This Historic Town In New York Is Full Of East Coast Charm And Amazing Restaurants

While New York often steals the spotlight because of popular cities like Buffalo, Syracuse, Saratoga Springs, Ithaca, and, of course, Manhattan, it's the state's small towns that bring out the beauty and heart of the East Coast. Scattered across the quiet suburbs and rolling hills, these small towns have a rich history, sense of community, and cozy main streets. A case in point is Harrison, a historic town in Westchester County. Despite its proximity to New York City, Harrison feels worlds away. This historic but underrated small town in America is worth visiting because it balances urban access with small-town allure.

Harrison is only about 26 miles from midtown Manhattan. The town sits along the Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line, making it easy to reach from New York City in under an hour. You can also drive from New York to Harrison, which will take you about an hour, depending on traffic. If you are flying in, the Westchester County Airport (HPN) is about 20 minutes from Harrison. 

Founded in 1696, Harrison was a farming settlement that King William III gave to John Harrison and other settlers as a grant. The settlement became a township in 1788 and was later incorporated in 1975. While the town has retained its old-world character, you will find leafy neighborhoods and beautiful homes.

With a population of about 32,000, many travelers might not expect much from Harrison. On the contrary, the small town captures the East Coast charm brilliantly via its community spirit and old-world elegance. The town is divided into three sections: West Harrison, Purchase, and the downtown area. The walkable downtown is dotted with gourmet bistros, restaurants, and family-owned cafés that showcase the region's treats.  One of the best places to stop by in the area is the Trattoria Vivolo, one of the prettiest restaurants in the world for foodie travelers. The well-equipped, authentic Italian restaurant is known for its relaxed setting with different Italian delights on the menu, including scamorza, mozzarella di bufala, and prosciutto e fichi, served with various sides such as seasonal vegetables. 

If you just want a quick breakfast or lunch, head to Café Deux, famous for its French-American menu. You can have scrambled eggs, an omelet, or a farmers' market quiche for breakfast. Alternatively, you can get a burger with a side of house salad and fries for lunch. Want to interact with the locals after dinner over drinks? Visit The Meadows Social Kitchen & Bar, which serves American cuisine paired with various cocktails and assorted wines. 

Besides local fares and vintages, travelers can also learn more about the region's culture through art and history at the popular Harrison Public Library's Bruce Avenue Gallery. The gallery hosts various rotating exhibits from photographers, historians, and regional artists. The presentations highlight local heritage through visual storytelling. West Harrison, on the other hand, is home to quiet residential streets and scenic parks, while Purchase is popular for its arts, culture, and the SUNY Purchase College, which hosts performances, exhibits, and live shows. Another popular destination in Purchase is the Neuberger Museum.. 

Before you venture out of town, make sure you visit the Amelia Earhart Memorial in downtown Harrison. This is a bronze statue honoring Amelia's pioneering transatlantic flight in 1932, during which she vanished. Before becoming a town, farming was popular in Harrison, and you can learn about the farming history at the 18th-century Old Mill that fueled Harrison's agriculture. In Purchase, you can visit the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens, which boasts about 45 outdoor sculptures by artists like Alexander Calder and Henry Moore. The sculptures are spread across beautifully landscaped grounds open to the public. If you are a golf enthusiast, visit the Harrison Meadows Country Club, formerly the Willow Ridge Country Club. The club has a swimming pool, golf course, and tennis court, and the social kitchen and bar are a great place to enjoy your favorite dishes and drinks.

In West Harrison, you can also visit the Stone Hill Cemetery, established in the late 19th century as a burial ground for war veterans and freed slaves. If you are looking for a quick nature escape, pause by the Silver Lake in West Harrison, a beautiful spot with meadows and woods. Silver Lake Preserve has hiking trails through 236 acres of spacious fields and woodlands. You can traverse the 2.2-mile trail that takes less than an hour to complete.  Harrison is also awash with destinations to grab some shut-eye with great dining options. The resort-style Hyatt House White Plains features over 180 rooms and suites with well-equipped living areas and kitchens. Rates range from $515 to $845 (at time of writing), depending on member status as well as the room or suite type. And as you plan your trip, don't forget to give a whirl to these five must-download apps for your next trip to NYC.