Welcome to Croton-on-Hudson
A scenic village that might have come out of a fantasy book
Croton-on-Hudson is a village in Westchester County in New York, with a population of just under 10,000. The town has had residents dating as far back as 1677, when the Dutch settled there. Croton-on-Hudson’s proximity to New York City has always made it a desirable location.
The village’s name refers to its location at the confluence of the Croton River and the Hudson River. Croton-on-Hudson is surrounded by water, creating breathtaking views across the village. Residents enjoy the peaceful sounds of the river flowing through beautiful hills.
What to Love
- Rare natural beauty
- Magical setting with frequent breezes
- Spring and summer swimming in the rivers
- Low population density (fewer than 1,000 people per square mile)
- Welcoming to families with children
- Beautiful trees everywhere
History & Heritage of Croton-on-Hudson
The history of Croton-on-Hudson in New York is rich and diverse, with its roots stretching back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by Native American Indians as early as 4950 BC. The Kitchawanc tribe, part of the Wappinger Confederacy of the Algonquin Nation, was native to this region. They named several places in the area, including "Senasqua," the marsh separating Croton Point from Croton Neck. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century, initially for trade and later for settlement. Stephanus Van Cortlandt, who later became the first native-born mayor of New York City, began acquiring land in the area in 1677, leading to the establishment of the Manor of Cortlandt.
The 19th century saw Croton-on-Hudson evolve significantly, driven by industries like farming, shipping, ship-building, and manufacturing of flour and bricks. The construction of the Croton and New Croton Dams, along with the New Croton Aqueduct, were major projects that shaped the area's development. These constructions attracted a diverse workforce, including German, Irish, and Italian immigrants, which greatly increased the population. The advent of the railroad further propelled the growth of Croton-on-Hudson, turning it into a key economic hub in northern Westchester and creating a bustling community around the railroad.
These historical insights into Croton-on-Hudson reveal a village that has been a crossroads of cultures and industries, contributing to its unique character and rich heritage
Local Lifestyle
Life in Croton-on-Hudson is relaxed as the village is far removed from the fast-paced life of New York City. Residents can spend their afternoons at many recreational areas, parks, eateries, and cultural events. Locals have adopted the simple lifestyle associated with Croton-on-Hudson, and most people will be spotted outdoors on the weekends.
Croton-on-Hudson’s proximity to New York City makes it an ideal location for people working in the city who also want a suburban lifestyle. The one-hour drive to New York makes it a worthwhile compromise, and commuters can also use the Croton-Harmon Train Station, which is served by several Amtrak routes and MTA’s Metro-North Hudson Line. Using the train service is best as it saves residents time that could otherwise be spent in traffic and looking for parking in New York City, which is never easy.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Life in Croton-in Hudson is fun and relaxed. As a resident, you can enjoy the village’s various dining, and shopping options as the establishments are often small family-owned businesses. Some of the most popular dining options in Croton-on-Hudson are;
- Baked by Susan (a family-owned shop making baked desserts)
- Capriccios (cozy Italian stop serving pizza and pasta)
- The Tavern at Croton Landing (upscale bar food with regular drink specials)
Upper Village has most of the shopping and entertainment venues in Croton-on-Hudson. Upper Village Blooms delivers fresh flowers daily and caters to special events with corsages and boutonnieres. The community loves gathering at The Black Cow Coffee Co, a cafe that supports local artists. Meanwhile, the best ice cream in the village is at The Blue Pig
Patronizing any of these establishments, you will discover the charming and welcoming nature of the village’s residents. Once people find out you’re a visitor, they often advise which spots are best depending on the time of year.
Things to Do
Croton-on-Hudson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of parks and recreational facilities that cater to various interests. The
Croton Point Park is a standout, boasting over 500 acres of space along the Hudson River. This park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching, with miles of trails that offer stunning views of the river. The park also features a campground, making it a popular spot for both day trips and overnight stays.
For those interested in water activities,
Croton Landing Park provides a scenic waterfront setting with a beautiful esplanade, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. Kayaking and fishing are popular here, with easy access to the Hudson River. Additionally, the park is home to the
Croton Landing Sculpture Trail, where visitors can enjoy both art and nature.
For families,
Vassallo Park in the village center is a favorite, with playgrounds, open green spaces, and a charming gazebo that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. The
Croton Gorge Park is another gem, offering breathtaking views of the New Croton Dam. This park is a popular spot for picnics, sledding in the winter, and hiking, with trails leading up to the top of the dam.
