Living upstate in the Hudson Valley has been a dream. I still have so many places to visit and explore, however I've put together a little guide based on my favorite spots. 

Hasbrouk House, pictured above, is an 18th century Dutch Colonial stone mansion, and the perfect place to stay in the Hudson Valley. The pool is over 100 years old (it has been restored), and they offer fun events like outdoor yoga and film nights and a fire pit with s'mores. The rooms are chic and the staff is wonderful. The restaurant, Butterfield, is one of the best in the area and the service is excellent.

The Wynkoop-Lounsbery House, pictured above, is a few doors down from the Hasbrouk House in the historic hamlet of Stone Ridge. On November 15, 1782, George Washington slept here. It's one of my favorite homes in the area.

Restaurants in Accord:

Westwind Orchard & Cidery has become a favorite spot and a great place to bring your guests and your dogs.

Arrowood Farms is pictured above in a photo by Steph Mossey. Enjoy live bands, a brewery and a tasting room. I love this place!

Saunderskill Farms, above, is a casual spot that is also a farmer's market. Enjoy the blueberry lemon scones and a cup of hot tea at an outdoor table for breakfast. 

Best Casual Restaurants near Stone Ridge:

Ollie’s Pizzeria, High Falls, pictured above, is delicious! I've probably eaten here more often than anywhere else in the Hudson Valley. 

A few others:
The Egg’s Nest, High Falls
Hash, Stone Ridge
The Roost, Stone Ridge
The Phoenicia Diner 

Woodstock Restaurants:

Sylvia’s is more upscale for the area and has a lively atmosphere.

The Garden Cafe is casual vegan, however even non-vegan diners will enjoy this spot. It's one of my favorites.

Kingston Restaurants:

Hotel Kinsley is pictured above. They have such a nice brunch.

Boitson’s is so good. I recommend sitting upstairs on the covered deck.

 Kingston Bread + Bar is a great casual spot for lunch.

Hiking/Nature:

O & W Rail Trail in Stone Ridge.

The Ashokan Reservoir is a beautiful place to go for a run.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a favorite place to hike and swim. 

Mohonk Preserve is another great spot for nature lovers.

Kingston Point Beach is one of my favorite spots to unwind and enjoy the view of the Hudson River.

Kingston Point Rotary Park and Kingston Point Rail Trail has an incredible view of the lighthouse, pictured above, and an old fashioned trolley.

Robert E Post Memorial Park has a great view of the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge.

Towns to visit:

Kingston Roundout is a quaint waterfront town with a marina, boats, restaurants and shopping. Visit Mariner’s Harbor for lunch or The Tortilla Taco Bar.

Uptown Kingston has become so popular and I've heard that it is one of the hottest real estate markets in the country right now. 

Enjoy the shops, dining, and history. Visit the historic Senate House, pictured above, and then walk around the village to view stone houses from the 1700's and old Victorians. 

Favorite shops include Hamilton & Adams and River Mint Finery. 

Rough Draft Bar & Books is a bookstore and cafe that is a must-visit spot in Kingston. Above is an older photo; they now have plenty of outdoor seating now for you to enjoy a cup of coffee and snack with your new book.

Rhinebeck Village:

Spend an afternoon in Rhinebeck for shopping and visit two of my favorite restaurants: Aba’s Falafel for the best Middle Eastern and Cinnamon for Indian cuisine.

Poet’s Walk in Red Hook near Rhinebeck, is perfect for a hike surrounded by nature. 

Visit nearby Saugerties including Saugerties Village Beach and Saugerties Lighthouse.

Hudson Valley Museums: Friends of Historic Kingston Museum, Fred H. Johnston Museum, Kingston, Hudson River Maritime Museum, Huguenot Historical Society, Delaware and Hudson Canal Historical Society Museum

Spend a day in Millerton, NY:

Millerton is nearby and is a perfect day trip. I try to visit as often as possible. My first stop is always Harney & Son's Tea Café for lunch (my favorite tea and such a lovely spot and menu), then Montage Antiques where I have found some of my favorite pieces, followed by shopping at Westerlind Shop & Pantry. My friend Carol Vargo of Gray Antiques & Interiors has excellent taste and originally introduced me to Millerton. I've been in love with the town ever since. This summer we saw La Piscine at The Moviehouse in Millerton.

Another favorite town is Millbrook. My friend Permele Doyle, President of the influencer marketing firm Billion Dollar Boy, introduced me to this charming town. The Millbrook Diner, pictured above, is an old school diner with one of the best menus. Angela Adams Alpaca is a must-visit for shopping, and be sure to browse the antiques shops in the village.

Finally, one of my favorite activities is to put the dogs in the car and drive around the countryside, stopping frequently to take photos of the farm animals and barns. I hope you are able to visit the Hudson Valley and will enjoy it as much as I do!