The Hudson Valley and nearby Catskills are a favorite escape for travelers who want river views, mountain air, and small-town charm without sacrificing great food and culture. Days here can be as active or as slow as you want—waterfalls and trailheads, kayaking on the Hudson, antique shops and galleries, then a farm-to-table dinner that somehow tastes even better after a day outside. Fall is especially magical, when the hills turn into a sweep of color and every drive feels like a scenic route.
This home is tucked into quiet Germantown, a pastoral pocket of the Hudson Valley known for its farmland, historic estates, and easy access to some of the region’s best day trips. From here, you’re close to the river and just a short drive to beloved towns like Hudson and Rhinebeck for shopping, cafés, and weekend markets. You’re also well-positioned for iconic Hudson Valley sights—like Olana and Clermont—and if you’re craving bigger hikes and waterfalls, the Catskills are within reach for an easy adventure day before coming back to unwind in the calm of Germantown.
Things to See & Do:
-- Explore:
• Stroll Germantown and pop into local shops, galleries, and markets for an easy small-town afternoon.
• Spend a day in Hudson for antiques, bookstores, cafés, and a creative main-street scene.
• Head to Rhinebeck for charming boutiques, historic streets, and classic Hudson Valley dining.
• Take a scenic drive along Route 9G for Hudson River views and beautiful countryside.
• Make time for golden-hour river overlooks and spontaneous farm-stand stops.
-- Outdoor Adventures:
• Hike Kaaterskill Falls for one of the region’s most iconic waterfall trails.
• Kayak or canoe on the Hudson River for a peaceful, scenic paddle.
• Explore riverside paths and picnic spots throughout the area.
• Plan a Catskills day trip for bigger mountain views, deeper woods, and classic trail days.
-- Farms, Markets & Wine:
• Browse the Germantown Farmers’ Market for seasonal produce and local goods.
• Visit the Hudson Farmers’ Market for a lively weekend stop with regional vendors.
• Go wine tasting at nearby wineries like Hudson-Chatham Winery and Tousey Winery.
• Seek out local farm stands for fresh fruit, flowers, and Hudson Valley pantry staples.
-- Arts, Culture & Entertainment:
• Visit Olana State Historic Site for art, architecture, and sweeping Hudson River views.
• Tour Clermont State Historic Site for history, gardens, and a beautiful riverside setting.
• Check out Basilica Hudson for rotating art, music, and event programming.
• Explore Art Omi for an outdoor sculpture experience that feels like a hidden gem.
• Make a day trip to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill.
-- Dining & Shopping:
• Book a meal at Gaskins for a Hudson Valley farm-to-table favorite.
• Stop by Otto’s Market for coffee, provisions, and local treats.
• Explore Hudson’s food scene with spots like Lil’ Deb’s Oasis, Swoon Kitchenbar, and The Spotty Dog Books & Ale.
• Antiques and vintage lovers will have plenty to do in Hudson, with shops and warehouses worth wandering.
-- Golf Courses:
• Copake Country Club (Copake Lake)
• Rip Van Winkle Country Club (Palenville)
• Red Hook Golf Club (Red Hook)
• Catskill Golf Club (Catskill)
-- Annual Festivals & Events:
• Hudson Winter Walk (Hudson, NY)
• Basilica SoundScape (Hudson, NY)
• Hudson Valley Garlic Festival (Saugerties, NY)
• Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest (Rhinebeck, NY)
• Columbia County Fair (Chatham, NY)
• Hudson Jazz Festival (Hudson, NY)
• Seasonal riverfront and farmers’ market events (Germantown, NY)