A region renowned for incredible architecture, world-class hiking trails and a plethora of special towns, the Hudson Valley is a landscape like no other. Extend your next US city break with a trip outside the Big Apple to discover a thriving arts scene, gastronomic delights and a mighty river that runs through it all.
From the elaborate mansions of land grant patentees to the modest farmhouses and working-class dwellings scattered throughout rural villages, the Hudson Valley has a rich architectural heritage that spans nearly four centuries. The defining character of this distinctive landscape is the mighty Hudson River that flows through its towns and villages.
The valley’s rugged mountains, fresh air and evergreen forests were once a popular health retreat for those suffering from tuberculosis in nearby New York City. By the early 1900s, this area was also a destination for people seeking relief from urban pollution and stressors.
Its many farms produce a bounty of local products including wine, cider, cheese and apples. The sustainable-food champion Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture is a must-visit, as are the Storm King Art Center sculpture park and Dia:Beacon, where 20th-century artists’ large-scale work is showcased in a former factory.
As you make your way around the region, look out for awe-inspiring waterfalls and be sure to hike or bike to a stunning view at sunrise or sunset. A fall hike is especially beautiful when the leaves have fallen and the bare trees are accentuated by fog. Just be sure to check weather conditions before you head out, and always carry a first aid kit and plenty of water.
This region is also where some of the country’s most iconic artists have gathered to be inspired. One of the first was Thomas Cole, whose sketches of the valley’s natural beauty launched other artists to focus on depicting nature, a movement known as the Hudson River School. Today, visitors can walk in his footsteps at the Olana estate and gardens, or at the home of the painter Frederic Church.
The region is dotted with a range of interesting restaurants and bars, from the summer-camp-themed eatery Camp Kingston to Culture Cream, an ice cream shop with tropical vibes and exotic flavors like miso-and-roasted-strawberry. Kitty’s offers fun upscale-diner decor and seasonal menus featuring the produce of local farms, while the Hereafter has pressed-tin ceilings, warm lighting and flirty late-night crowds sipping cocktails such as the House Dirty martini, which uses oregano-infused gin.