Our Favorite Places: Hudson Valley, NY

About the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley is a collection of up and coming towns with antique shops galore, artist’s scenes, and several award winning farm-to-table restaurants. It’s an ideal getaway for all of those reasons, but it is also far more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. The views are incredible and it’s the perfect place to pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoors – which is exactly what we were looking for after so many months at home.

A two hour drive from New York City – Hudson Valley is often thought of as the ideal escape from city life but it’s really a manageable road trip for anyone in the Northeast. (For our readers on the west coast – bookmark this page for your next trip east. There are 3 nearby airports). 

It’s important to note that there are different towns and you may want to choose to check out a different area each day. Organizing our trip this way made it much less overwhelming! Below is my list of shopping, hikes and attractions to bookmark for your trip to the Hudson Valley.

Hiking & Outdoor Activities in the Hudson Valley

There are so many beautiful places to hike, and we found plenty of options to accommodate each of our hiking abilities. My husband and son (who is 9) ended up going for more extreme hikes in the mornings while my daughter and I relaxed in the mornings so as to not overextend ourselves too much! Some of the hikes were a little exhausting - I ended up ordering Camelbak backpacks for the kids to ensure next time we are better prepared with snacks and water for our future treks. 

• Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area

• Overlook Mountain Trailhead – Make sure to grab bagels at the Mud Club to enjoy on your hike) 

• Olana State Park – The main house is currently closed for tours, but the 250 acre landscape is open and free to explore or you can schedule one of the park’s outdoor tours)

• Clermont State Historic Site

• Art Omi – Take the walking loop around this 120-acre sculpture and architecture park which features 60 different works of art

Where to Shop in Hudson Valley

The shopping in the Hudson Valley is amazing, and each town seems to offer a unique expertise – from antique stores to art galleries and expertly curated boutiques. (I love this Curbed NY guide on picking the right town for you). There are also so many restaurants and bars that I’d love to try when it’s easier to dine indoors. 

Tivoli, NY

• The Corner Store at the Hotel Tivoli – This is not your typical hotel gift shop.

• Tivoli Mercantile – A carefully curated assortment of clothing, home goods, apothecary and gifts. 

Kingston, NY

• Hops Petunia Floral - Their flower arrangements are just stunning.

• Lovefield Vintage  - A mix of vintage clothing and new accessories and bath & body items.

• North Front Gallery - An inspiring collection of vintage and contemporary furniture.

• Exit 19 - Home furnishings, art and gifts by interior designers Spruce Design & Decor.

• TR Gallo Waterfront Park – Not a shop, but a great place for a picnic lunch or an afternoon shopping break.

Hudson, NY

• Minna – A studio and shop featuring Minna’s collection of multipurpose products.

• Clove & Creek – A mercantile that celebrates local makers and fosters community (they also have a location in Kingston).

Where to Stay in Hudson Valley

The Hotel Tivoli was home base for our entire trip and we made day trips to other towns. I loved the mix of modern decor inside of their early-20th century stone building. There are also so many great airbnb options (like this this or this) that are so inspiring with their beautiful decor. They would be perfect for a getaway with friends or a larger family. 

Friends have told us for years that we should go to the Hudson Valley – and now I understand why! The beautiful scenery, the outdoor activities and the shops all made this weekend trip a perfect Covid-friendly travel destination. 

Planning a trip somewhere? Don’t forget to pack your pjs!

*We encourage you to check with local attractions, lodging, restaurants, and businesses, etc. prior to visiting. See the latest information on NY state travel restrictions here.

Make sure to pack a set of cozy pjs for your trip. Shop our newest arrivals.