Irvington Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful town of Irvington, New York with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Irvington

Located in Westchester County, in Downstate New York, Irvington is a charming and historic town with plenty of cultural landmarks, scenic outdoor destinations, and local products and food items to offer. With its rich history, proximity to the Hudson River, and a vibrant cultural scene, Irvington attracts a diverse range of visitors throughout the year.

This guide will provide everything you need to know to plan your trip to Irvington. From exploring top attractions and hiking and biking routes to discovering the local culture, food scene, and stay options, we have got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Irvington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lyndhurst Mansion: This stunning mansion is a National Historic Landmark, nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Hudson River, it’s a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The estate offers guided tours to its visitors showcasing the gorgeous architecture and gardens.
  • Old Croton Aqueduct: An important piece of history and a marvel of engineering, the aqueduct was built in the 1840s to bring fresh water to New York City from the Croton River in Westchester County. Visitors can hike along the former canal, passing by beautiful scenic landscapes and 19th-century aqueducts.
  • Hudson River Museum: This popular museum is dedicated to art, science, and history. The collection includes art, artifacts, and exhibitions that explore the rich history of Westchester County and the Hudson River Valley.
  • Irvington Town Hall Theater: This charming old theatre, built in 1902, hosts a variety of performances, from plays and concerts to movies and comedy shows.

Natural Attractions of Irvington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Hudson River Walk: Follow the scenic path along the river and enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River and the New York Skyline. The trail is perfect for walking, running, and biking, and is pet-friendly and family-friendly.
  • Scenic Hudson River Train Tours: Take a relaxing scenic tour along the Hudson River and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and gorgeous views of the Hudson River Valley.
  • Rockefeller State Park Preserve: This beautiful park is home to over 1,400 acres of forest lands, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can hike or bike along the scenic trails, or engage in bird watching, fishing and picnicking, all while enjoying the serene natural gem.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Irvington

Irvington has plenty of trails that offer scenic views and a chance to explore the great outdoors. Below are some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Irvington:

  • Croton Aqueduct Trail: Stretching over 26 miles, the trail connects Yonkers and Croton-on-Hudson, with many entry points in between. The gently rolling pathway is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking while taking in scenic views of the Hudson River.
  • Rockefeller State Park Preserve: With over 40 miles of trails to choose from, visitors can easily spend a whole day taking in the incredible views and spotting the various wildlife in the vicinity.
  • South County Trailway: Spanning over 14 miles, this trail offers an easy to navigate, paved route along the Bronx River in Westchester County.

Best Things to Do in Irvington: Activities and Tours

  • Food Tours of Hudson Valley: Explore the delicious local cuisine of Irvington and the Hudson Valley on a food tour. Join a guided tour to discover and taste the best local food and drinks.
  • Kayaking on the Hudson River: With stunning views of the west bank of the river, kayaking through the glittering river water, is a popular activity in Irvington.
  • Rivertown Trolley: A step back in time, this guided trolley tour is a fun way to discover the architecture, history, and hidden treasures of Irvington.

Week-Long Itinerary for Irvington

Day 1:

  • Arrive in Irvington, check-in to your hotel and rest.
  • Walk around the town and grab lunch at one of the local diners.
  • Visit the Lyndhurst Mansion.

Day 2:

  • Have Breakfast at a local bagel shop.
  • Hike the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, and have a picnic lunch.
  • Late Afternoon: Scenic Hudson River Train Tour.

Day 3:

  • Enjoy kayaking or Paddle Boarding on the Hudson River.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hudson River museum.
  • Evening: Watch a live show at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre.

Day 4:

  • Start your day with a food tour of the Hudson Valley.
  • Visit the Old Croton Aqueduct.
  • Grab dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Day 5:

  • Morning: Stroll around the village center.
  • Afternoon: Take a Rivertown Trolley tour of Irvington.
  • Evening: Relax at your hotel, and have dinner.

Day 6:

  • Hike a section of the Croton Aqueduct Trail.
  • Enjoy a late lunch at one of the nearby cafes.
  • Evening: self-guided evening walk on the Hudson River Walk.

Day 7:

  • Visit the Irvington Farmer’s Market for local food and souvenirs.
  • Take the train or local transport to the nearby towns and cities for an extended stay.

