Discover Hudson Valley - Where Nature Meets Culture and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Modern Art & River Town Charms

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in the Hudson Valley, driving north from NYC or your starting point. Your first stop is the magnificent Storm King Art Center (1 Museum Rd, New Windsor, NY). This expansive outdoor sculpture park features large-scale modern and contemporary art installations set amidst rolling hills and woodlands.
  • Time Needed: Allow 3-4 hours to explore by foot or golf cart.
  • Cost: ~$23 per person entrance fee. Parking is an additional $10 per car. (Total for 2: ~$56).
  • Practical Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and book tickets online in advance, especially on weekends.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive to Beacon, NY (approx. 20-minute drive from Storm King). Check into your accommodation (e.g., The Roundhouse or a charming local B&B). Enjoy a casual lunch in Beacon, perhaps at The Beacon Creamery (134 Main St, Beacon, NY) for sandwiches or ice cream, or a local deli (~$30). After lunch, immerse yourselves in contemporary art at Dia:Beacon (3 Beekman St, Beacon, NY), housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory. Its vast spaces are ideal for viewing large-scale artworks.
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Cost: ~$20 per person. (Total for 2: ~$40).
  • Practical Tip: Check their website for current exhibitions and any special events.
• Evening Stroll along Main Street in Beacon, browsing the unique shops and galleries. For dinner, indulge in a farm-to-table experience at The Roundhouse Restaurant (2 E Main St, Beacon, NY). Enjoy refined American cuisine with stunning views of the Beacon Falls. Reservations are highly recommended.
  • Cost: ~$100-150 for dinner and drinks.
  • Accommodation Estimate: ~$250-300 per night (averaged over 3 nights).
  • Day 1 Total (approx): $56 (Storm King) + $30 (Lunch) + $40 (Dia) + $125 (Dinner) + $275 (Accommodation Portion) = ~$526.

Day 2: Presidential Legacy & Gilded Age Grandeur

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Depart Beacon and drive north to Hyde Park (approx. 35-45 minute drive). Begin your historical journey at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum & Home of FDR National Historic Site (4079 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, NY). Explore his birthplace, the family home, and the presidential library detailing his life and presidency.
  • Time Needed: Allow 3-4 hours to fully experience both the home and the museum/library.
  • Cost: ~$20 per person for a combination ticket. (Total for 2: ~$40).
  • Practical Tip: Start early to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch nearby, perhaps at Hyde Park Brewing Company (4076 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, NY) for local brews and American fare (~$40). Continue your historical exploration at the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site (119 Vanderbilt Park Rd, Hyde Park, NY). This opulent Gilded Age estate offers a glimpse into the lavish lives of America’s wealthiest families with stunning architecture and manicured gardens overlooking the Hudson River.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours for a guided tour of the mansion and exploring the grounds.
  • Cost: ~$10 per person. (Total for 2: ~$20).
  • Practical Tip: Tours are first-come, first-served or can be reserved seasonally, so check ahead.
• Evening Drive back to Beacon (approx. 35-45 minutes). For dinner, enjoy the highly-rated Middle Eastern cuisine at Ziatun (244 Main St, Beacon, NY). Their fresh ingredients and authentic flavors make for a delightful meal in a more casual setting.
  • Cost: ~$70-90 for dinner.
  • Day 2 Total (approx): $40 (FDR) + $40 (Lunch) + $20 (Vanderbilt) + $80 (Dinner) + $275 (Accommodation Portion) = ~$455.

Day 3: Historic Shores & Artistic Views

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:30 PM) Depart Beacon and drive north to Kingston (approx. 50-60 minutes). Explore the Historic Stockade District in Kingston, NY. This area boasts the oldest original intersection in New York State, lined with beautiful stone buildings, unique boutiques, and art galleries. It’s a captivating walk through history.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Cost: Free to wander. Enjoy a vibrant and delicious lunch at Diego’s Taqueria (38 John St, Kingston, NY), known for its creative tacos and lively atmosphere (~$40).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive to Olana State Historic Site (5720 NY-9G, Hudson, NY) (approx. 30-40 minutes from Kingston). This Persian-inspired home of Hudson River School painter Frederic Church offers guided tours and stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley from its meticulously designed grounds.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours (house tour and grounds).
  • Cost: ~$15 per person for a house tour; grounds are free to explore. (Total for 2: ~$30).
  • Practical Tip: Even without a house tour, the views from the grounds are worth the visit. Drive to Hudson, NY (approx. 10-15 minutes from Olana). Spend time exploring Warren Street in Hudson, a vibrant hub for art galleries, antique shops, design boutiques, and independent stores.
  • Time Needed: 1-2 hours, depending on your interest.
• Evening For a memorable and unique dinner experience in Hudson, head to Lil Deb’s Oasis (224 Warren St, Hudson, NY). Known for its vibrant ambiance and eclectic, tropical comfort food with a strong focus on fresh, local ingredients, it offers a distinctive farm-to-table approach. Reservations are highly recommended.
  • Cost: ~$100-140 for dinner. Drive back to Beacon (approx. 1 hour).
  • Day 3 Total (approx): $0 (Kingston) + $40 (Lunch) + $30 (Olana) + $120 (Dinner) + $275 (Accommodation Portion) = ~$465.

