Discovering the Treasures of Hudson Valley, New York – feat. Columbia County
Published by Conde Nast Traveler
www.cntraveler.com/contributor-content/story/disc…
Traveling to New York State isn’t simply about visiting New York City (NYC), but rather about exploring the plethora of scenic places to explore, dine, and unwind. For some, this could involve visiting local art museums or historical sights, while for others, it could be discovering the food and small-town character of Columbia County, New York.
No matter your reason for travel, the Hudson Valley has a rich cultural history, with scenery, architecture, and even world-class art. The best part is that getting there is easier than you might have thought, as Amtrak’s Empire Service stops in the city of Hudson, making the journey from Penn Station a comfortable ride without the need to drive.
Exploring the sights: Where history and landscapes collide
The rich geography of Columbia County lends itself to memorable, place-specific experiences. Olana State Historic Site sits atop 250 acres of rolling hills and forested landscape. Visitors can explore five miles of carriage trails designed by American landscape painter Frederic Church, which lead to sweeping views and the site’s Persian-inspired home.
Beyond Olana, Columbia County offers a broader sense of history and terrain that extends well beyond a single destination. The village of Kinderhook, for example, provides a quieter, historically rooted experience, with the nearby Martin Van Buren National Historic Site giving insight into early American life and leadership. Throughout the county, smaller towns, farmland, and open spaces define the experience—it’s less about density, more about discovery.
While the views alone are enough to justify a visit, those drawn to art and culture will find galleries, local institutions, and community-driven creative spaces woven throughout the region. The area also lends itself to slower moments: picnics, walking trails, and scenic drives that reflect the character of the Hudson Valley.
When your NYC excursion concludes, Columbia County affords visitors a distinctly different pace. Rather than resorts or large-scale attractions, the area is defined by its villages, farmland, and scenic beauty. Outdoor experiences here are quieter and more dispersed, from walking trails and scenic overlooks to seasonal activities and nearby ski areas like Catamount, which operates as a ski slope and summer adventure park.
Enjoying the food: Where flavors are rooted in location
For those who are looking to eat when they visit Columbia County, wineries, distilleries and breweries include relaxed daytime experiences, while evenings can be spent at locally owned restaurants that reflect the region’s agricultural roots.
The area has a broad range of dining options, from farm-driven menus to classic, unfussy meals. Rather than a concentrated dining scene, Columbia County’s food culture is spread across its towns, villages, and the city of Hudson, encouraging visitors to explore as they go.
Unwinding at night: The rooms worth staying for
Lodging in Columbia County reflects the character of the region itself—independent, understated, and rooted in place. Visitors will find inns, guesthouses, and small accommodations spread across villages like Kinderhook and throughout the countryside, rather than large resorts or centralized hotel districts. The landscape is shaped by the Taconic Mountains and the Catskills, with open views, quiet roads, and rural settings that prioritize rest over activity. Evenings here are less about nightlife and more about slowing down, whether that means staying in a historic home, a countryside inn, or a locally run property that reflects the area’s pace and identity.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Columbia County offers a different perspective, one defined by space, history, and a quieter rhythm. Rather than bustling cityscapes, the experience here is intentionally low-key, shaped by small towns, open landscapes, and local culture.
Create your next visit to Columbia County for an experience you won’t forget!
Originally published by Conde Nast Traveler:
www.cntraveler.com/contributor-content/story/discovering-the-treasures-of-hudson-valley-new-york
