Celebrating Halloween in Sleepy Hollow and Surrounding Haunts
This Halloween season, Westchester County combines history, spooky fun and delicious food.
Locals and tourists can enjoy an entire day of eerie history, autumn landscapes, and festive events at some of Westchester County’s premier historic attractions. ArtsNews put together an autumn-themed daytrip itinerary that readers can use to guide their visit to Sleepy Hollow and its surrounding areas. Readers can pick-and-choose or follow it to a tee.
In addition to Tarrytown, Irvington and Croton-on-Hudson, the itinerary focuses around Sleepy Hollow since it was the inspiration for perhaps the most famous Halloween tale of them all: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving, who lived in the Irvington. To this day, the village fully embraces this spooky claim to fame – Headless Horseman and all. Visitors to the area can start and end their day supporting local businesses and taking in the seasonal sites.
Kickstart with Coffee
Begin the day in the heart of Tarrytown at Coffee Labs Roasters in Tarrytown (7 Main Street). This café is known for its small-batch coffee and locally sourced pastries.
Late Morning: Step Back in Time
Just a short drive away, Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown (635 S. Broadway) is a Gothic Revival estate that sits majestically along the Hudson River and is renowned for its role in the two 1970s Dark Shadows films. Through November 3, there are walking tours of both the mansion, which is decorated for the season, and its sprawling grounds.
Lunch: Flavorful Tacos
Head back into downtown Tarrytown for lunch at The Taco Project (18 Main Street) for tacos and Mexican dishes, from their famous shrimp tacos to their vegetarian options.
Early Afternoon: Explore Washington Irving’s Sunnyside
Next, drive to Washington Irving’s Sunnyside in Irvington (3 W. Sunnyside Lane). The charming estate of the author who penned The Legend of Sleepy Hollow contains a 19th century home and garden that offer insights into Irving’s life and legacy. Visitors can explore the grounds and imagine the Headless Horseman galloping through the nearby woods.
Dinner: Savor the Sea
Before the sun sets, head to Ocean House Oyster Bar & Grill (49 N. Riverside Avenue) in Croton-on-Hudson for a renowned lobster roll and warm atmosphere.
Evening: Experience the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
After dinner, stay in Croton-on-Hudson and make your way to Van Cortlandt Manor for the The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (525 S. Riverside Avenue). People travel far and wide to attend this event, which features over 7,000 intricately carved pumpkins that are arranged in elaborate displays. In this family-friendly experience, guests walk through the illuminated grounds and marvel at larger-than-life installations.
From historic mansions to Halloween thrills, this day trip offers fall flavor and ghostly fun for history buffs, foodies and anyone seeking a lovely fall day.
Trip Tips:
Dress: Wear layers for the cool autumn weather and bring comfortable walking shoes.
Tickets: Book in advance, especially for the Blaze.
Parking: Some venues offer off-street parking; others require street parking.
Other Articles You May Also Enjoy:
Celebrating Día De Los Muertos in Westchester
Nearly Two-Dozen Halloween in Westchester Events
Clothes, But No Bodies, On View at Hudson River Museum
Taconic Opera Makes a New Home at Tarrytown Music Hall
