The Hudson Valley stole a piece of my heart the first time I drove up from NYC. Just 90 minutes from Manhattan, the world transforms into rolling hills, farm stands bursting with produce, and towns that look straight out of a storybook. I’ve explored it in every season, and honestly, it never disappoints.
I spent a weekend in Rhinebeck eating meals that made me want to lick my plate clean and shopping at stores that seriously tested my credit card limit. Cold Spring blew me away too, with its ridiculous Hudson River views and main street that feels frozen in time. Finding the best places in Hudson Valley means balancing small town charm with enough to actually do. From riverside villages to artsy towns where you can actually get decent coffee, here are 12 spots worth your time in 2025.
Ideal Retreats in the Hudson Valley
Looking to discover the best places to stay in the Hudson Valley? Beyond the typical accommodations, the area offers plenty of distinctive options waiting to be explored. Relax in Catskill, known for its cozy inns and scenic beauty. Experience the charm of New Paltz, offering rustic lodges and vibrant local culture. Unwind in Kingston, featuring historic hotels and a lively arts scene.
| Neighborhood/Town | Best For | Hotel Prices | Walkability | Vibe |
| Hudson | Metropolitan Culture | $$$$ | High | Sophisticated, Historic |
| Catskill | Riverside Retreat | $$$ | Moderate | Creative, Laid-back |
| New Paltz | Outdoor Adventure | $$$$ | Moderate | Energetic, Adventurous |
| Saugerties | Authentic Charm | $$$ | Moderate | Natural Beauty, Working-town |
| Kingston | Creative Hub | $$$ | Moderate | Historic, Creative |
| Rhinebeck | Countryside Elegance | $$$$ | High | Upscale, Unpretentious |
| Beacon | Arts & Culture | $$$ | High | Artistic, Industrial |
| Stone Ridge | Rural Escape | $$$ | Low | Historic, Sophisticated Rural |
| Tarrytown | Accessibility | $$$$ | Moderate | Historic, Riverfront |
| Hyde Park | History & Culinary | $$$ | Low | Historical, Educational |
| Poughkeepsie | Urban Base | $$ | Moderate | Urban, Revitalizing |
| Cold Spring | Mountain Views | $$$ | High | Dramatic, Picturesque |
Whether you’re into nature, history, or artistic vibes, here are 12 of the Hudson Valley’s most exceptional places to stay!
1. Hudson
Craving a perfect blend of big-city sophistication and small-town accessibility? Just two hours north of NYC, Hudson has metropolitan culture without the hassle.
Warren Street showcases impressive antique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table eateries. Book at The Maker Hotel for luxury in a restored 19th-century building, or the boutique Rivertown Lodge for Instagram-worthy design. The surrounding countryside offers charming B&Bs with river views.
After dark, Hudson Hall features an eclectic performance calendar, while BackBar serves inventive cocktails in a converted garage. I’ve never felt more inspired than during evening walks along Hudson’s historic streets, where Federal and Victorian architecture stands magnificently preserved. The town’s walkable size makes exploration easy without a car.
🏨 Best Hotels in Hudson
- Budget: The Wick, Hudson ($$) – Boutique hotel in a former candle factory with modern amenities and industrial charm.
- Mid-Range: The Hudson Whaler Hotel ($$$) – Elegant nautical-themed hotel in a historic building on Warren Street.
- Luxury: Wm. Farmer and Sons ($$$$) – Upscale lodging with a renowned restaurant and bar in a beautifully restored building.
2. Catskill
Want a riverside retreat with emerging creative energy but without weekend crowds? Perched on the western bank of the Hudson River, Catskill offers a more laid-back alternative just across from Hudson.
This revitalized town combines authentic Upstate character with artistic flair. Main Street’s renaissance brings options like the stylish Catskill Mill or the historic Greene County River House B&B with stunning water views.
Art enthusiasts should visit the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, birthplace of the Hudson River School. Minutes from downtown, find kayaking launches and trails with valley panoramas. The food scene shines at spots like New York Restaurant serving elevated comfort food in a 19th-century building.
