Tarrytown, New York

Distance from Manhattan: 25 Miles

Tarrytown is a scenic village on the eastern shore of the Hudson River in Westchester County, New York. Located just 25 miles north of Manhattan, Tarrytown is known for its walkable downtown, rich history, river views, and easy Metro-North access to NYC. It’s part of the town of Greenburgh and borders Irvington to the south and Sleepy Hollow to the north. With a population of about 11,000, Tarrytown blends small-town charm with urban convenience.

Why People Choose to Live in Tarrytown

Easy Commute to New York City

Tarrytown has a Metro-North train station on the Hudson Line with express service to Grand Central in about 38 minutes. The station has a large parking lot and is within walking distance to the waterfront and Main Street. Major highways like I-87 and the Tappan Zee Bridge (Mario Cuomo Bridge) make commuting by car easy too.

Walkable Downtown and Waterfront

Tarrytown has a busy, walkable downtown with restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and small businessesalong Main Street and Broadway. The Hudson River waterfront features parks, walking paths, and luxury condos with river views. Residents can walk to dining, shopping, and the train—something not all Westchester villages offer.

Strong Schools and Community Feel

Tarrytown is part of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, which it shares with Sleepy Hollow. The schools are diverse and offer a range of programs. The community is active and engaged, with local events, festivals, and a village government that promotes local development.

History and Architecture

Tarrytown has many historic homes and buildings. The village includes Victorian homes, mid-century houses, and modern condos. It’s also known for landmarks like Lyndhurst Mansion, the Tarrytown Music Hall, and its ties to Washington Irving, the author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Arts and Culture

The Tarrytown Music Hall is a popular venue for concerts, films, and theater. Nearby, you’ll find art galleries, local museums, and riverfront performances in the warmer months.

Who Lives in Tarrytown?

Families

Many families are drawn to Tarrytown for its school system, safety, parks, and walkability. The village offers single-family homes with yards, as well as newer townhomes and condos.

Commuters

The direct train to NYC attracts professionals who work in Manhattan but want more space and a quieter lifestyle.

Artists and Creatives

Tarrytown has long attracted people in creative industries—writers, actors, musicians—because of its culture, architecture, and vibe.

Retirees and Empty Nesters

The walkable downtown, low-maintenance condos, and scenic setting appeal to older adults who want to stay active without relying on a car.

What Tarrytown Has to Offer

Metro-North Station: Quick access to NYC
Tarrytown Music Hall: Live performances, concerts, movies, and community events
Lyndhurst Mansion: Historic estate with tours and events
Pierson Park: Waterfront park with playgrounds, a splash pad, walking paths, and views of the Hudson River
Main Street & Broadway: Shops, cafés, and restaurants with a local, small-town feel
Village Events: Farmers markets, art shows, parades, and seasonal festivals

Quick History of Tarrytown

Originally inhabited by the Weckquaesgeek tribe, a branch of the Wappinger Confederacy.
Settled by the Dutch in the 1600s and later developed under British rule.
Gained prominence in the 1800s as a river and railroad town.
Washington Irving, author of Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, lived nearby in Sunnyside, which is now a historic site.
Lyndhurst Mansion, built in 1838, remains a symbol of the area’s Gilded Age wealth.

Quick Facts

Population: 11,000
Median Home Price: $850,000 (as of 2024)
School District: Public Schools of the Tarrytowns
Commute to NYC: ~38 minutes via Metro-North
Known For: River views, walkable downtown, historic homes, vibrant culture

What Irvington, NY Has to Offer (Just South of Tarrytown)

Irvington is another riverfront village in Greenburgh, just minutes south of Tarrytown. It’s smaller and quieter, with:

Top-rated schools (Irvington UFSD)
A historic downtown with local shops and dining
Beautiful river views and walking trails at Matthiessen Park and the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail
A strong community vibe with local theater, markets, and events

People often compare Tarrytown and Irvington—Tarrytown is more active and slightly larger, while Irvington is more residential and serene.

In Summary

Tarrytown, NY offers a unique mix of commuter convenience, small-town charm, arts and culture, and Hudson River scenery. It appeals to a wide range of people, from city transplants to longtime locals. With strong schools, walkability, and a historic setting, it’s easy to see why Tarrytown continues to be one of Westchester’s most desirable places to live.

Tarrytown, New York