Wesley Hills, New York was once a smokey sort of place -- thousands of cigars were produced by W. Spencer Forshay's Cigar manufacturing company in the mid to late 1800s. The air's all clear now though in this pretty town just north of the Big Apple.
Wesley Hills is a village that's adjoins the larger town of Ramapo in Rockland County, NY. With a population of 5,628 as of the 2010 census, this community of 4.5 square miles is only 15 minutes from the Tappan Zee Bridge and 30 minutes from the heart of New York City. Route 306 leads you north and south.
Moving to Wesley Hills
Vacancy rates are low here, so be prepared to give yourself about a month to find that apartment rental or home rentals. Look in the "Ramapo Times" or the "Rockland County Times" to find a rental apartment, including luxury apartments, available. Check online options and of course, take the time to drive through the community -- some rentals you can only find by looking for those "For Rent" signs placed in a yard or window.
What to Bring on Your Home Search
You'll want to bring your ID, your employment and rental background, and proof of employment. Self employed renters do well to bring bank statements or tax returns -- or even both -- for a landlord's perusal. Be prepared to undergo a credit check, too. Remember, this is a well regarded community and there's plenty of competition for properties and rental apartments, so put your best foot forward.
Neighborhoods in Wesley Hills
Wesley Hills is a small community contained in a single neighborhood. Suburban in density, you'll find that people love it here -- and that's why vacancy rates are low. Most homes and small apartment buildings were built between 1940 and 1999. The community is close to lovely Harriman State Park where wildlife abounds -- so you may find deer or wild turkeys about the neighborhood. The occasional gentle gobble gobble may be the most noise you hear in town -- this is a quiet community which offers plenty of opportunities to take a stroll and enjoy community gatherings or sports activities in Willow Tree Park.
Commuting time can take as much as 35 minutes, but you may not need a car -- there's plenty of public transit to take you from this quiet village to the nightlife in the "city that never sleeps," New York, New York.
Living in Wesley Hills
Yes, Wesley Hills is a peaceful community with tree lined streets, the State Park near by for exploring and hiking, and access to great public transit if you need to get your big city fix going -- like a trip into NYC to see a Broadway play, for example. However, there's plenty to do right here in town, too.
Annually, Wesley Hills Day takes place in the fall in Willow Tree Park. That means Kosher hot dogs, popcorn, sodas, music, children's games, and crafts. It's a great time to meet your neighbors and enjoy a picnic in the park.
Year 'round, village attractions are many and varied. You don't have to hit Times Square to take in live theater performances -- there's the Antrim Playhouse right in town.The Antrim players have been staging community theater plays since 1936, and stages several shows every year. Kids will delight in the playground and paths at Greg Sikorsky Children's Park. And Willow Tree Park has a stocked pond for fishing, a large nature area, and a walking and jogging path. In fact, the entire local area is well known for its lush parks.
Want to take a swing at life here? New York Country Club, Rockland County's premier public golf course is a great place to take your shot at it. Not into golf? Join the cheers for the local minor league baseball team, The Rockland Boulders.
You won't go hungry around the village, either. There are many dining options both in and around Wesley Hills, from A to V -- that's American to Vietnamese, with everything in between. Local spot Bubba's is a big hit for breakfast and brunch, and Marcello's Restaurant is an Italian favorite. The Vietnam Restaurant serves up plenty of spring rolls, while you can get your taco fix on at the El Bandido. Shopping options are also in copious supply -- Nanuet Mall is just a few minutes away.