Just north of New York City, the Hudson Valley is a treasure chest filled with rich history and stunning natural beauty. It’s a place where grand historic mansions are set against sweeping landscapes and the natural beauty of mountains, rivers and lakes inspires artists and writers. From a rich cultural landscape, including renowned West Point Military Academy and Storm King Art Center to the culinary delights and shopping at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, the region offers something for everyone.
The ten counties of the Hudson Valley—Rockland, Westchester, Orange, Putnam, Dutchess, Ulster, Columbia, Greene and Rensselaer—are all unique, but all share the iconic Hudson River running through them. This geographic feature has shaped the area’s rich culture and influenced its architectural history. From the elaborate mansions of wealthy land-grant patentees and capitalists to the modest farmhouses and working class dwellings scattered throughout the hamlets and villages, this region is home to buildings that span four centuries and reflect a broad spectrum of styles, periods and classes.
Before the arrival of Europeans, indigenous tribes called the Hudson Valley home. The Lenape and the Mohican branch of the Algonquin people lived here, along with the Wappinger and Mahican tribes of the Haudenosaunee. These people embraced the bounty of the landscape and developed spiritual traditions to honor it.
The Hudson River itself was considered treacherous, and areas like World’s End were feared as haunted by wild animals and snakes. But as the population of tuberculosis sufferers increased in early 19th century New York City, the Hudson Valley took on a different persona. It became a popular destination for health retreats. People believed the fresh air and the majesty of the mountains and forests would cure their diseases.
In the mid-1700s, a painter named Thomas Cole came to the valley and was inspired by its natural beauty. His paintings of the scenery helped launch the Hudson River School painting movement.
Today, visitors still flock to the valley to take in its pristine landscapes and enjoy the arts scene. The Dia: Beacon museum is not your average art gallery, blending industrial history and contemporary art with exhibits from icons like Warhol and Beuys. The landscape also serves as the inspiration for a number of exciting festivals and events, from the mad-capped wonders of the New York Renaissance Fair to the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze and everything in between.
For outdoor adventurers, hiking trails are plentiful at the Mohonk Preserve and other national parks in the region. In the village of New Paltz, you can explore the Historic Huguenot Street, a National Historic Landmark District featuring seven stone houses, a church, a graveyard and even an Esopus Munsee Wigwam. And for music lovers, Woodstock is the place to be, offering a plethora of music venues and restaurants that pay homage to the musical mecca’s illustrious past.