Lazy Days in the Hudson Valley: Dobbs Ferry
Dobbs Ferry in Westchester County is tiny, but don’t let its size fool you. This charming rivertown is jam-packed with history and things to do. You may have only driven through it before, but I’m giving you just a few reasons to stay and explore. You may just fall in love with it as I have.
Incorporated in 1873, this adorable village is steeped in American history. George Washington and his troops set up camp there in the summer of 1781 during the American Revolutionary War before marching down to the Chesapeake region of Virginia, where they, along with French allies, would win the war in the Siege of Yorktown.
Today, amidst several nationally recognized historic sites, are simple modern pleasures. Spanning only 3.2 square-miles, by foot, one can see everything in a day. Experiencing everything, on the other hand, will take several trips.
I started off by walking the 1.7-mile stretch of the 41-mile Old Croton Aqueduct Trail that lands within the borders of the 10522 zip code. On this particular Sunday afternoon, the trail featured training runners, chatting friends, biking families, striking homes, and lounging buddies.
Keeper’s House (in background), 15 Walnut Street, Visitor and Education Center (temporarily closed) || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
Colonial Revival home along OCA Trail || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
After taking in the serene scenery, I ventured over to Waterfront Park, located between the train station and Hudson River.
Dobbs Ferry Train Station and Waterfront Park, 11 Station Plaza || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
This riverside park is 10 acres, featuring picnic areas, a covered stage, boat dock and more. This was the perfect place for me to sit and rest before I continued on my journey.
Mere steps away, I stumbled upon Half Moon, a restaurant serving sophisticated American fare, a relaxed atmosphere, and live music right on the Hudson.
Half Moon, 1 High Street || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
I wish I could have stayed longer, but I had a reservation at The Parlor that I was very much excited to keep. This wood-fire pizza parlor, located in the heart of downtown Dobbs Ferry on Cedar Street, offers a trendy twist with progressive small plates and crafted cocktails. To start, I had the Mission Fig Crostini. From the first bite, all I could say was “Wow.” This app features a well-balanced blend of flavor and texture. The bread was crispy on the outside and perfectly moist and chewy on the inside. I made sure to pile on fig and ricotta onto each morsel. The truffle honey drizzled on top wasn’t overpowering and the crumbled pistachios added a fun crunch. I ate the whole thing, mint garnish and all.
Mission Fig Crostini (YUM) || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
For my entrée, I had to try one of their 12-inch wood-fire pizzas cause, when in Rome, right? The Holy Cheesus is not hyperbole, my friends. Mozzarella, ricotta, parmigiana, and chili honey on a soft-yet-crispy thin crust is truly something divine.
Holy Cheesus White Pie || Photo by Joanne Louis-Paul
I understand where all the hype over this hip spot comes from. I will be back.
Downtown is made up of a few intersecting streets that I didn’t get the chance to fully explore this time around, but that’s the beauty of Dobbs Ferry: deceptively small and wondrously interesting. I’m a sucker for a good river town and DF has stolen my heart. I look forward to coming back and exploring this historic village along the mighty Hudson more.
Happy ‘Venturing!
Old Croton Aqueduct Trail 15 Walnut St. Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-5259
Half Moon 1 High St. Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 693-4130
The Parlor 14 Cedar St. Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 478-8200
by Joanne Louis-Paul
