The pristine river, majestic mountains and historic treasures of the Hudson Valley have long drawn visitors from all over the Northeast. Today, it’s one of the nation’s most vibrant business centers with a high concentration of colleges and universities and an enviable economy powered by top technology companies and Fortune 500 firms.
The region stretches from Westchester County to Albany, the state capital. It’s dotted with old towns and new attractions. Its enduring agricultural industry spawned wine-making, craft beverage production and a flourishing food scene. There are farms to visit, small town delis and gourmet restaurants to try. And there are quaint shops and opportunities to score amazing antiques.
It’s not uncommon for seasoned New York City chefs to head north and open their own restaurants, where they can cook at their own pace and source ingredients from local farmers. You can find the likes of Anthony Bourdain, Grant Achatz and Cat Cora serving up fine dining with a farm-to-table bent at their restaurants throughout the region.
Gnarled apple trees laden with sweet red apples line the rural landscape in the Mid-Hudson region. And there are a growing number of artisan cheese, wine and yogurt farms. Dairy and beef cattle farms, poultry and egg production and horse farming round out the region’s agricultural offerings. The scenic views of the Hudson Highlands, including the rocky cliffs of Storm King Mountain and Breakneck Cliff, are some of the best in the state. They helped fuel the 19th-century Hudson River School and inspired landscape painter Frederic Church’s home, Olana, in the nearby village of Hudson.
The Upper Hudson Valley is a land of rolling hills and magnificent estates, as well as scenic river and mountain views. The area is also a cultural treasure trove with world-class art, theater and music, as well as an impressive array of historical sites.
A wide range of recreational activities lure intrepid explorers and comfort seekers alike. For outdoorsy types, there’s hiking, biking, kayaking and more. History buffs can learn about the region’s rich Dutch heritage and American Revolutionary War story. And for arts lovers, there’s an incredible selection of galleries and museums.
Located a short drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley includes the counties of Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Rockland, Sullivan and Ulster. The region’s scenic splendor, historical treasures, booming business climate and vibrant arts culture attract millions of visitors every year.
The renowned restaurant scene offers something for everyone. Those with a discerning palate will love sampling the cuisine created by students at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. Save room for a slice of streusel-topped Dutch apple pie. And for a taste of contemporary art, the Dia:Beacon museum in a former Nabisco box factory showcases large-scale works by Dan Flavin’s fluorescent light work, Michael Heizer’s “negative” sculptures and Louise Bourgeois’ multimedia paintings.