One of the most beautiful places in the United States, the Hudson Valley offers a variety of unique attractions. From leafy drives and farm-to-table restaurants to fruit festivals and vineyards, the area is sure to impress. In fact, it was named one of the top twenty destinations for travelers by National Geographic Traveler.
The Hudson Valley is also home to the world’s oldest wine-producing region. It is a great place to shop for local arts and crafts and is a hotspot for LGBT activities. Many people have found the area to be a warm and welcoming community.
For travelers, the best time to visit the Hudson Valley is in the fall or winter. This is when the scenery is at its most lush and colorful. During this time, the area is filled with leafy drives, farm-to-table restaurants, and the region’s most delectable regional delicacies. Getting around the area is easy, as there is a regular bus service and several trains to the city.
Besides being a gorgeous spot to travel to, the Hudson Valley is also home to many museums. Some of the more popular are the IBM Watson Research Center, the Hudson River School of Painters, and the Storm King Art Center.
Other notable landmarks in the Hudson Valley include the Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, which is the leading nonprofit farm in the region. The area is home to 400 animals rescued from factory farms. There are guided tours of the facility to see these magnificent creatures at work.
Another must-see attraction is the National Historical Park at Springwood. Located in Hyde Park, New York, this site was once the estate of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who grew up here. Today, the site is a national historic landmark.
The city of Kingston is another good jumping-off point for exploring the Hudson Valley. The area is home to a number of small towns and villages, including Saugerties, Woodstock, and Catskill. Shopping in the town is fun, as many shops offer handmade items, designer clothing, and owner-operated studios.
The Hudson hotel has a European-style cafe and an indoor-outdoor cocktail lounge with cozy fireplaces. For those looking to dine in, the restaurant serves fresh pastas, handmade pork chops, and trout.
Despite the many advantages of living in the Hudson Valley, the area has suffered from an economic downturn in recent years. In fact, it has seen a larger decline in employment than the rest of the state. Still, some residents have chosen to live in the area and have helped spur development. As a result, the cost of housing has increased significantly. While the valley is not the place to find a new job, it is still a great place to enjoy the charms of a town without the hassles of urban living.
Whether you are a foodie or a history buff, the Hudson Valley has something for everyone. It is an exciting mix of modern day and history.