A Guide To Upstate New York
May 17, 2024
We get a lot of inquiries from clients looking for ideas for short-distance getaways, and with Spring in fuller-than-ever bloom, we want to feature some of our favorite destinations in Upstate New York for anyone looking for a reprieve from the city. From cute and trendy cafes and bakeries to enchanting antique stores to beautiful outdoor sites, upstate has so much to offer. That’s why, we put in our very best research to give you some itinerary inspiration for three adorable little upstate towns so you can relax and reset this Spring.
Everything you see here and more can be arranged by us. Simply contact our concierge team at LIVunLtd to initiate your travel request through the LIV app, our web portal, or by emailing or calling us directly. We look forward to assisting you!
The Destination: Hudson
With hip cafes and boutique stores beside Victorian-style houses and Queen Anne-style mansions, visiting the city of Hudson will fill your history buff desires while still satisfying your modern indulgences. Whether taking the Amtrak or driving a car up to this bohemian little site, Hudson’s seamless blend of nature, artistry and traces of history will leave you feeling charmed.
Where To Eat
Cafe Mutton
Named one of Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants in 2022, Cafe Mutton’s delightfully hand-crafted dishes are locally-inspired, comforting and affordable. From their sandwich with house made bologna to their potato chip and french onion dip omelet, every dish on their menu is masterfully crafted to satisfy the highly-developed palate.
Lil’ Deb’s Oasis
With colorful and vibrant art interiors, Lil’ Deb’s Oasis is as much of an art installation as it is a destination for delicious food and beverages. Try the fried fish and a bottle of wine from their eclectic wine list as you dine in this fun and glowing atmosphere.
Kitty’s
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning treat or hoping to drink some cocktails with a side of oysters, Kitty’s is a hotspot for delectable eats. Consisting of a market cafe, a restaurant, and a bar, grab a seat and enjoy the food from their private dining room or backyard garden.
Where To Stay
Wm. Farmer and Sons
Wm. Farmer and Sons is a comforting and elegant city escape located walking distance from local businesses and beautiful river views. With high-end amenities and excellent service, Wm. Farmer and Sons offers both convenience and charming comfort.
The Amelia Hudson
The Amelia Hotel is both beautifully modern while still preserving the historic Queen Anne-style that Hudson is known for. Conveniently located at the heart of Hudson, The Amelia will leave you feeling restored and relaxed after exploring all that Hudson has to offer.
What To Do
Shop on Warren Street
Whether you’re wanting to go window shopping or looking for a gift for a friend, Hudson’s Warren Street is known for its fun and eclectic boutiques, art galleries and antique shops. Some of our favorites include FINCH Hudson, Red Chair On Warren, and The Quiet Botanist.
Hike the Catskill Mountains or Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Enjoy some of the beautiful and magical hiking trails and nature destinations right outside of Hudson. An hour away from town are two beautiful destinations to go hiking – the Catskill Mountains and the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a more strenuous hike, there are so many trails to explore for every hiking level.
Art Omi Sculpture Park
Featuring artwork from internationally known contemporary and modern artists and architects, the Art Omi’s 120 acre arts center is a fascinating destination for art lovers and fanatics.
Picnic at Hudson River Park
Whether enjoying a bottle of wine or some fresh delicacies from Kitty’s marketplace, Hudson River Park is a fantastic place to picnic.
Beer Tasting at Hudson Brewing Company
There’s no better way to end your day exploring Hudson than sitting down and enjoying a beer. Luckily, Hudson Brewing Company has a tasteful selection of beers that you can enjoy outside on their beautiful patio.
The Destination: Beacon
Just two hours outside the city by train or car, Beacon is the place to go for a sweet escape just outside the city. From hiking to shopping to dining to some of the finest contemporary art, Beacon has so much to explore. Whether you’re taking a day trip or spending the whole weekend, there are so many fun and exciting ways to spend your time while visiting this little town.
Where To Eat
Ziatun
Perfect for vegan and vegetarians, Ziatun is an affordable and authentic casual dining Palestinian restaurant in Beacon.
The Roundhouse Restaurant
If you’re looking for a fine-dining farm-to-table style restaurant, The Roundhouse Restaurant is just the spot. Highlighting local farms, wineries, distillers and small food and beverage businesses, The Roundhouse’s menu incorporates the agricultural richness of the Hudson Valley into modern American cuisine.
Homespun Foods
With an outdoor patio and eclectic wine list, Homespun Foods is a cute cafe and brunch spot for when the weather is nice and sunny outside. Their specialty sandwiches and fresh salads are the perfect light bite before taking on a hike.
Where To Stay
The Roundhouse
Walking distance from Beacon’s Main Street, The Roundhouse is a relaxing and charming place to stay with exceptional service, a beautiful outdoor terrace, and delicious drink and dining options.
What To Do
Dia: Beacon
Exhibiting artwork from 24 iconic artists of the 1960s, Dia: Beacon is a must-see for modern and contemporary art enthusiasts. Additionally, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece with beautifully lit galleries and open space. Featuring permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, gallery talks, and various events and workshops, Dia: Beacon is definitely a site worth visiting while in the town of Beacon.
Breakneck Ridge
With cliff overlooks and beautiful views expanding across the entire trail, Breakneck Ridge will definitely satisfy that nature urge you’ve been hoping to fill. Although the hike is pretty strenuous, the incredible views will motivate you throughout the trek.
Beacon Farmers Market
Whether you’re hoping to pick up some fresh Hudson Valley produce, wanting to discover something unique and tasty from a local vendor or searching for a special gift for a loved one, stroll through the Beacon Farmers Market on Sundays between 10 AM – 2 PM.
Guided Kayak Tour
Take in the beautiful views of the Hudson as you’re guided through the river on a kayak. If you’re looking for a romantic sunset paddle with your partner or wanting to enjoy family time with your children, Storm King Adventure Tours offers a wide range of unique kayaking experiences that are definitely worth checking out while in Beacon.
The Destination: Rhinebeck
This quintessential small town in the Hudson Valley is both a historical colonial village and a modern hotspot for health and wellness. From hiking trails, to spa destinations, to historical landmarks, there is so much to explore in Rhinebeck.
Where To Eat
Cinnamon Indian Cuisine
Cinnamon Indian Cuisine’s menu is authentic, innovative, and delicious, and a great casual dining option for big groups. Whether ordering the South Indian dosas or the Goan fish curry, their dishes come from all different regions throughout India while incorporating the fresh produce of the Hudson Valley.
Rhinebeck Bagels
Whether you’re craving a classic New York style bagel or wanting to try one of their unique and creative sandwich specials, Rhinebeck Bagels is the perfect place to stop for a morning or lunchtime bite.
Bia Rhinebeck
Whether you’re looking for a delicious dinner spot, hoping to enjoy some Irish festivities, or searching for a tasteful cocktail, Bia blends Irish cuisine and traditions with the modern culture of the Hudson Valley. Don’t miss out on their weekly traditional Sunday Roast or their lively Irish music every other Sunday.
Where To Stay
Mirbeau Inn & Spa
Whether you’re needing a rejuvenating spa retreat or hoping to explore the town of Rhinebeck, Mirbeau Inn & Spa offers an all encompassing relaxation getaway while being conveniently located in the heart of Rhinebeck.
What To Do
Guided Tour of the Wilderstein Mansion
History buffs and architecture lovers won’t want to miss out on viewing The Wilderstein Mansion through a guided tour. This prominent Victorian landmark was the home of Margaret Suckley, a cousin of Franklin Roosevelt.
Shop and stroll along Market and Mill
From antique shops to arts and crafts stores to bookshops, stroll along Market and Mill Streets and explore all of the cute little offerings Rhinebeck’s local shops have to offer.
Explore the Ferncliff Forest
Hike this 1.4 mile trail throughout the Ferncliff Forest, bringing you to a fire tower where you can see incredible panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains.
Farmers Market
Enjoy the local produce and delicacies from Rhinebeck’s Farmers’ Market every Sunday from 10 AM – 2 PM.
Picnic at Drayton Grant Park at Burger Hill
After picking up a spread of fresh produce, local cheeses, and tasty treats from the farmers’ market, head on over to Drayton Grant Park where you can picnic at Burger Hill as you take in the spectacular views of the countryside.
Visit the Milea Estate Vineyard
Whether you’re wanting a private tour and tasting or hoping to sit down and enjoy a bottle and some farm fresh bites, Milea Estate’s beautiful vineyard is definitely worth visiting.
Feeling inspired?
Everything here and more can be arranged by LIV, and you can send your travel request through the LIV app, our web portal, or by emailing or calling us directly. Please note that vendor availability for the weekend and weeks before/after the coronation is tight.