Food and Drink Scene of Irvington

Irvington and its surrounding areas have a thriving farm-to-table culinary scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hudson Valley Apple Cider Donut: An iconic dessert served at the Irvington Farmer’s market, this donut comes coated with cinnamon and sugar and is a must-try for visitors.
  • Hanger Steak: This succulent cut of beef is seared to perfection and served with locally sourced vegetables.
  • Thin Crust Pizza: A staple in New York, it’s done best here! Thin, crispy crust with a variety of toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Doc’s Hard Cider: A popular local hard cider made with hand-picked apples grown in the New York Hudson Valley.
  • Captain Lawrence Brewing Co. Beer: A highly-rated brewery founded and located in nearby Elmsford, that produces a variety of high-quality beers.

Where to Stay in Irvington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Irvington offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  • The Castle Hotel and Spa: This upscale hotel features a mix of modern amenities and traditional European charm. With stunning Hudson River views and a highly-rated on-site restaurant, this is the perfect spot for luxury vacations.
  • Ardsley Acres Hotel: Featuring a peaceful setting, comfortable rooms and a convenient location, this mid-range hotel is perfect for budget-friendly accommodation.
  • Bronx Guesthouse: Located in the nearby Bronx, this affordable and cozy guesthouse with beautiful views of the city skyline, offers a quintessential NYC experience.

What to Buy in Irvington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Irvington must not miss the chance to take back home some local souvenirs and products. Here are few things to buy in Irvington:

  • Zabar Artisanal Cheese: Made from high-quality milk in the nearby farm, Zabar Artisanal cheese is a popular local product.
  • Hudson Valley Honey: Sweet and pure honey from the Hudson Valley Farms, it’s a sweet token of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Irvington

Irvington is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of historical and cultural landmarks. Here are a few things to know:

  • Art Scene: With an abundance of studios and galleries, Irvington comes alive with various art exhibitions, festivals, and street fairs.
  • Festivals: Irvington hosts several annual festivals celebrating the town’s heritage and holidays like the Scottish Festival and St. Patrick’s Day parade.
  • Traffic Etiquette: Pedestrians always have the right of way. Motorists are courteous & aware, which often results in several rounds of “after you” waves.

Best Time to Visit Irvington

The best time to visit Irvington is during the fall and spring. In the fall season, the colorful autumn foliage is a sight to behold, while the mild spring weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer offers plenty of lively outdoor festivals, while winters are mild with the occasional snowfall and holiday celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Irvington

Do:

  • Do take a scenic tour of the Hudson River or surrounding towns.
  • Do try the local food and beverages.
  • Do visit the popular attractions of Irvington.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to keep cash on hand for unique local shops.
  • Don’t ignore traffic etiquette while crossing the roads.

Safety and Health

Irvington is a safe and healthy town with access to healthcare facilities. Visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites in summer and carry extra clothing in winter. As far as safety is concerned, common sense and caution will keep visitors secure.

Safety in Irvington

Irvington is a safe place to stay, travel or explore with friends or family. Visitors should use caution when hiking or biking in natural areas, avoid walking alone at night, and always stay aware of their surroundings.

Health in Irvington

Visitors should carry sunscreen and insect repellent with them while traveling in Irvington. Irvington is served by a few healthcare facilities that provide emergency and routine healthcare services. It is recommended to carry travel insurance with adequate medical coverage.

Getting to Irvington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Irvington is accessible from the nearby towns and cities via various transportation options.

Airports Near Irvington

The nearest airport to Irvington is the Westchester County Airport, located about 25 minutes away by car. John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York City are just an hour away.

Bus Stations Near Irvington

Irvington is well-connected to nearby cities via the Westchester Bee-Line bus service and Greyhound Buses. It is easy to reach from New York City by taking the Metro-North Hudson line train service.

Other Options

Visitors can also bring their vehicle as Irvington has plenty of free parking available on the streets and in parking lots.

How to Get Around in Irvington

Irvington is a small town, and visitors can easily navigate the town on foot. The town center has many sidewalks for pedestrians, bike rental options, and taxis and ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Irvington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Irvington is in a prime location near several other popular tourist destinations like New York City, White Plains, and Tarrytown. Visitors can plan a day trip to bear Mountain State Park, tour the Kykuit- Rockefeller Estate, or plan a visit to the bustling and lively city of New York.

Conclusion

Irvington is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history, culture, nature, and good food. The town’s charm and the abundance of attractions and activities make it a perfect weekend getaway or longer vacation. This guide has provided everything visitors need to know to plan their trip to this charming town and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Lord and Burnham Building Lord and Burnham Building Cosmopolitan Building Cosmopolitan Building Town Hall Theater is in the same building as Irvington Village Hall. Town Hall Theater is in the same building as Irvington Village Hall. Scenic Hudson Park has views of the Manhattan skyline and the cliffs of the Palisades. Scenic Hudson Park has views of the Manhattan skyline and the cliffs of the Palisades.