With a rich history, natural beauty galore and a concentration of world-class cultural sites, New York’s Hudson Valley is the perfect escape from fast pace of New York City.
Historic cities, towns and villages still tell the tales of its settlers beginning with the Munsee, Mohican and Mohawk nations all the way to the Henry Hudson’s 1600s travels and the arrival of the Dutch and the English.
Parks, nature preserves and hiking trails offer ample opportunities to truly take in the natural beauty of the region. Here are our picks for the best places to visit in the Hudson Valley.
Peekskill
Located in Westchester County, Peekskill is situated on a Hudson River bay approximately 50 miles north of New York City (and accessible from the city via the Metro-North railway). This town borders Blue Mountain Park, a nearly 1,600-acre preserve with over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing piers and the only Sportsman Center shooting complex (archery, rifle and pistol) found in a state recreation area.
Art lovers should visit the Hudson Valley Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), a 12,000-sq-ft exhibition space. The Hudson Valley MOCA sponsors a sculpture trail that features over 25 works of public art along the Hudson River and throughout the city.
The city of Troy is filled with colorful 19th-century buildings that are now boutiques, small shops and galleries © Barry Winiker/Getty Images
Troy
Located on the eastern bank of the Hudson River just north of Albany, Troy was once known as “Collar City” due to its expertise in producing detachable collars for men’s shirts. Though it doesn’t get as much attention…