Summary

• These beautiful towns along the Hudson River in New York State offer stunning riverfront views, historic architecture, and charming attractions.
• Millbrook is one of the most beautiful towns in the Hudson Valley, with scenic landscapes, wineries, and quaint shops.
• Sleepy Hollow is a must-visit for horror fans in the Hudson region, with haunted sites and spooky experiences.

For those up to it, the extensive stretch along New York’s Hudson River is hands down one of the most scenic places in the United States. Up to 150 miles of jaw-dropping beauty line each side of the river that serves as a political boundary between the states of New York and New Jersey.

Perfect for excellent Hudson River road trips, this expansive stretch is also home to fascinating history and a place of important historical events, such as the Battle of Saratoga, where the Continental Army snatched a decisive victory, marking a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

Today, beautiful towns snug up to the river’s shoreline, providing a breathtaking spectacle that combines nature’s artistry and human workmanship. From Millbrook to Sleepy Hollow and more, discover some of the most beautiful Hudson River towns in New York that showcase what this part of the Northeast is all about when it comes to scenery, small-town charm, and American history.

UPDATE: 2024/02/12 00:07 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Discover Even More Beautiful Towns To Visit On New York's Hudson River

Each of the beautiful towns along the Hudson River in New York has its own unique charm, historic architecture, and stunning riverfront views, creating an enchanting experience for every visitor. This list was updated to include additional contenders for the best towns along the Hudson River!

14 Millbrook

Scenic landscapes, wineries, farmer's markets, and quaint shops

Discover the charm of Millbrook in the Hudson Valley with a day trip. Home to affluent New Yorkers, this quaint town offers architectural beauty and lush public gardens along Franklin Avenue.

Tourists can enjoy plenty of shops here, such as the Millbrook Antique Mall, and diverse eateries like Millbrook Diner and Babette’s Kitchen. They can also explore the unique Orangerie, Millbrook Vineyards, Hoofprint Cheese Company, Trevor Zoo, and Wing’s Castle.

Plus, given this town's location surrounded by lush greenery, Millbrook could also be considered one of the prettiest towns in the Hudson Valley to visit in the fall foliage season.

• Tourist attractions: Millbrook Antiques Center, Millbrook Farmer's Market, Merritt Bookstore
• Where to stay: The Millbrook Inn, Millbrook Country House, Wing's Castle
• When to visit Millbrook: Spring and fall

13 Poughkeepsie

Historic sites, the Walkway Over the Hudson, and historic landmarks

Poughkeepsie, New York, attracts tourists to discover its iconic Hudson Valley landmarks. A highlight is the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge, offering a scenic 1.28-mile hike with unparalleled views of the Hudson River. The extended Walkway Loop Trail features the intriguing Bridge Music installation on the Mid-Hudson Bridge.

Tourists can also explore historic landmarks and stunning architecture throughout the town, including the 150-year-old Bardavon Theater. Additionally, visitors can delve into the past at the Locust Grove Estate, once owned by Morse Code inventor Samuel Morse, and enjoy a scenic tour of Vassar College.

Meanwhile, Barrett Art Center provides a glimpse into local art, making Poughkeepsie a must-visit destination for history, culture, and picturesque landscapes.

• Tourist attractions: Walkway Over The Hudson, Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum, Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center
• Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express, DoubleTree by Hilton Poughkeepsie, Residence Inn by Marriott Poughkeepsie
• When to visit Poughkeepsie: May to mid-September

12 Hudson

Antique shops, art galleries, and riverside charm

For an unforgettable weekend retreat in the Hudson Valley or a Catskills adventure, tourists can escape to Hudson, New York. Visitors can go to the Hudson Athens Lighthouse, a favorite among New York lighthouses, and enjoy ferry tours and tower climbs.

Additionally, visitors can indulge in antique shopping at the must-visit Antique Warehouse and enjoy Hudson Brewing Company nearby. Warren Street offers more unique boutiques.

• Tourist attractions: FASNY Museum of Firefighting, Olana NY State Historic Site, Hudson Hall
• Where to stay: The Amelia Hudson, The Wick, Hudson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Nautical Nest Hudson
• When to visit Hudson: Spring and fall

11 Cold Spring

Picturesque hikes, Hudson River views, and quaint shops

Cold Spring, a charming town worth about two hours of exploration, might seem modest, but beauty often thrives in small doses. Its Main Street, though brief, captivates with its charm. Despite its size, outdoor enthusiasts will find it exhilarating.

