New York may be known for its glamorous and buzzing city, but have you ever considered venturing upstate for a day? Well…not even necessarily upstate, but the Hudson Valley? As someone who is from East Fishkill, which is one town over from the river, I know all of the CUTEST hangout spots that you need to check out. Here’s a list of my go-to towns that have so much to offer.
- Beacon
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From art galleries to a bath supplies store that also sells root beer floats, Beacon is the perfect town to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon. Located about an hour and a half up the river from Manhattan, the small town offers many rustic cafes, stationery shops, boutiques, and breweries. It even has The Snooki Shop (for all of my Jersey Shore lovers)! Beacon also has a park along the river called Long Dock, which is preserved and maintained by Scenic Hudson. The views of Newburgh across the river are breathtaking at night. I highly recommend The Beacon Creamery for the most delightful grapefruit-flavored ice cream, and Bank Square Coffeehouse (right across the street) for the tastiest iced vanilla chai lattes. (My signature touch: sprinkle cinnamon on top). Also, my top pick: Zora Dora’s ice pops!
- Rhinebeck
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Located about 2 hours from the city, Rhinebeck has a lot of potential and is also marked as one of my favorites! From book stores to bohemian-inspired shops to about the BEST Indian cuisine I’ve ever had, Rhinebeck has a lot to offer. Especially during the summer, when the Dutchess County Fair comes to town, Rhinebeck is booming with energy. The town radiates a hippie vibe during that time of year and decks itself out during Christmas. I recommend Winter Sun Summer Moon, which sells the daintiest hanging spring decor and bohemium elephants with lots of texture. My top pick: Samuel’s Sweet Shop, which also has amazing coffee!
- Coldspring
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Lively both during Christmastime with decorations, lights, and spirit at every window and during summer, with outdoor movie nights; Coldspring is another amazing spot to check out. This town is known for its great selection of antique and vintage stores, where you’ll never leave empty-handed. The gazebo at the bottom is one of my favorite parts. You have to try Moo Moo’s Maple Bacon ice cream while you’re down there. Downtown Coldspring is also located about a mile from Breakneck Mountain if you’re interested in a difficult, yet rewarding hike, but the tunnel through Breakneck is an experience on its own! My top pick: Pink Olive which sells the girliest, cutest stationary and brands such as Paper Rifle!
- Nyack
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On the west side of the river, Nyack holds a special place in my heart because my father actually grew up there and I visit with my family quite often. In a normal year, they have a buzzing street fair/farmer’s market with many amazing vendors. The boutique and thrift selections are also incredible; Nyack is full of color and radiance. Like to exercise? My family and I love to walk along the river at Nyack State Park! Another key point is that one of the biggest shopping malls in the area: The Palisades Center, is located in West-Nyack! My top pick: Patisserie Didier Dumas for the best BLT’s and croissants.
- Kingston
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Looking for a cozy getaway from the cold, or a historic escape with some character? I would recommend Kingston! Located right across the river from Rhinebeck, and also on the west side, Kingston has a very industrial, yet animated feel. The houses are embedded with cobblestone and history. While walking down the hills of Kingston, you’ll notice a rainbow on the road, and a mesmerizing record shop right across! My top pick: The Rough Draft Book Store, offering amazing lattes, cozy couches, and a great reading selection.
Well, those are my top picks, coming from a New Yorker at a Massachusetts state school! Some of my honorable mentions:
- Highland (My top pick: Underground Coffee)
- Peekskill (My top pick: Beanrunner Cafe)
- Fishkill (My top pick: The Dutchess Bier Cafe)
I hope you get a chance to come up this summer.