Chronogram's Explore Spring/Summer 2023

Explore

Outdoor Concerts & Sculpture Parks

On the cover: Art Omi page 6

SPRING/SUMMER 2023

Retro Vibe Inns & Motels

Fire Towers & Waterfalls

HUDSON VALLEY / CATSKILLS / BERKSHIRES

Gosavor!

Eat, drink, and sing out loud. Our chefs and restauranteurs are creative, imaginative, and acclaimed. Our craft beverage producers are award-winning. Our live music happens on hallowed and historic grounds.

CATSKILL CUISINE

MAY 13

A food festival at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts with celebrity and local chefs, cooking demos, music, a marketplace, and more.

TAP NEW YORK

MAY 21 & 22

A two-day beer festival at Bethel Woods showcasing hand-crafted NY state beers and live music featuring, The Wailers, Blues Traveler, and others.

CATBIRD FESTIVAL

AUGUST 19 & 20

A new music festival on the historic Woodstock ’69 field with live performances by The Lumineers, Tyler Childres, Trey Anastasio, and more.

INSIDE

8

Hudson Valley Map

10

Accommodations

Retro Vibes and Rustic Luxury

A new accommodations boom in the Hudson Valley and Catskills offers distinctive experiences for all types of travelers, from retro designs to Scandinavian-inspired retreats.

14

Food & Drink

Local Harvest, Global Flavor

Hudson Valley restaurants provide visitors a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the culinary alchemy of our kitchen wizards. Some recommendations.

22

Craft Beverage

Drinking in the Hudson Valley

The region is a craft beverage oasis, with options across the spectrum, from breweries and distilleries to tiki bars.

27 Shopping

The Magic of Markets

The warm weather means its craft fair time again across the region.

32 Arts Culture Fix

Summer is festival season, from Upstate Art Weekend and beyond.

39

Family Friendly

Kid-Friendly Attractions

Waterparks, trampolines, and more.

42 Outdoors

Fire Towers & Waterfalls

A curated list of iconic hikes.

Belleayre Beach, Pine Hill

On the cover: Alicja Kwade, TunnelTeller (2018). Stainless steel, concrete, natural stone (Macaubas azul). Aerial view: Art Omi, 2021. Image courtesy of Art Omi, Ghent. Artomi.org. Photo: Alon Koppel.

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RETRO VIBES AND RUSTIC LUXURY

BY ANNE PYBURN CRAIG

The pandemic accelerated an accommodations boom in the Hudson Valley and Catskills. This roundup features some of the most exciting new places to stay in the region, from renovated ski lodges to Scandinavianinspired retreats. These properties offer distinctive experiences for all types of travelers. Bluebird Hunter Lodge boasts a redesign inspired by `70s road trips, while the Blue Fox Motel offers rustic pampering in log cabins. Habitas on Hudson is a Neoclassical mansion with a view of the Hudson River, while Howland House is a Catskills destination with handmade furniture and locally sourced antiques. Eastwind Oliverea Valley is the perfect place to unwind and practice hygge, and Camptown is a renovated motor lodge and log cabin retreat with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Bluebird Hunter Lodge HUNTER

This former ski lodge has undergone a redesign by Massachusetts design firm

Elder and Ash inspired by `70s road trips, with natural textures and modern-rustic decor. The 44-room lodge has a variety of room configurations, some with bunk beds or pull-out couches, and others with petfriendly outdoor access. The hotel’s Hunter Tavern offers classic fare and shared plates, as well as local beer tastings, biweekly trivia nights, and live music performances. With the lodge’s prime location and space, it’s an ideal base for outdoor adventure as well as a destination wedding venue. The redesign by Massachusetts design firm Elder and Ash elevates the building while keeping the original essence of the place, creating a stylishly nostalgic touch that pays homage to the natural surroundings.

Blue Fox Motel NARROWSBURG

The Blue Fox Motel in Narrowsburg is a rustic yet pampered accommodation that was opened by Jorge Neves and Meg Sullivan in 2020. Formerly the Ten-Mile River Motel, named for the waterway that rushes

Habitas-on-Hudson, Staatsburg

Photo by Pepe Molina

alongside it, the property includes an 11room, log-cabin motel; another log building with suites; a restaurant; standalone cabins; and an in-ground pool. Every building has been renovated, while the exteriors remain unchanged, and the infrastructure has been modernized with added WiFi, fans, heating, and air conditioning, making the rooms rentable all year round. The Blue Fox restaurant, event space, and bar are all located in the same building. The motel’s spaces are versatile, offering guests an ideal spot to work remotely, seek inspiration, or relax by the pool.

Habitas-on-Hudson STAATSBURG

What might a stately home in Staatsburg have in common with villas in Saudi Arabia’s Ashar Valley or a sustainable sanctuary in Tulum, Mexico? Quite a lot, actually, as these are all examples of properties launched by the disruptive hospitality management group Habitas. Habitas-on-Hudson is a Neoclassical mansion with a glorious view of the river and rolling mountains beyond—a vista that drew Gilded Age money barons to construct multiple mansions nearby. Built around 1900, the home served as an inn, before opening as a Habitas property in December 2022. The layout of the main building, known as the Manor, features several sitting and lounging areas furnished with appealingly clustered, colorful MidCentury furniture and vivid modern art. The Manor features six bedrooms, four of which offer an expansive river view, with an additional Lodge and Stone House, bringing the total number of bedrooms to 30. There’s a cozy intimate pub with a copper-topped bar and the Social, a ballroom-sized, farmto-table restaurant focused on seasonal local ingredients.

Howland House MOUNT TREMPER

The Howland House in Mount Tremper has been a Catskills destination for New York City residents in various incarnations since it was built in the 1860s, steps away from the Esopus Creek. After a meticulous, masterful renovation over the past three years, it reopened last fall, reviving the name it held in 1920 and its original purpose as an inn. The lodging has 10 rooms which include one king-bed room, five queens, and four rooms with full-size beds. Seven rooms have private baths, some with soaking

tubs; the remaining three rooms are in one wing of the inn, and share two hall baths. All the furniture pieces at the inn are either handmade (like those nightstands and handbuilt walnut beds in some of the rooms), or locally sourced antiques. The rebuilt porch has Douglas fir floors, a slatted skirt, turned spindles, and wrought-iron railings custom made in Saugerties. A restored mahogany bar awaits patrons of Oliver’s, the onsite bar/ tavern.

Eastwind Oliverea Valley

WINDHAM AND LAKE PLACID

Eastwind Hotels, with locations in Windham and Lake Placid, opened its third hotel, Eastwind Oliverea Valley earlier this year. An elevated Scandinavian-inspired experience with a touch of Midcentury vintage style, it’s the group’s first ground-up build. The Catskills property offers 30 guest rooms, four different cabin types, and varying amenities

such as private patios, vintage desks, and furnished lofts. The property features an allday menu and dinner service at Dandelion, the on-site restaurant and bar, and a pool, complimentary bikes for nature rides, seasonal workshops, sunrise yoga sessions, and foraging walks. The sentiment of hygge, the Scandinavian concept of contentment and coziness, was at the forefront of the design.