🏨 Best Hotels in Catskill
- Budget: Catskill Motor Court ($$) – Classic roadside motel with clean rooms and a convenient location near the Catskill Creek.
- Mid-Range: The Stewart House ($$$) – Charming riverfront hotel with stylish rooms and an excellent restaurant.
- Luxury: Treetop Lodge ($$$$) – Secluded luxury retreat with panoramic mountain views and upscale amenities.
3. New Paltz
Need a destination where you can summit a cliff face in the morning and sample craft beer by afternoon? Nestled at the Shawangunk Ridge base, New Paltz blends college-town energy with outdoor adventure just 90 minutes from NYC.
History buffs will appreciate the stone houses on Huguenot Street, dating to the 17th century. Stay at the iconic Mohonk Mountain House with its Victorian grandeur or boutique options like Audrey’s Farmhouse for stylish comfort.
Adventure awaits at Minnewaska State Park and the world-famous Gunks climbing area. After exploring, Main Street has farm-to-table gems like Main Course and craft beverages from Arrowood Farms Brewery. The vibe skews younger thanks to SUNY New Paltz.
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🏨 Best Hotels in New Paltz
- Budget: America’s Best Value Inn ($$) – Simple, comfortable lodging with mountain views and convenient access to hiking trails.
- Mid-Range: Mohonk Mountain House ($$$) – Historic Victorian castle resort on a pristine lake with extensive activities and spa services.
- Luxury: Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa ($$$$) – Elegant riverside retreat with farm-to-table dining, luxurious spa, and picturesque grounds.
4. Saugerties
Searching for that authentic Hudson Valley town where locals still outnumber visitors? Where the Esopus Creek meets the Hudson River, Saugerties blends small-town charm with natural beauty.
This gem sits 20 minutes north of Kingston and 20 minutes south of Hudson. Book at the whimsical Saugerties Lighthouse, a functioning lighthouse turned B&B, or the luxurious Diamond Mills Hotel overlooking a waterfall.
Downtown packs surprising culinary prowess with Miss Lucy’s Kitchen serving seasonal farm-to-table fare. Antique hunters will enjoy Saugerties Antique Center. Nearby, Opus 40 presents an awe-inspiring bluestone sculpture garden. I love how Saugerties maintains sophisticated offerings while retaining an authentic working-town feel.
🏨 Best Hotels in Saugerties
- Budget: Howard Johnson by Wyndham ($$) – Clean, comfortable rooms with free breakfast in a convenient location near town.
- Mid-Range: Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern ($$$) – Elegant boutique hotel overlooking Esopus Falls with upscale rooms and fine dining.
- Luxury: Saugerties Lighthouse ($$$$) – Unique historic lighthouse B&B offering exclusive waterfront accommodations and stunning Hudson River views.
5. Kingston
Ever wondered where Brooklyn creatives move when ready for more space? As Ulster County’s hub, Kingston offers three distinct neighborhoods in one historic package.
The Rondout District features waterfront charm, restaurants like Brunette Wine Bar, and the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Uptown’s Stockade District boasts intact Dutch colonial architecture with spots like Rough Draft Bar & Books.
Stay at Hotel Kinsley, spread across four historic buildings. Kingston’s location places you 30 minutes from New Paltz’s mountains, Rhinebeck’s charm, and Woodstock’s legacy. The city balances gritty authenticity with emerging creative energy.
🏨 Best Hotels in Kingston
- Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham ($$) – Clean, no-frills lodging with free breakfast and convenient access to the Thruway.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Kinsley ($$$) – Stylish boutique hotel spread across four historic buildings in Uptown Kingston with excellent dining.
- Luxury: Mirbeau Inn & Spa ($$$$) – Elegant French-inspired retreat with world-class spa facilities and gourmet farm-to-table cuisine.
6. Rhinebeck
Dreaming of countryside elegance where farm-to-table isn’t just a trend but a lifestyle? Rhinebeck creates the perfect small-town getaway just 90 minutes from Manhattan.
