With its sweeping scenery, historic mansions and cultural treasures, it’s no wonder National Geographic named Hudson Valley one of the world’s best destinations. The region’s architectural landscape spans four centuries, from the elaborate Hudson River mansions of land grant patentees and capitalists to the modest farmhouses and working-class dwellings dispersed among its rural towns and villages.
The river was the lifeblood of the area’s early settlements and served as a conduit for trade with the larger English-speaking world. This prosperity created a wealth of cultural and natural assets that are now protected by the National Park System, the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Corridor and other regional parks and monuments.
The quaint towns that line the Hudson River and its tributaries are the heart of the region. They are where you’ll find renowned chefs creating farm-to-table cuisine at country inns and the famous Culinary Institute of America, as well as award-winning wines, craft breweries and a range of other culinary delights.
Explore the history and culture of the state at the New York State Museum and the jaw-dropping state capitol building in Albany. Take to the outdoors for a variety of warm-weather activities including kayaking, rock climbing, swimming, boating and golfing. And when fall arrives, head to bohemian New Paltz and Woodstock surrounded by mountains blanketed in colorful foliage for a peaceful retreat.
Get a bird’s eye view of the river and its surrounding hills and mountains on one of the cruises that ply the Hudson River in warmer months. On-board tour guides offer a bit of history and folklore as you motor past West Point, Bannerman Castle, the Great Estates area and other notable sites. Or, set sail on the historic sloop Clearwater for an up-close look at Hudson’s spectacular landscape.
The area’s natural beauty, its industrial past and its rich culture continue to draw visitors from all over the Northeast and around the world. Its majestic mountain peaks, serene lakes and sprawling riverfronts are perfect for hiking, picnicking, canoeing, biking and golfing.
There are a number of ways to experience Hudson Valley, from the rail-to-trail Hudson River Trail to scenic byways and bike paths. The renowned Hudson Valley Wine Trail showcases some of the region’s finest vineyards, and its performing arts scene is centered in a string of town halls and concert venues.
Getting to the Hudson Valley is easy, with intercity and commuter train services operated by Amtrak and Metro-North from NYC and other points throughout the Northeast. NY Waterway operates ferries between Haverstraw and Ossining in Rockland County, and Newburgh and Beacon in Orange and Dutchess Counties. Stewart International Airport (SWF) and Albany International Airport (ALB) are both a short drive from the region, offering commercial airline service. And of course, the region is dotted with marinas and boat launches, inviting you to set sail on Hudson’s smooth waters.