The rolling hills, dramatic peaks and quaint small towns of the hudson valley aren’t far from New York City. Its four seasons, historic sites and natural beauty have inspired painters, poets and novelists for centuries—and it continues to charm visitors today.
Whether you’re in search of a place to hike, eat or buy an antique, there’s something here for everyone. Here’s the best of what the area has to offer.
1. A Sense of Community
There’s a strong sense of pride here, even among the smaller cities and towns that make up the hudson valley. People here take their local restaurants and farmers markets seriously. In fact, they may take them too seriously. If you show up at your friends’ artisanal cheese shop with an Applebee’s or a Starbucks bag in tow, you might be in for a healthy lecture on organic foods and GMOs.
The region’s residents are also known for their liberal views on a whole slew of issues, including LGBTQ rights. In fact, it’s widely considered one of the most LGBT-friendly areas in the country. From Woodstock to New Paltz, the area is home to a number of gay and lesbian organizations and events, including the annual Hudson Valley Pride march and festival.
2. A Love for Nature
There is a lot to love about the outdoors here, with hiking and biking trails throughout the region. It’s also a popular kayaking destination thanks to its pristine rivers and lakes, with several outfitters offering rentals and instruction.
3. A History of Art
The stunning scenery of the hudson valley inspired some of the most famous American painters of the 19th century. Visit the home and landscape of Hudson River School artist, Frederic Church, or tour the grounds at Olana, the estate of another famous Hudson River School painter, Thomas Cole.
4. An Unrivaled Autumn
September through November is flat-out gorgeous here, with colorful forests and rolling hills bursting with color. The scenic vistas and rippling waterways make for a truly unforgettable experience.
5. Small Liberal Arts Colleges
There are plenty of colleges in the hudson valley, including Bard, Vassar, Mount Saint Mary, Marist and more. That makes for an extremely lively cultural scene and a lot of young energy. Getting around the region is easy, too. The Metro North train runs all the way up to Poughkeepsie, making it an ideal commuter destination for those who live in New York City but work in the valley.
6. A Rich Heritage
The Hudson Valley is one of the most historically important National Parks in the United States and has been the subject of countless stories and essays by authors, artists and historians. Its rugged highlands, historic villages and charming towns offer an escape from urban life that’s both relaxing and intellectually stimulating. The area continues to inspire painters, writers and musicians to this day, with a variety of attractions to draw in visitors. Learn more about hudson valley with our interactive map, created in partnership with the National Park Service.