Locals World NY / CT

A Neighborhood Guide to the Places We Actually Go

By Valerie Jana

There’s a quieter rhythm to life during the colder months in New York and Connecticut. The days get shorter, the sun sets around four, and if we’re not careful, it’s easy to lose ourselves in the rhythm of staying in. Some of us have made travel plans, but others are choosing to stay local — embracing this slower, inward season and figuring out what to do with the extra hours at home.

This guide is for those of us who are staying put, looking for that staycation vibe, and wanting to shake up our routines without going far. It’s about taking small steps: getting dressed, leaving the house, and discovering something new — a hidden bakery, a quiet trail, a cozy café, a market you’ve never visited — places that make you feel like you’ve landed somewhere completely new, even if it’s only a 20-minute drive from home. Think of it as your personal map to discovering little gems, recharging your spirit, and making the most of these slower, colder weeks.

Stay, Move & Breathe

Bedford Post Inn
More than just a beautiful place to stay, Bedford Post Inn also functions as a wellness hub for locals. They offer yoga classes, so whether you’re an overnight guest or a local stopping in for a meal and a class, it’s an easy way to fold movement into your day. A quiet moment, a good stretch, and a coffee afterward — it’s the kind of ritual that makes mornings feel luxurious and approachable at the same time.

Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (NY)
This is a New York destination through and through. During colder months, the trails can be icy and brisk — perfect for those who love crisp winter air. Bring a hiking buddy, layer up, or simply go for the scenery. Sometimes just wandering and breathing deeply is enough. Locals know: you don’t need to do the full trail to receive what the space offers.

Waveny Park (CT)
A favorite local trail in Connecticut, Waveny is ideal for walks or runs. The paths run alongside the highway, which might seem counterintuitive, but it’s perfect: you get the feeling of being in nature without feeling cut off from everything. A peaceful space for a morning run or a mindful stroll.

Wellness and Wellbeing

Katonah Yoga
Yoga was once a routine for me, and now I need to be more intentional with how I move my body — but this place is pure magic. Harriet is my favorite teacher, and her classes are restorative, grounding, and full of care.

Westchester Creative Arts Therapy
After returning home, my sister gifted me a class here, and I made an epic vision board. The space feels dreamlike — I’m pretty sure there’s even a tree inside — with candles and a truly sacred atmosphere. It’s one of those places where your creativity and soul feel fully seen.

Apollo Health
I’ve been going to this office 1–2 times per week for a while now. My chronic inflammation and pain have significantly decreased since starting treatment, and I’m slowly coming back online after years of not knowing what was going on. It’s become a cornerstone of my wellness routine.

Bakery Notes (Because Locals Plan Around Bread)

LMNOP Bakery
Crowded almost all the time thanks to nearby train traffic — but worth every minute. The cappuccino is one of the best in the area, and the sourdough is a staple locals return for again and again. If you go early, you can snag a quiet corner and enjoy the morning ritual with a good book or a friend.

Saisons Sucrées
A true French standout. Refined, intentional, and quietly exceptional, with desserts and restorative teas that feel absolutely divine. A special shoutout to Alexis, who took our recommendation and visited — this is how local culture spreads, one sweet suggestion at a time.

Ross Artisanal Bakery & Café (Ridgefield)
Perfect to pair with a stop at Ridgefield Organics & Specialty Market. This is a stock-up bakery: banana bread, English muffins, and absolutely grab a quiche for your fridge. Their ready-made food makes your week feel effortless.

Rise Doughnut (Wilton)
Yes, it’s a blood sugar high — but totally worth it. Incredible donuts in rotating flavors. I only discovered it recently through my sister in Wilton, and now it’s a must-stop anytime I’m in town.

maman (Westport)
A familiar favorite from my Miami Beach days, so seeing maman in Westport felt like a full-circle moment. The aesthetic, comfort, and quality are exactly what you’d expect — simple pleasures done really well.

Savory Moments (Where Locals Should Eat)

Hajime
Our go-to spot for takeout, especially on Thursdays. Spot-on, delicious Japanese cuisine that works beautifully as a cozy night-in ritual.

Chat
A warm, welcoming space for gatherings. We came here in memory of a dear friend, Tia, and it was exactly the environment we needed — comforting and intimate. (Note: maybe don’t order churros late at night — although the chef graciously accommodated our off-menu request.)

