www.emelin.org 
 
Greenburgh Nature Center
   
The Greenburgh Nature Center is a unique oasis of greenery and tranquility -- just off Central Avenue in Scarsdale. Our mission is four-fold -- Conservation, Education, Research and Cultural Enrichment. We are pledged to conserve the natural and historic character of our 33 acre property and local wildlife. We provide exciting and informative nature and environmental programs and exhibits for people of all ages and backgrounds. We encourage natural history research by our staff, area students, and scientists. And, we promote cultural enrichment through the presentation of nature-related art, music, craft, and entertainment events. 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583. Call 914.723.3470 or visit   Greenburgh Nature Center 
   
Hammond Museum/Japanese Stroll Garden
 
An Asian Arts museum with a four-acre Asian-inspired garden designed with 13 different landscapes. Features a zen garden and many species of trees and flowers. Cafe on grounds. May through October, open W, th, F, Sat. from 12 noon to 4 pm. 28 Deveau Road, North Salem. For more information, call 914.669.5033 or visit   www.hammondmuseum.org 
 
Irvington Town Hall Theater
 
The Irvington Town Hall Theater was built in 1902 in the Classic Revival Style. It boasts a 430-seat theater wih an orchestra, mezzanine, balcony and six charming gold leafed boxes, a proscenium stage and thrust complete with five backstage dressing rooms. It is a marvel to sit in or perform on. It is a theater of great architectural acclaim. Today, it is used by multiple companies and musical groups, but still retains its classic, majestic appeal. The theater is located at 85 Main St. in Irvington. For more information about the most current performances, call the box office at 914.591.6602 or visit   www.irvingtontheater.com 
 
Jacob Burns Film Center
 
The Jacob Burns Film Center (JBFC) is a nonprofit cultural arts center dedicated to presenting the best of independent, documentary, and world cinema; promoting visual literacy; and making film a vibrant part of the community. The Film Center is also a place of learning. Educational Programs offered in collaboration with local schools focus on visual literacy, to help children develop the skills needed to view visual images critically. Together, a regular schedule of films for young audiences and the JBFC educational programs, promote greater appreciation of film among the community's youth. JBFC is located at 364 Manville Road in Pleasantville. For more information, call the box office at 914.747.5555 or visit   http://burnsfilmcenter.org/index.html 
 
John Jay Homestead
 
Four beautiful garden sites and the historic home of the first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, John Jay. Pleasant walking environment and interesting house museum. Childrens' programs are run throughout the year, call for a current schedule. 400 Route 22/Jay Street, Katonah, 914.232.5651. For more information, visit www.nysparks.com or   www.johnjayhomestead.org. 
 
Katonah Museum of Art
   
The Katonah Museum is a non-collecting institution dedicated to encouraging the enjoyment, appreciation, and study of the visual arts by visitors of all ages. 2004 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Museum, which each year presents a series of changing exhibitions that span a wide range of cultures, media, historical periods and social issues. The Museum offers lectures and symposia by noted artists and scholars; tours of private collections, special exhibitions, and regional museums; children and family workshops and community festivals; free summer jazz concerts; and volunteer opportunities. The Museum also offers children's art classes and features a drop-in center for kids to create their own art! Located off of Route 22 in Katonah, NY. Call 914.232.9555 or visit   www.katonahmuseum.org. 
 
Kendall Sculpture Gardens at PepsiCo
 
Walk or drive through 168 acres featuring landscaped and carefully-designed gardens of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Garden also include major contemporary sculptures. Grounds open year-round M, T, W, Th, F, Sat, Sun, 7 am to 7 pm. Self-guided tour, free. Anderson Hill Road, Purchase. For more information, call 914.253.2001.   
 
Lasdon Park and Arboretum
 
A 234-acre property with a 30 acre arboretum. Delightful walking trails and summer concerts. For a current schedule of events, call 914.864.7260. Route 35, Somers. Monday through Sunday, year-round, from 8 am to 4 pm.   www.westchestergov.com/parks. 
 
Mid-Hudson Children's Museum
This child-centered museum emphasizes interactive education through exploration and discovery. It embraces scientific, historical, and artistic exhibits. It maintains programs and exhibits appropriate for children of all ages, including a special area for infants and toddlers. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is $6.50 per adult and $6.50 per child. Free Admission for members and children under 1 year. The Mid-Hudson Children's Museum is located on 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie. For more information, call 845.471.0589 or visit  www.mhcm.org. 
Muscoot Farm
   
Muscoot is a 777 acre early 1900's interpretive farm that depicts life as it would have been lived on a country gentleman's farm circa 1880-1950. Visitors can view a variety of farm animals, tour historic farm buildings, see a collection of historic agriculture equipment and tools, walk to the ice pond, and hike over 7 miles of woodland trails. Educational programs and workshops are offered on weekends. Hayrides are offered on Sundays from May - October. School group programs are available by appointment, Wednesday through Friday. Refreshment stand open in season. Admission and parking are free. Rte 100, Somers, NY 10570. 914.864.7282.   
   
The Neuberger Museum of Art
   
The Neuberger Museum of Art is a major visual arts center and vital cultural resource. The permanent collection features major works by American and European modern artists, an extensive collection of African Art including masks and sculpture, and presents more than a dozen changing exhibitions each year dedicated to new forms of artistic expression. The Neuberger Museum offers special events for children and families throughout the year. The Neuberger Museum at SUNY Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY 10577-1400. Call 914-251-6100 or visit   www.neuberger.org 
   
Pelham Art Center
 
Pelham Art Center's mission is to provide the public with a place, the resources and the opportunity to see, study and experience the arts in a community setting. Last year the Art Center provided the following programs and services to nearly 8,700 households from Pelham and east to the Sound, west to the Hudson, north to White Plains and south to the Bronx: presented 6 exhibits with work by 106 artists, 6,800 visited exhibitions and 1,370 were school children on free tours, 51 teaching artists were employed and art works by 33 artists were sold, 11 artist residency programs took place at 5 different schools and community centers, 240 disadvantaged youth were served in free outreach programs, 146 fee based art classes served 1,393 students, 98 students received need based financial aid, 25 free workshops, lectures, and performances were presented. Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803. 914-738-2525.   www.pelhamartcenter.org info@pelhamartcenter.org
 
Playland Park
 
Playland Park features arcade games and 45 major rides for children and adults, including roller coasters, vertical thrills, log flume, and plenty of twists, turns and shouts. The Park also offers the following attractions: beach and boardwalk, swimming pool, lake boating and kayaking, picnic area, entertainment, miniature golf and ice-skating. Playland, operating since 1928, is a famous 279 acre recreational complex owned and operated by Westchester County. It overlooks the Long Island Sound and is highlighted by historic Art Deco structures and a beautiful grassy, flowered mall. Playland Park was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Admission $5 for parking Tues - Friday, $7 for parking Sat & Sun. Holidays $10 for parking. Minature Golf Available at $3.50 per round. CLOSED MONDAYS. Playland Ice Casino, indoor ice skating on 3 climate controlled rinks is open September through May. The Casino features a snack bar, skate rental, games arcade and lounge. Playland Skating School offers ice skating lessons. Available for rental by groups or for corporate outings. Call 813-7059 for brochure and hours of operation or visit ryeplayland.org. Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580. 914.813.7000.   
   
Rosenthal JCC
 
The Rosenthal JCC of Northern Westchester is a Jewish Community Center where individuals grow, explore and connect to the community around them through recreational, educational, cultural and social services and programs. Our main campus is in Pleasantville with a branch serving the Yorktown community. For more information about our Jewish learning and celebrations, early childhood programs, summer camps, after-school activities, sport leagues, cultural programs, and social services such as early intervention and referrals or counseling, please call (914) 741-0333 or visit us online at   www.rosenthaljcc.org 
Stepping Stones Children's Museum
   
The Stepping Stones Museum for Children invites children to explore, imagine, create and discover new experiences every time they visit! All of our exhibits, designed for children ages ten and under, encourage hands-on exploration and discovery, incorporating the themes of Science, The Arts, Culture and Heritage. The Museum offers a water room, where children can don smocks and play in the water, and a play area where even the smallest children can run, climb, and build with manipulatives. Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850. Phone: (203) 899-0606.   www.steppingstonesmuseum.org. 
 
