A Scenic Escape with Top Schools and Historic Charm
Looking for a picturesque, tight-knit community with plenty of space, top-rated schools, and easy access to the city? Briarcliff Manor checks all the boxes. This Hudson River village, just 30 miles north of Manhattan, was once a Gilded Age retreat for elite families like the Vanderbilts and Astors. Today, it’s a sought-after suburb known for its grand homes, strong community vibe, and access to incredible outdoor spaces.
Here’s what makes Briarcliff Manor a standout spot for suburban living.
1. Spacious Homes with Historic Charm
Briarcliff Manor is a town where history and modern living intersect. Once a Gilded Age retreat for New York’s elite, today it’s a go-to for buyers looking for a mix of classic homes, new construction, and everything in between. The village is known for its tree-lined streets, historic charm, and a range of housing options—from historic estates to more traditional single-family homes and townhouses.
For a glimpse into the area’s past, take a drive by Sleepy Hollow Country Club—originally a 140-room mansion built in 1895 for the Vanderbilts. Today, it’s one of the region’s most prestigious clubs, offering golf, tennis, and sweeping views of the Hudson River.
2. A+ Schools That Consistently Rank Among the Best
Briarcliff Manor’s public schools consistently earn high marks for academics, college readiness, and student success. In 2024, Niche ranked the district 12th best in New York State. Younger students benefit from top-rated schools. Todd Elementary School and Briarcliff Middle School have both received the National Blue Ribbon designation.
Briarcliff High School recently placed among the top 40 high schools in the state and within the top 300 nationwide according to U.S. News & World Report. The school offers a strong mix of AP and honors courses, plus hands-on programs in STEM, the arts, and humanities. With small class sizes and supportive faculty, students get the kind of individualized attention that helps them excel—whether they’re preparing for college or exploring career paths.
Outside the classroom, Briarcliff High School has something for everyone. Sports, music, theater, and a wide range of student-run clubs bring the community together, while leadership and volunteer programs encourage students to get involved beyond school grounds. It’s no surprise families prioritize this district—the combination of academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and a close-knit community makes Briarcliff Manor a top choice for many suburban buyers.
3. Endless Outdoor Adventures Right in Your Backyard
Love hiking, biking, or just getting outside? Briarcliff Manor makes it easy. The village is home to seven parks and two scenic trails:
- Old Croton Aqueduct Trail – A 26.5-mile path that stretches from the Bronx to the Croton Dam, perfect for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
- North County Trailway – A 22.1-mile paved trail that runs through northern Westchester, connecting to other regional trail systems.
Briarcliff Manor is also a stone’s throw from Rockefeller State Park Preserve, a sprawling 1,700-acre retreat with miles of carriage roads, scenic overlooks, and some of the best leaf-peeping in the region. And, for a touch of history, the legendary Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is just minutes away, where Washington Irving—the author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—is buried.
4. Golf Courses with a View
Golf enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Briarcliff Manor. The exclusive Sleepy Hollow Country Club boasts a 27-hole course designed by C.B. Macdonald, plus an indoor golf training center. Overlooking the Hudson River, this club blends history, luxury, and championship-level play.
For another option, Trump National Golf Club Westchester offers a challenging course and a massive 75,000-square-foot clubhouse, attracting golfers from across the region.
5. A Scenic, Easy Commute to NYC
A quick and stress-free commute? That’s a major perk of living in Briarcliff Manor. Residents can catch the Metro-North Hudson Line from the Scarborough station, reaching Grand Central Terminal in about 45 minutes. Bonus: The train ride offers some of the most stunning river views in the region—making your daily commute a little more enjoyable.
6. Fun for the whole family
Living in Briarcliff Manor comes with an all-access pass to some amazing public facilities. Swing by one of the village’s nearly a dozen tennis courts, including an all-seasons court, or challenge friends on the six pickleball courts. Kids can play neighboring teams on the village’s nearly half a dozen baseball and soccer fields or shoot hoops on one of four basketball courts.
When the temperature rises, cool off in Briarcliff Manor’s Olympic-size pool or let the little ones splash around in the 30-foot wading pool. Looking for a break from the action? Enjoy storytime at the Briarcliff Public Library housed in the historic former village train station. And on summer evenings, meet up with friends and neighbors for a free outdoor concert in Law Memorial Park.
Is Briarcliff Manor Right for You?
Briarcliff Manor offers a mix of historic charm, outdoor adventure, and top-rated schools, all within easy commuting distance of Manhattan. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet vibrant community with plenty of space and access to nature, it might be the perfect fit.
More Westchester Towns We Love
Curious about what other towns Westchester has to offer? Take a peek a few of our favorites:
For more insights, visit SJ’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
Ready to explore? Schedule your free initial strategy call and let’s start planning your town tours now.
