Craving great food, live music, and small-town charm near NYC? Head to Port Chester! Located in Westchester County along the Connecticut border, Port Chester is a vibrant riverside town known for its diverse cuisine, historic theater, and easy metro access. Whether you're catching a show, dining on world flavors, or enjoying the waterfront, Port Chester is an easy and enjoyable escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Port Chester is in the spring through fall (April–October). These months offer pleasant weather for dining outdoors, attending concerts, and exploring nearby parks and coastal towns.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by train: The Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line stops right in Port Chester, with frequent service to and from Grand Central Terminal (about 50 minutes).
  • By Car: Port Chester is conveniently located off I-95 and the Hutchinson River Parkway, about 40 minutes from Manhattan.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Westchester County Airport (HPN), only 15 minutes away, or fly into LaGuardia or JFK for more options.

Where to Stay

  • Hyatt House White Plains – Spacious suites and great amenities just a short drive from downtown Port Chester.
  • Cambria Hotel White Plains – Modern, upscale option with dining and shopping nearby.
  • The J House Greenwich – A luxury boutique hotel minutes away in Connecticut with a spa and fine dining.

Top Attractions

⮕ Capitol Theatre

Catch live music and enjoy an exciting night out in a historic venue.

Capitol Theatre

© Andrea Izzotti/stock.adobe.com

Designed by the celebrated architect Thomas Lamb, the historic Capitol Theatre first opened to the public in 1926. Back then it was considered to be the epitome of beauty and luxury and could comfortably seat 2000 guests. Big name productions like The Taming of the Shrew, Casablanca and Gone with the Wind kept theatre-enthusiasts streaming to The Capitol for many decades. Inevitably, the theatre eventually became crowded and dated and renovations were called for. After a massive revamp in 2011, the Capitol Theatre is once again flourishing and is considered to be the premier concert venue in Westchester. Check their website to see what’s on during your visit to Port Chester.

Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY 10573, Phone: 800-982-2787

⮕ Clay Art Center Gallery

Browse ceramic works and explore affordable, local art in a creative space.

Clay Art Center Gallery

© Clay Art Center Gallery

Founded in 1957, the Clay Art Center in Port Chester is nationally recognized for its work in promoting and advancing ceramic arts. The center endeavors to provide a stimulating environment which will set artists free and allow them to fully express their creativity within the confines of their chosen medium of clay. To this end the center hosts a variety of lessons and workshops for both adults and children and also provides essential gallery exposure for many local ceramic artists. Visitors are invited to visit the gallery to admire the work on display and to buy one-of-a-kind hand-made gifts to remind themselves of their visit to Port Chester.

Clay Art Center Gallery, 40 Beech St, Port Chester, NY 10573, Phone: 914-937-2047

Where to Eat

⮕ Sonora Restaurant

Savor Latin fusion dishes and enjoy a romantic dinner with bold flavors.

Sonora Restaurant

© JustinoJ/stock.adobe.com

Columbian-born chef Rafael Palomino draws inspiration for his mouth-watering cuisine from all the many corners of the globe where he has lived, penned cookbooks and created delicious fare. At Sonora Restaurant, guests are treated to mouth-watering Latin-fusion cuisine featuring fresh flavors and beautiful presentation. Most diners agree that the Tapas-style appetizers are generously sized and reasonably priced and other popular dishes include the Paella, Lomo Saltado (Peruvian fillet), Costillas (Argentinean Short Ribs) and Churrasco (Cuban Angus Skirt Steak). The restaurant has both indoor and patio dining areas and has recently added a tented outdoor dining area. You should never leave without trying one of their delicious Margaritas.

Sonora Restaurant, 179 Rectory St, Port Chester, NY 10573, Phone: 914-933-0200

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Rye Town Park and Beach – Just a short drive away, enjoy sun, sand, and swimming on the Long Island Sound.
  • Bush-Lyon Homestead – Explore local Revolutionary War history at this preserved 18th-century home.
  • Downtown Port Chester – Walkable district with shops, eateries, and colorful cultural diversity.
  • Bartlett Arboretum (nearby Stamford) – Scenic trails and gardens perfect for a peaceful escape.

More Places to Eat

  • Bartaco – Trendy spot by the water serving tacos, margaritas, and bold Latin-American flavors.
  • Tarry Lodge – Upscale Italian restaurant with wood-fired pizzas and a wine list curated by celebrity chefs.
  • Acuario – Authentic Peruvian cuisine featuring ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Summer Concert Series – Free live music in Lyon Park and downtown during the warmer months.
  • Capitol Theatre Shows – Year-round lineup of major touring acts, tribute bands, and comedy shows.
  • Port Chester Day (Fall) – A fun community event with food, entertainment, and family activities.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Port Chester, New York:

  • Rye Playland (10–15 min) – Classic amusement park and beach with vintage charm and family rides.
  • Greenwich, CT (5–10 min) – Stroll upscale shops, art galleries, and waterfront parks in this elegant town.
  • White Plains, NY (15–20 min) – Urban shopping, dining, and entertainment in a walkable downtown.
  • Audubon Greenwich (20–25 min) – Explore nature trails and wildlife exhibits at this conservation center.
  • New Rochelle, NY (25–30 min) – Discover waterfront dining, art, and a growing cultural scene along Long Island Sound.

FAQ:

  • Where is Port Chester located?
    • Located in Westchester County, Port Chester was once a boat-building community known as the "Saw Pit."
  • What attracts visitors to Port Chester today?
    • Today, the town attracts a diverse selection of visitors who come to enjoy a variety of maritime activities and the town’s growing reputation as a Foodie destination.
  • Are there outdoor activities in Port Chester?
    • Port Chester boasts a large number of outdoor green spaces where you can enjoy walking, biking, hiking, or bird-watching.
  • What family-friendly activities are available in Port Chester?
    • At Columbus Park, the whole family can enjoy the Water Spray Park on hot summer days.
  • What cultural attractions can visitors explore?

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather with blooming flowers and outdoor activities. Courtyard by Marriott Rye – A comfortable stay near major attractions. Explore Lyon Park – Enjoy a peaceful walk and spring scenery.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for waterfront activities. Hilton Westchester – A stylish and upscale hotel close to Port Chester. See a show at The Capitol Theatre – Experience live music in a historic venue.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, colorful foliage, and local events. Hyatt Regency Greenwich – A nearby elegant stay with great amenities. Visit Clay Art Center – Explore local ceramic art and take a pottery class.
Winter (December-February) – Cool with festive holiday charm. Residence Inn by Marriott White Plains – A cozy extended-stay option. Dine at Port Chester’s famous restaurants – Enjoy diverse cuisine from top-rated spots.


Plan Your Trip