Tappan became my place of residence after I was hit over the head and dragged to the historic hamlet by my husband some 14 years ago. Being used to the rhythm of hustling and bustling New York City, I found the chatter of the crickets chirping kept me up at night. I didn't think I'd ever get used to living "upstate" (even though it's only 27 miles north of NYC).
To keep my sanity and urban flare, I commuted to the city where I worked in interior design and furniture sales. I would walk about a quarter of a mile from our house to the bus stop on Main Street, one of my favorite areas in Tappan outside of our house, which had definitely grown from the size of our overpriced New York City shoe box (size 10).
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| The Old 76 House |
The 9A and 20
Coach buses stop in front of
The Old 76 House, one of the oldest taverns in America. Besides the (now) restaurant's Sunday Brunch and being used as a
backdrop in the movie "Stepmom" starring Julia Roberts, Old 76 House is probably best known for the imprisonment of British spy captive,
John Andre before his execution in 1780.
Tappan is rich in Revolutionary War history. As a matter of fact, just around the corner from 76 House is the
DeWint House, one of the oldest surviving Colonial Dutch structures remaining in the County. It served as George Washington's headquarters 4 times during the war. It's a great place to visit with the family, especially on
Colonial Day (Sept. 28, 2013), which is like a journey back in time.
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| Colonial Day at the DeWint House |
Across from DeWint House is another favorite,
Tappan Memorial Park. It is located behind
Tappan Library, currently undergoing an extensive renovation designed by Orangetown's own local architect,
Jane Slavin. The kids and I visit frequently for new reads before heading out back to feed the ducks, picnic or to just listen to the rushing water from
Sparkill Creek. The tributary runs along the park's perimeter and is always a treasured visit.
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| Tappan Memorial Park |
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| Graffiti Art Workshop at Tappan Library |
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| Duck Feeding Behind Tappan Library |
After the birth of our youngest chick pea (now 6 years old), I no longer felt the need for daily ventures into the concrete jungle, though I do appreciate that it is within reach when I need a metropolitan fix. I began to embrace Tappan as our home and my role as mom, the nurturer and caretaker... who now looks forward to the sweet sounds that come with night fall. But until the day ends, when the kids are out from school, we explore.
The Joseph B. Railtrail and the Schaefer Park Nature Trail located behind William O. Schaefer elementary school are two of our local nature exploits year round. During the summer there is open play at the
South Orangetown Central School District (SOCSD) school sites and a day camp run by
Orangetown at the German Masonic Park Grounds.
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| Joseph B. Railtrail |
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| Schaefer Park Nature Trail |
I love living so close. Just minutes away. No need to waste gas, but if you don't live in the neighborhood, be sure to save money on fuel by crossing the border and buying gas in neighboring New Jersey. Northvale (Bergen County) is just a hop from Tappan. Besides discounted fuel, Bergen is also loaded with places to shop and dine.
Tappan offers quite a variety in the food department as well. Our favorites for food besides 76 House are Stateline Family Restaurant on Route 303,
Mimi's Plate for organic take out and
Lilo's for Italian and pizza. Others eateries to check out in Tappan are
Il Portico, Guilio's, The Commissary, Morgans and
Mezzaluna. And if you are just in the mood for a slice or a deli sandwich there is
Bob's Pizzeria, as well as I O U Deli both located on Old Tappan Road.
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| Sitting outside of Mimi's Plate |
There is so much to this little town besides the peace and quiet. With all that Tappan has to offer, you may want to consider it for a new home for you and your family. And if you need a realtor to show you around, I just so happen to know
a good realtor who lives right in the neighborhood.
;-)
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