Planning Hudson Valley day trips? This list of day trips in the Hudson Valley highlights the best things to do from an insider’s perspective, with plenty of tips on what to eat and how to avoid the crowds.
With its close proximity to New York City, it’s no wonder that the Hudson Valley region draws tons of tourists. It’s super easy to get there on the train, bus, or by driving yourself.
Tourist crowds are at their highest during the summer months and in fall when autumn leaves bringing out the leaf peepers everywhere in the Northeast!
I’ve lived in the Hudson Valley for seven years. But I’ve been exploring the region since college–so I know a lot about what to see and do in the Hudson Valley, including Hudson Valley towns that are LGBTQ friendly.
I always recommend you think about not just what you want to see and do but also where to eat so you don’t get hangry if it takes longer than expected to complete a hike, explore a garden or tour of the many historic estates along the river.
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To really avoid the crowds, it’s a good idea if you can plan your visit off-peak. Get up early and have an early morning hike when others might still be in bed. Better yet, choose a lesser-known trail, like these AT day hikes instead of a Mohonk rock scramble.
Or take advantage of vacation days and come in the middle of the week. You will see a different side of this beautiful region if you’re able to escape the peak times so it’s well worth it if you can!
With a little background on how to get the most out of any Hudson Valley vacation, let’s dive right into the top ways to spend a day in the Hudson Valley. Browse through the list of my favorite Hudson Valley day trips to plan your next upstate getaway!
Local tip: Driving up from the city? You won’t be able to get around the Hudson Valley with Lyft and Uber, buses, or trains. Rent a car so you can make the most of your weekend!
1. Visit Storm King Art Center – a Massive Outdoor Sculpture Park
Storm King Art Center is a massive outdoor sculpture park spread over 500 acres of rolling hills. Walk through meadows, trails and woods. Take selfies with massive contemporary artworks. Touch base with your inner child and spark a connection with nature while seeing artwork from some of the most famous contemporary artists working in sculpture.
2. Visit Art Omi – Storm King’s Less Crowded Little Sister
Art Omi is like the hidden gem version of Storm King.
While Storm King is undeniably popular, Art Omi offers a more intimate and tranquil setting to enjoy contemporary art.
Spanning over 120 acres, Art Omi features a diverse range of sculptures and installations nestled within its scenic landscapes. You can explore at your own pace without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in art and nature without the hustle and bustle. On my last visit, I brought a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds.
3. Sample the Best Breweries in Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley has so many incredible craft breweries and cider places. You could try one every weekend and still never run out!
Add one of these great brewery or cider places on to your great Hudson Valley day trip. Or plan a day trip oriented around here or cider tasting (with a designated driver so you can just relax). My favorites right now are:
- West Kill – The Catskill brewhouse is a track but a super great vibe with board games and a fireplace. Their Kingston tap room is a little smaller and may be easier to get to.
- Sloop – Their ‘new’ location in East Fishkill doesn’t have the charm of their former farmhouse set up, but it is undeniably convenient with easy access from Route 84. Sloop throws a lot of events and has yummy food, so consider a stopoff here on your way back to New York City.
- Bad Seed – Visit the original Bad Seed to sip cider in a mellow atmosphere in the middle of an apple orchard. Or hit up the satellite location at Wilklow Orchards, a super family friendly orchard with my favorite cider donuts!
4. Take a Hudson River Cruise
A Hudson River cruise gives you a whole new perspective on the Hudson River and some of the best views of the massive mansions and historic homes that line the Hudson River.
One of the most celebrated ways to see the Hudson by water is aboard the sloop Clearwater, a restored tall ship with an environmental mission. Public sailing costs $75 ($80 for live music) and the boat is also available to charter for private parties and events. It’s an amazing experience and a way to really make a special occasion stand out.
But you don’t have to spend a ton of money on a Hudson River cruise.
The Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston, New York offers solar boat tours to Hudson River lighthouses as well as sunset cruises. Tickets range from 30 and up depending on which tour you select. Also in Kingston is Hudson River Cruises, which offers sunset cruises on the Hudson.
Looking for a more active way to see the Hudson River? Book a kayak tour of Bannerman’s Island, or explore the Hudson Highlands, one of the river’s most scenic stretches.
5. Do a Hudson Valley Historic Sites Tour
The Hudson Valley is full of incredible historic sites, but one stands out when it comes to LGBTQ travel.
Elenor Roosevelt’s home in Hyde Park, Val-Kill, is iconic given the many rumors about Eleanor Roosevelt and her close relationships with women–or just one in particular?
A tour of Val-Kill includes the inside of Eleanor’s home, her garden, and special exhibits. I loved the chance to read the passionate letters Eleanor exchanged with her journalist gal pal Lorena Hickok then decide for myself just how close the two were.
If you can only visit one Hudson Valley historic home, make it this one. Eleanor Roosevelt was such an advocate for social justice causes and female empowerment – and if the rumors are right she was also family!
The Eveready Diner is a popular local diner that also happens to be really good. It would be my first pick to eat in the Hyde Park area.