Greenology
Replacing Green & Tonic here — their juices are genuinely delicious and nourishing. A perfect pick-me-up or post-workout treat.

Pesca Peruvian Bistro
A hidden gem. You go downstairs (not street-level), creating a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. The Peruvian food is exceptional, and the staff are genuinely kind. I’ve loved coming here with both family and friends — it’s consistently excellent.

La Pescaderia Fish Market & Arepa
These arepas are crave-worthy. My favorite is the one with plantains and beef — absolutely delicious and worth a detour.

Blue Dolphin
Once a spot for dinners with friends, now my favorite for a quiet solo lunch. The pea soup is comforting, the bread excellent, and the pasta phenomenal. For dinner, ask for the chicken caprese instead of veal — crispy chicken with arugula, tomato, and a side of spaghetti. Incredible.

Markets We Love (Stock-Up Worthy)

Westport Farmers’ Market
Arguably the best market in the area. Don’t miss the espresso guy — even the cold brew is worth grabbing. Locals often stock up for the week.

New Canaan Farmers Market
A close second. Coffee is essential — take home a bottle of cold brew for later, you won’t regret it.

109 Cheese & Wine
Our go-to for holiday cheeses, especially Christmas. Exceptional selections from France and Spain, including jamón ibérico that tastes exactly like what you’d find abroad.

Moderne Barn Mediterranean Gourmet Market (Armonk)
Their spanakopita is shipped directly from Greece — not Greek-style, actually from Greece. A must-stop for Mediterranean delights.

Vintage Fashion & Thoughtful Shopping

This and That Vintage (Yellow Monkey Village)
A newer vintage shop with eclectic charm. Look for vintage white dresses, pins, and surprising gems. If you enjoy the hunt, you’ll find something unique.

Bring ’n Buy
Scavenger-style shopping at its best. From Zara sweaters to unexpected designer finds (I still think about a Coach coat I saw here), it’s a smart, fun alternative to malls and full-price stores.

Underground Co. (Ridgefield)
Curated and elevated. Think cozy cashmere sets, relaxed sweatpants, gloves, wrist warmers — pieces you’ll reach for daily. This is more a woman’s closet than a girl’s, and it’s impossible not to love.

Laurent Ranch (New Canaan)
Owner involved with Rising Star Horse Farm Rescue. Ponies outside during the holiday walk made this visit magical. The store is cool, Western-inspired, and soulful — a hidden gem.

Kerri Rosenthal (Westport)
Artist and designer, playful and inspiring. Sweaters with heart patches, neon details, and colorful artwork. Her studio is a space to reconnect with your inner child.

The Cottage (Pound Ridge, NY)
Sweet, locally owned, and thoughtful. Great for Christmas shopping — aprons, baby gifts, and handmade treasures. The owner even took one of our Locals Closet flyers, which meant so much.

Pennyweights
Affordable, high-quality jewelry. Sterling silver, gold huggies, studs — $20–$30. Perfect if you want something beautiful and low-risk.

The Huntress (Pound Ridge)
Home to the Locals Closet rack and our December 14th pop-up. The pop-up runs through the 28th, with another event planned in January — a true local hub.

Art, Culture & Local Services

Silvermine Arts Center
One of my favorite places to shake up the winter rut. Incredible artisan fairs, classes, and workshops. Take an in-person class if you can — your week will thank you. There’s also a café to make a full afternoon of it.

GrayBarns (CT)
Hotel, restaurant, and event space tucked into the Connecticut backwoods. City Country Beach once hosted a Max Mara event here. The café alone is worth visiting.

Rowan (Westport)
Licensed, professional ear piercing. Safe, clean, and done by registered nurses — no more worrying about infections or jewelry falling out.

Four Seasons Shoe & Bag Repair
A hidden gem in the same parking lot as Bring ’n Buy. Worth every penny — I restored a vintage Saint Laurent men’s handbag that belonged to my step-grandfather. Moldy, broken clasps, buttons falling off — now it looks brand new. Caring for what you already own is a Locals World value.

A Final Note

Locals World isn’t about doing everything — it’s about returning to the same places, building relationships, and letting your life be shaped by the spaces you choose. This NY/CT guide reflects that ethos: intentional, layered, and deeply local.

Whether you’re here for a weekend, a season, or a lifetime, I hope this guide helps you feel at home.

— Valerie Smith
Locals World 🤍