Peekskill Museum
Housed in the Herrick House, designed by William R. Mead of the famous architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, it displays tools and products from the local foundries; items from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars; furnishings; clothing and more. On the lawn outside is the cannon used to fire on the British ship "Vulture" and thwart the British spy, Major John André, and his return to New York City with plans of West Point. Open Saturdays, 2 - 4 p.m. from June - October, and by appointment. 124 Union Avenue. (914) 737-6130.

Cortlandt Museum
Explore the region's rich history in this new museum located in the building which first served as Cortlandt's town hall and jail. The museum will be open from 1-3 p.m. on the second Saturday and third Sunday of each month as well as from 7-9 p.m. the fourth Wednesday. Donation.

Hudson River Kayaking
Atlantic Kayak Tours, the largest sea-kayaking company in the tri-state area, paddles in locations along the Hudson River from New York City to the Albany area -- with many launches, accessible by train, for beginner and intermediate kayakers from the Peekskill area. The staff is talented and friendly and the equipment is first rate. There is nothing like the experience of actually paddling on the Hudson River. http://members.aol.com/KayakTours

M/V Commander
The historic excursion boat sails from Peekskill's Riverfront Green at 12:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of every month from May - October, for a three-hour narrated cruise north into the Hudson Highlands. Reservations required. (914) 534-7245. http://www.seahistory.org/

Paramount Center of the Arts
Built in 1930 as a movie palace, the Paramount is a performing arts center that hosts top quality live entertainment, movies, gallery showings and educational programs. The marquee and doors have recently been restored thanks to the fund-raising efforts of committed volunteers. 1008 Brown Street. (914) 739-2333. http://www.paramountcenter.org/

Peekskill Celebration
A three-day festival during the first weekend in August, the city lets out all stops to celebrate its heritage, diversity, culture and location. Music, food, carnivals, tall ships, arts and crafts, special exhibits - and the most spectacular fireworks of the year. http://www.peekskillcelebration.com/