Living in Scarsdale: Things to Do and See in Scarsdale, New York

Scarsdale—The Greenwich of New York State

A Look into Scarsdale, New York

The town of Scarsdale, New York, is a tranquil escape just 20 miles north of New York City. Often referred to as New York’s answer to Greenwich, Connecticut, this historic town is one of the wealthiest in the state. Its public schools are continually ranked among the best in the country and there are several notable private schools in the area. Scarsdale’s varied real estate offerings, which range from Colonial and Victorian townhouses and country estates, are a draw for luxury home buyers, as are its cultural attractions and recreation areas. Among them are the Greenburgh Nature Center, which offers 33 acres of woods and gardens; the Weinberg Nature Center, a 10-acre oasis with Zen Garden, Native American village, and bird sanctuary; the Scarsdale Library; and Scarsdale’s historic Tudor-style village.

A Glimpse into Scarsdale’s Past

The town of Scarsdale has a rich history that residents refer to as a “romantic twist of fate.” Caleb Heathcote, its founder was the 31st mayor of New York City. Born in the village of Scarsdale in Derbyshire, England, he emigrated to New York and became a prominent merchant and land dealer, active in politics, the militia, and church affairs. By 1701, he had acquired enough land to deem his property as a “Royal Manor,” one of nine in New York, and named it after his ancestral home. In 1788, his lands would become the town of Scarsdale. Over the years, the town has been home to many influential writers, journalists, scholars, politicians including former Vice President of the United States Daniel D. Tompkins, and celebrated entertainers Al Jolson, Judy Garland, and Liza Minnelli.

Amenities in Scarsdale

The historic Tudor-inspired village is chock full of charming shops, cafés, and boutiques. The local farmers market offers fresh produce and artisanal fare year-round. The child-friendly Greenburgh Nature Center is a popular venue for four-season recreation, featuring wildlife exhibits, nature trails, and meadows of native flowers. From June through August, visitors to its butterfly arbor can see species from across the United States. For sports and recreation, Scarsdale boasts several luxury day spas as well as golf courses, country clubs, tennis clubs, athletics fields, and leisure centers.

Premier Schools

Scarsdale’s luxury real estate inventory comprises large single-family homes, country estates, and elegant estate homes in private, gated communities.

Commuting to New York City

One of New York City’s northern suburbs, Scarsdale is a quick commute to Midtown Manhattan: less than an hour’s drive and 30 minutes by Metro-North Railroad into Grand Central Station. International airports, including LaGuardia, Newark, JFK, and Stewart, are all within an hour to one and a half hour’s drive. Regional and private jet services are provided by nearby Westchester County Airport.