When I was asked to write a piece about the things I love most about Armonk, I immediately said “yes.” I have lived in this town for 21 years so I feel like I know it pretty well. So, without further ado, here’s my top ten list:
1: The Restaurants
Armonk has become known for its fabulous restaurants. We have so many new and old places, with a wide variety of cuisines from which to choose. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite for breakfast or lunch, or a more elegant dining experience where you can celebrate a special occasion, there are plenty of options.
2: The Shops
You never have to leave Armonk (unless you want to) because we pretty much have everything you could need right here. A new outfit? A haircut? An amazing cup of coffee? A picture or diploma framed? Whatever you desire, I guarantee you can find it in Armonk. And if you check out the Best of Westchester list, you might find several of your Armonk favorites on that list.
3: The Location, Location, Location
Going into Manhattan for work or for fun is pretty easy, whether you want to drive or take the train; it takes under an hour to get there. If you prefer a day in the country, we are not too far from apple-picking, antique shopping and farms. And in the winter, we are near some pretty decent skiing. Here in Armonk, we get the best of all worlds.
4: The Special Events
People come from far and wide for the annual Armonk Outdoor Art Show, the Fol de Rol, and, most recently, The Frosty Parade, which has gotten bigger and better every year since it first began in 2009. All three events are worth the trip to town and I plan on attending all of them again this year.
5: The People
I have got to say that we have some of the nicest and most compassionate people living here. Whether it’s donating money to a cause or hands-on helping, Armonkians step up. We take care of our own, as well as others.
6: The Schools
The Byram Hills School district consistently ranks highly among Westchester and New York State schools. The administrators and teachers really care about the students and do their best day in and day out. From Coman Hill to the High School, our kids receive a first-rate education. Our district’s reputation is one of the reasons people choose to live here and why home values remain high.
7: The Parks/Wampus Pond
I no longer have little kids. However, when I did, we hung out at the local parks. Lombardi and IBM have lovely playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball hoops, soccer fields, etc. And if boating is your mojo, we have beautiful Byram Lake and Wampus Pond. Every time I pass Wampus Pond I look for the two magnificent swans who have made it their home. And even though its only fall, I’m already wondering if Wampus Pond will freeze over this year—I love to walk on the ice and watch people ice fish and ice skate.
8: The History
Armonk has been around a long time. Mile Square in the center of town (officially, the Bedford Road Historic District) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and British Major André, Benedict Arnold’s co-conspirator was held at Sands Mill in town prior to his trial. One of my favorite class trips that I chaperoned was to Smith Tavern Complex, which was built around 1779. In addition to the tavern, the complex also has a one-room schoolhouse. Having been obsessed with the “Little House on the Prairie” books when I was a kid, I loved going there and imagining what life was like hundreds of years ago. If you haven’t ever been there, you might want to check it out.
9: The Small-Town Feel
I love a place with a small town feel and we certainly have got that. People know each other by name and by sight. A few times I left my wallet home by accident and was pleasantly surprised to find that the shop owners trusted that I would come back and pay them (which I did). Store owners are happy to go above and beyond for their customers. And while we may not exactly be Mayberry, Armonk has a hometown feel. We’ve even got a gazebo and a Main Street!
10: The Access to Fitness/Wellness
Look around in the spring, summer or fall and you’ll see all the cyclists who are a testament to what a great area this is for biking. And in the winter, we have lots of indoor options for staying fit. Yoga, tennis, a gym, etc. are only a few of the places Armonk residents go to stay in shape. And if you prefer to be a little more sedentary, we do have a really nice library!
As you can see, there’s really quite a lot to love about this town we call home and I feel quite fortunate and proud to live here.
