So, you think nothing is free? Think again. Just when you need a summer activity to keep the kids occupied, here comes this list of four outings that can tame the boredom monster.
Play Days at Jay
On Fridays through October, families can pack a picnic and spend the afternoon at the John Jay Homestead. Kids can explore the Discovery Centers and help volunteers collect eggs from the chicken coop. The Education staff also leads a short hands-on activity. It’s a fun afternoon, from noon to 2 p.m., for all ages in a beautiful setting.
John Jay Homestead
400 Jay St., Katonah
232-5651
Art at PepsiCo
The meticulously maintained gardens on the grounds of the PepsiCo campus house 45 large and important outdoor sculptures by major 20th century artists. It is now open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. after being closed for renovations. Take a picnic, stroll the grounds and let the children work off some steam.
Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens
700 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase
253-3150
Fresh Air and Views
Visit this old railway 1.2-mile steel cantilever bridge that spans the Hudson River between Poughkeepsie and Highland, N.Y. for great 360 degree views and a sense of adventure. Strollers, bikes, dogs on leash, roller-skating and picnicking are all permitted. The Walkway is open from 7 a.m. to sunset. Walk or bike the additional Walkway loops to extend the experience.
Walkway Over the Hudson
61 Parker Ave., Poughkeepsie
845-454-9649
Summer Entertainment
Stop by the Hudson River Museum and partake in the many free activities and events offered this month. There’s free admission on Friday and Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. through Sept. 2, a visit then also includes a free planetarium show at 7 p.m. What’s more, their Summer Amphitheater also offers free performances on select dates at 8 p.m.
Hudson River Museum
511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers
963-4550
– Jean Sheff
