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Somers

Somers, New York, United States

Nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley region of New York, Somers offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and charming small-town atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination for trave…

#Somers#New York#United States#Suburban#Rural

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Somers.

Top Hotels in Somers

Top Flights to Somers

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Somers.

Tours

Somers Historical Sites Tour

Explore the historic landmarks and sites in Somers, New York.

Shopping

Somers Town Shopping Plaza

A charming shopping area with a variety of shops and dining options.

Outdoor

Angle Fly Preserve Hiking

Enjoy a day of hiking at the scenic Angle Fly Preserve with trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Somers.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

18.5 thousand

Languages

Dutch, Dutch, French, German

Average weather

Somers

Jan

2°-6°

Feb

4°-5°

Mar

9°-1°

Apr

15°4°

May

21°9°

Jun

26°14°

Jul

29°17°

Aug

28°16°

Sep

24°12°

Oct

18°6°

Nov

11°1°

Dec

5°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Somers.

What people love

Somers, New York, located in Westchester County, has several attractions and advantages for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Somers include:

Natural Beauty: Somers is known for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the area's numerous parks and nature reserves.
Historic Sites: Somers has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Travelers can explore historic sites such as the Elephant Hotel, which was once a popular inn for travelers in the 19th century, as well as the nearby Van Cortlandt Manor and Philipsburg Manor.
Cultural Attractions: The town of Somers and its surrounding areas offer a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theaters. Visitors can experience local art and music scenes, as well as attend events and festivals throughout the year.
Proximity to New York City: Somers is located just a short drive or train ride away from New York City, making it a convenient base for exploring the Big Apple while enjoying a quieter, more rural setting for accommodations.
Dining and Shopping: Somers and the surrounding towns offer a range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine. Visitors can also browse local boutiques, antique shops, and farmers' markets for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Overall, traveling to Somers, New York, provides a mix of natural beauty, history, culture, and proximity to urban attractions, making it a desirable destination for a relaxing getaway or a base for exploring the Hudson Valley region.

What to know

Somers, New York is a charming town with a lot to offer visitors, but there are a few potential cons to keep in mind when traveling there:

Limited public transportation: Somers is a small town with limited public transportation options. If you don't have access to a car, getting around may be more challenging.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Somers does have some great restaurants and local attractions, the town may not have as many dining and entertainment options as larger cities.
Limited accommodation options: Somers is a smaller town, so there may be fewer accommodation options compared to larger cities. It's important to plan ahead and book your accommodations early, especially during peak travel seasons.
Weather considerations: Somers, like the rest of New York, experiences all four seasons. Depending on when you visit, you may encounter extreme weather conditions such as snowstorms in the winter or high temperatures in the summer.
Limited shopping opportunities: Somers is not known for its shopping scene, so if you're looking for a wide variety of retail options, you may need to travel to a nearby city.

Overall, while Somers is a lovely town with a lot to offer visitors, it's important to be aware of these potential cons when planning your trip.

Somers, New York, is a town located in the northeastern part of Westchester County. Its history is rich with significant events, notable figures, and important landmarks.

Early History:

Native American Origins: Before European settlement, the area that is now Somers was inhabited by the Kitchawank, a subgroup of the Wappinger tribe.
European Settlement: The land was first settled by European colonists in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Early settlers were primarily of English and Dutch descent.

Formation and Naming:

Town Formation: Somers was officially established in 1788, although its roots go back further as part of the colonial precincts. It was originally part of the town of Stephentown, which was later divided.
Naming: The town was named after Richard Somers, a naval hero from New Jersey who died during the First Barbary War.

Significant Events and Figures:

Eleazar Hart: A prominent early settler who contributed to the development of the town.
P.T. Barnum: Somers is often credited as the "Cradle of the American Circus" because of Hachaliah Bailey. Bailey, an early resident, bought an African elephant named "Old Bet" and began touring with her, laying the groundwork for the American circus tradition. P.T. Barnum, a famous showman, would later build upon this tradition.

Important Landmarks:

Elephant Hotel: This historic building was constructed in 1825 by Hachaliah Bailey and served as a hotel. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark and houses the Somers Town Hall and the Museum of the Early American Circus.
Somers Historical Society: Located within the Elephant Hotel, it preserves the town's history and offers exhibitions related to the town and the circus.
Angle Fly Preserve: A 654-acre nature preserve that provides trails and natural habitats, preserving the area's ecological heritage.
St. Luke's Episcopal Church: Established in the 19th century, this church is a significant historic and architectural site in Somers.

Development and Growth:

19th Century: The town grew as a rural community with agriculture as a primary industry.
20th Century: With the advent of the automobile and improved transportation, Somers evolved into a suburban community, attracting residents who commuted to New York City.

Modern Day:

Community and Economy: Today, Somers is a residential community known for its quality of life, excellent schools, and historical charm. It is part of the New York metropolitan area, and many residents commute to work in nearby cities.
Preservation Efforts: The town places a strong emphasis on preserving its historical sites and maintaining its rural character amidst suburban development.

Overall, Somers, New York, is a town with a rich historical background, rooted in early American history and the unique legacy of the circus. Its landmarks and community efforts continue to reflect its historical significance.