Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brookfield, Connecticut to New York, New York
Driving from Brookfield, Connecticut to New York, New York may seem like a straightforward route with not much to explore. However, the journey between these two cities can be the perfect opportunity to uncover new places and hidden gems. The distance between the two locations is approximately 60 miles, which takes about an hour and a half to drive. This article will introduce you to five unexpected places to visit during this drive that will make the trip more memorable.
Halfway Point: Katonah, NY
Before diving into the five unexpected places, we must first highlight the halfway point of the trip, Katonah, NY. This gorgeous hamlet is located in northern Westchester County and is the perfect place to stretch your legs and grab some food. Here you can take a stroll through the town’s lovely downtown area, with many small shops and restaurants to choose from.
1. The Caramoor Center for Music and Arts
Only a short 10-15 minute drive from Katonah is The Caramoor Center for Music and Arts. This destination hosts a variety of cultural events, including music, dance, theater, and more. It is situated on 90 acres of gardens and lawns. Classical music lovers will want to take note of their summer festival, offering a lineup of world-renowned performers. The center is open throughout the year, so it's perfect for all seasons.
Favorite food to eat in The Caramoor Center for Music and Arts: Picnic basket from their café with a variety of delicious treats.
2. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is no ordinary cemetery - it is actually a destination for people from all over the world. This 90-acre site is home to famous people like Andrew Carnegie, Elizabeth Arden, and many others. It is also the final resting place of Washington Irving, author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Visitors can sign up for different tours that take them through the various sections and provide insight into the people buried there.
Favorite food to eat in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery: Stop by Kitchawan Market to grab a gourmet sandwich and some fresh baked goods before heading to the cemetery for a picnic.
3. Lyndhurst Mansion
Lyndhurst Mansion is a stunning and historic Gothic Revival mansion overlooking the Hudson River. This National Trust property has 67 acres of parkland, and the mansion itself is often used as a set for TV shows and movies. Visitors can choose from different tours available, including a mansion tour, seasonal tours, and more. One can also walk around the grounds, which include the carriage house, rose gardens, and stunning views of the Hudson River.
Favorite food to eat in Lyndhurst Mansion: Head over to Bread and Brine for fresh seafood dishes or Vistro Restaurant & Wine Bar, which serves contemporary cuisine with a touch of French influence.
4. Kykuit: The Rockefeller Estate
Kykuit, pronounced Kai-cut, is the former home of four generations of the Rockefeller family. This 40-room estate located in Pocantico Hills is now a historic site which is open for tours. Visitors can explore terraced gardens, study the art galleries with modern and classical paintings and sculptures, and even take a trip down to the underground art galleries which have cutting-edge art exhibitions.
Favorite food to eat in Kykuit: A trip to Tarrytown Wine Locker is a perfect way to end your day with a glass of wine paired with a delicious cheese plate.
5. Storm King Art Center
The last destination is a little over an hour's drive southwest of Kykuit: a vast outdoor art museum called the Storm King Art Center. It has 500 acres of rolling hills, fields, and woods that have been carefully cultivated to showcase various installations of large-scale contemporary art. Visitors have the opportunity to walk around and view iconic pieces like Sol LeWitt’s ‘Structures’ and Maya Lin's ‘Storm King Wavefield.’
Favorite food to eat in Storm King Art Center: Storm King Café serves organic and sustainable dishes. Their outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying a meal amongst the installations.
In Conclusion
This journey is about an hour and a half long without stops, but with these five destinations, you can fill an entire day or weekend with outdoor activities, culture, and delicious food. So, pack up the car and hit the road to discover these amazing locations that make this trip so unforgettable. You'll be amazed at how much you can uncover on this short drive.