Camptown LEEDS

Originally built in the 1930s, Camptown is a hotel retreat nestled at the foot of the Catskill Mountains just north of Catskill in the hamlet of Leeds. Reimagined by Ray Pirkle and Kim Bucci, owners and creators of Rivertown Lodge in Hudson, Camptown is the first hotel solely designed by the duo under their debut company, Ramshackle Studio. The property has undergone a thoughtful renovation and redesign, embracing existing original architectural details while punctuating the spaces with custom work created through partnerships with local artists and woodworkers. Situated on 22 wooded acres of land to explore, Camptown features a motor lodge consisting of 24 guest rooms and 26 log cabins (many with functioning kitchens or wood burning stoves) that are equally suited for short-term visits and longer stays. Casa Susanna, the property’s Mexican restaurant helmed by Chef Efrén Hernández, offers a seasonal menu focused on fresh produce. Additional property features include a sauna, fire pits, grilling area, and access to a multitude of outdoor recreational activities.

Reclaimed Motel RED HOOK

The former Hearthstone Motel on Route 9 in Red Hook was reopened last year—after an extensive renovation by new owners Kendra Sinclair and Jared Vengrin—as the Reclaimed Motel, a one-of-a-kind motor lodge with a funky and nostalgic vibe. The 1960s motel has been reimagined by the couple as a vintage and antiques playground—each room is decorated distinctively, featuring hand-selected items, from tiles to lighting, from doors to vinyl records, to art and mirrors. Don’t be surprised to find a record player and some classic vinyl in your room, or other retro-chic amenities. Reclaimed is also pet-friendly, so don’t forget Fido!

Reclaimed Motel, Red Hook

Urgent Care in the Mid-Hudson Valley

It can be frustrating when minor illnesses strike during a summer getaway upstate. Instead of heading straight to the hospital emergency room, however, visitors in the MidHudson Valley who find themselves dealing with sprains, strains, cuts, fractures, and respiratory symptoms can consider seeing a community clinician in the Albany Med Health System.

With 16 rapid and urgent care centers across the region, providers in the Albany Med Health System—the area’s only locally managed health care system—treat illnesses and injuries for patients of all ages in comfortable, state-of-the-art settings close to home or where they’re staying.

Seven days a week, patients have access to highly trained providers who provide the care they need to get back on their feet and on their way. In Columbia and Greene counties, the Albany Med Health System operates urgent care clinics in Catskill, Coxsackie, Saugerties, and Valatie through its community-based providers, Albany Medical Center and

Columbia Memorial Health.

“Our urgent care centers are staffed by providers with training and experience in emergency medicine. They have the skills and knowledge needed to accurately and quickly diagnose each patient,” says Dr. Michael Weisberg, the chief of emergency medicine at Columbia Memorial Health who also oversees its rapid care sites in Catskill and Valatie.

By linking together providers in more than 100 different medical specialties with the region’s only academic medical center and Level I trauma center, the Albany Med Health System is expanding access to healthcare across the region, particularly in rural communities where it’s needed most.

“Many of our providers have been in the area for years,” Dr. Weisberg says. “Our patients are our neighbors, and we have a true connection to our community.”

For a complete list of rapid and urgent care providers, visit Albanymed.org.

LOCAL HARVEST, GLOBAL FLAVOR

BY MARIE DOYON AND BRIAN K. MAHONEY

The Hudson Valley is home to many small family farms that produce some of the freshest and most delicious ingredients in the country. Much of this bounty makes its way to local restaurants. From riverfront taverns to family-friendly cafes to bistros pushing the inventive limits, if you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to experience farm-to-table dining at the latest crop of restaurants to open in the region.

By dining at farm-to-table restaurants, you’re not only supporting local businesses, but you’re also getting a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Farm-to-table dining in the Hudson Valley is not just about the food, it’s an experience that connects you to the land and the people who cultivate it. Not only is the food fresh and flavorful, but the farm-to-table movement is also environmentally sustainable. By supporting local agriculture, you’re reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and helping to preserve the region’s agricultural landscape. Come to the Hudson Valley and indulge in the region’s bountiful harvests. Taste the difference that comes from locally sourced ingredients and experience the beauty of farm-to-table dining.

Chleo KINGSTON

Chleo is like a scaled-down, Kingston version of Montreal’s iconic Joe Beef: casual, welllubricated, delicious, carefully curated, and with a scrupulous focus on housemade ingredients, from XO sauce to rye soaked in butternut squash scraps to add sweetness to its Old Fashioned ($15), that looks insouciant. The renovated spot (formerly Ecce Terra) sports an elegant, neutral color palette and serves up locally sourced eats. For a teaser, order grilled bread or seed crackers and carrot ‘nduja spread, made with a mix of lactofermented and slow-cooked carrots, Calabrian chilis, and roasted garlic ($8). Dishes like the charred cabbage with anchoiade and kraut krispies ($12) and the wild mushrooms with porter vinaigrette, egg yolk, and breadcrumbs ($17) offer an umami-packed vegetarian option. If you want meat, though, go for the grilled short rib with black trumpet duxelle and jus ($32). The natural-leaning wine list ranges from an Oregon Syrah to a Catalonian Malvasia with some 30 selections, almost half of which are available by the glass ($11-16).

North Star at the Alander COPAKE

A couple years after opening the Alander, a reimagined boutique lodge in Copake, owners Jason Seiler and Reid Kendall have recently

The Lemon Squeeze, New Paltz

opened an upscale-casual onsite restaurant, North Star, with a focus on New American favorites and New England seafood. The menu features clam chowder ($12), lobster bisque ($14), and an appetizer of PEI mussels with Dijon cream and lager ($15). Entree choices include a pan-seared Atlantic salmon ($32), a 16-ounce New York strip steak served with jumbo tiger shrimp ($45), roasted duck breast with garlic-herb spaetzli ($29), and a vegetarian Moroccan stew with acorn squash, chick peas, sweet potatoes, and jasmine rice ($27). The bar and restaurant are open Thursday through Sunday, with happy hour starting at 4pm and dinner service at 5pm. The drink list includes carefully curated wines, beers, and spirits.

Norma’s WAPPINGERS FALLS

Asking Crystal Williams to choose a favorite menu item at her family-friendly bakery/ cafe in Wappingers Falls is like asking her to choose a favorite child—but she does have to mention the biscuits. They’re made from scratch in-house, like all the other baked goods that Norma’s offers, which range from Bundt cakes topped with icing (available in raspberry, mocha, and double chocolate) to garden loafs (a fan favorite) and banana muffins. Offered in seasonal rotations, the baked goods can be paired with oven-baked, grilled, or cold sandwiches that feature homemade spreads. For sandwiches, customers are encouraged to opt for biscuits instead of bread or bagels. Options include

North Star at the Alander, Copake

classics like the tuna melt, ham and Swiss, and turkey, alongside geographic specialties like the Southerner (eggs, sausage gravy, and honey butter between biscuits) and the Californian (a vegetable-laden meal with microgreens, avocado, and hummus.) An extensive drink menu features all of the usual espresso drink offerings as well as teas and tea lattes, hot chocolate, and freshly squeezed lemonade, with specials like Norma’s Olé (a spicy mocha).

