Mount Kisco, NY, a northern Westchester County gem, is a melting pot of sorts. It’s a place where upscale boutiques rub shoulders with retail giants, and where a thriving culinary scene takes center stage. This village between the Hudson River and the Connecticut border is a unique co*cktail. It’s a mix of city hustle, suburban tranquility, and rural charm. It’s the kind of place that draws you in with its vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown. It then holds you captive with its rich history dating back to the 17th century. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, a foodie, or just someone looking for a good time, Mount Kisco has something for you. This guide is your ticket to the best of Mount Kisco.
Ready to explore the best things to do in Mt Kisco, NY? Let’s get into it.
Quick hits
- Explore Mt Kisco – the perfect blend of city, suburban, & country living!
- Disc golf in Leonard Park or bird watch at Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary
- Rev your engines & roll strikes at Grand Prix New York / Spins Bowl
A Brief History of Mt Kisco, New York
Mount Kisco, a village nestled in Northern Westchester, harbors a modest population of 10,877 souls, per the 2010 census. The moniker Kisco, it’s believed, is a nod to the Munsee word asiiskuw (“mud”). The settlement first graced colonial records as Cisqua.
Revolutionary Era
In the sweltering summer of 1781, during the throes of the American Revolution, 5,000 French troops made camp here. After a stern eye from Gen. George Washington, they joined forces with Washington’s army for the arduous march to Virginia. There, they handed the British a decisive defeat at the Battle of Yorktown.
What’s in a name?
The modern spelling came into being in 1875, with the official incorporation of the village. The town shares its name with the Kisco River, a constant companion as it winds its way through town and into the Croton Reservoir.
Most of its existence, the towns of Bedford and New Castle claimed the town, à la Mystic, CT. Mount Kisco claimed the status of a town in its own right in 1978. The village is home to several historic sites. A major one is the Mount Kisco Municipal Complex, a proud addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. The village is a melting pot of cultures. It has long attracted immigrants from Italy, Ireland, and Latin America.
Between Mount Kisco’s:
- Picturesque downtown area
- And its proximity to the Metro-North commuter rail
It’s an ideal pit stop on a grand tour of Westchester County towns.
The Best Things to do in Mount Kisco, NY
Mount Kisco offers a co*cktail of experiences and activities for those with a thirst for adventure. Between:
- Scaling the heights of the 623-foot-tall Kisco Mountain
- Traversing the verdant wetlands of the Peninsula Trail
The village is a playground for the intrepid. Mount Kisco, NY, is your canvas. Paint your own masterpiece in this quaint village with these top attractions.
Leonard Park
If outdoor fun is your thing, Leonard Park is the place to be. With disc golf, Hudson Valley hiking trails, and sports facilities, this park offers a great selection of activities for everyone. The disc golf course features challenging fairways and great views of the surrounding old-growth forest.
Guided upstate NY hiking trails offer an opportunity for nature immersion and a tranquil escape. And it’s just a few minutes’ walk from downtown Mount Kisco.
Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary
Nature lovers will be delighted by the Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary. This amazing nature reserve offers a variety of forest communities, hiking trails, and an abundance of wildlife. Don’t miss the Hawk Watch viewing platform, where you can catch a bird’s eye view of the east and spot some feathered friends.
Given its vastness to explore, the sanctuary serves as an ideal spot for a serene naturistic day out.
Westmoreland Sanctuary
Westmoreland Sanctuary, a vast 640-acre expanse of wilderness, is the brainchild of Helen Clay Frick, who brought it to life in 1957. This sanctuary is crisscrossed with 8 1/2 miles of walking trails. But Westmoreland is more than just a hiker’s paradise. At its center stands a 200-year-old church, reborn as a museum and nature center. It’s a sanctuary within a sanctuary, offering a quiet to start your retreat.
Cabbage Hill Farm
Discover the art of sustainable farming at Cabbage Hill Farm. This local farm is renowned for its dedication to local food and organic practices. Spanning 200 acres in Mount Kisco, Cabbage Hill Farm cultivates a variety of sustainably-grown produce, microgreens, and heirloom crops.
You can even take a tour or participate in educational programs to learn more about their commitment to preserving heritage livestock breeds and sustainable agriculture.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
For a dose of history and architectural beauty, visit St. Francis of Assisi Parish. This stunning church has been a big part of the Mount Kisco community since its founding in 1886. Named after the patron saint of animals and the environment, the church offers a welcoming and serene atmosphere for visitors.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish, with its stunning architecture and welcoming community, deserves a visit during your stay in Mount Kisco.
Grand Prix New York / Spins Bowl
Looking for some indoor fun? Grand Prix New York / Spins Bowl is the perfect destination for a day of excitement. With:
- go-kart racing
- bowling
- arcade games
- a GPX ninja course
There’s something for everyone, especially kids, at this entertainment center.
Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, you’re sure to have a blast at Grand Prix New York / Spins Bowl.
The Pottery Factory
Unleash your inner artist at The Pottery Factory. This pottery-making studio offering classes and workshops for all skill levels. Some of the creative opportunities available at this unique studio include:
- Paint-your-own pottery
- Candle making
- Glass fusing
- Soap making
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, The Pottery Factory has something for everyone.
With friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere, The Pottery Factory is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring your artistic side.
SkyZone Mt Kisco
Jump, flip, and play at SkyZone Mt Kisco, an indoor trampoline park that’s perfect for all ages. Offering an array of activities, from a ninja course to dodgeball, this park guarantees endless amusem*nt for all.
Whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or just a fun way to spend the day, SkyZone Mt Kisco is a must-visit attraction in Mount Kisco.
Shopping in Mount Kisco, NY
Mount Kisco, a bustling hub of commerce, offers a colorful array of stores, both local and global. One can find the familiar giants such as Target and T.J. Maxx, in strip malls. Meanwhile the heart of the town, South Moger Ave, is a trove of smaller, more intimate businesses. Among the gems of downtown Mount Kisco are Beehive Designer Collective, Porch, Whim and New York Dolls, All Together Now, and The Hamlet New York, for all things British.
PORCH Home Gifts store is an Aladdin’s cave of home accessories, gifts, and decor accents. From contemporary to traditional, from vintage to avant-garde, the store offers a smorgasbord of choices. The staff, as friendly as they come, are always on hand to guide you through their vast selection.
Then there’s Pick Up Every Stitch, a haven for the knitters among us. This modern knitting shop in Mount Kisco offers a world of knitting supplies and classes for both greenhorns and seasoned knitters. The friendly staff make it a perfect place for honing your craft or to lose yourself in the soothing rhythm of knitting.
Restaurants in Mount Kisco, NY
Mount Kisco is a smorgasbord of gastronomic delights, serving up a feast of flavors from all corners of the world. Whether your culinary compass points towards:
- Greek
- Ethiopian
- Asian
- Indian
- Mexican
- Turkish
- Good old American grub
You’ll find a plate waiting for you.
The likes of:
- Mimi’s Coffee House
- Lexington Square Café
- Little Crepe Street
- Little Kabob Station
- Little Drunken Chef
- Locali pizza bar
- Frannie’s Goodie Shop
- Mt. Kisco Diner
Are the usual suspects on the foodie’s hit list.
Exit 4 Food Hall, a culinary kaleidoscope, dishes up a diverse dining experience with a medley of vendors serving sushi, BBQ, pasta, and salads. It’s a place where you can eat under the open sky or the shelter of a roof, perfect for family feasts, romantic rendezvous, or casual congregations. Village Social, with its pulsating energy, rustic charm, and convivial service, dishes up delectable American cuisine and craft co*cktails.
Stone Fire, a snug Italian joint, is where a wood-fired oven breathes life into mouth-watering dishes like marinated olives, flat iron steak, and chicken scarpariello. It’s a place of romance and family gatherings, known for its warm ambiance and tantalizing food. Badageoni, a Georgian eatery, serves up traditional dishes like Chakapuli, Chashushuli, and Shkmeruli, offering an authentic taste of Georgia in a welcoming setting.
Seasonal Celebrations in Mount Kisco, NY
Mount Kisco is famous for its spirited festivities that include shindigs like concerts in Leonard Park and SeptemberFest.
The townsfolk also engage in annual parades, the Mount Kisco 5K run, and frolics at the sprawling 116-acre Leonard Park. In the summer, the Mount Kisco Arts Council sponsors additional concerts in front of the library. These seasonal jamborees knit the community together, injecting a dose of merriment into the village life.
Directions to Mount Kisco, New York
Mount Kisco is within an arm’s reach from several cities. It’s a hop, skip, and a jump from New York City, Connecticut, and New Jersey. And its thanks to the I-684 and the public transit options of the Metro-North commuter rail and Bee-Line Bus System. Manhattan, the city that never sleeps, is a mere 37 miles southwest, and drivers can hit the open road on the Saw Mill River Parkway and Interstate 684. The Harlem Line and Metro-North Railroad’s Harlem Line are at your service at the historic Mount Kisco Train Station. The town is an easy train ride from Manhattan.
Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay near Mount Kisco, NY
The drive from Greenwich, CT, to Mount Kisco, NY, is about half an hour. And you’ll pass through some gorgeous woods and rolling hills, especially in Bedford, New York.
As I mentioned, this is a great afternoon or morning trip, or a stop for lunch or dinner going to or coming back from somewhere else in the Hudson Valley.
If you’d like to stay here longer, there are a few unique places to stay just outside of town. And some not so unique hotels, you can choose those for yourself.
Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn
Just a short drive from Mount Kisco, in Chappaqua, NY, you’ll find Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn. Originally a carriage house from 1790, it now features a highly-praised farm-to-table restaurant and an award-winning wine cellar. After indulging, you can retire to one of the bed & breakfast’s twelve rooms.
Bedford Post Inn
The Bedford Post Inn, partly owned by actor Richard Gere, is a historic gem dating back to 1762. Located in the town of Bedford, NY, it offers eight rooms, each equipped with a fireplace and a spacious tub. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon wine, and charcuterie. The Inn also boasts excellent dining options on the grounds.
Stanton House Inn
Stanton House Inn, a mere 30-minute jaunt from Mt Kisco, is a Greenwich, CT, bed and breakfast. Each room is a cozy nook, some with fireplaces that crackle with warmth. Others have wet bars and balconies where one can enjoy a private toast to the setting sun. But fear not, it’s not all ancient history here; each room boasts a private bath. Some with clawfoot tubs perfect for a long soak, others with whirlpool tubs that add a touch of modern luxury. And in this age of constant connectivity, rest assured that free WiFi is at your fingertips. Each morning, wake up to a hearty breakfast, and during those hot summer days, take a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool. Stanton House Inn isn’t just a place to lay your head; it’s a home away from home, a charming inn where elegance meets comfort.
Nearby Cities, Towns, & Attractions Near Mount Kisco, NY
For those eager to venture beyond Mount Kisco, neighboring towns like Bedford Hills, Yorktown Heights, Katonah, and Armonk offer numerous discoveries. Each town presents unique attractions, including:
- Historic sites
- Parks
- Shopping hubs
- Leisure facilities
So, why not extend your trip and uncover the hidden gems of Westchester County?
Bedford Hills
Just a stone’s throw away from Mount Kisco, Bedford Hills is a charming hamlet with a rich history and plenty and lots of attractions to explore. Visit Bedford Hills Memorial Park, Rainbeau Ridge, or delve into the past at the Bedford Hills Historical Museum.
Or head to Bedford Village, for more unique spots to explore, like the Bedford Playhouse. They’re all on the list of the best things to do in Bedford, NY.
Yorktown Heights, NY
Yorktown Heights, part of Yorktown, NY, is another nearby town worth exploring. With shopping centers like Jefferson Valley Mall and Triangle Shopping Center, parks, and recreational facilities, there’s no shortage of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Katonah, NY
Discover the picturesque village of Katonah, just a short drive from Mount Kisco. With its charming art galleries, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants, Katonah is a haven for those looking to experience a more laid-back side of Westchester County.
Be sure to visit attractions like Muscoot Farm, Katonah Museum of Art, and the John Jay Homestead for a truly memorable trip.
Armonk, NY
Experience the charm of Armonk, a quaint hamlet with a variety of parks, golf courses, and cultural attractions. Take a stroll through the scenic Wampus Pond, or try your hand at golfing at one of the many courses available.
Armonk also hosts a variety of cultural events, such things as the Armonk Outdoor Art Show, the Cider and Donut Festival, and the That’s Amore Italian Festival, making it a delightful destination for all ages.
Tl;dr
Mount Kisco, NY is a charming and vibrant village that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. With its diverse range of attractions, shopping experiences, dining options, and nearby towns, there’s something for everyone to explore in this delightful corner of Westchester County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mt Kisco famous for?
Just 43 miles from NYC, Mount Kisco is the perfect escape for a day trip or weekend getaway. With its award-winning medical care, plus plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities, Mount Kisco is truly a renowned destination!
What do you love most about Mount Kisco?
I love the diversity and rich culture of Mount Kisco, home to both retail giants and one-of-a-kind, upscale boutiques, and its vibrant dining scene featuring cuisine from all over the world. Best of all, there’s the winding Kisco River running through town!
What school district is Mount Kisco NY?
Mount Kisco, NY is part of the Bedford Central School District, serving students in four nearby villages.
What are some of the top attractions in Mount Kisco?
Explore Mount Kisco for a day of fun and adventure! Visit Leonard Park, Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary, Westmoreland Sanctuary, Cabbage Hill Farm, and Grand Prix New York / Spins Bowl for a great time. Discover the beauty of the outdoors with a hike or bike ride through the scenic trails of Leonard Park. Enjoy the wildlife and nature of Arthur W. Butler
What unique shopping experiences can I find in Mount Kisco?
Experience the unique shopping destinations of Mount Kisco, like PORCH Home Gifts and Pick Up Every Stitch, for an unforgettable shopping experience.
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