The Hudson Valley is a National Heritage Area steeped in history, natural beauty and culture. It’s home to the oldest wine-producing region in America, magnificent scenery that inspired a generation of Hudson River School painters, and a bustling food, farmers market, and restaurant scene.
The valley is also one of America’s most vibrant business climates, powered by a concentration of colleges and universities that produce skilled job seekers. The influx of workers and entrepreneurs is evident in the region’s booming economy, which has created a diverse blend of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
When Henry Hudson set sail in 1609 to search for a shortcut to Asia, the indigenous people of New Netherland lived along the banks of this river, which they called Mahicanituck (“the river that flows both ways”). The Dutch and English settlers soon transformed the region into an agricultural hub. Landowners built manors, and cultivated grain, fruits, vegetables, and livestock. The rich soil and stunning scenery inspired the Hudson River School of Painting, which grew to be one of the most important groups in American art.
Today, the region’s pristine forests and picturesque farms are still the foundation of the local economy, but it’s also an area that celebrates innovation and creativity. The Hudson Valley’s vibrant arts community is represented by a wide range of performing arts, visual arts, and crafts, a multitude of historic sites, a diverse array of museums, and numerous outdoor activities. The region is also known for its thriving wine and craft spirits industry, with more than 200 distillers making whiskey, gin, vodka, and other liquors.
While fall is the spooky season that draws tourists to the Hudson Valley, spring and summer are just as charming. The leafy landscape transforms into a vibrant canvas, and the hiking trails look like a million bucks.
Located just a stone’s throw from Marist, the Hudson Valley is home to a wealth of cinematic experiences. Movie lovers can catch an independent film at the acclaimed Roosevelt Cinemas in Hyde Park, or see what’s playing at the Regal Cinemas in Poughkeepsie. Those who crave a good cup of coffee or a tasty bite to eat can visit the Grazin’ Diner, an upscale 50’s style eatery with a decidedly modern outlook on animal welfare.
The region is accessible by car, with Metro-North trains running from NYC to towns in the Valley, such as Croton-Harmon, Tarrytown, and Poughkeepsie. For those who prefer to fly, Stewart International Airport (SWF) serves a number of commercial airlines. The NY Waterway operates a ferry between Haverstraw and Ossining, and commuter bus transit is provided by Rockland Coaches, Short Line, and Leprechaun Lines.