The hudson valley is not all Ichabod Crane and Sleepy Hollow (although Washington Irving’s stories do resonate from Tarrytown north to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge). It is also a string of quaint small towns, surrounded by majestic nature. It is home to both the traditional (county fairs, farm stands and antique shops) and the new (theater companies, coffee shops and outdoor sculpture parks).
A good place to begin your Hudson Valley adventure is Tarrytown, a historic town that was once home to de facto New York City nobility. From here, head up north to the Catskills for a quick hike or some easy-going outdoor recreation. There is no shortage of things to do in the woods, from a picnic at Kaaterskill Falls to skiing at Hunter or Windham.
From there, continue your upstate journey to Beacon, a young professional’s and artist’s paradise. Its gleaming Beacon Art Museum houses some of the best modern art in the country, and its curvaceous Frank Gehry building resembles The Wall from Game of Thrones, but there’s more to this charming town than that.
The town is a cultural hub, with a bustling arts scene and a number of small liberal arts colleges. Bard, Vassar and Marist are among the schools that call Beacon home. But it’s not all about the students: Many locals savor the slower pace of life here, and appreciate that New York City is only a short train ride away.
One thing you’ll notice when traveling around the region is that it’s packed with apple products. This is due to the region’s thriving agricultural industry, and there are plenty of spots to pick your own fruit. Whether you enjoy them in a pie, in a tart or in some other form of deliciousness, these fruity delights are a true Hudson Valley treat.
You can also find a plethora of farm-to-table options in the area, as well as small wineries and breweries. This is thanks in part to the thriving foodie culture here, which has led to the formation of some Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand restaurants. The Culinary Institute of America is also based here, so be prepared for some seriously inspired cooking.
Unlike people in other remote regions of the state, most residents of the Hudson Valley like their small town lifestyles. They might not come right out and say it, but they know that their city, village or hamlet is an idyllic retreat from the hustle of big-city life. Plus, they have the advantage of being just a short drive or train ride from the cultural center of New York City. This makes them a little more stoked about living here than their counterparts in other parts of the state.