The Catskills and Hudson Valley are fantastic destinations for anyone looking to escape the city and experience a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and small-town charm. This region is famous for its rolling mountains, lush forests, and scenic river views—perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, or simply soaking up the outdoors. In autumn, the foliage is truly spectacular, painting the landscape in vibrant colors. Throughout the area, you’ll discover a unique mix of history and creativity, with beautifully preserved architecture, art galleries, boutique shops, and a thriving farm-to-table dining scene featuring fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Weekend markets, cozy cafés, and a welcoming community vibe are found in every corner. The region is rich in culture, with attractions like Olana, Clermont State Historic Site, and regular art shows, music events, and seasonal festivals. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a foodie experience, the Catskills and Hudson Valley deliver it all—making any of these charming towns a perfect home base for exploring this special corner of New York.
Hudson is a vibrant city that has reinvented itself as a cultural and culinary hotspot in the Hudson Valley. Once a whaling port, Hudson now draws artists, designers, and foodies with its eclectic mix of antique shops, cutting-edge galleries, and acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants. The city’s historic architecture, lively main street, and riverfront parks create an energetic, welcoming atmosphere. Hudson’s regular art shows, music festivals, and food events make it a year-round destination for those seeking creativity, culture, and a taste of the region’s best offerings.
Things to See & Do:
• Things to Do:
- Shop, dine, and gallery-hop on Warren Street.
- Tour Olana State Historic Site (Frederic Church’s home).
- Enjoy events and music at Basilica Hudson.
- Relax at Henry Hudson Riverfront Park.
- Visit the FASNY Museum of Firefighting.
- Attend a show at Hudson Hall at the Historic Hudson Opera House.
- Browse books and sip drinks at The Spotty Dog Books & Ale.
- Stroll Promenade Hill Park for river views.
• Things to See:
- Warren Street’s 19th-century facades and galleries
- Olana State Historic Site’s Moorish mansion and Hudson views
- Promenade Hill Park’s river overlooks
• Golf Courses: Columbia Golf & Country Club, Meadowgreens Golf Course, Copake Country Club
• Museums: Olana State Historic Site, FASNY Museum of Firefighting, Hudson Hall at the Historic Hudson Opera House, Hudson Area Library History Room, Thomas Cole National Historic Site (Catskill, nearby)
• Local Markets: Hudson Farmers Market, Olde Hudson Market, Talbott & Arding Cheese and Provisions, Chatham Real Food Market Co-op (nearby)
• Local Restaurants & Shopping
- Restaurants: Swoon Kitchenbar, Ca’Mea, Lil’ Deb’s Oasis, Le Perche, Wm. Farmer & Sons, Grazin’ Diner, Red Dot Restaurant & Bar, Baba Louie’s
- Shops: The Spotty Dog Books & Ale, Finch, Valley Variety, Flowerkraut, Olde Hudson, Hawkins New York, 2 Note Botanical Perfumery, Red Chair on Warren, Antigo, Lili and Loo
Annual Festivals & Events:
• Hudson Winter Walk
• Basilica SoundScape
• Hudson Music Festival
• Hudson River Exchange Summer Market
• OutHudson Pride Parade & Festival
• Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest (Rhinebeck, nearby)
• Basilica Farm & Flea
• Hudson Halloween Parade
• Hudson Children’s Book Festival
• Columbia County Fair (Chatham, nearby)
• Winter Farmers Market at Basilica Hudson