Hi Sindee,
As someone who just moved back to WC recently, I can tell you that in recent years there has been an influx of people here, especially in the WP area.  I was born and raised here and I can tell you firsthand that it was never like this.  You now have new hotels, new restaurants, new shopping malls, and most importantly there are finally things to do on weekends such as movie theaters, bars (open til 3:30 a.m. or later), clubs etc…Surely, it is not quite NYC yet, but it is much improved.  Feel free to PM me for specific recommendations and have a nice weekend!

Residence Inn by Marriot and Crown Plaza are both good places to stay；they are close to the action in White Plains. Of course, there is always the Ritz Carlton in the heart of White Plains but a bit pricey