If you’re looking for picnic supplies that you can enjoy on the grounds and you are coming from the south, Rossi Rosticceria Deli in Poughkeepsie will treat you right. They have an enormous vegetarian sandwich that I end up sharing with my wife.
Aba’s Falafel in Rhinebeck is another good pick for to-go sandwiches, for those heading downriver to Hyde Park.
Walking trails connect to Eleanor’s home with FDR’s house, also in Hyde Park and well worth a visit.
6. Bask in peak fall colors on hudson Valley Hiking Trails
Fall is an absolutely gorgeous time to explore the Hudson Valley. As the summer heat gives way to crisp, cool air, the forests come alive with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. The leaves really start to change in October, if you want to time your Hudson Valley fall foliage hike.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there are trails suited for all skill levels. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, you can find a hike that suits your preferences and allows you to fully embrace the beauty of the season.
7. Pick Your Own on Hudson Valley Farms
From fruits to flowers like aromatic lavender or wildflower bouquets, picking your own is a way to get in touch with nature while supporting small family farms.
Kelder’s Farm in Kerhonkson is one of the bigger operations, ideal for groups and families. They have pick your own, a farm store, and a petting zoo.
Right across the street is Helena’s Pierogis, hands down the best place to go for pierogies in the Hudson Valley. They’re also cash only, FYI! The onion ones might be my favorite because the onion is cooked down so it’s sweet caramelized and jammy. The jalapeno cheddar ones are also pretty amazing.
Rose Hill Farm is another popular pick your own with cherries, blueberries, and stone fruit. They’ve been leaning hard into events and food pop-ups. Their summer schedule has a rotating mix of food pop-ups that includes pizza, greek food and Hawaiian tacos. Finally they have a wild fermented cider tap room if you’re into funky Hudson Valley brewery styles.
8. Take a Romantic Hudson Valley Garden Walk
Gardens make for fantastic date ideas, offering a romantic atmosphere that sparks connection and connection.
Two of my favorite Hudson Valley gardens to explore are Stonecrop Gardens and Innisfree.
Innisfree Garden feels a little bit like an Asian strolling garden set around a pond with native New York plants. Every time I visit, it gives me new inspiration for what my garden could look like if I gave it more time and attention.
In the lower Hudson Valley, Stonecrop is a charming garden including Alpine plants and water features. It has an English cottage feel that makes you feel as though you stepped back in time. They have plants for sale so if you see something you absolutely love you might be able to buy it during your visit!
Lastly if edible plants light you up you cannot skip a visit to the Hortus Arboretum, one of the newest Hudson Valley garden tours. Hortus is the passion project of two local gardeners dedicated to growing rare edible plants. It is open on the weekends seasonally from 10:00 to 4:00.
9. Tour Historic Hudson Valley Design Homes
Massaro House is the only Frank Lloyd Wright design to be built after the architect’s death. Located in the lower Hudson Valley, on Lake Mahopac, Massaro House just began offering tours in June 2023, so you can be among the first to see the historic site.
The adventure starts with a boat ride to Petra Island, set in the middle of Lake Mahopac. After docking, you will be guided around the Massaro House and the Chahroudi House, a guest cottage onsite. The Chahroudi family commissioned both homes and gave the architect free reign, with no financial limitations.
This tour is unique because a Massaro family member will guide you around the property. Every Frank Llord Wright home I’ve toured has been an amazing experience, and I’m looking forward to booking a spot on this brand new Hudson Valley historic house tour!
If you can’t get onto the Massaro House tour, head to Manitoga, former home of designer Russel Wright. Wright lived there with his wife and child. Located near Garrison, NY, the property is built into a rock slab in an old quarry. The home offers large picture windows that face the quarry pool and waterfall, where Wright went swimming daily. The home is unusual, combining Japanese design elements with Wright’s own creations. You’ll see a gallery of his more famous designs.
Manitoga has several walking trails which are not to be missed. In the summer, Manitoga hosts concerts. You can picnic on the grounds and explore the walking trails, gaining new perspective on the historic property and its one-of-a-kind setting. Manitoga is seasonally open from mid-May through mid-November.
Tours of Manitoga and Massaro House sell out, so plan ahead for these Hudson Valley day trips.
Use these Hudson Valley day trips as inspiration for planning your perfect day in the Hudson Valley!
To make your getaway easier, I’ve created an annotated map with my recommendations of Hudson Valley day trips, including where to eat and LGBTQ friendly things to do.
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Lots of outdoorsy things to do in Hudson Valley but I think you will find me in one of the breweries!
Wow these are really interesting trips, I didnt realise Hudson Valley had so much to offer. I love the designer homes
The Hudson Valley looks like a must see in October with its vibrant colors. The Garden Tour looks inviting as well. Great blog!
I’ve been considering spending fall in the northeast this year but hadn’t picked a location yet, was wanting someplace close to hiking but also close to public transportation so I can visit friends in various cities. Perfect timing for this post, maybe I’ll think about this area. Thank you!
I’ve been hearing a lot about Hudson Valley lately, sounds like it’s time to book a trip!