White Plains, New York Travel Guide

Discover White Plains, NY: A vibrant blend of history, culture, shopping, and nature just a stone's throw from Manhattan in the heart of Westchester County.

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White Plains, located just 25 miles north of Manhattan, is a vibrant city that serves as the commercial hub of Westchester County. With a mix of urban and suburban vibes, White Plains offers visitors a unique blend of cultural experiences, shopping opportunities, and outdoor activities. The city is known for its excellent public transportation, making it easy to explore both the local area and nearby New York City. White Plains boasts a rich history, evident in landmarks such as the Battle of White Plains Park and the Jacob Purdy House. For those interested in the arts, the White Plains Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of shows ranging from Broadway productions to local performances. Nature lovers will appreciate the city's parks and green spaces, including Saxon Woods Park and Silver Lake Preserve, which offer walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in White Plains, with The Westchester and Galleria malls offering a wide range of stores from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. The city also has a diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from fine dining to casual eateries, ensuring that there is something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, White Plains provides a welcoming and enriching experience for all.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring White Plains.

Visit the White Plains Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for local produce and artisanal goods.
Take advantage of the Bee-Line Bus System to easily navigate the city and surrounding areas.
Explore the historic Jacob Purdy House, which served as George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War.
Enjoy a day of hiking and picnicking at Silver Lake Preserve, a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
Check out the events calendar at the White Plains Performing Arts Center for a variety of live performances.

Explore White Plains: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in White Plains

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Best Attractions

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Central Park

Explore Central Park, the heart of New York City, offering lush landscapes, cultural landmarks, and a perfect retreat from urban life.

4.8

Times Square

Explore the vibrant and iconic Times Square, a cultural and entertainment hub in the heart of Manhattan, where the energy of New York City comes alive.

4.7

Rockefeller Center

Experience the charm of Rockefeller Center, a historic landmark in New York City featuring stunning architecture, seasonal attractions, and breathtaking skyline views.

4.7

Empire State Building

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the iconic Empire State Building, a must-visit landmark in the heart of New York City.

4.7

Best landmarks in White Plains

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Statue of Liberty

Explore the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy, offering breathtaking views and rich history in New York Harbor.

4.7

Brooklyn Bridge

Explore the historic Brooklyn Bridge, an architectural marvel of New York City, offering breathtaking views and a rich history to every visitor.

4.8

Charging Bull

Discover the iconic Charging Bull in Bowling Green Park, a powerful symbol of financial strength and resilience in the heart of New York City.

4.4

Grand Central Terminal

Discover the architectural marvel and vibrant atmosphere of Grand Central Terminal, New York's historic train depot and cultural landmark.

4.8

Best restaurants in White Plains

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Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Fogo de Chão, where endless servings of grilled meats await in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.8

City Limits Diner

Experience the best of classic American breakfast at City Limits Diner – where comfort food meets a cozy atmosphere in White Plains.

4.3

The Brazen Fox

Experience the best of American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at The Brazen Fox in White Plains - where great food meets unforgettable fun!

4.3

The Cheesecake Factory

Experience culinary delight at The Cheesecake Factory in White Plains – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and every dessert is a work of art.

4.1

Best bars in White Plains

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The Brazen Fox

Experience The Brazen Fox: where delicious American cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in White Plains, NY.

4.3

Don Coqui

Savor the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine at Don Coqui, a lively Caribbean restaurant in White Plains offering great food and memorable experiences.

3.7

Hudson Grille

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Hudson Grille in White Plains, where great food and a vibrant atmosphere come together.

4.2

freebird kitchen and bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine at Freebird Kitchen and Bar in White Plains, a perfect blend of comfort food and lively bar culture.

4.2

Best nightclubs in White Plains

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The Brazen Fox

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at The Brazen Fox, the perfect spot for food lovers and sports enthusiasts alike in White Plains.

4.3

Don Coqui

Experience the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico at Don Coqui, a Caribbean restaurant and night club in White Plains, perfect for lively dining and nightlife.

3.7

The Lazy Boy Saloon

Discover the charm of The Lazy Boy Saloon, where American cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of White Plains.

