Westchester Food Itinerary | New York City

We've become an instant fan of the reverse commute.

With the roads quiet on the weekends, a trip to Westchester is but a quick sprint and an effortless way to take in a full day of clean air, rustic exploring and tasty eats. (Click here to see the full itinerary–with photos!)

Start at the northernmost point, in Bedford, where stone walls and gravel lanes spill out over the countryside. Pop in for a visit at Richard Gere's inn for yoga and breakfast; a roaring fireplace and crisp-edged Dutch pancakes with a diminutive pitcher of New York maple syrup await.

From there, head south to explore Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture. Then it's back in the car to discover Tarrytown's old-fashioned Main Street–and with it, serious coffee and whimsical shopping.

Westchester's own Captain Lawrence Brewing Company beckons with its brand-new tasting room and brewery. Finally, round out your full day with dinner alongside the banks of the Hudson River at the Cookery in Dobbs Ferry.

Turns out those commuters have it figured out after all.