Things To Do
in Scarsdale
Scarsdale is an affluent, leafy suburban village in Westchester County, New York, known for its well-preserved residential neighborhoods, strong schools, and easy commuter rail access to Manhattan. The village center has a walkable downtown with boutiques, cafés, and historic architecture dating to the early 20th century. Parks, tree-lined streets and nearby conservation areas give Scarsdale a semi-rural feel while still offering urban conveniences.
Visitors appreciate the quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, high-quality services, and proximity to larger Westchester hubs like White Plains and the cultural draws of New York City.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the scenic streets of Downtown Scarsdale, appreciating the charming architecture and quaint shops. Make sure to visit the Scarsdale Public Library to delve into its extensive collection and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping at boutiques that line the streets, discovering unique items and gifts. Grab a quick lunch at one of the popular eateries offering a variety of cuisines, from deli sandwiches to sushi. After lunch, spend some time relaxing at the Greenburgh Nature Center, where you can explore the trails and observe local wildlife.
As night falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy live music or cultural events if available, immersing yourself in the local vibe. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk, basking in the tranquil atmosphere of Scarsdale under the stars.
Kick off your day with a refreshing walk or run along the Bronx River Parkway, where you can breathe in the crisp morning air. Enjoy the beautiful views of nature while watching the local wildlife start their day. Bring a packed snack to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
Spend your afternoon kayaking or fishing on the Bronx River, experiencing the tranquility of the waterway. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverside, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. After your outdoor activities, visit the nearby recreational parks to unwind.
As the evening approaches, gather around a bonfire at a designated park area to roast marshmallows and share stories. Embrace the joys of camping out or staying at a local lodge, enjoying the warm ambiance of the outdoors. Take a moment to stargaze and reflect on your day surrounded by nature's beauty.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi / rideshare | $10-25 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries (per person) | $60-100 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, family-friendly community with excellent schools
- Pleasant, leafy neighborhoods and easy access to outdoor spaces
- Quick commuter rail connections to Manhattan
- High-quality local services, shops and dining options
- Relatively expensive for lodging, dining and services
- Limited late-night entertainment within the village
- Many attractions require a car or short drive outside the village
- Some dining and activities are private or membership-based
Places to Visit in Scarsdale
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming main street scenes, historic storefronts, and seasonal decorations make the village center photogenic, especially in autumn and winter.
A classic commuter rail station with architectural details and a busy, local vibe—good for candid commuter photos and historical character shots.
Wide carriage roads, meadows, river views and stone bridges offer varied landscapes and soft natural light—excellent for landscapes and wildlife.
Dramatic concrete dam, open plazas and water views provide strong architectural and scenic compositions, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Riverside trails, bridges and wooded stretches create peaceful nature photography opportunities close to the village.
Food in Scarsdale
Scarsdale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty, New York–style deli sandwiches are widely available at local delis; try pastrami or corned beef at a neighborhood deli or market.
Must-Try!
Many village restaurants highlight seasonal produce and local sourcing—expect vegetable-forward small plates and roasted meats in dinner menus.
Local bakeries produce high-quality croissants, bagels and breads—perfect for breakfast or a coffee run.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held seasonally (typically spring through fall), this market offers local produce, baked goods, honey and prepared foods—great for picnic supplies and sampling regional flavors.
If you're seeking more variety or food trucks, check nearby White Plains or seasonal markets and festivals in Westchester County.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and meetups—punctuality is appreciated in professional and social settings.
Scarsdale is a residential community; be respectful of private properties, quiet hours, and low-noise expectations in neighborhoods.
Polite greetings and brief small talk are common in shops and cafés; a friendly but reserved tone is typical.
Many residents walk dogs—obey leash rules, clean up after pets, and ask before approaching a dog.
Safety
Tipping in Scarsdale
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15–20% in restaurants (higher for exceptional service), $1–$2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxis or rideshares. Tip hotel staff, valets and hairdressers according to service (a few dollars).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payment and mobile wallets are common. Small businesses may prefer card or contactless; keep some cash for farmers markets or very small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, budding trees and blooming gardens make it a lovely time for walks and farmers markets; occasional rain showers are common—pack a light jacket and umbrella.
Warm and humid with temperatures often in the 70s–80s°F (20s–30s°C); ideal for outdoor activities and picnics but expect occasional thunderstorms—use sun protection and stay hydrated.
Crisp air and vivid fall foliage in late September through October make this a prime season for scenic drives and photography; layering is recommended as temperatures can vary.
Cold and occasionally snowy, with temperatures often below freezing at night; snow can make roads slippery—bring warm clothing and plan for slower travel during storms.
Scarsdale at Night
Hiking in Scarsdale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About 10–20 minutes from Scarsdale, offers miles of carriage roads, meadows and river vistas—easy to moderate trails ideal for walking, running and photography.
Largest county park in Westchester with extensive trails, varied terrain and scenic lookout points—great for full-day hikes and nature immersion.
Scenic paths around the Kensico Reservoir and dam suitable for short hikes, photography and family outings; often used for events and concerts.
A paved rail-trail ideal for long bike rides or walks that connects multiple Westchester communities and offers a mostly flat, scenic route.
Airports
How to reach Scarsdale by plane.
Approximately 15–20 minutes by car from Scarsdale (depending on traffic). Convenient regional airport with domestic flights and shuttle connections—good for quick connections without entering NYC airports.
About 30–45 minutes drive or accessible via public transit/Metro-North + bus/taxi depending on connections. Offers many domestic flights and is the closest major New York City airport.
Approximately 50–70 minutes by car depending on traffic or reachable by train and subway connections; major international gateway with broad flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families drawn by top-rated public schools, parks and family-oriented community resources.
Many commuters and professionals who work in New York City or Westchester live in Scarsdale, contributing to higher median incomes and well-funded services.
Significant Jewish community and growing Asian and Hispanic populations; community institutions, synagogues and cultural organizations reflect this diversity.
Long-standing neighborhood residents and older adults who value the village’s stability and amenities are common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school sports are prominent community events, especially lacrosse, soccer and baseball, with strong local support and competitive leagues.
Tennis is popular with local clubs, private courts and public facilities used year-round for recreation and league play.
Golfing is popular among residents at private clubs and nearby public courses—an important recreational pastime in the suburbs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scarsdale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at cafés and restaurants—many menus feature salads, grain bowls and vegetable-forward entrées. Mention dietary needs when ordering and check menus online in advance.
Vegan choices exist but are more limited than in major cities; look for plant-based menu items at cafés or order customizable salads and sides.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; bakeries may have limited GF options, so call ahead if you need specialty items.