The walkable village center features preserved architecture housing boutiques, bookstores, and culinary gems. Stay at the historic Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, America’s oldest continuously operating inn, or the boutique Mirbeau Inn & Spa.
Culinary options include farm-to-table pioneer Terrapin Restaurant and Bread Alone Bakery. Just two miles from Rhinecliff Amtrak station, Rhinebeck works for car-free travelers. I find the perfect balance between upscale amenities and an unpretentious atmosphere makes this village more than just a tourist destination.
🏨 Best Hotels in Rhinebeck
- Budget: Rhinebeck Motel ($$) – Charming, family-owned motel with clean rooms and a convenient location near the fairgrounds.
- Mid-Range: Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn ($$$) – America’s oldest operating inn with historic charm, comfortable accommodations, and a classic tavern.
- Luxury: Mirbeau Inn & Spa ($$$$) – Elegant French-inspired property with world-class spa services, fine dining, and luxurious rooms.
7. Beacon
Want to experience Williamsburg with mountains and actual breathing room? On the eastern Hudson Bank, Beacon transforms from an industrial center to an arts hub without losing its edge.
Just 80 minutes via Metro-North from Grand Central, this walkable city makes car-free exploration effortless. Main Street stretches over a mile with shops, galleries, and eateries like Kitchen & Coffee and Dogwood.
The cultural anchor Dia:Beacon occupies a former Nabisco factory with world-class contemporary art. Stay at the charming Roundhouse in a converted mill with waterfall views. Mount Beacon’s trails reward climbers with spectacular river panoramas. The city beautifully balances creative energy with industrial heritage.
🏨 Best Hotels in Beacon
- Budget: The Inn at Beacon ($$) – Cozy, art-filled rooms in a central location walking distance to Main Street shops and restaurants.
- Mid-Range: The Roundhouse ($$$) – Industrial-chic hotel in a converted factory with waterfall views and an excellent restaurant.
- Luxury: Chrystie House Bed and Breakfast ($$$$) – Elegant historic mansion with period furnishings, gourmet breakfast, and meticulously maintained gardens.
8. Stone Ridge
Seeking that perfect country escape where cell service exists but nobody checks their phone? Between the Catskills and Shawangunks, Stone Ridge offers quintessential rural charm with sophisticated amenities.
This historic hamlet, 15 minutes west of Kingston, centers around a preserved Main Street with stone houses from the 18th century. The Hasbrouck House provides luxury in a restored 1757 mansion with an excellent restaurant and pool.
Culinary highlights include Butterfield restaurant and Westwood Barn cafe. Nearby, Mohonk Preserve offers world-class hiking and climbing. I’ve never felt more connected to the region’s agricultural roots than at Stone Ridge Orchard, where seasonal pick-your-own experiences showcase the Hudson Valley’s bounty.
🏨 Best Hotels in Stone Ridge
- Budget: Best Western Plus Kingston Hotel and Conference Center ($$) – Basic, affordable hotel accommodation with clean rooms and convenient access to local attractions.
- Mid-Range: Hasbrouck House ($$$) – Beautifully restored 18th-century Dutch Colonial mansion with upscale farm-to-table dining and stylish rooms.
- Luxury: Audrey’s Farmhouse ($$$$) – Meticulously renovated luxury bed and breakfast with expansive grounds, pet-friendly accommodations, and gourmet breakfast.
9. Tarrytown
Need a Hudson Valley fix but can’t commit to more than 30 minutes from the city? Along the Hudson’s widest point, Tarrytown combines river views and historic charm with surprising accessibility.
This Westchester gem offers Washington Irving’s Sunnyside estate, Lyndhurst Mansion, and a walkable downtown with independent shops and restaurants.
The revitalized Main Street features excellent dining at Mediterranean-inspired Goosefeather. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge bike path and nearby Rockefeller State Park Preserve with scenic carriage roads.
🏨 Best Hotels in Tarrytown
- Budget: Tarrytown Courtyard by Marriott ($$) – Reliable accommodations with modern amenities and convenient access to local attractions.
