Positioned in the southern area of Mount Vernon, Saint Paul's Church and National Historic Site is just a few blocks west of the Eastchester Bay. Children of all ages enjoy guided tours of the historical 18th century cemetery and church, which served as a hospital during the Revolutionary War. Special events, like military recreations and fairs, take place throughout the year and allow children to experience firsthand what life was like during Colonial times. The site offers costumed presentations for larger groups. The Saint Paul's Church and National Historic Site is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and some Saturdays. The site closes for all federal holidays. Admission to the church and surrounding area is free.
Situated less than 7 miles south of Mount Vernon, the New York Botanical Garden offers children an opportunity to explore the world of plants. In addition to numerous collections containing more than one million plants, the garden is home to the Everett Children's Adventure Garden. This attraction features a boulder maze, a tank with water plants that children can touch, an indoor laboratory and tree sculptures shaped like frogs and other animals. Created by children, the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden is also on-site. This attraction allows kids of all ages to play in the dirt while learning about garden environments. The New York Botanical Garden is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except Mondays. Admission to the gardens is free on Wednesdays and until 12 p.m. on Saturdays.
Located in the Yonkers neighborhood, Van Cortlandt Park is less than five minutes from Mount Vernon. This park covers more than 1,000 acres and is the site of the first public golf course in America. The park boasts four playgrounds, horse stables and the Putnam Trail, a 1.5-mile biking trail. In addition, the park has five walking trails, three of which are easy enough for young children. The Van Cortlandt Nature Center offers children the opportunity to learn more about the park's animal and plant life, while the Van Cortlandt House Museum allows kids to tour the oldest house in the Bronx. Special events, such as the Halloween Fun Run, take place throughout the year. Van Cortlandt Park is open daily, and admission is free.
