My Favorite Spots in the Hudson Valley
With 3 years of being resident of the Hudson Valley under my belt, I’m constantly inspired by the incredible local businesses that make this area so special. Whether I’m craving a freshly baked croissant or looking for the perfect spot to unwind with a cup of coffee, these are my go-to places that never disappoint. I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you, so if you ever find yourself exploring the Hudson Valley, be sure to check them out!
UPDATED: May 2025
After four years of living in the Hudson Valley, I’ve fallen even more in love with the rhythm of this place, the slower mornings, the winding drives, and the small businesses that give each town its character. From cozy cafés and seasonal restaurants to beautifully curated boutiques and scenic trails, the Hudson Valley is full of local gems that make everyday life here feel like a quiet adventure.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for new places to explore as a fellow resident, this guide highlights some of my favorite places to eat, shop, and wander across the region, with a few wish-list spots I’m hoping to visit soon.
I’ll continue to update this list as I go, but for now, here’s what I’ve been loving (and recommending to everyone who visits).
Best Bakeries and Cafés in the Hudson Valley
Vitsky (Wassaic): Nestled in the charming hamlet of Wassaic, Vitsky is the kind of bakery that feels like a hidden gem. Their pastries are nothing short of divine, and I’ve been known to make the trip just for their almond croissants.
Kelly’s Bakery (Poughkeepsie): If you’re in Poughkeepsie, Kelly’s Bakery is a must-visit. The smell of freshly baked bread and pastries will draw you in, but it’s the friendly atmosphere that will make you want to stay. I’m particularly fond of their scones, which pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea.
Hunt’s and Harvest (Millbrook): The croissants and cookies at Hunt’s and Harvest are practically legendary around here. Each bite is like a little piece of heaven, and if you’re a fan of flaky, buttery goodness, this is the place for you.
Stonewood Farms Pop-up Market (Millbrook): There’s something special about a pop-up market, and Stonwood Farms brings that magic to life with their fresh, homemade baked goods, and overflowing tables of produce grown right there on the property. Open seasonally on alternating Fridays from 9am - 12pm but you’re going to want to get there early because the best pastries sell out fast.
Irving Farm (Millerton): For a cozy, relaxed vibe, Irving Farm in Millerton is my top pick. The coffee is always on point, and the rustic, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to catch up with a friend or get lost in a good book.
Babette’s (Millbrook): Babette’s is the epitome of local charm. The warm, welcoming environment makes you feel right at home, and the menu is filled with delicious options that showcase the best of what the Hudson Valley has to offer. It’s the kind of place where you can truly soak in the local vibes.
Anna et Pierre (Poughkeepsie): On the east side of the Poughkeepsie waterfront, Anna et Pierre feels like the kind of café you stumble into in a European neighborhood, where everything is intentional, beautiful, and quietly comforting.
Diners
Millbrook Diner (Millbrook): This classic diner is a staple in Millbrook, and for good reason. The menu is filled with comforting favorites, and the friendly service always makes you feel like part of the family. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast or a casual lunch.
Phoenicia Diner (Phoenicia): A bit of a drive, but so worth it! The Phoenicia Diner is where nostalgia meets delicious food. The retro vibe, combined with a menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
Oakhurst Diner (Millerton): Oakhurst Diner is another favorite, known for its modern take on classic diner fare. It’s a great spot for brunch, and their homemade pies are the perfect way to end any meal.
Where to Eat in the Hudson Valley
Isabela (Amenia): Tucked in the heart of Amenia, Isabela is the kind of restaurant that feels like a love letter to the region. Michelin-starred chef José Ramírez-Ruiz brings a deep reverence for vegetables, producers, and place, serving what he calls cocina de cercanías, food made with everything close by.
Canoe Hill (Millbrook): If you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day, Canoe Hill’s happy hour is the place to be. Their dollar oysters are a steal, and the relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it a great spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a date night.
Westerly Canteen (Wassaic): This cozy spot in Wassaic offers a delightful mix of flavors and a warm, welcoming environment. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a leisurely meal and truly appreciate the art of dining.
Stissing House (Pine Plains): Stissing House is a historic gem that has been beautifully preserved. Their menu is a celebration of local ingredients, and every dish feels like a work of art. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a memorable night out.
Aroi (Rhinebeck): If you’re in the mood for authentic Thai food, Aroi in Rhinebeck is the place to go. The flavors are bold, the portions are generous, and the ambiance is just right for a cozy dinner with friends.
Cinnamon (Rhinebeck): Cinnamon brings a taste of India to the Hudson Valley with its vibrant, flavorful dishes. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening meal.
Workspaces
Bangall Works (Standfordville): This coworking space in Standfordville is a great spot for when I need to focus and get things done. The atmosphere is both professional and relaxed, with plenty of natural light to keep the creativity flowing.
White Hart Inn (Salisbury, CT): Just a short drive from the Hudson Valley, the White Hart Inn in Salisbury is one of my favorite places to work remotely. The cozy ambiance and beautiful surroundings make it an inspiring place to get through my to-do list.