- Mid-Range: Castle Hotel & Spa ($$$) – Impressive stone castle overlooking the Hudson River with elegant rooms and a full-service spa.
- Luxury: Tarrytown House Estate ($$$$) – Historic 19th-century mansion on 26 acres offering luxurious accommodations, upscale dining, and spectacular river views.
10. Hyde Park
Fascinated by presidential history but equally interested in culinary adventures? Rich with American heritage, Hyde Park sits along the Hudson’s eastern shore, 90 minutes from NYC.
The town is synonymous with Franklin D. Roosevelt. His Home of FDR National Historic Site and presidential library offer glimpses into American history. Nearby, Vanderbilt Mansion showcases Gilded Age opulence with river views.
Culinary enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Culinary Institute of America, where student-run restaurants like American Bounty and Bocuse offer exceptional dining experiences. Stay at the historic Journey Inn Bed & Breakfast near major attractions.
🏨 Best Hotels in Hyde Park
- Budget: Quality Inn ($$) – Comfortable, straightforward accommodations close to the FDR Home and Vanderbilt Mansion.
- Mid-Range: Journey Inn Bed & Breakfast ($$$) – Charming B&B directly across from the Vanderbilt Estate with period-inspired rooms and homemade breakfast.
- Luxury: Bellefield at Historic Hyde Park ($$$$) – Elegant estate lodging with spacious suites, farm-to-table dining, and proximity to Culinary Institute of America.
11. Poughkeepsie
Looking for a Hudson Valley base with urban amenities but easy access to the countryside? Straddling the Hudson midway between NYC and Albany, Poughkeepsie offers city energy with quick rural escapes.
The city’s crown jewel is the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Downtown’s revival brings dining options like Farmers & Chefs and Zeus Brewing with its rooftop beer garden.
Stay at the sleek Hyatt Place for modern comfort near attractions. Minutes from downtown, Locust Grove Estate showcases a stunning villa with river views. The Bardavon Opera House, New York’s oldest operating theater, hosts impressive performances. With direct train service, Poughkeepsie works perfectly for car-free travelers.
🏨 Best Hotels in Poughkeepsie
- Budget: Red Roof PLUS+ Poughkeepsie ($$) – Budget-friendly hotel offering free parking, WiFi, and flat-screen TVs. Pet-friendly accommodation close to Marist College and Vassar College.
- Mid-Range: Residence Inn by Marriott ($$$) – Modern all-suite hotel with full kitchens, free breakfast, and an indoor pool.
- Luxury: Hyatt Place Poughkeepsie ($$$) – Modern upscale hotel with spacious rooms, free breakfast, fitness center, and indoor pool. Among the most premium options directly in Poughkeepsie.
- Read Next: 9 Must-See Hidden Gems in New York
12. Cold Spring
Want dramatic mountain views with your morning coffee, accessible by train? Nestled in the Hudson Highlands, just 70 minutes from Manhattan via Metro-North, Cold Spring offers perhaps the most dramatic setting in the valley.
The compact downtown hugs the riverbank, with historic buildings housing antique shops, galleries, and eateries. Stay at the charming Hudson House River Inn with waterfront dining.
Main Street offers shopping at Split Rock Books and Pink Olive, while dining includes Riverview Restaurant and Hudson Hils Cafe. I love how trails to Mount Taurus and Breakneck Ridge begin just steps from downtown, offering spectacular views. You can walk from excellent espresso to wilderness in minutes.
🏨 Best Hotels in Cold Spring
- Budget: Hudson House Inn ($$) – Historic riverfront inn with comfortable rooms and stunning Hudson River views, steps from the train station.
- Mid-Range: Pig Hill Inn ($$$) – Charming bed and breakfast in a Federal-style building featuring antique furnishings and homemade breakfast.
- Luxury: The Roundhouse Beacon ($$$$) – Although technically in nearby Beacon, this upscale waterfall-view hotel offers luxury accommodations just a short drive from Cold Spring.
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