Somers Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in Somers, New York, and plan your perfect trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Somers

Somers is a charming town located in Westchester County, Downstate New York. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and welcoming community. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or a relaxing getaway, Somers has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Somers. Let’s get started.

List of Places to Visit in Somers

Here is a list of must-visit places in Somers:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Muscoot Farm: This living museum offers a glimpse into life on a Westchester County farm in the early 1900s. Visitors can see farm animals, tour historic buildings, and participate in educational programs.
  • Katonah Museum of Art: This contemporary art museum features rotating exhibits, educational programs, and a sculpture garden.
  • Van Cortlandt Manor: This National Historic Landmark was once home to a prominent colonial family and is filled with artifacts, gardens, and reenactments.

Natural Attractions of Somers: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Reis Park: This 83-acre park offers walking trails, athletic fields, and playgrounds.
  • Lasdon Park and Arboretum: This 234-acre park features gardens, woodlands, and a conservatory.
  • Horse Pound Brook Trail: This scenic trail offers a peaceful escape into nature with its waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somers

Somers offers several hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few:

  • Heritage Trail: This 10-mile trail follows an abandoned rail line and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Angle Fly Preserve: This 654-acre nature preserve offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
  • Barger Pond Loop Trail: This 2-mile hiking trail is perfect for families and offers stunning views of a pond and surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Somers: Activities and Tours

  • Somers Historical Society: This nonprofit organization offers guided walking tours of Somers, which include visits to historic homes and landmarks.
  • Muscoot Farmers Market: This local farmers market runs from May to November and offers fresh produce, artisanal products, and live music.
  • Hudson Valley Balloon Adventures: This hot air balloon tour company offers breathtaking views of Somers and the surrounding Hudson Valley.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somers

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Somers:

Day Activity
1 Explore Muscoot Farm and participate in educational programs.
2 Hike the Angle Fly Preserve trails and have a picnic lunch.
3 Take a walking tour of Somers with the Historical Society.
4 Visit the Katonah Museum of Art and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
5 Scenic bike ride on the Heritage Trail.
6 Hot-air balloon ride with Hudson Valley Balloon Adventures.
7 Relax at a local spa and shop for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Somers

Somers offers a variety of options for food and drink lovers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New York-style Pizza: Try a classic NY-style pizza at The Pizza Place or Little Sorrento.
  • Farm-to-Table Fare: Enjoy fresh, seasonal cuisine at Purdys Farmer and the Fish or Peter Pratt’s Inn.
  • Seafood: Indulge in fresh seafood at The Horse and Hound Inn or Tomatillo Taco Joint.

Local Beverages

  • Hudson Valley Wine: Sip on local wines at the Tasting Room at Market Street or the Taconic Distillery.
  • Craft Beer: Try local craft beers at Burke’s Restaurant and Bar or the Somers Irish Pub.

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

Somers offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some options:

  • The Inn at Lake Mahopac: This elegant, lakefront boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites: This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.
  • Airbnb: Book a cozy guesthouse or apartment rental through Airbnb for a more authentic local experience.

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

Here are some local products to consider bringing home as souvenirs:

  • Hudson Valley Wine: Bring home a bottle of local wine from the Tasting Room at Market Street or the Taconic Distillery.
  • Maple Syrup: Somers is surrounded by sugar maples, making it a great place to purchase high-quality maple syrup.
  • Handmade Jewelry and Artistic Crafts: Check out Somers Artisans and Gifts for locally-made jewelry and crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Somers

Somers is a welcoming and friendly community. Here are some local customs to keep in mind:

  • Be respectful of nature: Somers is home to many nature preserves and parks. Be sure to respect the environment and its inhabitants.
  • Tipping: It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants and other service establishments.
  • Small-town etiquette: Be friendly, say hello to passersby, and respect the quiet atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Somers

The best time to visit Somers is during the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the landscapes are beautiful with their colorful foliage. However, Somers is a great destination year-round, and each season offers its unique charm and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somers

Do:

  • Do explore the outdoors: Somers is surrounded by natural beauty, so take the time to explore it.
  • Do visit the local farms: Somers has a rich agricultural tradition, and visiting local farms is a great way to experience it.
  • Do try the local food and drinks: Somers offers a range of delicious food and drink options, so indulge.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Respect the environment and keep Somers clean.
  • Don’t be rude to locals: Somers is known for its friendly residents, so be polite and respectful.
  • Don’t forget to tip: It’s customary to tip at restaurants and other service establishments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Somers

Somers is a safe town, with minimal crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take standard safety precautions, such as locking your car and house doors.

Health in Somers

Somers has medical facilities and hospitals nearby, in case of emergencies.

Getting to Somers: Transportation Options and Logistics

Somers is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Somers

  • Westchester County Airport (HPN): Located 20 minutes from Somers.
  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Somers.

Bus Stations Near Somers

  • Brewster Station: Served by Metro-North Railroad and is located 15 minutes from Somers.
  • Pleasantville Station: Served by Metro-North Railroad and is located 20 minutes from Somers.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring Somers and the surrounding area.
  • Taxi/Uber: Taxis and Ubers are readily available in Somers.

How to Get Around in Somers

Somers is a small town, and most attractions are within a short driving distance. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are taxi and Uber services available.

Where to Go Next from Somers: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, here are some great nearby destinations to consider:

  • Hudson River Valley: Located 30 minutes south of Somers, this area boasts stunning landscapes, historic estates, and local wineries.
  • Bear Mountain State Park: Located 50 minutes north of Somers, this park offers hiking trails, a zoo, and scenic vistas.
  • New York City: Located 1 hour from Somers, New York City offers endless attractions, including museums, restaurants, and shopping.

Conclusion

Somers is a picturesque town with something for everyone. From its beautiful outdoor spaces to its vibrant cultural scene, there is no shortage of things to see and do. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has inspired you to plan your trip to Somers and explore all it has to offer. Safe travels!

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