Recreational facilities in Croton-on-Hudson include the
Croton Harmon High School track and field, which is open to the public during non-school hours, and the
Municipal Pool Complex at Silver Lake, providing a refreshing retreat in the summer months.
Culture in Croton-in-Hudson
Croton-on-Hudson has a vibrant cultural scene that reflects its rich history and artistic community. The Croton Free Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it hosts a variety of cultural events, including author talks, art exhibits, and performances. The library's gallery space regularly features works by local artists, adding a touch of creativity to the community.
The Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park not only offers a glimpse into the area's engineering past but also serves as a cultural landmark. The Aqueduct's trail is popular for walking and biking, and it often hosts historical tours and educational events.
Art lovers will appreciate the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden in nearby North Salem, which offers a serene environment blending art and nature. Although just outside Croton-on-Hudson, it's a cultural highlight for residents and visitors alike.
The Croton Academy of Arts provides classes and workshops in theater, visual arts, and music for all ages, nurturing the local creative spirit. Throughout the year, the academy stages performances and showcases that are open to the public.
Annual Events & Festivals
Croton-on-Hudson comes alive throughout the year with a variety of annual events and festivals that draw both locals and visitors. One of the most anticipated events is the Clearwater Festival, also known as the Great Hudson River Revival, held at Croton Point Park. This festival, founded by folk legend Pete Seeger, celebrates environmental awareness with a weekend of music, crafts, and activities focused on sustainability and community engagement.
Another major event is the Croton Summerfest, a street fair that takes place in the heart of the village. The event features live music, food vendors, crafts, and activities for children, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the start of summer.
In the fall, Oktoberfest at Holy Name of Mary Church is a local favorite, offering traditional German food, music, and family-friendly activities. This event brings the community together in a festive spirit and is a great way to enjoy the autumn season.
The Harry Chapin Run Against Hunger is another significant event, combining fitness with philanthropy. This annual race includes a 10K run, 5K walk, and a 1-mile fun run, with proceeds going to local hunger relief organizations.
During the holiday season, Croton-on-Hudson hosts a Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in the village, complete with caroling, hot cocoa, and visits from Santa. This event, along with the Christmas Craft Fair at St. Augustin
Commute & Accessibility
Croton-on-Hudson is well-connected, offering convenient commuting options and easy access to major highways and roads, making it an attractive choice for residents who work in New York City or the surrounding areas. The Croton-Harmon Train Station is a key transportation hub, providing frequent Metro-North Railroad service on the Hudson Line. The express trains from Croton-Harmon can get you to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan in as little as 46 minutes, making it a popular option for daily commuters.
For those who prefer driving, Croton-on-Hudson is strategically located near several major highways. The Taconic State Parkway and Route 9 run close by, offering direct routes to neighboring towns and cities. Route 9 also connects to the Saw Mill River Parkway and Interstate 287, facilitating access to Westchester County and beyond. This network of roads ensures that residents can easily reach destinations such as White Plains, Tarrytown, and the larger Hudson Valley region.
For bus commuters, Bee-Line Bus Service offers several routes that connect Croton-on-Hudson with other parts of Westchester County. The combination of train, bus, and road access makes Croton-on-Hudson highly accessible and convenient for those commuting both locally and to New York City.
Walkability & Bikeability
Croton-on-Hudson is a walkable and bike-friendly community, with a layout that encourages outdoor exploration and active transportation. The village center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks that connect residential areas to shops, restaurants, parks, and the train station. This makes it easy for residents to run errands or enjoy a stroll through the neighborhood without needing a car.
The Croton River Walk is a particularly scenic route, offering a paved path that runs along the Hudson River, perfect for both walkers and cyclists. Additionally, the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail is a popular multi-use trail that stretches for miles, providing a safe and scenic route for biking, running, and walking. This historic trail passes through the heart of Croton-on-Hudson and connects to other towns, offering both recreational opportunities and an alternative route for local travel.
The village has invested in bike-friendly infrastructure, with bike racks available in key locations such as the train station, parks, and commercial areas. The relatively low traffic volume and the presence of bike lanes on some streets further enhance the safety and appeal of cycling in the area.
In recent years, Croton-on-Hudson has been working on improving its walkability and bikeability, with community initiatives focused on expanding sidewalks, adding crosswalks, and enhancing trail connectivity. These efforts contribute to a healthier, more sustainable community and make Croton-on-Hudson an ideal place for those who value an active lifestyle.
Schools
Croton-on-Hudson is home to prestigious schools that can give your children the best educational foundation possible. Students may attend:
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