Merestead Introduce
For New Yorkers seeking a tranquil escape from the constant buzz of city life, a place where the sounds of nature replace urban clamor, Merestead in Mt Kisco, NY, stands out as a true hidden gem. This beautiful park offers a serene environment, providing an ideal setting for relaxation, quiet contemplation, and gentle recreation amidst stunning natural landscapes. It’s a perfect destination for those in the greater New York region who appreciate beauty, peace, and the chance to reconnect with the outdoors without venturing too far from home.
Merestead is not your typical bustling city park. Instead, it embodies a sense of quiet grandeur, with its expansive grounds, meticulously maintained landscapes, and a rich history that hints at its past as a private estate. Visitors consistently describe it as "beautiful and quiet," a testament to its ability to offer a genuine sense of peace. This makes it particularly appealing for New Yorkers looking to truly unwind, whether for a few hours or a full day, far from the madding crowd.
One of the most charming aspects of Merestead is its surprising number of "hidden picnic benches" scattered throughout the property. These secluded spots provide intimate settings for a meal or a moment of repose, often accompanied by "incredible views of the valley." Such thoughtful touches enhance the visitor experience, inviting you to linger and fully absorb the beauty of your surroundings. It's these details that transform a simple park visit into a memorable escape, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in natural beauty.
Beyond its manicured lawns and picturesque vistas, Merestead also offers wooded areas perfect for those who enjoy a more rustic experience. The opportunity to "spend four hours in the woods" speaks to the extensive natural trails available, inviting exploration and gentle hiking. This blend of open scenic areas and dense woodlands provides a diverse landscape for visitors to enjoy, catering to various preferences for outdoor activity. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating walk, Merestead accommodates.
For locals, Merestead serves as an invaluable resource, offering a readily accessible slice of paradise. It’s a place where you can find solitude, enjoy a picnic with loved ones, or simply take a moment to breathe in fresh air and admire the landscape. Its reputation as a quiet haven ensures that visitors can always find a peaceful spot, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience. It's a reminder that even in the vicinity of one of the world's largest cities, pockets of profound calm and natural beauty still exist, waiting to be discovered and cherished.
Merestead provides a unique blend of historical elegance and natural serenity, making it a truly distinctive park in the New York region. Its commitment to maintaining a quiet and beautiful environment ensures that every visit is a rejuvenating experience, fostering a deep appreciation for its unique charm and tranquil atmosphere. It truly is a local treasure that promises a peaceful respite from the demands of everyday life.
Merestead is conveniently located at 455 Byram Lake Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA. Its address places it within the picturesque and relatively accessible region of Northern Westchester County, making it a viable destination for residents across the broader New York metropolitan area. For New Yorkers relying on personal vehicles, Merestead's location offers a straightforward drive, leading you away from the urban density into a more rural and tranquil setting. The journey itself often contributes to the sense of escape, as the landscape gradually shifts to rolling hills and greener vistas.
While specific public transportation routes directly to Merestead may be limited due to its serene, somewhat secluded nature, its accessibility by car is a significant advantage. This allows visitors the flexibility to arrive at their leisure and fully enjoy the expansive grounds without the constraints of public transport schedules. Ample parking facilities are generally available, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and a smooth transition from your vehicle to the park’s beautiful landscapes. This ease of access is crucial for busy New Yorkers looking to maximize their time outdoors.
Being nestled in Mt Kisco, a charming town known for its blend of suburban convenience and natural beauty, Merestead benefits from a location that feels both accessible and delightfully removed. It's close enough for a relatively short drive from many parts of the city and its surrounding suburbs, yet far enough to provide a genuine sense of escape and tranquility. This strategic placement makes it an ideal spot for a day trip or a regular weekend outing, offering a refreshing change of scenery without requiring an extensive travel commitment.
The park’s address also positions it within a region renowned for its natural beauty and open spaces. This means that a visit to Merestead can often be combined with other outdoor activities or explorations in the Northern Westchester area, further enhancing its appeal as a local destination. The ease of navigation to this quiet haven reinforces its suitability as a go-to spot for New Yorkers seeking peaceful outdoor recreation.
Services Offered:
- Access to extensive grounds and trails for walking and gentle hiking.
- Numerous hidden picnic benches for leisurely meals and relaxation.
- Opportunities for enjoying incredible valley views.
- Designated areas for quiet contemplation and nature appreciation.
- Well-maintained landscapes and natural areas.
- Opportunities for spending extended time outdoors, including up to four hours in the woods.
- Parking facilities for visitors.
- A tranquil environment suitable for escaping urban noise.
- Historical ambiance stemming from its past as a private estate.
Features / Highlights:
- Beautiful and quiet atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
- Lots of hidden picnic benches, offering secluded dining spots.
- Incredible views of the valley, providing scenic backdrops.
- Interesting landscape with a mix of open areas and woodlands.
- Plenty of nice plants to observe while hiking.
- Opportunity to spend extended periods in the woods.
- Suitable for gentle hikes and walks.
- Provides a peaceful retreat from urban life.
- Offers a sense of solitude, especially on weekdays.
- Located in Northern/Middle Westchester, an area known for its natural beauty.
At this time, specific promotions or special offers for Merestead are not publicly advertised. As a public park and preserve, its primary "offer" is the consistent provision of a beautiful, quiet, and accessible outdoor space for the enjoyment of the community. Merestead is dedicated to maintaining its stunning landscapes and tranquil environment for all visitors to experience free of charge. Any special events, workshops, or activities that might be hosted at Merestead would typically be announced through local community channels or official Westchester County Parks communications. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the inherent value and serene beauty that Merestead continuously provides as its core offering to the public, recognizing it as a valuable local resource for peace and outdoor enjoyment.
Contact Information:
Address: 455 Byram Lake Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA
Phone: (914) 666-4258
Mobile Phone: +1 914-666-4258
Merestead is an outstanding choice for New Yorkers seeking a serene and beautiful escape from the urban environment. Its primary suitability for locals lies in its unparalleled tranquility and accessibility. Unlike many crowded city parks, Merestead consistently offers a quiet atmosphere, making it perfect for those truly looking to unwind and enjoy nature in peace. The presence of numerous "hidden picnic benches" allows for intimate outdoor meals with stunning valley views, providing a unique and personalized experience. Whether you're looking for a gentle walk through beautiful landscapes or wish to "spend four hours in the woods," Merestead provides ample opportunity for both relaxation and quiet exploration. Its location in Northern Westchester means it’s a manageable drive for many in the New York metropolitan area, offering a refreshing change of scenery without demanding a full day of travel. For any New Yorker craving a truly peaceful, beautiful, and accessible outdoor retreat, Merestead stands out as an exceptional local gem that consistently delivers a rejuvenating experience.
Merestead Photos










