Village of Hastings-on-Hudson   Distance to NYC: 19 miles Area: 2 square miles   Hastings-on-Hudson manages to blend the sophistication of Manhattan with friendly, relaxed, small-town charm - the best of both worlds. The Village's 7,600 residents come from diverse backgrounds, but are drawn together by a great pride in their unique community, which is only 20 miles from midtown Manhattan. Lawyers, doctors, artists, writers, musicians, professors, plumbers and municipal workers live together in this 2 square mile Village on the banks of the Hudson River. Diverse not only in its demo-graphics, there is a wide variety of architectural styles with Tudors, Colonials, Victorians, Contemporaries, and Ranches tucked along roads that wind up and down the hills. The shopping district offers four independent book stores, small boutiques offering designer creations to everyday children's wear, a hardware store, a toy store, and plenty of tempting eateries.   Educational Facilities The community has high academic expectations and this strong support contributes to the success of the Hastings-on-Hudson schools. There are 1,713 students enrolled in the district's three award-winning schools (Hillside Elementary School, Farragut Middle School and Hastings High School), with class size averaging 20. Teachers focus on the development and promotion of academic and cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and appreciation for the arts, society and the world. Because of the size of the district, staff members know each student and each family and promote parental and community involvement in the educational process.   Recreational Facilities For recreation and cultural pursuits, villagers have a number of options. In the late 1800's Hastings was home to the renowned Hudson River School artist Jasper Cropsey and today his home and studio is open to visitors. The work of another notable former resident, sculptor Jacques Lipchitz, is on display outside the recently expanded Library. Bikers and hikers use the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway or the old Putnam railway which run through the Village. Stunning views of the Palisades and Manhattan skyline can be had from the MacEachron Waterfront Park. The 100 acre Hillside Park has a pool, tennis courts, nature trails and a pond for fishing and ice skating. Other parks include the home of John Draper and Zinnser Park bordering the site of a Revolutionary War battle.   Houses of Worship Two Catholic Churches, one Community, one Lutheran, one Episcopal, one Reformed and one Jewish Reform Temple.