No grownups needed. By Sophie Abt     Artwork by Annie Kennedy Do you know what to do when your parents say, “Go play outside?” Or are you bored with all the games you’ve played? If so, here are some new ideas for things to do in your backyard, at a park or even on a rainy sidewalk. Make fantasy ...

Design by Aeneas Eaton Design assistance by Virna Sandler Location & content verification by Rinn Kress Whether you’re looking for a peaceful woodland walk, a challenging hike or a new place to reconnect with nature, Northern Westchester is home to dozens of places to explore the outdoors. Consider this map your invitation to get outside—keep it & the accompanying list ...

Writing and Photography by Justin Negard What is New York? Is it the skyscrapers of Manhattan? Is it the suburban homes of Westchester? Is it the shores of Long Island? Living in this community, you might not give it much thought. We have access to Michelin 3-star restaurants. We can catch a Broadway show or concert in about an hour ...

Across the region, researchers and conservationists are testing strategies to curb invasive species and strengthen native habitats. By Julie Schwietert Collazo Artwork by Justin Negard Avid local gardeners may already be aware that climate change and invasive species are creating an array of Whac-a-Mole challenges that stymie even the most energetic and resourceful person. If you’ve noticed that the soil ...

By Gia Miller     Artwork by Jack Coffey They’re not bank robbers or escaped fugitives, but these introduced species have invaded our land and certainly earned a spot on Westchester’s Most Wanted list. From fast-spreading plants to destructive insects and disruptive mammals, each poses a unique threat to the landscapes and wildlife that make our region special. 1. Porcelain ...

By Ilyssa Panitz Photography by Justin Negard and Gia Miller Why spend thousands standing behind velvet ropes at a Hollywood premiere or awards shows with the hopes of seeing your favorite celebrity when Westchester County is home to more than a dozen A-list four-legged ones? These local stars are far more accessible—ready for close-ups, meet-and-greets and, if you’re lucky, the ...

By Julie Schwietert Collazo Artwork by Tara Tassio If you’ve scrolled on Instagram or TikTok recently (and we know you have!), you’ve probably seen them: college admissions influencers who have a lot to say about teen volunteering. They agree with the conventional wisdom that says volunteering is important for teens (and for their college futures), but they have some controversial ...

By Liz Colombini Photography by Gil Vaknin There are animal tracks painted on the pavement at Green Chimneys. Follow them, and they’ll lead you past the gym, past the health center, past the dining hall and straight to the farm. It’s a fitting metaphor for how this extraordinary institution has always operated: if you want to reach a child who ...

The surprisingly beautiful benefits of creating a functional ecosystem in your yard By Ruby Mendelson Artwork by Eliyahu Greenwald Bedford resident Murray Fisher used to have the perfect suburban lawn: it was immaculately maintained with neatly mowed grass for the kids to play and perfectly manicured plants and trees. But then Fisher had what he says was one of his ...