Kip’s Tavern RHINECLIFF

Kip’s Tavern is that increasingly rare breed of eatery that combines cozy-chic digs, professional service, tasty food, and entrees priced under $25. The menu is small—just five entrees: ricotta cavatelli ($21), Atlantic salmon ($23), chicken paillard ($20), chicken pot pie ($22), cheeseburger ($20)—with an emphasis on elevated pub fare. There are also nightly specials. Opened last October by New York City industry vet Christopher Dorsey, Kip’s Tavern is in the former China Rose space on the waterfront in the tiny hamlet of Rhinecliff, just around the corner from the Amtrak station. With a couple dozen patio seats facing the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains beyond, Kip’s Tavern is a prime spot for summer sunset dining.

Cafe Espresso WOODSTOCK

Entrepreneur Lizzie Vann is on a mission to revamp Woodstock’s historic sites, starting with the Bearsville Theater complex and now with Cafe Espresso. The coffee shop at the corner of Tinker Street and De Vall Road was a favorite haunt of Bob Dylan and other folkies in the early ‘60s and, later, the building housed the Center for Photography at Woodstock. The spot has reclaimed its 1962 name and cafe function, albeit with reduced seating, as Vann works to renovate the rest of the building. Given the name, it’d be a sin not to offer the full range of coffee drinks, which the cafe serves up with organic coffee beans, complemented by pastries from neighboring biz Nancy’s Artisanal Creamery. Sidle up to the small bar or grab a table and enjoy the throwback decor.

Blackbarn Hudson Valley SAUGERTIES

When Tom Struzzieri wasn’t able to find a suitable buyer for his epic waterfront property Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern, he pivoted, as shrewd businesspeople do, instead lightening his workload by offloading

the restaurant’s management to Manhattanbased Blackbarn. The Saugerties spot, with its 150-seat restaurant and stunning waterfall views, will be the first upstate outpost for the NoMad bistro and opened in April. Given their practice of sourcing local and seasonal ingredients from Tristate farms and their barn location (already an anomaly for New York City), the move to the Hudson Valley makes sense, putting Blackbarn closer to the agrarian sensibility already at the heart of their identity. The kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef Marcos Castro and features inventive hotel cuisine. Start with a black mission fig pizza ($18) or Hudson Valley foie gras ($26) before moving on to eight-hour BBQ beef ribs ($42) or roasted Faero Island salmon ($36).

The Lemon Squeeze NEW PALTZ

The formerly rundown Murphy’s Irish Bar in New Paltz has taken on new life after a thorough renovation as a piano bar and restaurant. On Friday and Saturday evenings from 6:15pm till 8:15pm, house pianist Steve Scholz plays a variety of dinner music. Following Scholz finishes, the piano show revs up with a variety of pianists who play everything from show tunes to Billy Joel and Elton John and modern pop. Singing along is encouraged. Executive chef Jerusalem Marston-Reid, a Newburgh native and former executive chef at the North Plank Tavern, has crafted a New American-inspired menu rooted

The Kitchen at Salt & Fire, Saugerties

in fresh, local ingredients and house-made touches. Starters include lobster bisque ($13), wedge salad ($13), and wagyu beef sliders ($18). Day boat scallops ($38), Cava-brined double-cut Berkshire pork chop ($28), and a cauliflower steak ($21) are among the main dishes. There’s also a late-night menu after 9pm on weekends. There’s also an inventive cocktail list ($14-$18) and a selection of wine and beer that pairs locally produced beverages with European and Californian offerings.

Upstate Taco STONE RIDGE

This roadside taqueria in Stone Ridge turns out melt-in-your mouth carne asada, chicken, and pork tacos, mulas, and a variation on burritos. Co-owner Mauricio Miranda singlehandedly runs the open kitchen at a dizzying pace, slapping corn tortillas on a sizzling grill. Nearby, his wife Sasha takes orders and hands out restaurant pagers. For an app, start with nopales, grilled cactus paddles that that taste like something between a shishito pepper and a pickled jalapeño ($8); elote, Mexican-style street corn ($5); or a toploaded tostada, a crispy corn tortilla piled high with chipotle braised chicken, beans, cheese, shredded romaine, crema, and cotija cheese ($6.50). Everything is made in house with local ingredients from the salsas and guac to the aguas frescas (blended fruit drinks). The

food comes out hot and fast and the place is cranking during the lunch rush. In the evenings, families file in for a bite after soccer practice and couples cozy up in the corners to sip tajin-rimmed margaritas and craft beer.

The Kitchen at Salt & Fire SAUGERTIES

The Saugerties restaurant scene tends to have less turnover than the surrounding towns and cities, so openings are notable. Last August, the Kitchen at Salt & Fire opened in the former Bella Luna location. The business is co-owned by Jorge and Rihanna Rodriguez, who are also the proprietors of the beloved Mexican restaurant and bar Main Street Cafe, and chef Joseph Della Chiesa and his wife Kaitlyn. At Salt & Fire, old world techniques like wood-fired cooking infuse a contemporary, locally sourced menu. Global culinary influences range from Spain (ovenroasted chorizo and peach flatbread, $18) to Korea (koji barbecue pork belly meatballs, $13) to France (cod a la grenobloise, $32), plus raw bar offerings like oysters and shrimp. Inside, you could easily be in a European bistro with exposed brick and beams, wood floors, and white tablecloths. There’s also rooftop seating for the warmer days.

Upstate Taco, Stone Ridge

CATSKILLS COMFORT

5 Unforgettable Places to Stay in Delaware County

Just an hour’s drive from Kingston, yet far enough into the Catskill Mountains to feel like a true getaway, is Delaware County. With quietly bustling main streets tucked among sweeping pastoral landscapes, the county strikes an alluring balance of solitude and spunk. With hundreds of miles of forests that offer unparalleled access to quintessential Catskills pursuits like hiking, swimming, and fly fishing, a bustling farm-to-table restaurant and craft beverage scene, and arts and culture galore, there’s plenty to do during a summertime stay.

When it comes to finding a cozy spot to spend the night, Delaware County is rife with accommodations that add a splash of something spectacular to any vacation. From an artist-built glamping village to a pop-culture themed motel, here are five spots to stay that sparkle with that Catskill Mountain je ne sais quoi.

Farm Stay at Stony Creek Farmstead

Delaware County has deep agricultural roots, and a renewed commitment from today’s farmers and local food producers is keeping that tradition going strong. At Stony Creek Farmstead in Walton, guests can stay in a spacious platform tent while connecting with the rhythms of the Marsiglio family’s working organic farm. Say “hay” to the cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens, then cook up a bountiful meal made from farm-fresh ingredients from their farm store. Stonycreekfarmstead.com

Harmony Hill Retreat Center

Surrounded by 70 wooded mountain acres in East Meredith, guests at Harmony Hill Retreat can unplug and get back to nature by staying in their own private luxury yurt, which comes with a king-sized bed under a dome skylight for dreamy stargazing. Guests can go on a guided tour of the property’s trails, take a sacred geometry journey to the center of a fieldstone labyrinth, or book a Reiki treatment with coowner Chris Rosenthal. Harmonyhillretreat.com

The Roxbury Experience, Roxbury

The Roxbury Experience

It’s no coincidence that the larger-than-life digs at the Roxbury Motel and the Roxbury at Stratton Falls feel like they were taken directly from a Broadway stage. Located just three minutes apart in the quiet village of Roxbury, the vivacious accommodations were created by former theater professionals Gregory Henderson and Joseph Massa. The Roxbury Motel’s rooms borrow themes from TV and movies ranging from the Wizard of Oz to Indiana Jones. Stratton Falls, opened during the pandemic, has eight fantastical tower cottages and a circa-1800s mansion with seven rooms that take their themes from the property’s storied past.