As one of the many beautiful towns on New York's Hudson River worth visiting, its splendor extends beyond the town limits; some of the main attractions nearby include Bannerman Castle, Hudson Highlands State Park, and West Point Foundry Preserve, each just minutes away.

• Tourist attractions: Bannerman Castle, West Point Foundry Preserve, Hudson Highlands State Park
• Where to stay: Cold Spring Hotel & Cafe, The Thayer Hotel, Pig Hill Inn
• When to visit Cold Spring: Summer

10 Kingston

Old-world architecture, waterfront activities, and a lively historic district

Kingston located in the heart of the Catskills, in addition to its thriving arts community, has become a sought-after destination for tourism in New York. Visitors are drawn not only to the dynamic cultural experiences offered through frequent art shows but also to the charm of the city's historic sites and vibrant local attractions, making Kingston a multifaceted gem for both art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Visitors should be sure to check out The Kingston Stockade Historic District for some sophisticated dining, chic boutiques, and lively nightlife, while the Hudson River Maritime Museum is ideal for those looking to learn about the area's history. Plus, nature lovers can enjoy Forsyth Nature Center.

• Tourist attractions: The Stockade Historic District, Hudson River Maritime Museum, Forsyth Nature Center
• Where to stay: Hampton Inn Kingston, Hotel Kinsley, Courtyard by Marriott Kingston
• When to visit Kingston: January and February

9 Beacon

Trendy restaurants, museums, scenic hikes, and a lovely Main Street

For travel enthusiasts looking for a vibrant and youthful atmosphere, Beacon is the ideal destination. The town is adorned with trendy restaurants, many of which provide a lively and upbeat ambiance, perfectly catering to its young patrons.

Beyond its urban hipster paradise, Beacon offers an abundance of hiking trails, providing a perfect balance for those who enjoy both the energetic urban scene and the tranquility of nature. Moreover, Beacon has one of the excellent Hudson Valley farmer's markets to explore, full of organic and local produce.

Whether indulging in the lively dining scene or exploring the extensive hiking options, Beacon promises a dynamic experience for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant and diverse setting.

• Tourist attractions: Hudson Valley Brewery, Dia Beacon, Scenic Hudson's Long Dock Park, Dia Beacon Art Museum
• Where to stay: The Roundhouse, The Dutchess Inn & Spa: Beacon, Beacon Bed and Breakfast
• When to visit Beacon: July and August

When feeling peckish in Beacon, pop into Melzingah's Tap House for a quick burger and down it with a local brew.

8 New Paltz

Huguenot Street, Mohonk Preserve trails, and college town charm

New Paltz is distinctly a college town, encapsulating much of the expected vibrancy and youthful energy. However, beyond the campus, the surrounding areas have beautifully crafted their own village-like character, exuding an attractive blend of bucolic charm and quaint beauty.

The external facets of New Paltz create an inviting atmosphere that goes beyond the academic setting; must-visit attractions outside of the college scene include Historic Huguenot Street, which is the oldest inhabited street in the US, along with Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary, which nature and animal lovers will enjoy.

Don't forget to do some retail therapy at Water Street Market and explore Mohonk Preserve for scenic nature and hiking trails.

• Tourist attractions: Historic Huguenot Street, Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary, Water Street Market, Mohonk Preserve
• Where to stay: Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection, Americas Best Value Inn New Paltz, Rodeway Inn & Suites New Paltz - Hudson Valley
• When to visit New Paltz: Summer

7 Millerton

Boutique shops, old bookshops, historic buildings, and rural beauty

Once a railroad hub, Millerton today boasts historic buildings and several well-stocked bookshops, many of which are old, along with indie theaters and trendy coffeehouses where time gets to slacken its pace somewhat.

Oblong Books, for instance, is a booklover’s paradise, where a variety of books and other accessories make it one of the best spots in the town.

• Tourist attractions: The Millerton Antique Center, North East Millerton Library, Mountain Valley Farm
• Where to stay: The Millerton Inn Restaurant and Hotel, The Alander, The White Hart
• When to visit Millerton: Summer

6 Woodstock

Artsy culture, lively festivals, and serene mountain surroundings

Nestled in the backdrop of the Catskills, Woodstock is a household name and is among the many beautiful small towns on the Hudson River in New York.

While what put the town on the global map is a festival that bears the town's name—and which Brittanica mentions as the most famous of the 1960s rock festivals—the town of Woodstock today has lots of attractions, including outdoor markets, boutiques, and art galleries.