4.3

The Blind Pig of Westchester

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Blind Pig of Westchester, where craft cocktails and delicious dining create lasting memories in White Plains.

4.4

Best shops in White Plains

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Macy's

Experience the magic of shopping at Macy's Herald Square, the iconic department store in the heart of New York City, offering a wide array of fashion and beauty.

4.4

Chelsea Market

Explore Chelsea Market, a food lover's paradise in New York City, offering diverse cuisines and unique shopping experiences in a historic setting.

4.5

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a diverse selection of designer brands at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley, New York.

4.5

Brookfield Place

Discover Brookfield Place, a shopping mall and tourist attraction in New York with stunning views, diverse dining, and unique shopping experiences.

4.6

Explore White Plains on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in White Plains, mapped for you.

White Plains Essentials

White Plains is located in Westchester County, New York, approximately 25 miles north of Manhattan. The nearest major airport is Westchester County Airport (HPN), which is about 5 miles from downtown White Plains. Alternatively, you can fly into LaGuardia (LGA), JFK (JFK) or Newark (EWR) airports in New York City and take a taxi, shuttle, or train to White Plains. The Metro-North Railroad offers frequent services from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan to White Plains, making it a convenient option for travelers.
White Plains has a well-developed public transportation system. The Bee-Line Bus System operates within the city and connects to other parts of Westchester County. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. The city is also pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, renting a car can be a convenient option.
The official currency in White Plains, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also commonly used.
White Plains is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any urban area, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While most neighborhoods are safe, it's a good idea to stay vigilant, particularly in areas that are less frequented by tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. White Plains Hospital is the main medical facility in the area and offers comprehensive healthcare services. There are also numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. In more upscale settings, business casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect all places of worship and their customs. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and direct eye contact are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cuisines. Don't forget to tip your server, as it is customary in the United States to leave a 15-20% tip.
To experience White Plains like a local, visit the White Plains Farmers Market, which is held weekly and offers fresh produce and local goods. Take a stroll through Tibbits Park or enjoy a picnic at Saxon Woods Park. For a unique experience, attend a performance at the White Plains Performing Arts Center. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share recommendations and stories about the area.

When is the best time to visit White Plains?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for White Plains

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in White Plains. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Late-uh]
- YesYeah
  [Yeh]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [Pleez/No prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sorry]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [Hows it go-in?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [Check, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust looking
  [Just looking]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveToo much
  [Too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of White Plains

The Battle of White Plains was a critical encounter during the American Revolutionary War. Fought on October 28, 1776, it was part of the New York and New Jersey campaign. General George Washington's Continental Army faced off against British forces led by General Sir William Howe. Though the battle ended inconclusively, it forced Washington to retreat, marking a strategic victory for the British. The site of the battle is now commemorated by the Battle of White Plains Park.
White Plains holds the distinction of being the county seat of Westchester County, established in 1683. The town experienced significant growth in the 19th century, transitioning from a rural community to a bustling suburban area. The establishment of the New York and Harlem Railroad in 1844 further accelerated this growth, making it a critical hub for commerce and transportation.
On July 9, 1776, the New York Provincial Congress met in White Plains to formally approve the Declaration of Independence. This historic event underscored the town's importance in the Revolutionary era. A statue commemorating this momentous occasion can be found in the White Plains Armory Plaza.
The arrival of the New York and Harlem Railroad in 1844 was a watershed moment for White Plains. It transformed the town into a significant transportation hub, fostering economic growth and population influx. The railroad station, originally built in the mid-19th century, still stands today as a historic landmark, symbolizing White Plains' transition from a rural community to a suburban center.
The 20th century saw White Plains evolve from a small town into a modern city. The post-World War II era brought about substantial urban development, including the construction of numerous residential, commercial, and public buildings. The Galleria at White Plains, a large shopping mall opened in 1980, exemplifies the city's rapid growth and modernization during this period.
Today, White Plains is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant community life. The city hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, celebrating its rich heritage and diverse population. Landmarks like the White Plains Performing Arts Center and the Westchester County Center serve as cultural epicenters, offering a variety of performances and events year-round. The city's culinary scene is equally diverse, featuring a plethora of restaurants offering international cuisines.