From the sweeping views at the Hudson River Lighthouse B&B to the artisanal shops and scrumptious restaurants, there’s something for everyone in the hudson valley. The area’s pristine landscapes and rich history have inspired artists, writers and even presidents. Visit grand historic mansions, learn about American military history at West Point and explore quaint river towns to discover why this place is so special.
The region is a popular destination for New York City residents looking to escape the city life. It boasts a high concentration of colleges and universities, attracting a highly educated workforce. A booming economy also helps make the hudson valley one of America’s most affordable areas to live.
While many city-dwellers resent their small town roots, folks living in the hudson valley embrace them. They’ve done the hard-partying, 70-hour-a-week work and dank apartment-living and want to settle down in a community with more room to breathe. Plus, they’re still close enough to go back to the bright lights whenever the itch hits.
Unlike the rest of the country, most of hudson valley’s small towns are free from national chains. That’s probably thanks to the liberal culture in the area, where local farmers’ markets and artisanal shops abound. The abundance of artisanal goods combined with the region’s pro-local mentality means people here take buying local and organic seriously. You may get a lecture from your friends if you put non-organic produce in your fridge.
While the hudson valley has never been a center of vice, it was once a hotbed for debauchery and boasted more than 50 bars during its heyday in the first half of the 20th century. Today, however, it’s a bustling hub with amazing restaurants and quaint shops that are filled with opportunities to snag some awesome antiques. Warren Street is the main thoroughfare and is lined with bars, restaurants, a boutique hotel and an endless number of antique dealers.
The hudson valley has also helped to give rise to a nationwide culinary sensation: farm-to-table dining. Many of the region’s chefs and restauranteurs are known for their support of local agriculture and sustainable sourcing practices. The area also has a wide array of distillers that pour quality bottles of whiskey, gin, vodka and absinthe. And don’t forget that the hudson valley is home to The Culinary Institute of America, where future chefs train their craft.