Located just north of New York City, the Hudson Valley is steeped in history and natural beauty. Designated a National Heritage Area, this pristine region offers leafy drives, wineries and plenty of farm-to-table foodie options.
This is also a destination for artists, where many of the townships have dedicated arts districts. There are also a number of museums and galleries. There are also opportunities for outdoor recreation in the summer and winter.
In the summer, residents can go kayaking, canoeing, hiking, golfing and swimming in the river or at one of the several lakes. The mountains of the Catskills offer a variety of winter sports, including downhill and cross-country skiing, snow tubing, skating and snowboarding.
There are a variety of festivals in the region, many of them focused on a particular theme or food. The Hudson Valley is also home to the Culinary Institute of America, so there are plenty of opportunities to get inspired and learn some new cooking skills.
Those interested in history can find plenty to explore, from Revolutionary War forts and battlefields to the estates of old-money industrialists like John D. Rockefeller and Frederick William Vanderbilt. The valley’s magnificent scenery also inspired the Hudson River School of Painters.
The area has a growing arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios featuring local and international art. Some are located in quaint historic towns, while others are set in more modern spaces. The area is also a popular spot for performing arts, with venues offering everything from classical music to contemporary dance.
Those looking to shop can take advantage of the abundance of locally-owned boutiques and shops that sell high-end clothing and gifts. There are also a number of independent bookstores in the region.
For those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of big-city life, the Hudson Valley is a great place to settle down and enjoy the slow pace of small-town life. The people here are often referred to as “upstaters.” This term is usually used to refer to those who live in the region north of Manhattan and west of the Tappan Zee Bridge.
This is a place where people are generally friendly and welcoming. It can be a bit of a culture shock to someone who is from New York City, where the general approach to life is “be nice, but keep your eyes forward and mind your own business.” People here are happy to chat, especially with visitors from the city.