Stone Barns Center
 
Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture is a beautiful non-profit farm, educational center and restaurant in the heart of Westchester County. Our mission is to demonstrate, teach and promote sustainable, community-based food production. Open to visitors of all ages, we offer a unique experience: a chance to learn about farming firsthand on a real working farm, the only farm open to the public so close to New York City. Stone Barns Center is a four-season operation, producing food even in deep winter in the minimally heated greenhouse. Visitors are welcome year-round from 10 am-5 pm, Wednesday-Sunday. Check our website for updated event and program schedules, or just drop by to walk around and see the animals, fields, and greenhouse. Please call ahead to schedule class trips and other group visits. Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills, NY 10591. For more information, call 914.366.6200 x112, or visit   www.stonebarnscenter.org. 
   
Teatown Lake Reservation
Teatown Lake Reservation is a nonprofit, environmental organization with a nature education center and 834-acre preserve located in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt and New Castle. Teatown's mission is to conserve open space and to educate and involve the regional community in order to sustain the diversity of wildlife, plants and habitats for future generations. Teatown's preserve includes the 33-acre Teatown Lake; 15 miles of trails; habitats including streams, a scenic gorge, hardwood swamps, mixed forests, meadows, hemlock and laurel groves; numerous live animals and exhibits in our living museum/nature center, including nine birds of prey; and a two-acre wildflower preserve (Wildflower Island) with some 230 species of native and endangered wildflowers. 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining. 914-762-2912. For more information on Teatown, visit   www.teatown.org 
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
   
Explore the marine life and maritime culture of Long Island Sound. Watch sharks, jelly fish, sea turtles, and more than 1,000 other marine animals, or enjoy a film at the area's only IMAX theater. Watch the professionals feed the seals, the river otters, or allow your kids to touch the animals in the "Touch Tank" where children can touch green crabs, sea stars, and horseshoe crabs. As well as the wonderful exhibits, when the kids have had enough, take them to the "Ocean Playscape", a great play area for children under 5 years old. 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854. Call 203.852.0700 or visit   www.maritimeaquarium.org  
   
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
 
Westchester's Largest reservation at 4,700 acres! Incredible walking trails for all ages and ability levels. Picnic and camping spots available. Classes for adults and children run weekly. For more information or for class schedules, call 914.864.7322 or visit   www.westchestergov.com/parks 
 
Westchester Skating Academy
   
Built in 1996, the Westchester Skating Academy is the only NHL twin rink facility in Westchester. WSA offers top level figure skating and hockey programs. Birthday Parties--Group Rates--Public Sessions--Daily Freestyle--Full Service Cafe--Skate Rental--Hockey Clinics--Hockey Figure Skating Camps--Youth and Adult Hockey Leagues--Adult Coffee Club. Open Year Round. Offering Birthday Parties, Group Rates, Public Sessions (Call 347-8232 for times), Group or Individual Lessons (8 Week Programs) for Beginners to Adults, In-House Hockey Leagues (Mites through JV Levels). Full Service Cafe. 91 Fairview Drive Elmsford, NY 10523. 914.347.8232.   
   
Westco Productions Inc.
   
Musical adaptations of children's classic fairytales, folktales, and legends as well as Broadway musicals, comedies, and dramas for audiences as young as 2 years old. Audience can meet the cast, take pictures, get autographs and ask questions after the show. Located at the Rochambeau Theater in White Plians, the Irvington Twon Hall Theater, the Antrim Playhouse in Suffern, and the Westchester Broadway Theater in Elmsford. Also available for Birthday parties. For more information and a calendar of events, call 914.761.7463 or visit   www.westcoprods.com  
   
Westmoreland Sanctuary
   
Westmoreland Sanctuary was established in 1957 as a not for profit organization. A reconstructed 200 year old building serves as a museum and nature center, surrounded by unspoiled acres with over 7 miles of wonderful hiking trails leading visitors past rocky cliffs and 3 lakes contained within our boundaries. The museum holds exhibits featuring local flora and fauna and boasts a large bird observation window. Nearby the museum are an outdoor lecture area, a center for maple sugaring, a butterfly garden, and a tracking pit. The Sanctuary offers several programs to the public, such as bird and nature walks, childrens' workshops, films, lectures, and demonstrations (including topics such as orienteering, beekeeping, maple sugaring, hawk identification, woodcock spies, blacksmithing, canoeing, field trips, etc.). The Museum is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Bedford Corners, NY 10549. Info: 914.666.8448 or go to   www.westmorelandsanctuary.org. 
   

 

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