Hudson Valley: Fall Weekender in Rockland County New York
A quintessential fall foliage road trip from NYC to slow down and breathe in the crisp mountain air of Rockland County New York.
Last weekend, I went up the Hudson Valley to explore the Rockland County area and it turned out to be just what I needed.
While the Hudson Valley stretches from all the way up to Albany, the beauty of it is that there is a town or village for everyone’s travel style. Because it follows the Hudson River, you can be sure to find gorgeous autumnal views from many vantage points.
On this trip, we made our home base in the Village of Haverstraw within Rockland, which is just about an hour and a half from NYC. On our ride up, we could already spot such beautiful orange and red foliage lining the highway upstate.
Getting There from NYC
Uber – Imagine my surprise when using the ride service was comparable to renting a car. The total from the trip including roundtrip and around our points of interests came out less than the quotes I found for rentals and car sharing daily rates. Plus this worked out perfectly for a girl’s weekender.
Metro North – Perfect option for those of you whom do not drive and long weekends. From Grand Central, take the Hudson Line to Ossining and transfer to the Haverstraw-Ossining ferry across the river (Monday-Friday).
By Car – The classic option whether you rent, car share or have one of your own. It’s an easy drive on the I-87 N if you decide to go up New York State, or take the Palisades Interstate Parkway N if you like to crossover from New Jersey to New York.
Where We Stayed
Bricktown Inn
112 Hudson Avenue
Haverstraw, NY 10927
There’s something about a fall trip that calls for a cozy bed and breakfast. Michelle was an incredible host and the property was gorgeous. With a charming brick exterior and Victorian-inspired decor, it was a nice way to transport ourselves to a different time. We were welcomed with some cream sherry in our rooms and there were cookies available downstairs. Everything was so inviting about the experience. She loves to cook and we can tell through the lovely breakfast she serves! If you love afternoon tea as much as I do, they will be hosting tea service for the holidays. We left feeling so warmed and welcomed.
Food & Drink
Hudson Water Club
606 Beach Road
West Haverstraw, NY 10993
As a seafood lover, I am so happy to have dined here. We were also in town just in time for Hudson Valley Restaurant Week! We opted for a three course prix fixe meal that includes an appetizer, entree and dessert. The restaurant is on the Hudson River and has sweeping views of the foliage lined water. We also tried the thin crust Margherita pizza made in a unique Italian oven that rotates to give it a crisp outside and airy inside. As for our main courses, we savored sweet potato gnocchi, grilled octopus, lobster & seafood risotto and apple cider glazed pork. Finished with a chocolate lava cake and caramel apple pizzetta.
If you come over the summer, they have amazing seafood towers on the lunch menu. That and a glass of crisp wine on their outdoor area with that view. Perfect!
Also recommended: UNION, Don Conqui on the Hudson
Torne Valley Vineyards
Torne Valley Rd
Hillburn, NY 10931
http://www.tornevalleyvineyards.com/
A girl’s trip wouldn’t be complete with some wine tasting. I love how much New York State has grown in terms of wineries and vineyards. When I first saw this mansion, I fell in love. The grounds are gorgeous and the Victorian style takes me back in time. There are plenty of varietals for everyone, but if you are someone who prefer the sweeter kind, you’ll love Sweet Summertime, a popular amongst the visitors. The grapes are grown in the Finger Lakes (see my FLX vineyard tour HERE) and made on the estate. Once you’ve tasted and found your favorite, step over to the restaurant and order a glass with some lunch! This was one memorable trip because it started to snow while we were having lunch.
Industrial Arts Brewing Company
55 W Railroad Ave. #25
Garnerville, NY 10923
http://www.industrialartsbrewing.com/
This is my first craft brewery experience! It’s such a fast growing industry and I’m so glad I was able to check this off my bucket list. Nestled within the artisan-filled Garner Historic District, is a huge brewing operation and bar. You’ll spot it right next to all the hanging string lights. I tried a few different hoppy brews and Wrench ended up my favorite. It’s a little tropical fruity on the nose with a light floral taste. As a very infrequent beer drinker, I was so pleased to find something I liked. This is a fun low key spot to hang out and grab a drink. You can see part of the brew process right next to the bar, as there are working tanks upstairs in the main area.
Explore
I love to round out all my trips with a little adventure around town and nature. We walked from our bed and breakfast through the village towards the Hudson River and found a peaceful spot by the water (next to Don Coqui). The leaf peeper in me really enjoy spending some time outdoors.
The area is also popular with hikers of all levels. Nearby is Bear Mountain State Park which is great for everyone — I used to go as a child! Across from the river is a more advance trail Anthony’s Nose, a hike I’ve done previously (HERE).
There’s nothing better that a short jaunt out of the city to reset yourself and get away from the bustle of daily life. This trip reminded me to take more time to get some fresh air and do more weekenders.
Thanks so much for joining my experience!
xx
Tineey
A huge thank you to Rockland County Tourism for making this possible. All opinions are my mine own.
