The Hudson Valley stretches from Westchester County to Albany, New York. The region is known for its orchards and vineyards. It’s also home to the sustainable food champion Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture. Here, you can taste wines and try local food. Here, you can also see how sustainable farming works.
The Hudson Valley is part of a larger area known as the Mid Hudson. Other counties in the area include Orange County, Dutchess County, and Ulster County. Though not officially included in the Hudson Valley, parts of Sullivan County and Green County are located in the region as well. The Hudson Valley is home to many small towns, villages, and farms.
The Hudson Valley was a major source of immigrants to New York. In 1609, Henry Hudson set out from the Netherlands to explore the region. He hoped to find a shortcut to Asia. Along the way, he encountered 17,000 native people. He also learned about the Hudson River, which was then known as Mahicanituck. Hudson’s explorations and settlements made the Hudson Valley a center for immigration. The region was also a key hub for the American Revolution, and was home to the Hudson River School of Painters.
The Hudson Valley is home to a wide range of recreational opportunities. The region is a major portion of the 3,200-kilometer-long Appalachian Trail. In the warmer months, the area attracts kayakers, rock climbers, swimmers, and boaters. In winter, the region is a haven for cross-country and downhill skiers. In addition, it is popular with snowboarders and snow tubers.
While in the Hudson Valley, don’t miss visiting the castle on Bannerman Island. It’s located in the Hudson Highlands State Park and offers incredible views of the Hudson Valley. However, you must be prepared to climb 70 steps to reach the ruins. There are unpaved paths, so if you’re not a strong hiker, you might want to skip this activity.
For art lovers, there’s no shortage of art museums and historic sites to explore. Among the finest is the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, where a renowned artist lived and painted. This site has 150 paintings by renowned artists. It’s also a popular place to see art exhibitions and lectures on the Hudson River School.
While you’re in the Hudson Valley, don’t miss the opportunity to see some of the many historic sites and natural wonders that surround the area. The area is full of mountains, lakes, mansions, animal sanctuaries, cultural institutions, and quirky villages along the river. It’s no wonder that New Yorkers flock here year-round to enjoy the region’s rich cultural and outdoor recreational activities.