For centuries, the sublime locales along the Hudson River have captured the imagination of countless visitors. Henry Hudson described the region in 1609: “A beautiful, pleasant, healthy and delightful land, with excellent fields, great rivers, a fine harbor on both sides of it, and surrounded by mountains and woods.”
When a wealthy and well-travelled Dutchman named Frederick Van Der Donck visited New Netherland, he was just as impressed: “The scenery here is very pleasing and magnificent,” he wrote in a letter to his brother back home in Holland. “The hills are lofty and beautiful, with forests of very good timber, clear water, and fine soil.”
Since that time, the valley has lured nobles, politicians, businessmen and artists, each leaving their mark on the area. They built spectacular estates along the banks of the Hudson. The result is a stunning hodgepodge of architectural styles, from Victorian towers to Queen Annes with wraparound porches to Georgian mansions and Italianate designs. Some of the best-known historic sites include Rockefeller’s Kykuit, the Gilded Age Lyndhurst Mansion and the very pink Armour-Stiner Octagon House.
The valley also played an important role in the Revolutionary War and the birth of the United States of America. George Washington turned modern-day Newburgh into his headquarters for a year, and the battle of Stony Point was held there in 1779. Today, you can learn about the battle and other military history at the United States Military Academy, West Point.
The area’s historic heyday came to an end in the 19th century, however, as industry left town like so many other northeastern cities. The last cement plant shut down in 1975, and the remarkable historic buildings surrendered to neglect and decay. But then, the city reinvented itself with the help of a new group of people. They were antique dealers, and they brought with them a renewed interest in the area’s past. As a result, the Hudson Valley’s remarkable buildings have been restored and are once again welcoming visitors.
The valley also offers a variety of activities for all seasons. Spend warm-weather days kayaking, hiking, swimming, boating, golfing and taking in the breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountain ranges. When winter arrives, enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at nearby ski resorts. If you prefer to shop, browse boutiques and artisan-crafted goods in historic towns or head to the world-renowned Woodbury Common Premium Outlets.