Theroxburyexperience.com

The Hamden Inn

With a history that dates back to the 1840s, the newly renovated Hamden Inn in Hamden offers a heaping helping of old-school charm and classic architectural details. Its two bookable units—a two-bedroom and a three-bedroom— are perfect for small groups and longer stays.

Conveniently located on the first floor is the Lounge, a restaurant and bar offering up seasonally influenced takes on classic bistro fare. Hamdeninnandlounge.com

Bellfire in the Catskills

In 2014, artists Mina Teslaru and Rich Tazzara discovered a secluded 10-acre property in Meeker Hollow near Roxbury and dove headfirst into transforming their little corner of the Catskills into an artists’ retreat and off-grid hideaway for reconnecting with the natural world. The glamping village at Bellfire in the Catskills features four tiny dwellings that were meticulously designed and hand-built by the artists, including a modern interpretation of a Victorian Romani wagon. In addition to miles of forest to roam, guests have access to a sauna and a large floating deck in the wildflower meadow that’s perfect for yoga or taking in the stars. Bellfirefarm.com

For more inspiration on where to go and what to do in Delaware County, visit Greatwesterncatskills.com.

Harmony Hill Retreat Center, East Meredith,

The Hamden Inn, Hamden

Stony Creek Farmstead, Walton

DRINKING IN THE HUDSON VALLEY

BY LIAM DRAUF

If you’re a craft beverage enthusiast, then the Hudson Valley is a mustvisit destination. With a surge in craft breweries and distilleries, the area has become a haven for beer and spirits lovers. Upper Depot Brewing Co is the newest addition to Hudson’s craft brewery scene, located in a historic train station and boasting eight freshly brewed beers on tap. Meanwhile, the Last Whisky Bar in Warwick brings bottle service to the masses and offers a selection of around 40 premium Kentucky bourbons, as well as live music on weekends. For those seeking a taste of true craftsmanship, Union Grove Distillery in Arkville is a must-visit destination, crafting small-batch spirits using locally sourced ingredients. And for those looking for a tikiinspired experience, Jet Set in Newburgh offers fruit-forward craft cocktails and Asian fare on the waterfront.

Upper Depot Brewing Co HUDSON

For being the proverbial it-town of the Hudson

Valley, Hudson has lagged in the region’s craft brewery trend. But at the end of 2022, the city got its second brewery when Upper Depot opened in a historic circa-1871 train station. Raised in nearby Stuyvesant Falls, friends and co-owners Montgomery Bopp and Aaron Maas pitched the building’s owners on the brewery concept back in 2019. It’s been a long road with plenty of bumps, but in late December the brewery opened its doors with eight freshly brewed beers on tap inside the industrial-chic space. Skipping the headache of an onsite kitchen, the team has opted to tap into the local circuit of food truck operators, with the Irish fare of Whale Belly as a regular fixture.

Last Whisky Bar WARWICK

We admittedly missed the scoop on this one. So, instead, join us in congratulating Warwick’s Last Whisky Bar on its first anniversary. This speakeasy brings bottle service to the masses: a noble mission. Head there with friends, a date, or on your own to purchase a bottle of their top-shelf liquor selection, Wild West-style.

Return Brewing, Hudson

You can request your spirit to be served neat, on the rocks, mixed into a cocktail, sent to the cutie at the next table, or whatever floats your boat. If you haven’t cleaned up shop by the time the night is through, you can stash your bottle behind the bar till next time. There are around 40 premium Kentucky bourbons to choose from, as well as an array of other spirits by the bottle, flight, or cocktail; wine; and beer. On weekends, the bar also dishes up live local music acts.

West Kill Supply KINGSTON

The Kingston satellite location of the Spruceton Valley brewery opened last fall across the street from the historic Ulster Performing Arts Center in the city center. The design of the taproom evokes the woodsy, rustic charm of early 20thcentury Catskill boarding houses. There are 14 draft lines serving West Kill beers as well as a selection of New York State ciders and wine. There’s a backyard beer garden, and Kingston Bread + Bar’s food truck dishes up falafel and chicken shawarma on fresh-made bread, plus and fries and other goodies on weekends.

Jet Set NEWBURGH

The murky depths of the Hudson may not be the turquoise lagoons of the South Pacific, but this meandering body of water is a roving focal point of relaxation and recreation in the region. Enter Jet Set, a new tiki bar on Newburgh’s waterfront, offers a vacation from the mundane with fruit-forward craft cocktails and Asian fare in a space inspired by Midcentury Modern tiki culture. (Look for the airplane fuselage!) The cocktail list spans tiki classics like the Mai Tai ($13), the Zombie ($19), Painkiller ($15), and fishbowl punches for sharing. The menu was designed to be a hearty companion to the fruity, boozy cocktails with a good amount of fried stuff to offset the tartness of the drinks, with plenty of fresh, quick, pan-cooked vegetables. Think of it as elevated bar food with a tiki twist. For starters wok-fried Brussel sprouts ($12), smashed cucumber salad ($7), or poke nachos ($16) and then move on to grilled items like a chili chicken burger ($14) or grilled miso eggplant ($12).

Big Dogs Brewery WALDEN

The Brewery at Orange County Hops has gotten a new name and a new music-infused identity. Under Tim TJ Santiago and Melissa Raap, Big

Last Whisky Bar, Warwick

Dogs Brewery, which opened in early February, continues to serve up craft brews plus a stacked lineup of live bands every weekend, New York spirits, wine, cider, and hot coffee. Big Dogs offers a laid-back experience in a rustic environment, with wood-paneled walls, exposed joists, and a concrete floor. On select days, Sully on the Street food truck parks in the lot to dish up tasty sandwiches.

Union Grove Distillery ARKVILLE

Nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Union Grove Distillery in Arkville is a destination for spirits enthusiasts seeking a taste of true craftsmanship. This awardwinning distillery has been crafting premium small-batch spirits since 2016, including their signature Vly Creek Vodka and FirGin, distilled with local Balsam fir and Norway Spruce trees. But Union Grove Distillery isn’t just a place for a sip of spirits; it’s also a place to indulge in delicious eats. Their tasting room offers a variety of delicious food offerings to

pair perfectly with their handcrafted cocktails, such as their charcuterie board featuring locally sourced meats and cheeses or their savory empanadas made from scratch. The distillery itself is housed in a beautifully restored barn, complete with a tasting room and outdoor patio with stunning mountain views.

Return Brewing HUDSON

For Mikey Lenane and two of his cofounders, brewer J. D. Linderman and head of creative Jack Liakas, Return Brewing was the logical next step in their combined two decades of brewing experience. Champing at the bit, the partners started brewing at Crossroads in Catskill in 2021 before opening their own facility and taproom in Hudson was ready. Their beers, already well known at local bars and restaurants, use a mixture of local ingredients and internationally sourced hops to craft Eastern European-inspired brews like Baltic porters, kolschs, and dark lagers.

