In the seventeenth century, explorer Henry Hudson sailed up the river that would be named after him. Now it’s your turn to explore the Hudson Valley. This New York region is more than the cradle of American history, art and folklore. You can find yourself waking through great American estates and art collections, eating apples right off the branch and taking in views of the Hudson River from splendid
gardens and
hiking trails.
The Hudson Valley played no small role in American
history and culture. During the Revolution, major battles happened here. Visit
Fort Montgomery to see how outnumbered colonial troops bravely fought British redcoats. Washington Irving set many of his stories—including the classic The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—in the region. Visit
Sunnyside, his charming nineteenth-century home.
You’ll also find beautiful, historic
landmarks and
architecture: the
Vanderbilt Mansion,
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home in
Hyde Park, the Rockefeller estate
Kykuit and the gothic revival treasure
Lyndhurst, to name a few.
At Frederic Church’s estate,
Olana, it will be apparent why the beauty of the region inspired the Hudson River School art movement. If you can’t get enough
fine arts, the Hudson Valley provides many great reasons for inspiration. Ponder the meaning of over 120 monumental sculptures at
Storm King Art Center. In
Beacon, visit
Dia:Beacon’s unique space for contemporary art. Many more
galleries also show work by local artists. Check out
arts and crafts in
Rhinebeck.
You’ll also want to make room for the
food and wine here. Enjoy a unique dining experience at renowned
restaurants like award-winning ones at
The Culinary Institute of America or go apple picking at an orchard. The Hudson Valley is also America’s oldest wine-making region. Stop by and sample the latest from the area’s
wineries.
In the winter, the Hudson Valley landscape becomes a winter wonderland within range of
New York City. Enjoy
skiing and
winter sports at downhill ski areas like
Catamount and
Thunder Ridge. They're great for both beginning and seasoned skiers and snowboarders. After you've hit the slopes, visit seasonal events, such as elaborate light shows at
Sunnyside, Washington Irving's former home, as well as ice carving contests and other winter festivals.