The Essential Things to Do in the Hudson Valley

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Museums and Historic Sites | Outdoor Activities | Family-Friendly

The Hudson Valley region of New York State sits right along the Hudson River where there are a million and one things to do. Outdoor adventurers, families, solo travelers, and pretty much anyone else can find activities to pique their interests. 

My formative years were spent living in Woodstock, one of the Hudson Valley’s cozy towns. Growing up, I tried all types of fun activities around the region and there really are some diverse offerings out there. 

No matter where you stay in Hudson Valley, there will be an assortment of scenic hiking trails, museums, family farms, historic sites, and natural attractions to discover. Plus, it’s all located just a few hours away from one of the most iconic U.S. cities. 

While the area is an exceptional vacation destination, it covers more than 154 miles. As such, it can be a struggle for visitors to discern the top things to do. As a former local, I’ve got you covered. Let’s break down the best things to do around the Hudson Valley.

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36 Best Things to Do in the Hudson Valley

Hudson Highlands State Park

Trek or boat through 8,000+ acres along the Hudson River for expansive views of scenery.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-225-7207 | Website | Hours: 7:30 am – 8 pm daily

If there’s one thing people love about the Hudson Valley, it’s the abundant nature. Hudson Highlands State Park is a convenient starting point for exploring the New York wilderness.

It’s considered one of the best state parks in all of New York for its many opportunities to hike, bird-watch, fish, or rent a boat. Along the way, you’ll be privy to exceptional views of the Hudson River and Highlands. 

Hudson Highlands can be suitable for any sort of visitor, too. This state park has challenging activities that appeal to outdoor pros. Along with easier experiences for families or anyone looking for a more relaxed day.

🚗 Planning a Hudson Valley Road Trip? Just follow my perfect 5 day Hudson Valley itinerary!

Storm King Art Center

Peruse a 500-acre outdoor sculpture art park with bike trails and tram tours.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-534-3115 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Mon, Wed-Fri, Sun; 10 am – 8 pm Sat; closed Tue | Entrance: $25 per adult, Free for children under 5

The Storm King Art Center is the solution for people who want to experience the Hudson Valley’s art scene but don’t want to be cooped indoors. The Storm King Art Center is an open-air sculpture installation park with some enormous pieces scattered across 500 acres. 

Within the park, you’ll cross a variety of terrain to find all the unique sculptures. From paved paths to more wooded areas. So, make sure you wear comfortable shoes for this activity. 

Since it’s outdoors, the Storm King Art Center is only open from May to December. Purchase tickets in advance because it’s a very popular place to visit. 

Pennings Farm Cidery

Spend the day with friends lounging on hilltops and enjoying local cider, pizza, and live entertainment. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 987-9922 | Website | Hours: 4 – 9 pm Thu-Fri; 12 – 8 pm Sat-Sun | Entrance: Free (Food and drinks for purchase) 

There’s no better way to enjoy the tranquility of the Hudson Valley than a trip to Pennings Farm in the fun-filled town of Warwick. It has 100 acres of sprawling property featuring an orchard, marketplace, farm to table products, a petting zoo, and a cidery. 

Pennings Farm Cidery is my top destination in the spring and fall to visit the rustic barn sitting on the hilltop. On a sunny day, you can experience unbeatable sunsets while enjoying a diverse array of ciders and wood-fired pizza. 

The main grounds are better suited for children, with a petting zoo and a creamery open during the spring and summer. Since Warwick is an apple-picking hotspot, the fall is the busiest time of year. Make sure to take advantage of the delicious seasonal foods.

Angry Orchard

Relax with a home-brewed cider made by a regionally-loved brand. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 713-5180 | Website | Hours: Vary | Entrance: Depends on the tour

There’s no better place to sit back, relax, and sip a freshly brewed cider than Angry Orchard. It’s the perfect stop after tiring yourself out with all of the region’s outdoor activities. Just make sure you visit on the weekend as they’re closed Monday-Wednesday.

Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise

Board a boat to get a new perspective on the beautiful Hudson Valley floating along the river.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-340-4700 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $37-$41 depending on tour (discounts available for children & seniors) | 👉 Browse Hudson River Tours on Viator 

Another way to appreciate the region’s beauty is by hopping aboard a Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise. Not only will you get to float along the water surrounded by gorgeous views, but you’ll also learn quite a bit about the Hudson Valley in the process.

I’d recommend this Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise that leaves from Kingston. It’s reasonably priced and takes you all the way south to Hyde Park. 

New York City

Grab the Metro North Train down south to the Big Apple for the day. 

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Tours on Viator 

New York City is technically situated right next to the Hudson River, so one could argue that it counts as a Hudson Valley activity. In all seriousness, getting to all the coolest New York City neighborhoods from the Hudson Valley is as simple as a quick trip on the Metro North train. 

Once you’re in the city, you can get anywhere on public transportation, and there’s so much to do. The Museums, the restaurants, Central Park. It’s an excellent day trip when you need a little more big city action. 

If you’re trying to experience NYC in just a single day, it’s a smart idea to join a tour. For instance, this New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour takes you to see Fifth Avenue, the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, and more. Plus, you’ll get to take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. 

🚗 How to Get There: The best way to reach NYC from the Hudson Valley is by hopping on the train. The Metro North will take you right to Grand Central Station. There are a bunch of stops to get on along the river all the way up until Poughkeepsie. Plus, having a car in New York City is more of a crutch than a tool. 

The State Capital of Albany

Check out Financial District-esque architecture and interesting museums in the Upper Hudson Valley.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Tours on Viator

The New York state capital of Albany is tucked right alongside the Hudson River. A bustling city with lots of public transport and historic buildings, it’s easy to spend a day in Albany. 

Fill some time at the New York State Capitol or the USS Slater if you’re in the mood for history. There are several museums to check out as well like the Albany Institute of History and Art and the Opalka Gallery.

The Colony in Woodstock

Catch a comedy show or live concert in a revived cozy theater from the 1920s.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-679-7625 | Website | Hours: Event times vary | Entrance: Depends on the show 

In the funky town of Woodstock, you’ll find an intimate performing arts venue called The Colony. It puts on performances by comedians, bands, and other types of entertainers. 

The thing I really like about this venue is how intimate it is. You’re up close and personal with the performer. It’s a nice spot to swig back a couple of drinks and laugh or sing the night away.

Mohonk Mountain House

Spend an afternoon at this Victorian castle resort that hosted Andrew Carnegie and Theodore Roosevelt.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 976-2943 | Website | Entrance: Depends on the room and package 

Mohonk Mountain House is a crown jewel of the Hudson Valley. It’s a breathtaking hotel with enough things to do onsite that you’ll never get bored, like golfing, a spa, horseback riding, and more. 

Staying the night at this hotel costs a pretty penny (upwards of $1K on average). However, you can visit as a day guest to get a taste of everything the Mohonk Mountain House has to offer. As an added bonus, it’s only 15 minutes outside of New Paltz, one of my favorite towns in the Hudson Valley.

American Bounty Restaurant

Eat dinner prepared by the students of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-451-1011 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 1 pm & 6 – 8:30 pm Tue-Sat, Closed Sun & Mon

Indulge in a fine dining meal prepared by the next generation of high-end cooks at the American Bounty Restaurant. This establishment is run by students from the Culinary Institute of America and world-class chefs supervise them. 

You can even catch a glimpse into the kitchen to watch them prepare every beautiful morsel.

Museums and Historic Sites

Philipsburg Manor

Head to America’s favorite spooky town and visit this living history museum and landmark. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914) 366-6900 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 3:30 pm Fri-Sun | Tours: $18 Adults, $15 Seniors, $13 Children 

A trip to Philipsburg Manor is a must if you want to fully immerse yourself in Westchester’s history. 

The well-maintained grounds across the Millpond Bridge in the village of Sleepy Hollow hold a dark past. The former mill and trading complex was home to generations of enslaved people who maintained the property.