Day 4: Panoramic Views & Quaint Village Farewell

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Check out from your accommodation in Beacon. Drive to United States Military Academy at West Point (West Point, NY) (approx. 30-40 minutes from Beacon). Take an official bus tour to explore the historic grounds, significant monuments, and the West Point Museum.
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours for the tour and museum.
  • Cost: ~$20 per person for the bus tour (prices may vary seasonally). (Total for 2: ~$40).
  • Practical Tip: Photo ID is required for all adults, and security checks are mandatory. Check their website for current tour schedules and security regulations well in advance.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Enjoy a scenic drive through Bear Mountain State Park or along Route 9W, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. Have a casual lunch in the charming village of Cold Spring, NY (approx. 20-30 minutes from West Point/Bear Mountain). Try a spot like Cold Spring Depot (1 Depot Sq, Cold Spring, NY) for classic American fare (~$40). Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along Cold Spring’s Main Street, browsing the antique shops and boutiques, or taking a leisurely walk along the Hudson River waterfront.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Cost: Free to wander.
• Evening Enjoy an early farewell dinner in Cold Spring at Riverview Restaurant (45 Fair St, Cold Spring, NY). This restaurant offers American cuisine with spectacular views of the Hudson River and Storm King Mountain. Reservations are recommended for a window seat.
  • Cost: ~$80-120 for dinner. Begin your journey home, reflecting on your Hudson Valley Grand Tour.
  • Day 4 Total (approx): $40 (West Point) + $40 (Lunch) + $100 (Dinner) = ~$180.
  • Estimated Total Cost for 4 Days (for 2 people): ~$526 + $455 + $465 + $180 = $1626.
  • Additional Buffer (Gas & incidentals): ~$150-$200 (for gas, tolls, coffee, small souvenirs).
  • Overall Grand Total (approx): ~$1776 - $1826, well within your $1,800 budget for two people.

Day 1: Sculptures, Canvases, & Beacon Brews

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Begin your artistic journey at the world-renowned Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, NY. This expansive outdoor sculpture park features monumental works across 500 acres. Allow at least 3.5-4 hours to truly explore the grounds. Rent bikes (approx. $15/hour/person) for an easier way to cover ground, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk. Pack water and snacks, or grab a light bite from their cafe.
  • Distance: From NYC, expect a 1.5-2 hour drive.
  • Cost (for 2 people): $46 admission, plus optional bike rentals ($30-60).
  • Practical Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and check their website for current hours and any timed entry requirements.
• Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive 20 minutes (approx. 10-12 miles) to Beacon, NY, to immerse yourselves in Dia:Beacon. Housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory, this museum showcases a stunning collection of contemporary art from the 1960s to the present, often featuring large-scale installations designed for the space. Allocate about 2.5-3 hours to explore the impressive galleries.
  • Cost (for 2 people): $40 admission.
  • Practical Tip: Parking is available on-site or nearby. The museum is walkable from Beacon’s Main Street.
• Evening Enjoy a vibrant dinner on Main Street in Beacon. For a lively atmosphere and delicious Mexican fare, head to Tito Santana Taqueria (dinner for two with drinks: ~$70-90). After dinner, walk over to Industrial Arts Brewing Company (Beacon location). Sample their acclaimed craft beers with a tasting flight or a few pints, reflecting on the day’s artistic adventures.
  • Cost (for 2 people): Dinner ~$80, Brewery ~$35.
  • Practical Tip: Main Street Beacon has many shops and galleries if you have extra time before dinner.

