Welcome to White Plains
White Plains is a vibrant city situated approximately 25 miles north of Manhattan. The city serves as a major commercial and retail hub in the region, attracting residents from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Its downtown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, theaters, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The city boasts excellent transportation links, including a Metro-North station and major highways, making it a preferred choice for commuters to New York City and neighboring areas. White Plains is the county seat of Westchester County, housing government offices and institutions. Additionally, the city provides residents with various recreational opportunities through its parks, community centers, and sports facilities. Overall, White Plains' mix of urban amenities and suburban ambiance makes it an attractive place to live and experience the best of the New York metropolitan area.
What to Love
- Easy access to New York City, just a 54 minute train ride away
- Boutique shopping and walkable commercial areas
- Scenic location and close proximity to nature
People & Lifestyle
White Plains is a diverse and lively community, boasting a rich tapestry of people from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The city's population of around 58,000 individuals creates a vibrant atmosphere that reflects its proximity to New York City. With a mix of residents ranging from commuters to young professionals and families, White Plains offers a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Many people work in New York City and choose to live in White Plains due to its excellent transportation links.
The residents of White Plains take pride in their city, and its status as the county seat of Westchester County adds to the community's sense of importance and cohesion. The downtown area is a focal point for socialization, entertainment, and dining, boasting a diverse array of restaurants, bars, theaters, and shops. Additionally, the city hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diversity and offering opportunities for residents to come together.
The lifestyle in White Plains strikes a balance between the urban amenities of a city and the community-oriented ambiance of suburban living. Its diverse population and range of cultural offerings make it an attractive and welcoming place for individuals and families looking to call this thriving city their home.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
White Plains boasts a vibrant and diverse dining, entertainment, and shopping scene that appeals to both residents and visitors. The city's culinary landscape offers an array of options, with numerous restaurants and eateries serving various cuisines, including new American (try
Archie Grand or
Lilly's), traditional American (check out
Westchester Burger or
Walter's Hot Dogs), seafood (we love
Red Horse and
KEE Oyster House), and more. If you're in the mood for Mediterranean,
Greca is a great place to go. Other great restaurant options include
Freebird,
City Limits Diner, and
Ice Cream Social. Whether one prefers upscale dining or casual eateries, there are plenty of choices to satisfy every palate. White Plains' downtown area, in particular, is a culinary hub, hosting food festivals and events that celebrate the city's gastronomic delights.
For entertainment seekers, White Plains doesn't disappoint. The city features a thriving performing arts scene, with theaters and venues offering live music, theater productions, and dance performances. The Westchester County Center, a prominent venue, hosts concerts, sporting events, and family shows, providing entertainment for people of all ages. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy the latest films at the city's multiplex cinemas, catering to various cinematic tastes.
Shopping enthusiasts have ample opportunities to indulge in retail therapy in White Plains. The downtown area showcases a mix of popular retail stores, charming boutique shops, and specialty stores that offer unique and one-of-a-kind finds. The Galleria at White Plains, a well-known shopping mall, is a hub for shoppers, offering a diverse selection of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. Moreover, the city has several other shopping centers and plazas, ensuring there is something for every shopper's preference and need.
As the sun sets, White Plains comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city's bars, pubs, and lounges cater to various tastes, providing the perfect setting to unwind after a long day or socialize with friends. From trendy rooftop bars with breathtaking views to cozy pubs with an impressive selection of craft beers, the nightlife in White Plains is as diverse as its population, offering a lively and enjoyable experience for all. Overall, White Plains' dining, entertainment, and shopping offerings make it a dynamic and engaging urban destination, where residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the city's bustling atmosphere and diverse cultural experiences.
Things to Do
White Plains has a lively performing arts scene. Enjoy captivating live performances, concerts, theater productions, and family-friendly events at the
Westchester County Center or local theaters. If you prefer spending time outdoors, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at one of the city's parks, such as
Tibbetts Brook Park or
Silver Lake Preserve, offering opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and peaceful nature walks.
Sports enthusiasts can catch a basketball game of the
Westchester Knicks, the NBA G League team, at the Westchester County Center. Embrace the city's arts and culture by visiting art galleries, attending exhibitions, and participating in cultural events and festivals. For those intrigued by history and science, a short trip to the nearby
Hudson River Museum in Yonkers can satisfy your curiosity with its diverse exhibits and planetarium.
For a different type of adventure, challenge your problem-solving skills by participating in thrilling escape room experiences with friends or family at
The Puzzle Parlour. Additionally, don't miss the chance to visit local farmers' markets, where you can support local vendors while indulging in fresh produce and artisanal products.
Schools
White Plains takes pride in offering a diverse and comprehensive education system to cater to the educational needs of its residents. The White Plains City School District serves as the primary public education provider, encompassing elementary, middle, and high schools. It focuses on delivering high-quality education to prepare students for future success in college, careers, and life. Additionally, the city hosts a variety of private and parochial schools, providing parents with alternative educational choices for their children. The city places a strong emphasis on early childhood education, offering preschools and daycare centers to prepare young learners for formal schooling. Special education services are available to support students with individualized learning plans. The community actively engages in the education system, fostering partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance the overall learning experience. Furthermore, White Plains extends educational opportunities to adults through various continuing education programs, promoting lifelong learning and personal development. With a commitment to inclusivity and quality education, White Plains aims to nurture the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of its residents throughout their educational journey. Top educational opportunities include:
- Church Street Elementary, K-5, public elementary school
- George Washington Elementary, K-5, public elementary school
- Mamaroneck Avenue Elementary, K-5, public elementary school
- Post Road Elementary, K-5, public elementary school
- Ridgeway Elementary School, K-5, public elementary school
- Eastview Middle School, 6-8, public middle school
- Highlands Middle School, 6-8, public middle school
- White Plains High School, 9-12, public high school
- Rochambeau High School, 9-12, public high school
- German International School, PK-12, highly-rated private school
For a pdf version of our White Plains Town Guide, click
here.