Today though, the 18th-century estate has been reimagined into a museum and has become a popular destination during the fall season. Sleepy Hollow is my favorite town in Westchester, and the restored estate is my top choice for history fanatics and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

Note that this attraction closes down during the winter and part of the fall. Refer to the Philipsburg Manor Website for the most up-to-date list of their events and opening days.

Opus 40

Wander a massive stone sculpture park hand-created by an artist over 37 years.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-246-3400 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Thu-Mon | Entrance: $16, adults, $6 for children under 5

Opus 40 is another incredible outdoor art installation. Located in the town of Saugerties, Opus 40 is the brainchild of just a single artist named Harvey Fite. 

He built the masterpiece stone by stone for 37 years. It’s humbling to wander the sculpture park’s more than 6 acres knowing just how much hard work went into it.

Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island

Hop in a kayak and row from Cold Spring to the ruins of a military surplus warehouse.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-237-2636 | Website | Hours: Varies based on scheduled tour | Tours: $45-$100 

Bannerman Castle is one of the more obscure suggestions on this to-do list, but it’s also one of the coolest. The abandoned architectural wonder is located on Pollepel Island near the city of Beacon. 

The only way to visit Bannerman Castle is by joining a guided tour. There are a variety of tour types, including cruises and kayaking from Cold Spring.

This Bannerman Island Cruise & Walking Tour conveniently brings you to the island and includes a 45-minute guided excursion on foot around the grounds. Whichever method you choose, you’re sure to have fun and learn a lot about the site’s history.

Kykuit, The Rockefeller Estate

Tour a national historic landmark that was home to four generations of Rockefellers.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914)-366-6900 | Website | Hours: Open for scheduled guided tours | Entrance: $25-$75 per person depending on the tour

Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate in Pocantico Hills is a must-visit for history lovers. It’s a national historic site complete with gardens and an impressive art collection. 

Four generations of Rockefellers called the residence home, starting with oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller. The 40-room mansion is open to visitors from May 3 to November 10.

Neuberger Museum of Art

Explore thoughtful modern, African, and contemporary art exhibitions in Purchase.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914)-251-6100 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 5 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon & Tue | Entrance: Free 

The Neuberger Museum of Art in Purchase, New York is one of the best museums in the Hudson Valley area. Its collection has grown from just over a hundred pieces to more than 6,000 works of art. 

Neuberger is also a stop along the African American Heritage Trail of Westchester County. It’s double the reason to visit. 

Dia Art Foundation

Grab tickets to a repurposed factory turned giant contemporary art museum. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-440-0100 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Fri-Mon, Closed Tue-Thu | Entrance: $20, adults, Free under age 5

Beacon’s DIA Art Foundation is a stunning modern art museum with some unique features. Of course, the artwork is incredible, but the museum’s space is equally as amazing. 

The collection is housed in a former factory with wide-open rooms and lots of light. It’s the ideal environment for getting acquainted with all the thought-provoking, contemporary pieces. 

🛎️ Need a Hotel? If you need a place to rest your head in the area, check out The Dutchess Inn and Spa at Beacon. It’s super comfortable and centrally located. 

New York State Museum

Get a deeper understanding of New York’s history and see a 100+-year-old carousel.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (518)-474-5877 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: Free, $5 donation suggested

Eager to learn a little bit more about the area? Head over to the New York State Museum in Albany. It’s one of the best museums in New York to learn about the story of the state. 

Whether you’re a resident or just a visitor to the Hudson Valley, you should familiarize yourself with New York’s history.

West Point Museum

Dive into U.S. army and warfare history at a respected military academy.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-938-3590 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 4:15 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: Free, photo ID required 

⚠️ Closure Note: This attraction is temporarily closed.

West Point Museum is another great Hudson Valley destination to get a dose of history. The museum is associated with the well-known military academy. Anyone with an interest in the military and weapons will love this one. 

Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site

Catch a glimpse of the 32nd President’s birthplace, lifelong home, and burial site in Hyde Park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-229-5320 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $10 

People usually imagine U.S. presidents’ lives as glamorous and full of travel. But, 32nd president Franklin D. Roosevelt actually spent his whole life in the Hudson Valley. 

The place where he was born, lived, and was eventually buried is now a historical site you can walk through for yourself. 

🛎️ Need a Hotel? The town that houses the Frank Roosevelt Site, Hyde Park, is acclaimed for its gorgeous Bed and Breakfasts. My top recommendation is Inn the Woods B&B. 

Goshen Historic Track

Like a true aristocrat, visit the country’s oldest continuously operated horse racing track. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 294-5333 | Website | Hours: Depends on event schedule 

Hidden in the quaint town of Goshen is the longest-running horse track in North America. The half-mile track is a Registered Historic Landmark with its history dating back 182 years. 

It features seasonal horse racing, kicking off festivities in early July. However, the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame is open year-round from Tuesday through Saturday.

The Goshen Historic Track makes for a fantastic day trip from New York City. There is plenty to do off the town’s Main Street from eating at delicious restaurants like Kelley Jean’s and Limencello to local boutiques for shopping.

Glenmere Mansion

Spend the day or stay the night at this luxurious mansion from the Gilded Age.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 469-1900 | Website | Hours: Depends on the room and activity 

Glenmere Mansion is a Hudson Valley hidden gem only an hour’s drive from New York City. Located in the town of Chester, this luxurious hotel sits on 150 acres and overlooks Glenmere Lake. The mansion was constructed during America’s Gilded Age, and the maintained grounds feel more like old Europe than New York.

If you don’t plan on staying the night, you can just enjoy the exquisite restaurant, which is perfect for a birthday or special event. You can also book a spa appointment for personalized facials and massages.

Outdoor Activities

Kaaterskill Falls

Embark on a mellow 1.5-mile hike to appreciate the tallest waterfall in the state from above and below.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Sunrise to Sunset daily | Entrance: Free 

Kaaterskill Falls is one of New York’s most mystifying waterfalls. It’s actually the highest waterfall in the whole state. 

While you might assume reaching such a natural wonder would be a huge undertaking, it only requires a quick, family-friendly 1.5-mile hike to reach the falls. Upon arrival, you can view the gushing two-story falls from above on a platform or take a dip in the natural pool below.

Shawangunk Mountain Ridge

Discover this favorite local spot for outdoor activities like rock climbing and hiking.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 9 am – sunset daily | Entrance: $15 for hikers, $20 for bikers

The Shawangunk Mountains are only a couple of hours from Manhattan, but it doesn’t even feel like it’s on the same planet as New York City. 

Once you’re up there exploring the variety of hikes, you get a true sense of New York’s natural beauty. Plus, the Gunks, as they’re called locally, are right near some of the most charming towns in New York.   

Mohonk Preserve

Spend some time outside in the largest private nature reserve in New York. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-255-0919 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $15 for hikers, $20 for bikers, Free under age 15 

There are more mountainous areas in the Hudson Valley than you could possibly explore in just one trip. It’s kind of the region’s thing. If you only have time for one, the Mohonk Preserve is a favorite local spot.

Located right near Stone Ridge, the Mohonk Preserve is part of The Gunks. The area is stacked with outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and some of the best hiking trails in all of New York.

Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park

Stroll over a scenic bridge from the late 1800s that crosses over the Hudson River. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-454-9649 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 8:30 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Now that you’ve seen the Hudson River from the distance of viewpoints and hiking trails, let’s take a stroll over it. Starting from Poughkeepsie or Highland, this 30-40 minute walk takes you over a steel bridge from one side of the Hudson to the other.

Bear Mountain State Park

Explore the natural beauty of these rolling hills with trails, fishing areas on the lake, and places for a picnic.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-786-2701 | Website | Hours: Dawn to Dusk daily | Entrance: $10 per vehicle 

Spend the day in Bear Mountain State Park for your final stop through the Hudson Valley’s spectacular nature. Complete with a small zoo, trails, and lakeside views, it’s the perfect spot for camping over a weekend or just spending an afternoon out in nature.

