New York's Hudson River Valley is a region full of natural beauty and a diversity of places to visit. Summer is an ideal time to visit Hudson Valley destinations and there are plenty to choose from.
The Hudson River runs over 300 miles from the Adirondack Mountains down to New York City before emptying into the New York Bay below Manhattan. The Hudson River Valley region begins north of Albany and ends in the northern section of Westchester County, which is about an hour's north of NYC.
From the mountains and lakes to historical landmarks and quaint riverfront communities, to name a few, there is plenty to see and do for travelers coming to the area. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
• Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
The
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome has been an attraction for over 50 years and is still going strong. The Aerodrome's annual season typically begins in June and runs through October.
Visitors can see vintage aircraft, including air shows. There are also classic cars, antique artifacts and even a vintage fashion show. Visitors to the Aerodrome get an opportunity to step back into time and experience past eras. Those interested in historic aviation are in for a treat.
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Vintage aircraft at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
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Vintage car at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome.
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• Historic homes
The Hudson River Valley is no stranger to historic homes. Other famous residencies include Vanderbilt Mansion, Franklin D. Roosevelt's
estate at Hyde Park,
Rockefeller Estate and Boscobel, to name a few. Along the Hudson River, there are many other historic homes and mansions as well.
This writer has visited Boscobel several times over the years.
Boscobel has an interesting history that dates back to 1804. The mansion was almost demolished in the 1950s. Today the home has been moved to a new location and has been beautifully restored back to life.
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Boscobel, located in Garrison, N.Y.
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A portion of the gardens at Boscobel with summer blooms
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• Bear Mountain State Park
Open all seasons,
Bear Mountain is a popular recreational destination, full of many year-round and warm weather activities including swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking; winter activities include skiing and skating. The
Bear Mountain Zoo is open year round.
Picnickers set up early, along Hessian Lake. Visitors can rent boats by the hour.
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Ducks, geese and the zoo's swan enjoy the water on a hot summer's day
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• West Point
West Point is located in close proximity to Bear Mountain and resides right on the Hudson River. It is still an active military installation. The
West Point Museum is interesting for those intrigued by American and Military History.
The West Point Museum in N.Y.
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Additionally, there are several river towns located along the Hudson River. Throughout the warmer months many of these towns and villages throw various celebrations and riverfront concerts. Also, the area, such as the village of Cold Spring, is a popular location for antique collectors.
Anywhere along the river, the scenic views are breathtaking.
View overlooking the Hudson River from a scenic point located in Cortlandt Manor, N.Y.
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This is only a handful of what's to see and do in the Hudson River Valley, a gorgeous place to visit any time of the year (my particular favorite is spring, although the fall foliage is noteworthy as well). Most of these locations listed can be seen over a weekend visit, and/or several can be chosen to be seen during a day trip.
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