Jet Set, Newburgh

Enjoy craft ciders, wood-fired pizza, burgers and barbecue, homemade cider doughnuts, and local cider, beer, wine, and spirits.

155 N Ohioville Rd New Paltz, NY (845) 633-8657

brooklynciderhouse.com twinstarorchards.com

THE MAGIC OF MARKETS

BY ANNE PYBURN CRAIG

For centuries, the market was the beating heart of town, the essential place. Mass production dented that energy—it’s impossible to feel as energized and fascinated by a big box store as one does by a buzzing bazaar with dozens of makers and traders promoting things they truly love. A true market is a place to amble through slowly, stopping to admire even stuff you don’t need; it’s a place to go with friends and loved ones and spend the afternoon, a place to sample new foods, find fresh creative inspiration, find a gift as unique as its intended recipient or an item so perfect you’ll use it every day for decades and never tire of it.

Thanks to our creatives and organizers, we’re blessed with a selection of markets around here that will gratify the choosiest connoisseur.

Field + Supply KINGSTON

The third annual Spring MRKT, as the event’s styled, Memorial Day weekend, May 26-28, at

the Hutton Brickyards in Kingston. Over 200 makers will present their finest wares amid a backdrop of live music, artful local eats and the gorgeous Hudson River rolling by. Categories include furniture and lighting, home decor, kitchen and bath and apparel and jewelry, curated for quality and inspired diversity. Founded by interior designer Brad Ford, F+S has been featured in House Beautiful, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Town & Country and many more. Fathom called it “the East Coast’s coolest maker’s market.”

Phoenicia Flea CATSKILLS

This flea was founded in its namesake Catskills town in 2014 and has since expanded to a bicoastal flock of markets showcasing makers and merchants of several noteworthy regions, but Phoenicia Flea was where it all began. The nomadic market pops up all season at “exceptional properties,” making for backdrops as quirky and lovely as its wares. In June, you’ll find it in Dobbs Ferry (6/3), Callicoon (6/10), and Tannersville (6/17-6/18); July will feature

Field + Supply, Kingston

Photo by Scott Rudd

markets in Stone Ridge (7/1-7/2) and Windham (7/29); and August will bring Livingston Manor (7/5-7/6) into the mix while Tannersville (7/12-7/13) and Stone Ridge (7/19-20) each get a second round of the wanderers and their wonderful wares.

Findings Vintage and Makers Market STONE RIDGE

Farmhouse Project present this celebration of spring at Stone Ridge Orchard on May 6 and 7, a garden-themed extravaganza blending crafts, antiques, and flowers with fine local food and drink in a lush historic setting among fragrant, blossoming apple trees. A curated lineup of emerging musicians will be playing indie folk-pop, blues, funk and jazz for your pleasure all weekend long. On June 3-4, Farmhouse will be presenting a Spring Makers Market in the restored 19th-century Barn on Hubbard, bringing an array of local makings, bites and bevvies along with antiques, plants, and flowers to bucolic Callicoon.

River Valley Guild

Established in 2020, River Valley Guild is a multidisciplinary collective striving to build community through creativity. You can meet its makers and their wares in the taproom of Industrial Arts Brewery in Garnerville on May 20 (the huge Garner Arts Maker Faire happens the same weekend), on June 10 at Drunk Yoga Wellness Market in Beacon, on June 16 at the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival in Garrison,

and at the Glens Falls House in Round Top every weekend of July as part of that venue’s Summer of Joy celebration.

Vintage Vibe Markets RHINEBECK

Dolores Fawkes and Dieter Kretschy bring their 30 years of festival experience to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck June 3 and 4. As the name suggests, this one’s all about the art of upcycling—expect to be amazed and delighted by the home decor, jewelry, clothing, and more crafted from good old things that have been given fresh lives. You’ll find regional cuisine prepared by hand the old-fashioned, small-batch way, local wine to sip while you browse, and probably a host of new ideas for that piece from Grandma’s that you love but have no idea what to do with. Old stuff has never looked so good.

Rhinebeck Crafts Festival RHINEBECK

Billed as the Hudson Valley’s “most unique shopping event,” the Rhinebeck Crafts Festival gather over 200 makers and crafters at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds June 24-25, bringing their original and unusual fashions, accessories, jewelry, home decor, furniture, photography and fine art; as well as functional and sculptural works in ceramics, glass, metal, wood, mixed media, and more. Refreshments will feature gourmet goodies from fine local providers; there will be beverage distillery tastings, family fun activities and demos where you can see for yourself how the magic gets made. All events at the fairgrounds are indoor/ outdoor, so it’s on no matter the weather.

Woodstock-New Paltz Art and Crafts Fair NEW PALTZ

Presented by Quail Hollow Events, this is the mother of Hudson Valley craft fairs—created by creators for creators and has been rocking it for over 40 years, taking over the Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz each Memorial and Labor Day weekend with a stunning, juried array of makers bringing their finest creations of wood, metal, ceramic, leather, and more. The weekend will feature live entertainment, demonstrations and a children’s tent full of supervised crafty fun along with craft beverages of all descriptions and specialty foods. The fair, a family business since the beginning, is regularly featured in the Sunshine Artist 200 Best list.

Susan Shannon of Su Chi Pottery at the Woodstock-New Paltz Art and Crafts Fair New Paltz

Photo by Mike Lawrie Photography

A local destination in New Paltz for Handcrafts, Jewelry, and Clothing for over 50 years.

6 North Front Street, New Paltz 845-255-6277 handmadeandmore.com

900 ACRE BIODYNAMIC ® FARM GROWING SEASON CSA

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NATURAL FOODS + GROCERY STORE

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ART COURSES FOR ADULTS & MORE

US MADE A micro-department store of US made goods for women + men + home + coffee shop

US MADE A micro-department store of US made goods for women + men + home + coffee shop

A new collaborative retail project of Utility Canvas + Hudson Clothier

A new collaborative retail project of Utility Canvas + Hudson Clothier

US MADE A micro-department store of US made goods for women + men + home + coffee shop

27 GARDEN STREET, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12601

27 GARDEN STREET, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12601

Open Daily 11-6 canvasandclothier.com Q canvasandclothier

A new collaborative retail project of Utility Canvas + Hudson Clothier

27 GARDEN STREET, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12601

ROUGHING IT, REFINED

Boutique Hotel Meets

Nature Retreat at AutoCamp Catskills

Bonding with friends around a firepit, sleeping under star-strewn skies, and waking up to birdsong are some of the most pleasurable parts of camping. But along with the perks comes hauling supplies, tent setup, and cleaning up before heading home. AutoCamp Catskills removes that burden, combining the romance of Catskills camping with luxury and ease.

“Guests just need to pack a bag and show up. We take care of the details,” says Taylor Micaela Davis, AutoCamp’s Vice President of Brand Marketing. “It’s perfect for experienced campers and those who are new to camping, too.”

AutoCamp was founded 10 years ago on the West Coast. It expanded to five locations there, followed by a destination in Cape Cod, and soon-to-be locations in North Carolina and Texas. The Catskills outpost, located between Saugerties and Woodstock, is its most recent addition.

Selecting the location was an easy decision according to Davis. “Our unique lodging experience translates well to the Catskills,” she says. “The area is a go-to escape, full of boutique experiences that are a short drive away. We are nine minutes from Woodstock, and it’s just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City.”

