Traveling with your pet?
We have a limited number of canine-friendly guestrooms in our Overlook Lodge.
Discover the Hudson Valley in Every Season
Looking for an easy getaway that blends natural beauty, rich history, and family-friendly charm? The Hudson Valley is packed with year-round experiences that speak to every generation. From the nostalgic magic of the Bear Mountain Carousel to the vibrant foliage of fall drives, the region offers a little bit of everything.
Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, exploring Revolutionary War landmarks, or sipping local craft spirits, each stop invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Here are ten must-do activities for making the most of your Hudson Valley adventure.
1. Bear Mountain Merry-Go-Round
Open all year, enjoy a historical ride on our uniquely designed merry-go-round.
2. Hike Bear Mountain Trails
One of the most popular activities in the area, the great outdoor and lush mountains make the Valley one of the most visited areas in New York. One of our favorite resources is Hike The Hudson Valley, a site outlining all the hikes available to visitors and locals alike.
Explore
3. Follow the Foliage
Enjoy the season’s palette as you drive through the tree-lined roads, or hike up one of the many trails to see panoramic views of the Valley in all its autumn glory. Be sure to check out the Fall Foliage Tracker website to see what to expect during your visit!
4. Apple Picking
What would an autumn trip be without apple picking? The dozens of orchards lining the landscape of the Hudson Valley offer visitors not only apple picking experiences, but also winery tastings and tours, incredible lunch options, and the coveted apple cider donuts!
- Applewood Orchards, Warwick
- Lawrence Farms Orchards, Newburgh
- Apple Hill Farm, New Paltz
- Dubois Farms, Milton, NY
5. The Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze
Experience the area’s biggest Halloween event. This illuminated display of over 1,000 hand-carved pumpkins draws crowds from all over the country.
6. Encounter History
The Hudson Valley is steeped in history. Here are a few notable places:
- Bannerman’s Castle
- Washington’s Headquarters
- Cornish Estate
- West Point
- Kykuit, Rockefeller Estate
- Vanderbilt Mansion
- Constitution Island and the Warner House
- FDR Home & Library & Val-Kill Home
7. Experience Storm King
Widely celebrated as one of the world’s leading sculpture parks, Storm King Art Center has welcomed visitors for fifty years. Check out their diverse calendar of events to plan your trip!
8. Explore Dia: Beacon
In 2003, a 300,000-square-foot former Nabisco box factory on Beacon’s waterfront was converted into this cutting-edge contemporary art museum.
9. Savor Craft Spirits
The Hudson Valley is widely recognized as a craft paradise, booming with small-batch distilleries, wineries, and breweries.
- Dennings Point Distillery
- 2 Way Brewing Company
- Brotherhood Winery
- Tuthilltown Spirits
- Angry Orchard
- Benmarl Winery
10. Walkway Over the Hudson
Opened in 1889 as a double-track railroad bridge connecting the city of Poughkeepsie and Highland, NY.