When the air turns brisk and leaves turn golden in September through November, many New York City dwellers head up to the Hudson Valley for clean air, spectacular hikes and local culture. But the valley is attracting more than just NYC transplants. A generation of artisanal farmers, bakers, vintners and distillers is transforming the region into a modern breadbasket. At Tenmile Distillery in Wassaic, single-malt whiskies and gin flow from the grain fields of nearby Tivoli. And at the Stissing House Hotel in Amenia, chef-owner Harlan Bratcher offers a menu that showcases locally grown ingredients.
The region’s fertile farms also produce a bounty of fruit, including apples, peaches and pears. Visiting the artisanal producers is an ideal way to taste the region. Then, hit a craft brewery for a pint and a bite. For a taste of the old New York, head to Kingston’s Stockade District, home to 17th and 18th-century Dutch Colonial buildings. Grazin’s, a 50’s-style diner, offers ethically sourced burgers and other dishes while Moto Coffee Machine serves a killer cup of joe in a vintage motorcycle shop.
A dozen small liberal arts colleges dot the landscape. Bard, Vassar, Marist, Mount Saint Mary and more offer a fresh perspective on the world to thousands of students. Many of the area’s best restaurants are run by alums of these schools, too. Whether it’s the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park or Hudson’s Crimson Sparrow, these young chefs deliver world-class versions of classic cuisines with a local twist.
After years of sweating and stressing in New York kitchens, it’s not unusual for seasoned New York chefs to leave the hyperkinetic city behind and open restaurants in the picturesque Hudson Valley. Many of these alums turn to their native home for inspiration. Whether they serve French, Italian or American cuisine, it’s all made with ingredients from local farms. A trip to the region is a chance to see how the likes of Anthony Bourdain, Grant Achatz and Cat Cora are making the most of the Hudson Valley’s bounty.
With a few miles of hiking between yourself and the Hudson River, you’ll find plenty to explore. The sloping hills of the Berkshires and the Hudson Highlands offer everything from a leisurely stroll around Hessian Lake to a more strenuous climb up Bald Mountain. But it’s the views that are truly breathtaking.
The region’s proximity to New York City makes it an easy day trip or weekend getaway. Those flying in can land at Albany International Airport, Stewart International Airport in Newburgh or Westchester County Airport in White Plains. But the region is also well-served by Amtrak, with stops in Rhinebeck, Kingston and New Paltz. Getting around the region by car is simple, too, with highways connecting most major cities and towns. And train buffs can check out the historic Hudson River Valley Railway Museum in Catskill.