If you are looking for a blend of history and nature, then Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park should be your next Road Trip Close to Home.

The landmark has a long-standing history and has been a popular destination since the mid-1800s. “I call it an accidental park because...it was built as a way of getting water to New York City.  But people started walking on it almost immediately, the city started tried shooing them off, that was a lost cause, they eventually gave up that and it’s been used for walkers ever since,” says Steve Oakes, the Old Croton Aqueduct Historic Site manager.

And today, you have about 26 miles of trails to walk, jog, and bike on starting at the New Croton Dam. 

The dam was the first large masonry dam in the United States, and its the base stretches some 200 feet high. After more than 175 years, the water is still being used to service nearby residents.

The Croton River also begins here and you can catch the best views of the of the spillway right over the bridge. “We drove through on the bridge, and it was amazing and I couldn’t believe the waterfall and my kids loved it,” says visitor Kristin Ponticello. “It’s really nice scenery; the air is fresh; the water meets the pond, it’s really enjoying the environment of nature,” says visitor Kamil Ahmed.

After a long day of exploring , take a quick five-minute drive for a sweet treat. The Blue Pig serves up some of the freshest homemade ice cream around town, and it’s all locally sourced.