• Tourist attractions: Opus 40, The Bearsville Theater, Historical Society of Woodstock
• Where to stay: The Herwood Inn, The Woodstock Inn on the Millstream, Woodstock Way Hotel
• When to visit Woodstock: June to September

5 Rhinebeck

Historic mansions, cute shops, and a charming village atmosphere

Rhinebeck is vibrant is is easily one of the most scenic towns in the Hudson Valley, New York, having numerous attractions and a rich historical tapestry. To begin with, the town is part of the Hudson River Historic District, featuring approximately forty riverfront estates, and stands as one of the largest historic districts in the United States.

The town's allure lies not only in its bustling atmosphere but also in the grandeur of its well-preserved historic sites, including Wilderstein Historic Site, offering visitors a captivating journey through time as they explore the charm and significance of Rhinebeck's past.

Meanwhile, those up for stretching their legs and enjoying nature's scenery can go hiking in Ferncliff Forest - don't forget to climb the fire tower in this nature preserve!

• Tourist attractions: Ferncliff Forest, Wilderstein Historic Site, Drayton Grant Park at Burger Hill
• Where to stay: Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck Village Inn, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Rhinebeck
• When to visit Rhinebeck: May to September

4 Catskill

Scenic river views, historic Hudson Valley sites, great restaurants, and a craft beer scene

Exploring the vastness of the Catskills, a mountainous wonder boasting raging rivers, sparkling lakes, and wooded trails, might be an endless adventure. However, the town of Catskill embraces the essence of the entire Catskills in a miniature form.

What's even more intriguing? Touring this village, where artists once rose to fame and achieved success, is like taking a nostalgic step back into history. In this compact haven, visitors can absorb the charm of the Catskills' natural beauty and its rich cultural legacy in the form of nature hikes and historic sites. Plus, the town is plush with historic Hudson Valley landmarks, upstate eateries, and a very busy craft beer scene.

• Tourist attractions: Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Hudson River Skywalk, Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables
• Where to stay: Peloke's Motel Catskill NY, Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Coxsackie, Piaule Catskill
• When to visit Catskills: September and October

3 Nyack

Diverse dining and artistic places and Hudson River views

Once recognized as a shipbuilding hub, the town of Nyack has transformed into an enticing escape for New York daytrippers. Situated just 19 miles north of the Manhattan border, this waterfront paradise offers an idyllic setting and gorgeous scenery that is easily accessible.

With its picturesque charm and proximity to the city, Nyack attracts those seeking a quick retreat, providing a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere for a delightful day trip away from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

• Tourist attractions: Edward Hopper House, Nyack Farmer's Market, Elmwood Playhouse
• Where to stay: Hotel Nyack - JDV by Hyatt, West Gate Inn Nyack, Super 8 by Wyndham Nyack NY
• When to visit Nyack: May to September

2 Cornwall-on-Hudson

Splendid architecture, riverfront beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere

Nestled on the opposite side of the Hudson River, this charming community is a haven for nature lovers, offering an abundance of green spaces brimming with natural beauty. Additionally, it serves as an excellent destination for indulging in fresh and locally sourced delights, featuring a variety of offerings from local farmers, including delectable home-baked goods and farm-fresh produce.

Whether visitors seek outdoor tranquility or culinary delights, this quaint town along the Hudson River in New York is a perfect retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and savor locally sourced delicacies.

• Tourist attractions: Storm King State Park, Hudson Valley Gallery, Hudson Highlands Nature Museum
• Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Newburgh Stewart Airport, Beacon Hermitage, The Thayer Hotel
• When to visit Cornwall-on-Hudson: Mid-June to mid-September

1 Sleepy Hollow

Legendary tales, a historic cemetery, and a scenic Hudson River setting

Fans of the mysterious, dark, and downright spooky will love exploring the famous village of Sleepy Hollow on the Hudson River. Sleepy Hollow welcomes visitors looking for a classic scare, thanks to the numerous terror tales and scary stories that it has become synonymous with. It boasts a handful of haunted sites with creepy pasts that should indulge horror fans. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is one spooky spot not to miss!

Additionally, the village hosts seasonal events and immersive experiences, providing an opportunity for visitors to delve even deeper into the eerie history and supernatural ambiance that permeates Sleepy Hollow. Perhaps the best time to visit the town is Halloween when Sleepy Hollow offers lots of spooky experiences.

• Tourist attractions: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Philipsburg Manor, Kykuit
• Where to stay: Sleepy Hollow Hotel, Tarrytown House Estate on The Hudson, Castle Hotel & Spa
• When to visit Sleepy Hollow: October (Halloween is a must!)

Visit Sleepy Hollow in October for one of the best Hudson River Towns Halloween experiences and to tour the Old Dutch Church, which is only accessible at this time.