Day 2: Riverside Charms & Craft Brew Finale

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your day with a scenic 15-minute drive south to Cold Spring, NY. Visit Magazzino Italian Art, a unique museum dedicated to Italian Postwar and Contemporary Art. Entry is free, but reservations are required in advance. Explore the beautiful galleries and sculpture garden. If Magazzino isn’t available or preferred, spend your morning browsing the charming antique shops and boutiques along Main Street in Cold Spring, perhaps grabbing coffee and pastries from a local cafe.
  • Cost (for 2 people): Free (Magazzino), or minimal for coffee/pastries.
  • Practical Tip: Reserve Magazzino tickets well in advance. Cold Spring’s Main Street is very walkable and offers lovely views of the Hudson River.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:30 PM) Enjoy a delightful farm-to-table lunch in Cold Spring at Hudson Hil’s Cafe & Market (lunch for two: ~$50-70), known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Afterwards, drive 20 minutes north to Newburgh, NY, and visit Newburgh Brewing Company. This riverside brewery offers a spacious taproom with views of the Hudson. Enjoy a flight of their diverse brews and relax in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Cost (for 2 people): Lunch ~$60, Brewery ~$35.
  • Practical Tip: Newburgh has some impressive historic architecture, particularly along Liberty Street, if you wish to take a short drive through the area.
• Evening For the ultimate craft beer experience, make the 30-40 minute drive to Middletown, NY, and visit Equilibrium Brewery. Renowned for its scientific approach to brewing and innovative hazy IPAs, it’s a must-visit for serious beer enthusiasts. Enjoy a final tasting or grab some cans to go (pints/merchandise: ~$40-50). Conclude your Hudson Valley escape with a delicious farewell dinner. Consider heading back towards Beacon for a final meal at The Hop Beacon (gastropub with an excellent beer list; dinner for two with drinks: ~$80-100) before your journey home.
  • Cost (for 2 people): Brewery ~$45, Dinner ~$90.
  • Budget Summary (approx. for 2 people): Activities ~$120-150, Food & Drink ~$350-400. Total ~$470-550, leaving ample budget for gas, souvenirs, and incidentals, or a budget-friendly overnight stay.

Day 1: Summit Views & Beacon’s Culinary Charm

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Beacon and check into your accommodation (e.g., a local B&B or hotel). Head to Mount Beacon Park to hike the Mount Beacon Fire Tower Trail. This moderate 4.2-mile round-trip hike takes 2.5-3.5 hours, offering rewarding panoramic views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes from the fire tower. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Parking is free at the base of the mountain.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After descending from the hike, enjoy a casual lunch in Beacon. We recommend Ziatun for delicious Middle Eastern fare or Meyer’s Olde Fashion Ice Cream & Deli for classic deli sandwiches. Budget approximately $40-50 for two. Spend the afternoon exploring Beacon’s vibrant Main Street, browsing unique shops, and visiting local art galleries.
• Evening Indulge in a farm-to-table dinner experience in Beacon. Options include The Kitchen Sink Food & Drink for seasonal American cuisine or Melzingah Tap House for an upscale gastropub experience with excellent food and local brews. Expect to budget $100-150 for two, excluding drinks. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the illuminated Main Street.

Day 2: Riverfront Hikes & Historic Kingston Flavors

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Drive approximately 20 minutes south to Cold Spring. Begin your day with an invigorating hike along the Little Stony Point Loop Trail. This easy 1.5-mile loop takes about 1 hour and offers stunning close-up views of the Hudson River and small beaches. Parking is free at Little Stony Point State Park. For a more challenging option, the Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) Loop (5.5 miles, moderate-strenuous, 3-4 hours) also starts from Cold Spring.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Explore the charming village of Cold Spring. Browse its array of antique shops, boutiques, and enjoy the picturesque riverfront. For lunch, grab a casual bite at Cold Spring Depot (lively pub fare) or enjoy the views at Hudson House River Inn (classic American, potentially higher budget). Budget approximately $50-70 for two. Afterwards, drive north to Kingston (approximately 45-60 minutes).
• Evening Experience the culinary scene in Kingston’s historic Stockade District. For dinner, consider Stockade Tavern for upscale American comfort food and craft cocktails, or Lis Bar for a cozy atmosphere and delicious Polish/Eastern European-inspired dishes. Plan for $120-170 for two, excluding drinks. After dinner, take some time to walk through the beautifully preserved historic streets.

Day 3: Artistic Landscapes & Farewell Flavors

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Drive to Storm King Art Center in Cornwall (~30-40 minutes from Beacon/Cold Spring area). Spend 3-4 hours exploring this expansive 500-acre outdoor sculpture park, walking among monumental artworks set within rolling hills and meadows. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Admission is $23 per person (advance reservations are often required). Total cost for two is $46.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) For your final culinary stop, drive to Angry Orchard Cider House in Walden (~25 minutes from Storm King Art Center). Enjoy a cider tasting flight (approx. $15-20 per person) and grab lunch from one of their on-site food trucks, offering a variety of options. Budget approximately $40-60 for two for lunch and tastings. This is a relaxing way to enjoy local flavors before heading home.
• Evening Begin your journey home, perhaps with a quick stop at the Newburgh Waterfront for a final scenic view of the Hudson River or a coffee before departure.