We all love our own little cozy corners of Westchester. There are so many things to do and see, places to eat, and parks to visit. Who doesn’t love exploring the county and “finding” the kid-friendly gems! We are spotlighting some of those awesome places so that other moms can take advantage and get a glimpse into the awesomeness that is Westchester! Read all posts in our Spotlight on Westchester Series.
Nestled in Northern Westchester, the Town of Bedford is made up of three distinct hamlets – Bedford Village, Katonah, and Bedford Hills – each with its own personality and charm. Whether you’re looking for a cozy small-town afternoon, a family-friendly outing, great local food, nature trails, or thoughtfully curated shopping, the Town of Bedford offers a little bit of everything.
Worth reviewing is this brochure, created by the Town of Bedford in collaboration with Destination 39.3, so you can eat, shop, and explore Bedford, featuring maps and more information on the hamlets, including a bit of history.
What makes one of the three hamlets, Bedford Village, special is its distinctly upscale destination vibe. It has a distinctly New England-style village atmosphere, with historic buildings, stone walls, mature trees, winding roads, horse pastures, and a picturesque aesthetic. The Village Green anchors the downtown, and even the cemetery directly across from the green, with very old gravestones dating back centuries, adds to the historic charm.
You’ll want to come to Bedford Village prepared to graze and to browse, to linger and to enjoy intentionally, and maybe to splurge a little (or a lot).
Shopping
The village is beautifully curated. The downtown section centers around Old Post Road and the Village Green, where small boutiques, cafés, a library, a church, a courthouse museum, a quaint bookstore, and more create an inviting walkable experience.
- Bedford Books – an independent bookstore known for author events and carefully selected titles, and as the “first-ever bookstore” in the village
- MAST Market – pantry goods, locally sourced groceries, beautifully designed everyday items, as well as fresh food and drinks
- Florrie Shop – home décor and furnishings with classic Bedford style
- Bedford Village Flower Shoppe – flowers and gifts
- Perennial Gardens & Bedford Farms – flowers, plants, gifts
- New York Stoneware – hand-thrown pottery that is both gorgeous and practical
- La Maison Fete – lifestyle goods to shop and a unique “Parlor” experience for daily game play, specialty gaming events, and pop-up shopping experiences. Curated by long-time event planners, so every element feels experiential and special.
What to Do
Bedford is known for its equestrian culture, and the charming riding and hiking trails of the Bedford Riding Lanes Association are integral to its identity and appeal. Even driving through the area near the trails and all around the Village feels scenic and peaceful, thanks to preserved open space and horse properties. You do need a membership to access the trails, but it is well worth it to support.
A true community gem, Bedford Books is the kind of independent bookstore that feels increasingly rare, in the best way. Thoughtfully curated, warm, and welcoming, it’s a place where staff recommendations matter and feel relevant. They host author events, book clubs, writing support groups, and seasonal gatherings, making it more than just a shop and more of a literary and artsy hub for the town.
A standout for kids’ activities, the unique School of Rock offers music education that’s truly fun. Kids and teens learn by playing together, performing, and building confidence. It’s high-energy, creative, and a huge asset to the community.
You’ve surely heard of Mast Chocolates, the originally Brooklyn-based brand that relocated to Westchester County? Mast Market in Bedford Village is owned by the Mast brand, blending general store charm with locally sourced and curated groceries and everyday goods, thoughtfully minimalist design, and a full coffee bar. Think pantry staples and beautifully designed items for a quick gift or pick-me-up. It’s equal parts practical and aesthetic, so very Bedford.
oHHo The Old Firehouse is a beautifully curated lifestyle boutique offering gifts and home goods, but it is also a restaurant – wood-fired pizza with beachy, slow-paced vibes in décor. It’s the kind of unique spot where everything feels so very stylish without trying too hard—a go-to for good food, good gifts, and good vibes. I feel like I am on vacation every time I am there!
Bedford Playhouse is a must-visit when in the area, offering so much. It is a revitalized, small, and gorgeous historic movie theater that offers daily film programming for all ages, regularly hosts community events, and regularly hosts special events like art pop-ups, local author readings, and trivia nights. They also have Bambi’s Bar and Café, where you can order food and drinks and hang out, whether you are going to the movies or not. I especially love the monthly art displays next to Bambi’s, curated by local Bedford resident Christopher Brescia of CB Art Gallery.
To be clear, Bedford Playhouse is not just a movie theater; it’s truly a cultural anchor of the village and the area. Beautifully restored, it truly does an amazing job of blending film, conversation, and community. From indie films and classics to their speaker events and panels, it offers a thoughtful, elevated experience that reflects Bedford’s intellectual and creative spirit. I’ve gone to a comedy show there, have seen independently made films about disabilities, have attended a $5 sensory-friendly screening, have also been part of a Q&A with Emily Blunt, and so much more – the options are vast, and there is no shortage on their calendar.
