Croton-On-Hudson Neighborhood Guide | The Nancy Kennedy Team

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 and Entertainment

Croton-on-Hudson offers a delightful range of dining and entertainment options, showcasing the village's vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere. Food enthusiasts will enjoy the eclectic mix of restaurants, from the farm-to-table dishes at The Tavern at Croton Landing to the cozy ambiance and Italian classics at Tagine. For casual bites, The Blue Pig serves locally-sourced ice cream and light snacks, while Croton Colonial Diner offers comforting American staples.

Entertainment options in Croton-on-Hudson highlight the area's artistic spirit. The historic Croton Free Library often hosts live music events, film screenings, and literary readings. Just a short drive away, the Tarrytown Music Hall presents concerts, theater productions, and film festivals year-round. For a unique experience, residents enjoy summer performances at the outdoor Van Cortlandt Manor, featuring music and seasonal festivals.

Shopping

Shopping in Croton-on-Hudson caters to both convenience and boutique-style retail therapy. The Croton Commons Shopping Center and Van Wyck Shopping Center provide everyday necessities, including grocery stores like ShopRite and Croton Food Mart. For specialty items, the Croton Farmers Market operates seasonally, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Those seeking unique finds can explore Harmon Shops, home to charming boutiques selling handcrafted jewelry, books, and gifts. Nearby antique stores and specialty shops in the Hudson Valley region add to the village's allure, making it a destination for shoppers who value quality and character.

Parks and Recreation

Croton-on-Hudson is renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. The Croton Gorge Park, featuring stunning views of the Croton Dam, is a favorite spot for picnics, hiking, and fishing. Trails like the Old Croton Aqueduct State Park offer miles of paths for walking, running, and biking, connecting to the greater Hudson River Greenway.

For water-based activities, Croton Point Park is a standout, offering beaches, camping, and kayaking opportunities along the Hudson River. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate facilities like the Croton-Harmon High School Athletic Complex and public tennis courts at local parks. The village is also home to Teatown Lake Reservation, a 1,000-acre nature preserve perfect for birdwatching and educational programs.

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 served by the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District, known for its excellent educational programs and strong community involvement. The district includes:

Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School (Grades K-4): Rated highly for its student-teacher ratio and nurturing environment, this school emphasizes foundational learning and creative development.
Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School (Grades 5-8): Offers advanced academic programs, including STEM initiatives, and fosters student leadership and extracurricular participation.
Croton-Harmon High School (Grades 9-12): Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, AP courses, and excellent graduation rates, the school also features strong arts, music, and athletic programs.

For private education, The Blue Rock School, located nearby, provides an alternative education focusing on creativity and experiential learning. Additionally, families have access to Montessori schools and specialized early learning centers in neighboring towns.

Utilities and Services

Croton-on-Hudson ensures residents have access to reliable and efficient utility services.

Electricity: Provided by Con Edison, which offers both traditional and renewable energy options.
Water and Sewage: Managed by the Village of Croton-on-Hudson Water Department, ensuring high-quality drinking water and efficient wastewater management.
Waste Management: The village operates a comprehensive recycling program and weekly garbage collection. Bulk waste pickup is available by request.
Internet and Cable: Services from providers such as Optimum and Verizon Fios offer high-speed internet and cable television.

Essential services include local police and fire departments that maintain safety, as well as the Croton EMS, a volunteer ambulance corps offering emergency medical services.

Sustainability Initiatives

Croton-on-Hudson is a leader in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The village has implemented several green programs:

Croton Climate Smart Community Initiative: This program focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy use.
Curbside Composting Program: Residents can participate in the village’s composting initiative, which reduces food waste and promotes soil health.
Solar Energy Incentives: The village encourages homeowners to adopt solar energy through financial incentives and streamlined permitting processes.
Open Space Preservation: Croton-on-Hudson prioritizes the conservation of green spaces and wetlands, ensuring a balance between development and the environment.
Green Infrastructure Projects: Efforts include installing rain gardens and permeable pavement to reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality.