Friends of Kensico Cemetery, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, invites the public to discover a side of Kensico Cemetery where history, nature, and art intertwine beneath towering trees and along winding paths. Throughout May into June, free evening walking tours will offer visitors a chance to explore the stories and natural wonders that make Kensico one of Westchester’s most fascinating cultural landscapes.
Each tour runs from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. and will highlight various topics, from legendary New Yorkers and innovators to rare trees, ecological challenges, and curious burial lore.
Historical Tours with Patrick Raftery
Two historical tours will be led by Patrick Raftery, Associate Director and Librarian at the Westchester County Historical Society and a board member of Friends of Kensico Cemetery, on four separate dates.
Lake View Tour
Tuesday, May 5 • Thursday, May 7
Visitors will encounter world-famous architects and artists, a muckraking journalist and writer, and even the man responsible for revolutionizing the world of sandwiches, all set against scenic views and surprising stories.
Ossipee Loop Tour
Tuesday, May 12 • Thursday, May 14
This route uncovers a remarkable cross-section of American culture, including a baseball legend and his boss, two prolific inventors, a movie-theater pioneer, a World’s Fair enigma, a Broadway benefactor, and a charming “Sentimental Gentleman”.
Where Nature and History Meet: Tree & Landscape Tours
As part of the Kensico Cemetery Arboretum’s Level II Arboretum programming, the only Level II Arboretum in Westchester County, two special nature tours will explore the living landscape that defines Kensico’s 470 acres.
Tree & Landscape Tour
Tuesday, May 26 — led by Mike Cook, ISA Certified Arborist and Superintendent of Grounds
Thursday, May 28 — led by David Prosser, ISA Certified Arborist and Land Steward, Pound Ridge Land Conservancy
Guests will learn how centuries of tree plantings and ecological shifts have shaped Kensico’s landscape. Highlights include a 170-year-old oak, the puzzling phenomenon of tree knees, and the ongoing fight against invasive species.
Invasive Species Walk
Wednesday, June 11 — led by David Prosser
Prosser will host a new Invasive Species Walk exploring how non-native plants, insects, and other invaders threaten the health of both cultivated and wild environments.
Tours Are Free, Registration Required Donations are welcome. Reserve your spot at kensico.org/events. Directions and additional details will be provided in the confirmation email.