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy

Explore a former 46-acre estate turned public garden with eye-catching Indo-Persian and Greek inspired architecture.  

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914) 613 -4502 | Website | Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM daily | Entrance: Free 

Untermyer Garden Conservancy is a 46-acre former estate turned garden in the lower Hudson Valley. It’s the ideal chance to enjoy New York’s nature without being too far from the city. Plus, it’s free and open seven days a week. 

Founded in Yonkers in 2011, the garden hosts an ever-changing schedule of programs, such as garden tours, workshops, and family fun days. April through October is the best time to visit, but the beauty is evident year-round. 

Stick around to catch the sunset; seeing the Hudson River and Old Croton Aqueduct from the upper grounds during this time is spectacular.

Blooming Hill Farm

A family-owned farm in the Hudson Valley serving farm-to-table food, hosting events, and selling local produce at the Farmstand & cafe. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 238-5004 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 1 pm Fri – Sat, 10 am – 1 pm & 5 – 8:30 pm Sun,  5 – 8:30 pm Wed & Thurs, Closed Mon & Tues | Entrance: Free (Food and drinks for purchase) 

Blooming Hill Farm is the best place to go for brunch or dinner if you’re in the Monroe, Blooming Grove, or Washingtonville area. More than a farm-to-table restaurant, you can shop for fresh produce and home-made goods at the Blooming Hill Shop and explore the rustic grounds.

The food is always served fresh and delicious, with options ranging from wood-fired pizza to pan-seared trout. Since most of the products are locally sourced, you can taste the freshness with each bite. I always purchase carrots, beetroots, and tomatoes at the farmer’s market on the grounds during high season.

Blooming Hill Farm is a popular wedding destination, and you can view the photo collections on their website to get a better sense of the atmosphere. Even for a dinner party or a private event, the venue is peak country charm year-round. 

Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery

Over 120 acres of picturesque mountain scenery at the most popular winery in the Hudson Valley. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 258-4858 | Website | Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Mon-Sun | Entrance: Possible Parking Fee on weekends (Food and drinks for purchase) 

The Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery, located in the town of Warwick, is one of the most popular destinations in the Hudson Valley, attracting locals and city dwellers alike. The manicured green pastures span 120 acres and are swarming with visitors throughout the summer and fall. 

Although a winery and distillery, the grounds are family-friendly, full of young children running around, and plenty of space. 

You can test farm-to-glass ciders in the Tasting Room, enjoy food from the cafe, or go apple picking from late August to mid-November. Fall is the busiest season, so be prepared for longer lines and paying a parking fee on weekends. I advise coming early, and bring extra lawn chairs and blankets if you have a large group as seating fills quickly.

Torne Valley Vineyard

Less than an hour from Manhattan, this hidden mansion and vineyard is the perfect weekend stop. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 712-5505 | Website | Hours: Sat & Sun 11 am – 5 pm, Closed Mon – Fri | Entrance: Free (Food and drinks for purchase) 

Torne Valley Vineyard sits on a quiet road in the town of Hillburn and is the first vineyard established in Rockland County. Less than an hour from Manhattan, this is the perfect getaway for a day trip to the countryside. 

When driving in, you’re treated to views of the stunning estate, dating back to the 19th century. Behind the mansion is equally breathtaking, with views of the grape fields, mountains, and the Ramapo River. 

The vineyard offers a selection of red and white wines, cider, beer, and spirits. The food is American-style fare, more casual than fine dining. The vineyard hosts live music on the weekends, so be sure to check out their event calendar. Note: Open Sat & Sun only 

Tibbetts Brook Park

A 151-acre park featuring lakes, fields, a river, running trails, an aquatic complex, and more. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914) 231-2865 | Website | Hours: Mon – Sun 8 am – 6 pm 

The city of Yonkers is considered the gateway between New York City and the Hudson Valley. Tibbetts Brook Park is a fantastic getaway from the city noise for walking, hiking, biking, and having a picnic when the weather is suitable. 

