We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. There are a ton of things to do in the Hudson Valley each month. Even in the face of the coronavirus, there exist dozens upon dozens of ways to experience the best of what the region has to offer. While they might not be traditional per se (open-air Easter trains, anyone?), they are engaging, entertaining, and 100-percent #flattenthecurve-approved.
To help scout out the hottest events in the Valley, we reached out to local tourism directors from Albany to Ulster for their top picks for things to do. Check out their selections, then get planning!
Discover Albany President and CEO Jill Delaney shares her top recommendations for the month.
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, Albany
Fridays starting April 2
Guthrie Bell Productions has teamed up with the four-star and endlessly entertaining The Hollow Bar + Kitchen for a live music series every Friday of the month. The Supper Club concert series returns, with tickets on sale for $30 two-person tables. Tables of four can also be reserved for $60. Local acts to take the stage include Murky Currents, Girl Blue, and more. While enjoying the music, dine on delicious fare like vegan brown butter sage eggplant, saffron rice paella, and pan-seared maple Brussels sprouts.
Begins at Quackenbush Square, Albany
April 24
Calling all Hudson Valley beer fanatics! Discover Albany and the Albany Public Library co-host an Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt across the city. The self-guided driving tour explores the rich history of the brewing industry in the Capital Region. Current brewers and producers of old alike will be recognized in this event inspired by Albany Ale Project historian Craig Gravina’s “Neighborhood Brew Tours.
Online, Underground Railroad Education Center
April 24
The Underground Railroad Education Center’s annual public history conference LibertyCon 2021 has been reorganized into a virtual format this year. Hear from leading historians and activists on this year’s theme, “Freedom Road: the Struggle for Justice Continues.” April 24 marks its next installment, a presentation from professor Debbie-Ann Paige on the struggles for freedom in State Island. Pre-register to take part in this Zoom experience.
Read up on Columbia County Tourism’s highlights for things to do in the Hudson Valley this month.
Throughout Columbia County
Throughout April
The Hudson Valley’s craft beverage industry is constantly producing incredible and award-winning beer, wines, and spirits. Sample some of the best Columbia County has to offer with its “Scenic Sips Circuit.” Meant to utilize a designated driver, these looped trails take visitors and locals through some of the region’s most iconic destinations. Some of the spots include Hudson Brewing Co., Cooper’s Daughter Spirits, Hudson-Chatham Winery, and more.
Take a peek at Dutchess Tourism, Inc.’s top picks for things to do in Dutchess County this month.
Online, FDR Library & Museum
April 17, 1 p.m.
Interested in the region’s past? Authors dedicated to exploring the history of the Hudson Valley will showcase their recently published books. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum present its eighth Hudson Valley History Reading Festival, in partnership with the Poughkeepsie Public Library. This year’s festival takes place in a virtual format. In four sessions, local authors present their work and interact with attendees in Q&As.
Online, Cunneen Hackett Arts Center
April 24, 12 – 8 p.m.
For poetry fans, Dutchess County Poet Laureate and Cunneen Hacket Arts Center have an incredible festival. PoughETRY Fest 2021 brings together local wordsmiths and verbal bards alike for a celebration of the arts. Free and open to the public, this one-day festival offers live-stream performances of the spoken word. The grand finale is not to be missed.
Akasha’s Journey, Dover Plains
April 17 & 24, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Searching for handcrafted treasures in the Hudson Valley? This holistic market is held outdoors in bucolic Dover Plains. Akasha’s Journey hosts a rotation of artisans, crafters, readers, and healing practitioners on weekends starting April 17. Curator of all things wellness, Akasha’s Journey offers regular yoga classes. Visit the Facebook page for up-to-date information on the markets, as they are weather-dependent.
Look no further for the coolest attractions and activities in Greene County during the month.
Blackhead Mountain Lodge & Country Club and Riedlbauer’s Resort
April 24-25
Anyone who enjoys golfing on gorgeous spring days in the Hudson Valley must attend Riedlbauer’s Resort’s annual golf tournament. The two-day tourney kicks off at the nearby Blackhead Mountain Lodge & Country Club for an 18-hole scramble tournament. Breathtaking northern Catskills scenery makes for incredible golf outings. After the tournament, this hole-in-one deal includes a one-hour open bar, prime rib dinner, and tons of entertainment back at Riedlbauer’s Resort. Pre-registration is required, and all participants in Saturday’s competition can play at discounted rates on Sunday.
Check out Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana’s selections for the best things to do this month.
The Thayer Hotel, West Point
April 4, 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m.
The Thayer Hotel at West Point is a festive destination for any holiday celebration, and it has a bountiful Easter brunch this year. Fresh starters like beet and citrus salad, caprese, and a cheese board give way to mouth-watering main courses like poached shrimp, peppercorn-brandy beef loin, spice-rubbed leg of lamb, and more. A vast array of cakes, pies, and pastries await for dessert. Register in advance to get a table.
L Vern Allen Park, Washingtonville
April 25
Springtime in the Hudson Valley means plenty of open-air markets, and Orange County is no exception. In Washingtonville, visit FarmArt Market for a vibrant collection of locally produced goods. A network of Valley farmers deliver fresh produce that elevate every home-cooked meal. Additionally, artisan vendors present a vast array of handmade items. In case of inclement weather, the rain date of May 2 will be enforced.
