Simplicity's Top 5 Autumn Travel Picks in the Hudson Valley | New York
Well hello & happy Monday. You may be wondering how your weekend flew by so quickly. However, another will come in just five days, so why not make plans now? As photographers, we are always looking for new unique places to bring our clients and shoot our sessions. We also like to enjoy some "down" time and search out ALL that the Valley has to offer. So, if you're getting a little ho hum that winter is quickly approaching...don't! Check out the five places below that can make the next few weeks of autumn a blast. Happy traveling!
ONE | Madava Farm at the Crown Maple Estate: Dover Plains, NY
This one was on my "Cool Places to Visit in the Hudson Valley" bucket list for some time. And folks, it didn't disappoint! You may be familiar with the name Crown Maple as the label on a bottle of syrup in Whole Foods. However, did you know that it is an organic maple syrup from right here in our very own Hudson Valley? Established in 2010, this dynamic husband and wife team have done nothing short of creating an amazing masterpiece on their 400 acre sugar-bush. While at the farm be sure to schedule a 45 minute tour and tasting of the finest Hudson Valley syrup. Enjoy a light lunch inside at their cafe or have it delivered on the veranda overlooking the beautiful fall foliage. Don't forget to cozy up next to their fire pit where you can roast your very own marshmallow. To top off the day spend time walking around their beautiful wooded acreage where you can view the miles and miles of piping meandering throughout the woods that is used when the sap starts flowing! Visit their website here to learn more.
TWO | Minnewaska State Park: Kerhonkson, NY
As a SUNY New Paltz alumni it is only fair that I include one of the top highlights in the area for hiking. Minnewaska is nothing short of spectacular vistas-gorgeous waterfalls, bodies of water, massive rock ledges and sweeping views of New Paltz from atop the cliffs. Spend the day walking throughout their miles of trails and be sure to bring your camera! With 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths, every hiker is sure to find the perfect adventure and pace for them without any views being compromised. The best part is, if you don't get down to Minnewaska in autumn, throw your snowshoes in the car and go when it's chilly. You'll be sure to work up an appetite, so stop into one of the numerous restaurants the Paltz has to offer. For more information on Minnewaska State Park click here.
THREE | The New York Restaurant: Catskill, NY
You will have so many options here, you will want to taste one of everything and get a to-go-box to try the rest! The New York Restaurant located on the quaint Main Street Catskill is nothing short of delicious. Enjoy an evening out with friends or spend a Sunday brunch listening to their live jazz performances. With their friendly wait staff, entertainment, and good Polish food, made from the best Hudson Valley fresh ingredients, you will surely make the New York Restaurant a destination hot spot on your trip back into the area. To learn more visit their website here.
FOUR | Tour of the Capitol Building: Albany, NY
Have you ever wondered what is inside of that gorgeous building perched atop State Street in downtown Albany? Okay, okay, maybe I'm the only one. However, if you are like me and you just have to see the behind the scenes of how things work, then this is the tour for you! The jaw-dropping architecture of this building shows magnificent craftsmanship in every crevasse! On your tour you will see the million dollar staircase, the "whispering chimneys" and the beautiful hand painted murals on the ceilings. Tours are available throughout the year, but seasonal tours are going on now. After your tour be sure to grab a hot coffee and mosey around The Plaza for a view of the skyline. You won't be disappointed! Check out more about their tours by clicking here.
Photo: Taken at The Empire State Plaza.
FIVE | Troy Farmer's Market, Troy, NY
Who says farmer's markets have to end when summer does? Troy doesn't! The year-round Troy farmer's market is open to the public from 9-2 pm every Saturday. You will find local vendors, local artisans and Hudson Valley farm fresh food. Who can say no to that? The plus side is, if you are doing your Christmas shopping early this year browse the market for unique hand-crafted items and support locals in the area. It is truly a win-win! Be sure to visit their website here for more information.
So there you have it! Simplicity's Top 5 Autumn Travel Picks in the Hudson Valley. See that, Monday wasn't so painful after all. And...your weekend plans are shaping up too! Have a great week!