The natural oasis’s green manicured lawns are well-maintained in the spring and summer, with areas for hiking and fishing, miniature golf, and playgrounds for children. The park is popular among hikers, as part of the area overlaps with the Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park.

Do note that certain areas in the park, such as the aquatic complex, are available only to Westchester County residents and their guests [Source]. There is a parking fee, especially on busy weekends [Source].

Family-Friendly

Fishkill Farms

Take the family pumpkin, berry, or apple picking depending on the season. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-897-4377 | Website | Hours: Change seasonally | Entrance: $30-50 depending on the package

Foraging for your own berries, pumpkins, or apples in New York is practically a requirement for visiting the state. 

There are many different places to go for fruit and berry picking throughout the Hudson Valley. I think one of the best options is Fishkill Farms in Hopewell Junction, though. They also have cider tastings and a restaurant. 

Just keep in mind that reservations at Fishkill Farms are required in advance. There’s only a brief season for picking your own harvest and lots of people want to visit with their families. The best time to visit New York for fruit picking is late August to late October.

Clover Brooke Farm

Set off on a hike accompanied by llamas or alpacas. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845)-444-6066 | Website | Hours: Vary by experience/class | Entrance: $25-$55 depending on the experience 

The Hudson Valley has plenty of hikes, but only Clover Brooke Farm offers the one-of-a-kind opportunity to trek with llamas or alpacas. As odd as that might sound, this Llama/ Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour is a very memorable experience, especially for little ones. 

The farm also has other types of tours and classes like beer brewing and soap making.

Boundless Adventures Aerial Adventure Park

Climb along the treetops on a ropes course and zipline in Westchester County.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914)-893-4550 | Website | Hours: Varies by season (Closed in winter) | Entrance: $35-$75 depending on ticket type

Trust me – I understand the need to infuse a little adrenaline into my adventures. To scratch that itch, all you have to do is book a ticket to Boundless Adventures Aerial Adventure Park. 

The park features a zipline and 11 aerial ropes courses that weave through the treetops at varying levels of difficulty. It’s a blast for adults and children alike, so it’s ideal for families visiting the Hudson Valley.

Cooper Lake

Take a beat and relax by the water at this secluded lake nestled in the Catskills. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: Dawn to Dusk daily | Entrance: Free

There are over 7,500 bodies of ponds and lakes in New York state, but many of them are busy with visitors as soon as the sun comes out [Source]. If you prefer a quieter lakeside experience, Cooper Lake will make you feel right at home. 

Located just outside Woodstock, this lake actually supplies the water for the nearby city of Kingston. So, recreational activities in the water like swimming and boating aren’t allowed. Despite this, it’s still a very peaceful and seldom-visited spot to unwind in nature or take a light hike around the perimeter.

Echo Fields

A 180-acre farm in the countryside with a playground for children, activities, food, and fun events throughout the summer and early fall. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (845) 916-2640 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 8 pm Sat, 11 am – 6 pm Sun, Closed Mon – Fri | Entrance: Free (Food and drinks for purchase) 

Echo Fields is one of the best places for family fun in the spring, summer, and fall in the Hudson Valley. Located in the town of Westtown, wedged between Warwick and Minisink Valley, the farm is a 180-acre country getaway.  

Echo Field’s best asset is its well-designed layout, which is ideal for children to play. Parents can relax in a safe environment and let kids play on hay stacks, slides, bikes, and obstacle courses scattered throughout the hills. You can walk through a maze, or head to activities inside the barn for very small children. 

There is a small market for purchasing food and snacks, and the farm hosts food trucks during special events, like live music and festivals.

***

Thanks for reading my list of the best things to do around the Hudson Valley. Have you found something that’s up your alley? Let me know in the comments below! Next up, check out Niamh’s list of the best places to visit in New York State.

–Niamh Hayes contributed to this post