One thing Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties all have in common is the recent abundance of wet weather, with gray skies and on-again, off-again showers setting the pace for once sunny days. Don't let the dreary weather get you down though--known for its scenic rural setting and unparalleled natural environment, the lower Hudson Valley provides other outlets of fun that don't require an umbrella or a sturdy pair of rain boots.
Enjoy Houlihan Lawrence's list of rainy day activities, which can also be found as a list on our foursquare page.
Movie Theaters: Nothing epitomizes a rainy day activity more than a trip to the cinema. Luckily for movie enthusiasts, Westchester and Dutchess offer some of the best independent/local movie theaters around. For those in central and northern Westchester County check out Jacob Burns Film Center, a nonprofit movie theater and cultural institution that shows films from all across the globe. For moviegoers that frequent southern Dutchess visit The Picture House in Pelham, one of the few surviving and thriving single-screen theaters left. Rhinbeck's Upstate Films theater in Dutchess County also shows a vibrant mix of films and informative programming, keeping the notions of "local" and "community" intact.
Historic Landmarks/Museums: Established in 1963, The Southeast Museum has served as a cultural hub and educational facility not just to its residents, but to history-lovers far and wide. Its historical exhibits are often paired with great programs for kids. With history in mind, it's hard to not think about Hyde Park without referencing the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum--though an exciting renovation is underway, museum goers can still enjoy an interactive multimedia exhibit, which chronicles the life of the Roosevelt family through photography and film. To explore the rich history of our region, check out Hudson River Museum in Yonkers--admission is free on Friday nights!
Indoor Recreation: Despite the bad weather, we all have an inherent nature to jump around and play a little bit. In order to get the itch out, visit The Cliffs in Valhalla--it's an indoor rock climbing center with over 13,000 square feet of climbing space suitable for all ages and skill levels. The Brewster Ice Arena offers public sessions each afternoon and all day Saturday and Sunday. If you're looking for some fun the entire family can enjoy and a relaxing atmosphere, check out Fishkill Bowl on Route 82.
Art Galleries, Exhibits and Museums: Located right on the Hudson River, Beacon's DIA is a 3,000-square-foot gallery that features art from the 1960s onward. The Studio Around the Corner, which sits on the first floor of Southeast's old town hall in Main Street, showcases a regular collection of local artwork and hosts small performances, readings and seminars. The Katonah Museum of Art features a rotation of exhibitions--currently the Rising Dragon, a collection of contemporary Chinese photography, is on display in honor of the Year of the Dragon.