The Suite Life

AutoCamp Catskills opened last June with 90 separate accommodations. The offerings include cabins, luxury canvas tents, and

modern, custom Airstream suites for guests who crave the outdoors and appreciate hotellike hospitality.

“It’s a great staycation, or a weekend away from home,” says Davis. “We offer something for everyone: A couple’s getaway, a summer vacation for families and their pets, or events like a reunion, wedding, or anniversary party.”

For a camping-style experience, try a Luxury Tent. The canvas tents have a king-sized bed and fold-out sofa, a solid floor and screened windows, and are fully equipped with lights, electrical outlets, and a mini-fridge. Bathrooms and private showers are available steps away at the Clubhouse—AutoCamp’s Midcentury Modern-style home base, which is also home to the Kitchen and General Store, as well as event space.

Looking for a retro but chic experience? Book a night or two in one of AutoCamp’s classic Airstreams. Heated and air-conditioned, the 31-foot trailers each have a queen-sized bed, sitting room, kitchenette, and private bathroom. (For the best of both worlds, the Premium Base Camp Suite includes an Airstream and tent, which accommodates parties of up to six.)

For an even roomier stay, go for an X Suite.

The accommodations are similar to tiny houses, with a private bedroom, spa-like bathroom, full kitchen, and living room with a flatscreen TV and fold-out sofa. Some offer accessible features as well.

The Cabin Suites offer a homier feel. The pine cabins each have a front porch with a swing, a queen-sized bed, bunk beds and a fold-out sofa, a full kitchen and dining area, and private bathroom.

Everything guests need for their stays is provided, down to the dishes, utensils, highthread-count linens, and plush bathrobes. There are even accessibility-minded accommodations for those who need them. “It’s a barrier-free way to experience camping,” Davis says.

The Catskills are Calling

AutoCamp offers curated excursions that help guests experience the best of what the region has to offer, including guided hikes, forest bathing, and fly-fishing in world-class Catskills streams.

But guests don’t need to leave AutoCamp to have fun. “On-site we offer weekly yoga, live music, and other events,” Davis says. “In February, we brought in a Finnish sauna for guests. And Radio Woodstock is bringing in a Brooklyn pizza maker and a band for a concert on the lawn this spring.”

Three different event spaces also make AutoCamp a destination for corporate retreats and even weddings. The Clubhouse has TVs and modern conference tables for meetings. An outdoor amphitheater area is well-suited for intimate wedding ceremonies, and an expansive lawn area can accommodate a tent for a reception or dinner.

The best part of staying at AutoCamp comes at the end of a long day spent enjoying the beauty and bounty of the Catskills, Davis says: “You get to relax inside your tent, Airstream, or cabin, and let the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.”

Autocamp.com

GET YOUR CULTURE FIX THIS SUMMER

BY HANNAH VAN SICKLE

Come summer, all the (upstate) world’s a stage—one spanning the vast valley at the base of the Catskill, Adirondack, and White mountains. The region, a veritable fertile crescent of culture, is dotted with on- and off-the-beaten path destinations worth celebrating all season long. The fun unfurls both indoors and out—at proper venues and in fallow fields—evoking everything from Shakespearean England to the Summer of Love and dozens of artistic expressions in between. This festival season, everything’s larger-than-life in the Hudson Valley: from visual and performing arts; classical to contemporary live music; even open artist studios and site-specific installations. What better reason to celebrate? Dive in.

Storm King Art Center NEW WINDSOR

Ambition abounds at Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, a 500-acre outdoor museum synonymous with exploring art in nature. Highlights of the 2023 season include a special exhibition of large-scale, outdoor sculptures by Beatriz Cortez, dubbed a meditation on migration and movement via volcanoes; never-before-seen works by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, bound by solar and lunar themes, punctuating the South Fields and occupying the main floor gallery; and a brand-new, site-specific commission by the British artist RA Walden—titled, access points // or // alternative states of matter(ing)—which will unfold across several acres of the South Ponds, marking a decade of Storm King’s Outlooks program and depicting the six most common elements on Earth. Can you name them?

Suspended, Menashe Kadishman, 1977. Gift of Muriel and Philip I. Berman, Allentown, PA. ©Estate of Menashe Kadishman. Photo by Jerry L. Thompson

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival GARRISON

Nothing evokes London’s South Bank quite like Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival’s open-air theater tent in Garrison overlooking the scenic Hudson River—an entirely apropos stage on which a double-bill of Shakespeare plays will unfold this season. Enjoy “Love’s Labor’s Lost” (featuring the Bard’s side-splitting comedy infused with an original pop/rock score) and “Henry V” (in which the timeless quandary of leadership resonates with fresh urgency for a contemporary crowd), or check out the world premiere of “PENELOPE,” a retelling of the Odyssey from the perspective of Odysseus’s wife, a character originally relegated to the margins. Pack a pre-show picnic or take a nightly walking tour of the grounds—all while overlooking the Hudson Highlands.

PS 21 CHATHAM

This season, PS21 shines a spotlight on a constellation of celebrated and emerging artists via 40 live contemporary arts events slated to unfold across the venue’s 100 acres of orchards, meadows, and woodlands in Chatham. The open-air Pavilion Theatre will welcome dancers and choreographers; musicians and singers; actors, directors, and international street artists (nouveau cirque, anyone?)—each of whom, by breathing life into traditional genres or creating new ones, will leave an indelible mark upon the lush arts landscape that is the Hudson Valley. PS: Don’t miss James Casebere’s site-specific art installation, an architectural sculpture that stands in the (literal) balance between humans and the natural world.

Kaatsbaan Spring Festival TIVOLI

The idyllic 153-acre Kaatsbaan Cultural Park in Tivoli plays host to a cast of talented performers across a trio of weekends in June—including a mixed dance bill featuring the José Limón Dance Company and American Ballet Theatre Studio Company (June 3-4); the contemporary strains of a classical string quartet called ETHEL (June 9-10); plus a post-modern dance turned storytelling collaboration between Emily Coates and Emmanuele Phuonn. Book your return trip for June 25 when the Big Apple-based Baryshnikov Arts Center ventures upstate to honor the 75th birthday of their founder and artistic director featuring the music that kept him on his toes.

Caramoor Summer Music Festival KATONAH

Since its founding in 1945, Caramoor in Katonah has been dubbed a distinctive haven for culture—one situated at the intersection of sight and sound. The summer season features nine weeks of curated live music matched with one of five distinct venues: Large-scale concerts swell from beneath the open-sided tent of the Venetian Theatre while the casual Friends Field equally invites picnicking and frolicking. The Spanish Courtyard evokes an air of romance while a Sunken Garden for Music and Meditation invites calm. Make a date today to stroll the lush grounds, tour the historic Rosen House (complete with a dedicated Music Room), nosh on pre-concert nibbles, or simply bask in the beautiful music.

Bard SummerScape ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON

Aptly titled “Breaking Ground,” the Fisher Center at Bard’s 20th anniversary season marks two decades of innovative performance by adventurous artists—spanning contemporary to classical—staged on the college’s Annandaleon-Hudson campus. SummerScape, an eightweek-long arts festival, runs the gamut from opera (Henri VII), dance and a world-premiere theater commission from Sufjan Stevens (“Illinois”) to music, film, and cabaret—plus one 20th Anniversary Community Day Celebration (July 15) and a summer-long party (with live music and dancing) under the Spiegeltent. A pair of weekends in August, dubbed the 33rd Bard Music Festival, explore the life and work

of Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958), one of the 20th century’s greatest symphonists.

Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival BECKET

In 1931, when Ted Shawn first stumbled upon a 220-acre farm in the Berkshires, he unwittingly pioneered modern dance in America. Today, his legacy continues at “the Pillow” (whose moniker stems from the Biblical boulder) where, for nine weeks each summer, artists from around the globe perform diverse dance forms—from elegant ballet and innovative contemporary dance to virtuosic tap and traditional Indigenous dance—under cover at the Ted Shawn Theatre or en plein air on the Henry J. Leir Stage. A week-long mini festival, “Hip Hop Across the Pillow,” celebrates 50 years of the groundbreaking art form in the United States.

Upstate Art Weekend HUDSON VALLEY

Mid-summer marks the fourth edition of Upstate Art Weekend (July 21-24)—a self-guided tour of art destinations across the Hudson Valley—an event that’s grown exponentially since founder Helen Toomer decided a celebration of the region’s vibrant culture a fitting antidote to social distancing in 2020. The New Art Dealers Association (NADA) returns to Catskill’s Foreland arts campus for this year’s event—including over 100 galleries, museums, and organizations presenting incredible works, exhibitions and site-specific projects—showcasing ceramics, photos, paintings, and prints, plus a plethora

Cassandra Bowerman, Natasha Korney, Kaja Irwin, Sabrina Comanescu of Decidedly Jazz Danceworks. Jacob’s Pillow, Becket.

Photo by Trudie Lee

June 23, 24 & 25, 2023

Altamont Fairgrounds, near Albany, NY festival.oldsongs.org

of other media. Wend your own way for a different kind of (aesthetically pleasing) road trip.

Catbird Music Festival BETHEL

In a nostalgic nod to 1969 (when half a million music lovers descended on Max Yasgur’s dairy farm to hear 32 acts over three days), Catbird Music Festival (August 19+20) is tweeting a sweet sounding, star-studded summer lineup at Bethel Woods. The wideranging bill—featuring 22 artists across a pair of stages—promises to be nothing short of memorable. Headliners at the inaugural edition of this two-day camping and music event, to unfurl upon the very field that landed Woodstock on the world’s (music) map, include the Lumineers, Tyler Childers, the War on Drugs, and the Trey Anastasio Band plus myriad additional music makers.

Art Omi GHENT

Experiencing Art Omi—Columbia County’s 120-acre sculpture and architecture park —is like a gift from the Hudson Valley heavens. The decidedly bucket-list destination, open to the public free of charge, is nothing short of breathtaking. The sprawling space boasts the work of contemporary artists and architecture; a range of large-scale immersive installations in nature; and a 1,500-square-foot gallery. “Pippa Garner: $ELL YOUR $ELF” opens June 24 and features mixed media by the visionary American artist—including a custom vehicle commissioned by Art Omi, an homage to the 50th anniversary of the artist’s Backwards Car. Pack a picnic and peruse the grounds at your leisure; daily, from dawn to dusk.

The Lumineers

Photo by John Cody

Photo by Pieter Estersohn

BOUNCE, JUMP, PET, AND FLY: KID-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS

BY MELISSA ESPOSITO Belleayre Beach, Pine Hill

The Hudson Valley might be wellknown for its vast array of hiking, biking, and nature trails winding throughout the region. But when teens want action-packed activities, or toddlers want to splash around, fortunately there’s no shortage of kid-friendly day trips and staycation ideas—some that might even bring out your own inner child. From theme parks to beaches to educational experiences-madefun, make lasting family memories by adding these must-visit attractions to your itinerary.

Legoland GOSHEN

Just as you’d imagine, Legoland is as visually whimsical as it is chock-full of exciting rides, games, and attractions. The park in Goshen is comprised of seven themed “lands’’ with rides ranging from brick-aesthetic carousels and virtual reality thrillers to roller coasters and carnival-style amusements. This summer brings the addition of an on-site water park, officially opening Memorial Day weekend. Also suitable for all ages, the water park includes four slides, a 318-gallon cascading splash, a build-your-own-boat regatta, and more. Day passes are available or book a stay at their

onsite hotel which features nightly children’s entertainment.

Belleayre Beach PINE HILL

Families usually flock to the Catskills for mountain vistas, but did you know there’s a beloved hotspot for sun and sand? Belleayre Beach at Pine Hill Lake is the summer solution to overcrowded swimming holes for those who want to relax and splash among the pines. Located at the base of Belleayre Mountain, this white-sand beach offers lifeguard-supervised swimming, plus boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and more. Rentals and picnic areas are available, and you can purchase day tickets or season passes; prices vary and are typically charged by the carload.

Zoos HUDSON VALLEY

The coolest thing about zoos in the Hudson Valley—besides the fact that there are quite a few—is that most of these facilities are also rehabilitation centers for injured animals. Forsyth Nature Center in Kingston offers the opportunity to visit, learn about, and feed goats, alpacas, vibrant peacocks, and more. The outdoor walk-through is a winding path

situated near a large playground and picnic area, ideal for making an afternoon of your visit. Trevor Zoo is a popular attraction located at Millbrook School, a private institution in Dutchess County, featuring more than 100 exotic and indigenous animals, from amphibians to feathered friends, pythons to pandas. Reservations are required and can be made online. Closer to the lower-Hudson region you’ll find the Trailside Museums and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park, locally loved for generations. Located along a portion of the Appalachian Trail, the zoo features a paved path that winds through exhibits of native wildlife including black bears, eastern coyotes, porcupines, and others. Along the trail you’ll find four small museums dedicated to animals, geology, and local history.

Rocking Horse Ranch NEW PALTZ

You’ll probably need more than a weekend to enjoy all that Rocking Horse Ranch offers. This dude-ranch-themed family resort in Highland features activities that are equally entertaining, educational, and unforgettable. As you’d expect, horseback trail rides are available for experienced and first-timers alike, but that’s just a small part of the experience. Enjoy mini golf, climbing walls, nature trails, or the chance to cool off on their five water slides in their large water park. Indoor fun abounds, as well, with laser tag, an arcade, and nightly entertainment. The resort features an onsite restaurant (and saloon, parents) with a team comprised of Culinary Institute of America graduates.

Splashdown Beach FISHKILL and Kartrite Resort MONTICELLO

Families are often divided into two groups: those who want to lounge by the water, and those who love the excitement of a winding waterslide. You can find both options at Splashdown Beach, a family-favorite for decades in Fishkill, with new attractions added nearly every year. Get your thrill-fill with multiple water slides, from a six-story tall adventure to two-person tubing in a giant bowl, or kick back and let the Lazy River float you across the park. This summer, they’re adding four new waterslides and a 500-gallon dumping bucket. Little ones will love the interactive splash pad with a large-scale pirate ship, fountains, geysers, and more. The Kartrite in Sullivan County is an indoor water

Kartrite Resort, Monticello

Castle Family Fun Center, Chester

park featuring waterslides, a lazy river, and much more—with the option to stay overnight at one of their spacious suites. The resort also features an indoor arcade, multiple dining options, self-guided hiking trails, and daily entertainment.

