Memorial Day weekend kicked off the unofficial start to summer and we’ve curated a list of fun things to do this season. We love living in the Hudson Valley. There’s so much to see, eat and do and summer is the perfect time to take advantage of it all. What are you looking forward to doing? Is there anything else we should add to our summer fun list?
*As always, please check directly with any businesses listed for the most up-to-date information.
VISIT AN AMUSEMENT PARK OR WATER PARK:
The Hudson Valley is home to a variety of amusement and water parks. For younger kids, a trip to the recently opened LEGOLAND New York is a must. Playland is a Westchester County classic and so close to home. For those looking for a water park, make a visit to SplashDown Beach or the Kartrite.
GET ON THE WATER:
Most of the Hudson Valley is on or near to the Hudson River. There’s no better season than summer to get out on the water and enjoy the beauty of the river.
Boat cruise: Is there a better way to watch the sunset, learn about history, or just see some spectacular scenery than on a boat?
Hudson River Cruises in Kingston, New York Boat Company in Peekskill and Pride of the Hudson
in Newburgh all offer sightseeing cruises on the Hudson River.
Canoe/Kayak/SUP:
Hudson River Expeditions has locations in Beacon, Cold Spring and Peekskill and offer rentals and instruction. Beginning Memorial Day weekend through the beginning of October you can kayak, paddleboard or SUP.
Fishing: Fishing is a relaxing activity that many people enjoy. There are lots of places to fish throughout the Hudson Valley. Just make sure you have the proper license. Important to note, according to the NYS Dept. of Health, women under 50 and children under 15 should not eat any fish caught in the Hudson River.
Paddle Boats: When was the last time you took a leisurely paddle around a lake?
Bear Mountain State Park and Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park offer paddle boat and row boat rentals by the hour.
GET OUTSIDE:
Go on a Bike Ride: There are several bike paths throughout the Hudson Valley that offer flat, scenic bike rides.
Bronx River Parkway Bicycle Sundays – On select Sundays in June, July, September and October, the Bronx River Parkway is closed so bicyclists, in-line skaters, joggers and walkers can safely enjoy the roadway.
Dutchess Rail Trail – This 13.4 mile trail runs from the Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie) to Hopewell Junction.
Check out our A Bike Ride on the Dutchess Rail Trail post.
North County Trailway – This trailway runs from the South County Trailway at Old Saw Mill River Road (Elmsford) to the Putnam Trailway at NY 118/Tomahawk St. (Baldwin Place) and spans 20.7 miles.
Take a Hike: There are hundreds of hiking trails in the Hudson Valley so go check out a new-to-you trail. If you are a frequent hiker, we recommend purchasing the NY State Empire Pass, which allows free parking in most state parks. For inspiration, read our 5 Hudson Valley Loop Hikes post.
Go Fruit Picking – Strawberries, blueberries, peaches and more. There’s no shortage of farms to pick your own fruit. Check out our pick-your-own fruit guide for more info.
Go Mini-Golfing: The Hudson Valley has several outdoor mini golf courses. This is a great idea for a birthday party, family outing or date night. Check out our mini golf guide for more info on the different places to mini golf in Westchester!
Go for a Swim: There are numerous beaches, lakes and pools that are open to the public.
GET CULTURED
The Hudson Valley has no shortage of museums. Visit one on a rainy day or to escape the heat. Here are a few that we have visited and recommend:
DIA Beacon – This contemporary art museum opened in 2003 in Beacon. It features art from the 1960’s to the present. Check out our post.
The Museum at Bethel Woods – Through its exhibits, personal profiles and videos the Museum at Bethel Woods showcases the experience of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Festival. Check out our post.
Magazzino Italian Art – This facility in Cold Spring contains both a museum and research center focused on postwar and contemporary Italian art in the United States. Check out our post.
For those with young kids, check out the Westchester Children’s Museum in Rye.
EAT & DRINK
We love to spend our summer eating and drinking around the Hudson Valley. There are so many restaurants, bars and coffee shops to visit. However, we believe the below options offer some of the best summer experiences.
Breweries: I haven’t counted them all, but I’m guessing there are probably over 100 breweries in the Hudson Valley. You can make a summer goal of visiting a new one every week….but you will won’t get to them all! Many of the breweries offer outdoor seating and often have live music on the weekends.
Wineries: There are many wineries throughout the Hudson Valley that offer wine tastings, outdoor seating with scenic views and live music on weekends.
Farmers Markets: Every weekend (and even some weekdays) there are several local farmers markets that you can visit. Stock up on locally-grown fruits and vegetables, buy some freshly-baked bread, pick up some baked goods and prepared foods. Support local! Check out our Farmers Market guide for more details.
Food Trucks: Food trucks have exploded in popularity. There are trucks for almost any type of cuisine you may be craving. Make sure to check some out this summer! Use our food truck guide to help you decide which ones to try!
Ice Cream: A fun family summer goal is try to hit as many Hudson Valley ice cream spots as possible. There are lots of delicious options spanning the different counties!
OTHER FUN:
Baseball Game – The Hudson Valley is home to two minor league baseball teams, the Hudson Valley Renegades and the NY Boulders. This is an affordable and fun family outing, close to home.
Rail Explorers – Enjoy a unique experience in the Catskills pedaling an explorer alongside the Esopus Creek. Check out our post.
