Looking to explore Hudson Valley historical sites?
Step back in time and explore the rich history of the Hudson Valley with visits to forts, battlefields, and landmarks near Bear Mountain.
Explore the Hudson Valley: Things to Do Near Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain is your gateway to the best of the Hudson Valley. From charming river towns and local wineries to scenic drives, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures, there’s something for every interest just minutes from the inn. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, discover the many nearby attractions that make this region a favorite for families and travelers of all ages.
Art & Museums
-
Boscobel
Boscobel is a restored Federal-period house built between 1804-1808 with magnificent period interiors and gardens. The site is recognized nationally for its quality as a historic house museum, its exquisite collection of furniture and decorative arts, and its breathtaking views.
-
Storm King Art Center
Widely celebrated as one of the world’s leading sculpture parks, Storm King Art Center has welcomed visitors from across the globe for more than fifty years. This is the setting for a collection of more than 100 carefully sited sculptures created by some of the most acclaimed artists of our time.
-
Motorcyclopedia Museum
Motorcyclepedia in Newburgh is a high impact stop for anyone who loves design, engineering, or pure nostalgia, with over 650 motorcycles and a huge range of memorabilia in an 85,000 square foot museum. The collection was built over decades by Gerald and Ted Doering, and the galleries cover everything from classic American brands to choppers, movie bikes, and more.
-
Constitution Island and the Warner House
Step onto a Hudson River island with deep Revolutionary War roots and a beautifully preserved home tied to authors Susan and Anna Warner. Guided tours highlight the island’s historic defenses, the Warner House interiors, and scenic views you do not get from the shoreline.
-
National Purple Heart Hall of Honor
This museum honors Purple Heart recipients by preserving their stories and connecting visitors to the meaning behind the medal. Located alongside the New Windsor Cantonment, it pairs powerful personal history with a setting that played a major role at the end of the Revolutionary War.
-
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site
Walk the grounds where Washington’s army built a large winter encampment in 1782 to 1783, complete with hundreds of huts and a working military community. Visit the year round exhibit space, then catch seasonal living history demonstrations that make daily camp life feel real.
-
Eisenhower Hall Theatre
West Point’s main performance venue brings major touring shows to the Hudson Valley in a setting that feels special before the curtain even rises. The theater is open to the public and features a season that spans music, comedy, and stage productions.
-
Veterans Repertory Theater
A veteran focused theater organization creating bold live performances and developing new work from veteran and veteran adjacent artists. Expect an intimate, high energy style that blends staged readings, full productions, and special events.
Activities
-
West Point Military Academy
Begin your journey at the West Point Visitors Center and hop aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned bus for a guided tour filled with history and insight. Knowledgeable guides bring the story of West Point to life as you explore this iconic military academy. Choose from three unique tour options, available daily except on select holidays and during West Point events.
-
Village of Cold Spring
The quaint Putnam County village of Cold Spring, long characterized by the row of antique shops along Main Street, draws in tourists and residents alike with a diverse mix of stores and restaurants. You may find yourself spending a whole day here in this delightful town shopping and enjoying wonderful cuisine.
-
Manitoga: The Russell Wright Design Center
Manitoga, the House, Studio and 75-acre Woodland garden of mid-century designer Russel Wright (1904-1976), is a National Historic Landmark. Here, you can tour Dragon Rock, Wright’s experimental home which he built onto the rock ledge of an abandoned quarry while masterfully orchestrating the surrounding landscape into a series of outdoor rooms of varying character and delight.
-
Explore Rockland County
Rockland County, NY is a lively place with many indoor and outdoor activities to complete your stay. Visit the Explore Rockland website to see the latest events and activities going on nearby while you stay at Bear Mountain Inn.
-
West Point Golf Course
An 18 hole mountain style course in the Hudson Valley that blends challenging play with West Point views and history. It is also home turf for Army Golf, so the atmosphere feels equal parts scenic and serious.
-
Victor Constant Ski Area
A winter favorite at West Point that is open to the public and built for quick, fun days on the snow. Check the schedule for operating hours, then plan around rentals and on site support so you can keep the day simple.
-
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
A go to shopping stop with a huge mix of designer and everyday brands, plus plenty of options for a full day of browsing. It is an easy place to build a deal focused itinerary, then take breaks for snacks and people watching.
Orchards & Wineries
-
Apple Dave’s Orchards
A classic Warwick pick your own spot that has welcomed fall visitors for more than 50 years, with easy to reach trees and a laid back farm feel. It is a great choice for a simple outdoor day that ends with a bag of apples and seasonal treats.
-
Brotherhood Winery
Marketed as America’s oldest winery, Brotherhood pairs historic atmosphere with tastings and tours in Washingtonville. It is a fun stop for anyone who likes local pours with a side of Hudson Valley heritage.
-
Angry Orchard Cidery
Visit the Cider House in Walden for guided tastings, behind the scenes tour options, and a relaxed orchard setting made for lingering. The site offers experiences that spotlight how cider goes from apples to the glass, plus a steady calendar of events.
On The Water
-
Pride of the Hudson
Cruise through the majestic Hudson Highlands aboard the luxurious Pride of the Hudson. A two-hour boat tour where you can bask in the open air on the spacious sundeck or enjoy the comfort of their climate-controlled main salon featuring huge wrap-around windows. Cruises start May 1st and continue to October 31st.
-
Trinity Cruises
The Trinity Cruise Company offers three different boat cruises on the Hudson River. Cruises are run until the end of October, 2017. Public Sunset Cruise, a more relaxing ride designed to watch the sunset and with no captain commentary. Departs most Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in the evening.