From gnarled apple orchards and vineyards to a bustling farm-to-table scene and the oldest wine-producing area in America, the Hudson Valley offers the perfect antidote to urban life. Designated a National Heritage Area, this picturesque stretch of the river is steeped in history and natural beauty. Its landscapes inspired painters of the Hudson River School and its sweeping views continue to attract visitors, while a host of festivals and events showcase local food, music and art.
The region’s historic homes and estates offer a peek into the lives of tycoons, politicians, artists and other wealthy New York City residents who built summer or weekend retreats here in the mid-1800s. Now many of the houses are open for tours and some, like the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, offer special programs for kids and families. You can also explore Revolutionary War forts, battlefields and heritage sites or visit the Museum of Firefighting in Kingston.
Agricultural heritage continues to play an important role in the economy of the Hudson Valley. Today, the fertile black dirt supports a variety of crops and agricultural enterprises from cheese makers and artisanal bread producers to dairy farms and wineries. The region is the oldest fruit-producing area in the country and its sweeping vistas still inspire visitors, including the growing number of foodies drawn to its farm-to-table restaurants and thriving farmers markets.
In addition to a robust culinary scene, the Hudson Valley is also home to some of the country’s most significant outdoor attractions and adventure activities. You can take a scenic drive and marvel at the cliffs and water falls of Palisades State Park, explore the ruins of Fort Montgomery, hike to the top of Bear Mountain or explore a preserved hamlet in Kingston’s Stockade District that’s dotted with amazing 17th- and 18th-century Dutch Colonial architecture.
The best time to visit the Hudson Valley is in the fall, when leaves turn to gold and the region’s iconic peaks glow with fiery reds, oranges and yellows. The enchanting season also brings crisp, cool weather and crowds that thin out once the tourists have left for the beaches of Long Island. But the spring and summer are equally lovely, and you’ll find that the valley has a year-round appeal.