Welcome to Katonah
A charming, artsy, and sophisticated neighborhood of Westchester County
A hamlet of Bedford, Katonah is a charming and sophisticated town rich in cultural and recreational opportunities. If you’re searching for that perfect community that seems to only exist in film, look no further than Katonah. Where neighbors are friendly and business owners remember your name, this small hamlet is the hidden gem of Westchester County. Located in the town of Bedford, Katonah is home to about 1,800 residents enjoying a Norman Rockwell-esque village just 45 northeast of Manhattan.
In 1897, New York City’s reservoirs overflowed and poured into the village of Whitlock Station. With homes raised on stilts, horses moved the small houses a mile south, beginning the new community of Katonah, named after the Indigenous chief who sold settlers the land. Today, Katonah is loaded with character and old-fashioned charm. You won’t find chain restaurants or commercial businesses here — the community is tight-knit and focused on simple, easy living.
What to Love
- Postcard worthy “Painted Lady” Victorian homes along tree-lined streets
- Sprawling estate properties in the Mount Holly area
- Quaint, old-fashioned atmosphere (Katonah doesn’t have a single traffic light)
- Rich cultural and recreational offerings
Local Lifestyle
With its picture-perfect streets, gorgeous homes and old-world charm, residents of Katonah enjoy the ideal lifestyle. A healthy blend of an old-fashioned town mixed with modern luxury makes Katonah a highly desirable location to call home. Explore the beautiful and vibrant Katonah Avenue in the downtown district for extraordinary culinary experiences, cultural events and boutique shopping opportunities. Part of Katonah’s allure is its dedication to the community, the arts, education and preserving its small town appeal with an eye on the future.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Celebrating 97 years in business, Charles Department Store is a family-owned independent business offering personal service and curated merchandise. Transport yourself back in time at this century-old shop and browse the shelves for your next greatest treasure. The store stocks men's and women’s fashion, home goods, outdoor items and accessories.
If you’re looking for the perfect cafe and a cozy space to cuddle up with a book, The Reading Room is the place to be! An independent bookshop and cafe, The Reading Room is Katonah’s favorite place to connect with neighbors, select your next read, and enjoy an afternoon with the family. Offering the perfect cup of coffee and incredible baked goods next to award-winning titles for all ages, The Reading Room is a charming spot along Edgemont Road and is open every day of the week.
In the 1800s, merchants John Burr Whitlock and Squire Wood started the first business in Katonah — a general store. Today, The Whitlock Cafe honors the traditional meeting space from centuries past and brings a sense of community spirit over good food and good drinks with good friends. Enjoy their roasted Brussel sprouts with goat cheese, a veggie burger with cherry aioli, or a half roasted chicken with rosemary potatoes. Don’t forget to indulge in their incredible dessert options, too!
If there’s a line out the door, the Blue Dolphin Restaurant is certainly worth the wait. Residents of Katonah and surrounding neighborhoods flock to this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant for the absolute best culinary creations in a casual atmosphere. Located in the heart of Katonah, The Blue Dolphin features lunch and dinner dishes with fresh, local ingredients from an expansive menu. Try any one of the yummy homemade pasta dishes and don’t turn down the complimentary limoncello at the end of your meal!
Things to Do
Visit the Katonah Museum of Art, an accredited American Alliance of Museums organization, for unique exhibits, workshops, and programs. Focused on bringing exceptional art forms to the citizens of Katonah (and beyond), the Museum of Art showcases fine talent from around the globe from all time periods. The Learning Center for children is the only interactive space in Westchester County where children can explore and create art. The KMA also offers extensive outreach services to the community and local school districts.
Another exceptional cultural organization is the Caramoor Performing Art Center. Bringing talented performers and performances to Katonah, Caramoor enriches the lives of Katonah residents through music. Explore the lush grounds, tour the historic Rosen House, have a pre-concert picnic, and let the music transport you to another time and place in the expansive Venetian Theater or Spanish Courtyard. Offering programs for all ages year-round, visit the Caramoor for an intoxicating evening of beautiful music.
The John Jay Homestead is a State Historic Site offering education programs for all ages. Located on the stunning property of Founding Father John Jay, the homestead specializes in five generations of the Jay family history and how it relates to United States history. Experience the farm, original furniture, and documents, enjoy over 62 acres of green space to explore and attend tours, special exhibits, and family-friendly events throughout the year. The Homestead also hosts a popular History Camp every summer for children and provides the backdrop for the outdoor Farmers Markets on Saturdays during the spring, summer, and fall.
An interpretive farm merging history, agriculture, and wildlife care in a family-friendly atmosphere, Muscoot Farm is the ideal way to get outside and spend time with animals. Hike the trails, learn how to care for over 50 different animals, and experience the old-fashioned milk houses, ice house, and carriage house for a unique glimpse into the past. Visit the farm for special events throughout the year and enjoy quality time with adorable animals.
Schools
There are a few top-rated and high-achieving schools in the Katonah neighborhood. Some include:
