Every summer around here, it feels like the question is always the same:
“What camp are your kids going to this year?”
And for our family and so many others, it isn’t an easy answer.
The truth is that camp isn’t the right fit for every child, and for some kids, it isn’t exactly camp – it may be “extended school year.” I have come to realize that whatever the reason – disabilities, health challenges, preference-based, or other – there are so many families like mine quietly creating their own version of summer, and sometimes, we have to get creative.
This summer, my 10.5-year-old decided he wanted straight-up outings and adventures. Not a schedule packed from 9 to 3. Not a different theme every week. Just one fun outing and adventure at a time, daily if possible, and with an intentional plan.
I wasn’t sure how it was going to go. Like so many of us, I have a million things on my plate, and I wondered if I’d spend the entire summer trying to reinvent the wheel.
Instead, something unexpected happened.
I’ve started looking at Westchester County (and beyond) through the eyes of a curious tween, and it’s been surprisingly incredibly fun – for me, just as much for him. We’ve stumbled across places I somehow never knew existed, revisited old favorites with fresh appreciation, and found ourselves making memories in the middle of completely ordinary weekdays.
So if you’re also running ‘Camp Mom’ this summer – or if traditional camp just isn’t your family’s story for whatever reason and you are looking for either ESY add-ons or what to do in the weeks without it – I thought I’d share some of our favorite adventures so far!
And disclaimer: we have spent plenty of time outdoors and swimming at local pools, but we both have health conditions that make it a bit challenging to be in the heat for long, so much of my list features indoor fun.
1. Air Riderz {Port Chester}
An absolute energy burner. Trampolines, crazy slides, climbing, ninja obstacles – you name it.
2. Sky Zone {Mount Kisco}
This has probably been our best summer purchase so far. Their Summer Pass (around $59) has already paid for itself. On those “it’s way too hot outside” afternoons, we’ve popped in for an hour or two and headed home with a happy, tired kid.
3. Regal Movie Theater {New Rochelle}
Did you know they have 4DX movies? Seats that move, wind, water, effects – the whole experience. Spider-Man in 4DX is officially on our summer bucket list because if we’re going to watch superheroes, we might as well feel like we’re swinging through New York with them.
4. Ridge Ranch {Patterson}
Such a family favorite. Highland cows, two little piggies, lots of bunnies, goats, donkeys and more, gorgeous open space, and a slower pace that feels like a mini getaway without actually leaving the area. It’s one of those places that reminds you how much beauty is tucked away just north of Westchester and how fun it is to be amidst animals and farm life.
5. Muscoot Farm Farmers Market {Katonah}
One of my favorite summer traditions. Grab breakfast or lunch from local vendors, browse fresh produce and handmade goods, visit the animals, and let the kids roam. It’s equal parts community gathering and relaxing weekend outing.
6. The Cave {Bethel, Connecticut}
It feels like the 1990s in the best ways for me in here: a small arcade, indoor mini-golf with blacklights, laser tag, virtual reality, bumper cars, and a ropes course open on weekends.
7. K1 Speed Ninja Course
Yes, we go for the Ninja Course instead of the go-karts or arcade. (Just note that the ninja area is typically only open on weekends.) It’s another great stop for active kids who always seem to have energy left at the end of the day.
8. Playground Tours
One thing I’ve realized? We have some incredible playgrounds around here. We are in Northern Westchester, so I think I have a lot more to check out down-county, but I’m sharing where we like best in our neck of the woods!
Our current favorites include:
- Mount Kisco
- Bedford Hills Memorial Park
- Ridgefield Recreation Center
- Ridgefield Playground
- Bedford Memorial Park
- Reis Park
- Lewisboro Playground
Each has its own personality, and it’s been fun comparing climbing structures, splash areas, sports courts, and shady picnic spots.
9. Ice Cream & Snack Stops
Every Camp Mom needs a canteen of sorts and some snack breaks.
Katonah Reading Room has served as our stop for Arnold Palmers and a sweet treat to go, and King Kone has become our go-to for a yummy outdoor meal and/or ice cream or ice break. Its whole vibe captures exactly what summer is supposed to feel like to me – soft serve, picnic tables, kids running around, and everyone just slowing down for a little while to enjoy some deliciousness. I know we have a lot more to check out in the way of snacks and ice cream, and I am looking forward to that!
10. Still on Our Summer Bucket List
We still have plenty left to explore:
- SplashDown
- Playland
- Boundless Adventures {Purchase}
- We Rock the Spectrum {New Rochelle}
- Grit Ninja {Pleasantville} Open Gym & Kids Nights Out
- Movement Valhalla
I don’t think we’ve even scratched the surface.
I know there are still museums, hiking trails, splash pads, lakes, farms, festivals, mini golf courses, escape rooms, kayaking spots, and little hidden gems all over Westchester and the surrounding counties waiting for us.
There were some honorable mentions as well that have kept us busy, and I want us to pursue more of: metal detecting, learning business skills, and discovering small businesses that have items and themes that resonate (ahem, trading card stores, ahem).
If you have a favorite family adventure nearby, I would genuinely love your recommendations. There is still time left this summer after all! Drop them in the comments!
And yes, sometimes I do catch myself wondering whether he’s missing out on the traditional camp experience and whether I should push him a bit more to have it. Sometimes I grieve our different experience when I see photos of others’ more typical ones.