Scoville Memorial Library (Salisbury, CT): Also in Salisbury, the Scoville Memorial Library is a peaceful and quiet spot perfect for reading, research, or deep work. The historic setting adds a touch of charm to the experience.
Troutbeck (Amenia): Troutbeck in Amenia is a stunning location that offers more than just a place to work. With its rich history and beautifully designed spaces, it’s a place where inspiration flows naturally.
Hudson Valley Shops & Boutiques
Le Jardin Flower Farm (Amenia): Part flower shop, part home goods haven, Le Jardin is where beauty meets utility. From wild, just-picked bouquets to vintage vases and hand-poured candles, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to rearrange your whole house.
Merritt Bookstore (Millbrook): Merritt is rich with charm. The selection is smart and personal, and the space invites lingering. It’s the kind of bookstore that hands you something unexpected, and exactly right.
The Quiet Botanist (Hudson): Part dried flower shop, part apothecary, part daydream, The Quiet Botanist is one of the most atmospheric spaces in Hudson. Dried blooms, natural scents, and botanical goods fill every corner. It’s a beautiful place to pause and reset.
Westerlind (Millerton): Westerlind blends functional outdoor gear with thoughtful design. The space is clean, minimal, and packed with pieces that make you want to head into the woods, or at least dress like you might.
Hammertown Barn (Pine Plains / Rhinebeck): Hammertown feels like walking into your dream home. Their furniture and home goods are timeless, cozy, and always inspiring. It’s one of my favorite spots for design ideas and well-made gifts.
Oblong Books (Rhinebeck & Millerton): Oblong is a true local gem. Thoughtful selections, warm spaces, and a great mix of books make it a go-to for quiet afternoons and discovering something new.
Nature Walks & Scenic Spots
Innisfree Garden (Millbrook): There are gardens you visit, and then there are gardens that shift something in you. Innisfree is the latter. Nestled just outside of Millbrook, this 150-acre public garden wraps around a glacial lake and unfolds like a story; quiet, intentional, and deeply in rhythm with the land.
Berger Hill (Rhinebeck): Just a few minutes from downtown Rhinebeck, Berger Hill is the perfect walk to balance out a day of pastries and shopping. It’s a quick, gently sloping loop through open meadows, leading to sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and Catskills.
Wishlist (places I haven’t been to but are on the list)
Mel the Bakery (Bakery, Hudson): Helmed by James Beard semifinalist Nora Allen, Mel is known for its sourdough croissants, heirloom grain loaves, and a pastry case that draws lines down Warren Street. Breads are milled in-house, and recent additions like focaccia sandwiches and BECs have only raised the buzz.
Klocke Estate (Winery & Tasting Room, Claverack): An elegant newcomer to the Hudson Valley wine scene, Klocke Estate offers estate-grown wines poured in a design-forward tasting room set among rolling fields. Their small-lot vintages and curated events blend Old World inspiration with upstate minimalism.
Banquet (Restaurant, Catskill): Known for its refined but playful take on regional cuisine, Banquet has been making waves with its inventive menu and artful presentation. It’s one of the Catskills' newer darlings — with plates as considered as the space they’re served in.
Taiga (Restaurant, Catskill): With a name meaning "boreal forest," Taiga is known for its woodland-inspired aesthetic and Scandinavian-Japanese fusion menu. Expect clean lines, fermented elements, and an atmosphere that feels like dinner in a modern cabin.
Via Cassia (Restaurant, Hudson): This intimate Italian restaurant brings handmade pastas, natural wines, and thoughtful small plates to Warren Street. Rustic and romantic, it’s become a go-to for locals and travelers seeking comfort with polish.
La Bastide by A Concept (Boutique Hotel & Dining, Hudson): A Provençal-inspired escape on the outskirts of town, La Bastide blends boutique lodging, seasonal dining, and lush garden settings. It’s part hospitality, part lifestyle concept — with lavender, linen, and long lunches at the center of it all.
Pinkerton’s (Bakery, Hudson): A new arrival with a cult following, Pinkerton’s is known for its laminated pastries, standout cookies, and naturally leavened breads. Everything is made in small batches, and the early birds are often the ones who score the best bites.
Melzingah Taphouse (Brewpub, Beacon): This laid-back local favorite offers a wide selection of craft beer, cider, and elevated comfort food in a cozy, brick-walled setting. Think burger nights, house-made pickles, and a beer list that always has something new to try.
Manor Rock Farm (Farm Store & Gathering Space, Dover Plains): This working farm has recently started gaining attention for its beautifully curated farm store, seasonal workshops, and commitment to regenerative practices. Think flower bundles, pastured eggs, and pop-up events that make you want to linger.
Saint Florian (Wine Bar & Bottle Shop, Germantown): Tucked into a low-key stretch of Germantown, Saint Florian is a wine lover’s spot for natural pours, small bites, and relaxed conversation. The selection leans minimal-intervention, with events and tastings that keep things fresh.
I hope this list gives you a little taste of what makes the Hudson Valley so special to me. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are sure to leave you with a full belly, a happy heart, and a mind full of inspiration. Happy exploring!