Merestead Location
Merestead
455 Byram Lake Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA
Merestead
455 Byram Lake Rd
Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary
265 Chestnut Ridge Rd
Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary (Parking Area/Entrance)
265 Chestnut Ridge Rd
Westmoreland Sanctuary
260 Chestnut Ridge Rd
Burden Preserve
109 Sheather Rd
Marsh Sanctuary
B Rd
Raptor Ridge
190 Chestnut Ridge Rd
Leonard Park
25 Wallace Dr
The Eugene and Agnes Meyer Nature Preserve
180 Byram Lake Rd
Whippoorwill Park
386 Whippoorwill Rd
Peninsula Wetlands
Lieto Dr
Glazier Preserve
362-368 Whippoorwill Rd
Wampus Pond Park
811 NY-128
Merestead Reviews
Beautiful and quiet. Lots of hidden picnic benches and incredible views of the valley.
Oct 31, 2024 · T KInteresting place worth beautiful landscape. This was part of my home around Mount Kisco. Northern Westchester or middle, really had some nice plants ro hike. Spent four hours in the woods.
Jul 10, 2019 · Spencer spencerGreat place to go. Truly a hidden gem! The Mrs loved this one and so will yoursJust be careful if your route getting there is by the lake/reservoir as it's gravel for a couple miles (side note: Also a nice vista, we almost stopped the car there instead!).Driveway into parking area is also uneven so have a vehicle with good tires and clearance
Aug 27, 2022 · V CVery beautiful old estate property. I took a tour of this place when it first opened. The house looked like some ghost family had just moved out. All of their things were still there. The park ranger even showed us the lady of the house's wedding lace! It was like a time capsule. Right now the house is undergoing an extensive renovation, but the trails are still open! Trails on the west side of Byram Lake Road are wooded and don't have views, but they are great in the summertime. I like to take my kids here, because (unlike a lot of hiking places), there's actually cell service! That way I can call for help if somebody turns an ankle, etc. The trails on the east side go up behind the house (you have to walk up the driveway). Up there, you're as high up as can be, and you can see miles and miles of rolling hills. You can experience Bedford like the billionaires do, for free! There are picnic tables at the top of the hill, if you and your family want to eat a snack.
Dec 15, 2020 · Lilian BürglerAt the top of trails you simply are mesmerized by the 360 degree views.
Jan 21, 2024 · Nick Reckson
More Scenic Spot

265 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

265 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

260 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

109 Sheather Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

B Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

190 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

25 Wallace Dr, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

180 Byram Lake Rd, Armonk, NY 10504, USA

386 Whippoorwill Rd, Chappaqua, NY 10514, USA

Lieto Dr, Mt Kisco, NY 10549, USA

362-368 Whippoorwill Rd, Chappaqua, NY 10514, USA

811 NY-128, Armonk, NY 10504, USA
Categories
Popular Camping Sites






Trending Camping Blog Posts





