Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Middletown, NY to White Plains, NY
Are you dreaming of an adventure-filled road trip with your friends or family from Middletown to White Plains? Look no further! This route will not only showcase the scenic New York countryside but also excite those seeking an array of activities to enjoy.
The halfway point of this trip is at Tuxedo Park, NY, which is a quaint village with a rich history and many sights to see. It is home to the Tuxedo Club, an exclusive country club, and the Sterling Forest State Park, which is a nature reserve with abundant wildlife and hiking trails.
1. Visit the Storm King Art Center
The Storm King Art Center, located in Mountainville, NY, houses a collection of over 100 sculptures from various artists. The 500-acre outdoor museum also features walking trails, manicured lawns, and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Visitors can spend hours admiring the art and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
- Interesting Fact: The title "Storm King" comes from the nearby Storm King Mountain.
2. Admire the Hudson River at Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park, situated on the west bank of the Hudson River, is just a short drive from Tuxedo Park. The park boasts several hiking trails, picnic areas, and the famous Perkins Memorial Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the Hudson River Valley.
- Interesting Fact: The park was initially developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
3. Tour the Rockefeller Estate
The Kykuit, also known as the Rockefeller Estate, located in Sleepy Hollow, NY, is a historic house museum that was once the home of four generations of the Rockefeller family. The estate is situated on a 40-room mansion and 250-acre property with spectacular views of the Hudson River. It also houses a vast art collection, sculptures, and gardens.
- Interesting Fact: Kykuit contains an underground art gallery where the family's collection of Picasso and Calder pieces is displayed.
4. Explore the Historic Philipsburg Manor
Built in the 17th century, the Philipsburg Manor, located in Sleepy Hollow, NY, is a beautifully restored historic site that provides an insight into colonial life in the Hudson River Valley. Visitors can experience life as it was for the Dutch and Africans who lived and worked on the Manor. They can observe the livestock, participate in hands-on activities such as making candles, and watch live demonstrations of trades such as weaving and blacksmithing.
- Interesting Fact: The Philipsburg Manor was one of the wealthiest colonial farms in the Hudson Valley.
5. Learn about History at the Jay Heritage Center
The Jay Heritage Center, located in Rye, NY, is a National Historic Landmark that played a significant role in American history. The center is the childhood home of John Jay, one of America's founding fathers, and offers tours of the historic mansion, where visitors can learn about the Jay family's contribution to American history. The property also features walking trails, beautiful gardens, and an educational farm.
- Interesting Fact: The Jay Heritage Center is one of the only surviving Greek Revival mansions in Westchester County.
Finally, after exploring all these fantastic locations, the route back to White Plains takes approximately 40 minutes with light traffic, and the entire trip can be completed in one day or two days over the weekend.
In conclusion, a road trip from Middletown to White Plains offers a great opportunity to experience a wide array of activities, including outdoor recreation, art, history, and culture. The five locations mentioned here will undoubtedly make each day of the journey unforgettable.