Bounce Trampoline Park POUGHKEEPSIE

When the inevitable rainy day hits, Bounce, an indoor trampoline park in Poughkeepsie, is a fun way to let the kids burn off some energy— and parents are free to join in the fun. The park includes multiple sectioned trampoline courts, with two dodgeball courts separated by age groups, a trampoline basketball court, and more, all supervised by Bounce safety monitors and referees. Open Bounce times are available for all ages, but there are also specific toddler times, so you don’t need to worry about your little one wandering into a dodgeball game. Black lights and glow lamps are turned on for Jump and Glow nights, available for all ages on Friday and Saturday evenings—don your best neon attire.

NY Zipline Adventures at Hunter Mountain HUNTER

If your thrill-seeking teens complain that they’ve seen and done it all, they’ll love NY Zipline Adventures at Hunter Mountain. Intricate treetop canopy systems allow guests to travel through forests and open spaces. The Mid-Mountain Tour features six ziplines, four suspension bridges, and nine tree platforms for an active family adventure. The Skyrider Tour is not for the faint of heart, starting with a scenic chairlift ride that brings you to a number of exciting challenges including a 500-footlong Burma bridge and five ziplines, spanning 4.6 miles, that reach speeds of up to 50 mph. The Skyrider takes about three-plus hours but offers scenic views like no other.

Castle Family Fun Center CHESTER

The Castle Family Fun Center in Chester is an activity-filled amusement park that’s been a favorite for generations, that’s only gotten bigger and better over time. Three gokart tracks, a 700-foot zipline, and midway rides will satiate the thrill-seekers in your crew, but the center also offers classics like roller skating, laser tag, and an arcade. All ages can enjoy the Inflata-Park, which can be described as a bounce-house complex, with 12 interconnected activity areas across 10,000 square feet.

FROM FIRE TOWERS TO WATERFALLS Hiking the Catskills and Hudson Valley

BY ABIGAIL GIERKE AND SEAN O’DWYER

For centuries, the Catskills and Hudson Valley have been a beloved destination for artists, writers, and nature enthusiasts alike. From the rugged mountains to the lush valleys, this area offers a wide range of hiking trails that showcase the natural splendor of the region. Discover some of the most spectacular hikes in the area, including hidden gems like Brace Mountain, well-known favorites like Overlook Mountain, and distinctive spots like the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll also explore natural wonders like the Verkeerderkill Falls, expansive vistas, and the oldest-growth forests in the Hudson Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature lover looking for an adventure, these hikes offer something for everyone.

Brace Mountain MILLERTON

Sitting 2,311 feet above sea level, Brace Mountain in Millerton boasts the highest point in Dutchess and may just be the county’s hidden gem. If you’re up for the challenge, a relatively quick yet steep hike will reward you with panoramic views of the Hudson River and Catskills, northern farmland, and the Berkshires. You’ll get most of the hoof out of the way in the first mile by way of the less-maintained Quarry Trail (marked yellow). A bit of scrambling is required here, but don’t let that challenge deter you from continuing on. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a paraglider taking off, depending on the time of year. 3.6-mile roundtrip.

Inspiration Point, Palenville

Sam’s Point to Verkeerderkill Falls CRAGSMOOR

The popular Sam’s Point Area is in the southernmost area of the Minnewaska State Park in Cragsmoor. Expect a good crowd, but don’t let that deter you from enjoying the wildlife, rock formations, and views along the way on the highest section of the Shawangunk Ridge. Park at the visitor’s center and head right, up a set of switchbacks for a moderate to strenuous stroll and you’ll almost be at the famous Sam’s Point Overlook. The trail heads downhill and will take you through a rare Dwarf Pitch Pine Barren, one of the few remaining in the world. Continue on to the 187-foot waterfall at Verkeerderkill Falls, one of the tallest in the region. Six-mile out and back or 8-mile loop.

Acra Point and Batavia Kill Loop with Burnt Knob Lookout MAPLECREST

This is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Catskills, a charming loop that follows the Batavia Kill for the first mile, winds uphill over Acra Point with its wonderful view of the Blackhead Range, and then branches out briefly to an even more spectacular view below the summit of Burnt Knob. The descent through terrain marked by beautiful streams and hemlock stands is an intensely sweet finish. Six-mile loop.

Overlook Mountain WOODSTOCK

Minutes away from the town of Woodstock, the underwhelming Overlook Mountain trail (old carriage road) pays off when you reach the top. You’ll gain all your vertical while working the steep incline during the first 2.5 miles, but, overall, you’ll feel relaxed on this nontechnical hike. The fire watchtower, built in the 1950s, will greet you at the top. Check out the Overlook Hotel Ruins and take a picnic to enjoy on one of the benches. With views of the Catskills, Ashokan Reservoir, and the Hudson Valley, you will see why this spot was a favorite among the 19th-century Hudson River School artists. 4.6-mile roundtrip.

Inspiration Point PALENVILLE

Very close to Kaaterskill Falls, the aptlynamed Inspiration Point in Palenville is one of the most spectacular scenic locations in the Catskills. The trail from Scutt Road winds down through classic Catskills forest terrain, heading through the junction to Kaaterskill Falls and the Layman’s Monument before passing a number of stunning lookouts perched high above the incredibly steep Kaaterskill Clove. Ruins of the old Kaaterskill Hotel are close by. Five-mile loop.

John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary WEST PARK

Pioneering literary naturalist John Burroughs built his cabin, Slabsides, here in 1895 as his writing retreat and source of inspiration for many of his well-known essays. The trails of this West Park preserve travel through 191 acres of protected lands provide surprisingly almost effortless strolling, considering the ruggedness of varied natural features. Thick forests, ridgelines, rock formations, and

Photo by Sean O’Dwyer.

wetlands throughout this loop are perfect for seasoned and budding naturalists to explore while getting fresh air. Great for the whole family. 4-5-mile loop.

Ferncliff Forest RHINEBECK

If you’re looking to climb a fire tower and don’t want too much of a hike to get there, Ferncliff Forest in Rhinebeck is the right place. The lessthan-strenuous hiking makes for a great outing with the whole family or wildlife watchers, and you’ll be amongst one of the oldest-growth forests in the Hudson Valley. With over 200 acres of preserved land now maintained by the Ferncliff Forest non-profit, this trail system offers four miles of well-marked hiking with a variety of options to explore. The fire tower is one of the best sunset spots in the Hudson Valley. 2.6-mile loop.

Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge WALLKILL

A hidden gem in plain sight! The reason you come here is not necessarily to up the heart rate. Formerly the Galeville Military Airport, this flat, grass trail system in Wallkill is well-maintained year-round by the Fish and Wildlife Service and is a popular spot for birders and photographers. Don’t forget your gumboots if you head out after wet weather passes through. It’s a great spot for grassland birds and is home to the short-eared owl, which you may be able to spot this time of year. 3.9mile loop.

Whether you’re hiking the craggiest Catskill peaks or walking the lowlands of the Shawangunks, always respect the wilderness and your own abilities and practice follow Leave No Trace principles.

Photo by Sean O’Dwyer.

Acra Point, Maplecrest