The Bedford Village Memorial Park is just a couple of minutes down the road from the Village Green and truly has so much to offer. A three-story playset, huge climbable rock, swings, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, picnic tables, a gazebo, a small, sweet pool right on the grounds for members or guests of members, and it is surrounded by wooded terrain for an in-nature feel. What would make it even better would be inclusive equipment to match its neighboring hamlet, Bedford Hills, as well as possibly the future of Katonah Memorial Park, but if you want or need other park options, those two are included in the overall Town of Bedford after all, and are only ten minutes away.
The Bedford Free Library is another great location for activities with kids, but really, it has options for all ages. It is a quaint library a block over from Bedford Playhouse that features books for all, quiet spaces, story times, teen activities, summer programming, and community events.
Bedford Historical Society preserves historical properties around town, and the 1787 Courthouse is one adorable and educational stop downtown, with Bedford history on display for you to view and learn about.
Where To Eat
Truck Restaurant is a staple for relaxed but elevated dining. With a rustic, cozy interior and a Tex-Mex menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, it’s equally perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, though watch out: it is often busy; reservations and call-ahead are recommended, even for takeout. The food is great, and it captures that effortless Bedford vibe – refined, relaxed.
Bedford 234 is right next to Bedford Playhouse and is a small, cozy space with delicious eats and a great drink selection. There is a small outdoor table section that is perfect for breezy summer nights.
For quicker or lighter bites or food on the go, be sure to stop by G.E. Brown Fine Food & Provisions; for catering options, stop by Bedford Gourmet. For a special occasion or destination dining experience, you will want to check out Bedford Post Tavern at Bedford Post Inn.
Ice cream, candy, and fun for the kids, is Bedford Candy Bar right next to Bedford Playhouse.
Of special note and consideration is the Inclusive Initiative. Although it does not have a storefront presence in Bedford, the Inclusive Initiative is an important part of Bedford’s identity and was created in 2023. Focused on neurodiversity and inclusion, it reflects the town’s commitment to community, awareness, and support for all families. It’s a reminder that Bedford isn’t just picturesque – it’s intentional about how it shows up for people. Its community-driven programming includes a long list of businesses in and beyond Bedford that are trained and supportive of the mission, reflecting Bedford’s values beyond retail.
When describing Bedford Village, one cannot leave out the many offerings of neighboring hamlets in the Town of Bedford: Katonah and Bedford Hills, because whether you are in the area or planning to evaluate Bedford Village for moving to, these hamlets should be part of your experience!
Katonah is known as the larger walkable counterpart and has an admittedly Gilmore Girls feel with a gazebo where live music is often played, a plethora of downtown restaurants, a large selection of boutiques, a highly esteemed bakery, and overall, so many local staples all close together on one walkable main street, fittingly named Katonah Avenue. However, the short side streets are worth exploring as well, where you can find a crystals and healing shop, Majestic Hudson, the most charming art space for kids, Petite Art Studio, and much more.
Some Highlights
- Katonah Museum of Art – rotating exhibitions, events programming, family days, workshops, and much more
- Caramoor – part performance venue, part cultural destination, Caramoor hosts concerts, outdoor events, family programming, and seasonal festivals in a stunning bucolic setting
- Kellogg’s & Lawrence Hardware – an old-school local hardware store with historic artifacts on display and lots of gifts and household items to choose from
- Old New House – vintage and antique rugs and home décor
- LMNOP Bakery – craft bakery in the heart of downtown Katonah with a full coffee bar, plenty of delicious sandwiches for lunchtime, pop-up events, and fresh baked bread and pastries
- Katonah Reading Room – bookstore in what was once a tiny reading room of a Katonah library, with many offerings like art supplies, coffee bar, baked goods, and so many events on the calendar, it is hard to choose just one
- Art Galleries like Chroma Fine Art Gallery and Oak & Oil Gallery
- Farmer’s Markets in the summer, like at John Jay Homestead, are a must, and dining options like the new Wogie’s or the iconic Blue Dolphin, with The Whitlock or Jay Street Bistro as great options, as well as any of the *three* pizza places (Amore, Pizza Station, or La Familia).
Bedford Hills is more commercial and convenient, with a wider spread of offerings, including larger stores and everyday essentials. You’ll find:
- Target
- CVS Pharmacy
- Casual dining and quick stops
- Shopping centers and service-based businesses
It’s less boutique-focused and more practical for errands and family convenience. Still, there is also a sweet downtown right next to the train station with delis, convenience stores, a flower shop, and Rock & Rescue if you might be in the market for kitten therapy or to adopt a pet.
One of the Bedford area’s biggest treasures, Ward Pound Ridge offers miles of hiking trails, streams, wooded paths, wildlife, and open-air exploration. It’s beautiful year-round and perfect for families, casual walkers, or more serious hikers.
There is so much to offer in any of the three hamlets of the Town of Bedford, but one thing that truly defines Bedford Village is the layering of experiences and environments that truly make it feel like an incredibly unique destination: a rural-luxury, countryside escape that, alongside its historical aesthetic, can feel like it is even transporting you to another time.
Some accounts & sites to be sure to check out for events and updates:
- Bedford Village Buzz
- Katonah Daily
- Katonah Art Walk
- Bedford Village Business Association
- Katonah Chamber of Commerce
