The Hudson River Valley has long been a cradle of European settlement in the northeastern United States. This region was also a strategic battleground during colonial wars, primarily the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. Today, the Hudson Valley is home to a variety of industries from agriculture to breweries and more.
Craft villages
There are three major craft villages in the Hudson Valley–Catskill, Woodstock and Sugar Loaf–that are bursting with hand-crafted goods. In these shops, you’ll find everything from clothing and accessories to furniture and housewares that’ll make you feel right at home.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to try Huckleberry, where they’ve got the best double-smash burger in town and an equally killer menu that includes tacos, fried chicken sandwiches and more comfort classics. Or check out Mama Roux, which has a Southern-inspired menu that’s perfect for anyone who’s a fan of fried chicken and a brioche bun.
Museums
The region is home to a handful of notable museums, including the Neuberger Museum of Art in Purchase, New York. The collection is extensive and features an impressive array of works, from Renaissance masterpieces to modern African-American pieces.
Outdoor Activities
The best way to enjoy the natural landscape of the Hudson Valley is to go hiking, and there are plenty of places to do that. The trails are a great way to spend a day, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a spectacular sunrise.
When you’re done with your hike, take a break at one of the dozens of quaint little towns that line the Hudson River. These sleepy, charming towns have a lot of character and are packed with antiques, vintage stores and local restaurants.
You’ll also see a lot of historic buildings, most of which date back to the late 1800s. Some of the most fascinating are Bannerman Castle, an abandoned architectural wonder located on Pollepel Island near Beacon; and Olana, a country castle with Moorish accents that was home to Frederic Edwin Church, a founder of the Hudson River School of painting.
If you’re looking for some awe-inspiring outdoor art, opt for Opus 40, a 6-acre sculpture that was created by Harvey Fite. It took him 37 years to build it and it’s a sight to behold.
For more outdoorsy adventure, there’s also Mohonk Preserve, which is the perfect place to hike and explore the mountainside. The hiking trails here are all easy and well-marked, so it’s no problem for beginners.
Don’t forget to stop by the many reimagined hotels that are spread throughout the Hudson Valley. It’s the cheapest way to stay in the region, and you’ll be treated to a delicious meal at each one.
Pinball Map
There are a few different locations where you can play pinball in the Hudson Valley, and it’s a fun way to pass the time. Just download the map, print it out, and you’ll have a great idea of where to find the nearest machine.