Stagecoach Inn, Goshen
April 8 & 22
The Stagecoach Inn is one of the Hudson Valley’s most iconic restaurants, and its burgers are absolutely out of this world. Its award-winning patty is an eight-ounce brisket topped with garlic aioli, cheddar cheese, tobacco onions, and more. Vintage, countryside experiences like that of the Stagecoach Inn are rare; the edifice was built in 1747 and has operated as an inn since the early 1800s. Plus, proximity to the shopping outlets of Woodbury Commons and West Point make Goshen an ideal weekend destination.
Motorcyclepedia Museum, Newburgh
Thursdays in April, 5-8 p.m.
Wowed by sleek vehicles? Newburgh’s Motorcyclepedia Museum showcases iterations of bikes as old as 1897. The unique event venue has a motorcycle representing every era one could imagine. Founded by Ten Doering and his father, the museum now opens to guests for extended hours on Thursday evenings. Discover over 600 bikes, including the world’s most complete Indian timeline. Photographs, posters, memorabilia, machinery, and more help tell the story of developing technology and designs.
Read up on Putnam County Tourism Director Tracey L. Walsh’s picks for things to do this month.
Hudson Highlands, Cold Spring
April 9
Searching for new experiences within the Hudson Highlands State Park rarely disappoints. Discover the Stern-Cornish Estate’s ruins (also known as Northgate). Thom Johnson’s many years of Hudson Valley hiking experience have given him an in-depth knowledge of the landscape. Along the way, view photographs, documents, and hear stories about the Stern and Cornish families who left these ruins behind. Register in advance to guarantee a spot in this spring outing.
Empire State Trail, Putnam County
Throughout April
Warm spring days are the perfect excuse to hit the recently completed Empire State Trail. This grand unification of local bike paths throughout the Hudson Valley is a beautiful source of fresh air, lively exercise, and gorgeous wooded scenery. Those heading south can stop and order a snack at the Freight House Café in Mahopac and can pull off the trail for a bit to hang out at Chamber Park on Lake Mahopac’s shores. Northern expeditions take visitors through The Great Swamp, an amazing place to watch indigenous wildlife.
Tilly Foster Farm, Brewster
Throughout April
No place showcases the rebirth and renewal of spring more than a Hudson Valley farm. Take a trip out to Tilly Foster Farm in Brewster for peaceful April days. Visiting the cute animals is free and open every day. Hiking trails are scattered throughout the property, always offering guests something to do. There is also a small pond onsite for catch and release fishing on calm, still days. Stay tuned for the many special events the farm hosts, and check out the delectable offerings at Tilly’s Table Restaurant.
Throughout Putnam County
Throughout April
Something about warmer weather and fresh air makes hitting the open road all the more appealing. Route 22 has all the charm of a bygone era, and plenty of sights to see along the way. Flowering bulbs and thriving vegetation fill ornate roadside nurseries. This trek takes a driver (or rider) past the waterfall-laden Michael Ciaiola Conservation Center, the Hudson Valley Regional Farmers Market, and the ever-popular Red Rooster Drive-In/Mini Golf.
Take a browse through Director of Economic Development and Tourism Jeremy Schulman’s picks of the hottest things to do in Rockland County throughout the month.
Online, Rockland Arts Festival
Throughout April
Seeking to unlock a creative side? Tune into this massive celebration of local Hudson Valley artists. More than 175 uniquely talented creatives will present their work at the virtual edition of the Rockland Arts Festival. Watch ballet and theater performances, listen to live music, check out locally produced independent films, explore virtual art galleries, and much more. A full calendar of events can be found online.
Torne Valley Vineyards, Hillburn
Saturdays and Sundays
Weekend wine tastings are the perfect way to unwind after long winter season. Celebrate the arrival of spring at Torne Valley Vineyards and sample top-notch wines while taking in the beauty of the landscape. A truly retro wine experience, every element from the iconic stone gate, which beckons you to explore acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, to the incredible Ramapo River views to the warmth and elegance of the indoor event space contributes to the impressive atmosphere.
Piermont
Throughout April
Rockland County Tourism has three marvelous suggestions for discovering the true beauty of one of its gems: Piermont. Enjoy Hudson River views past scenic marshland at Tallman Mountain State Park. Discover the remnants of a rail line connecting Nyack to New Jersey, and hike or bike across the repurposed Old Erie Railroad Path. Finally. at The Pier, visitors can walk for a mile halfway across the Hudson for spectacular river views.
Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Rockland Landing
Throughout April
Have you wanted to cross the former Tappan Zee Bridge in style? Whether you enjoy brisk winter jogs or long scenic bike rides, the bridge path on the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge is a must-visit. Enjoy spectacular views from themed glass platforms overlooking the Hudson River, with free audio tours available to enhance the experience. Visit six unique overlooks on your way to the Westchester side.
Read up on Ulster County Tourism’s event highlights for March.
Catskill Mountain Railroad, Kingston
April 3
Every season brings something special to the Catskill Mountain Railroad. For Easter, celebrate with open-air flat cars lined with festive treats and pastel decorations. A visit with the Easter Bunny himself makes this trip even better. Riding up Hurley Mountain is an incredible experience. The train follows the same rail routes travelers have taken since the 1860s. Make reservations online to secure seats on this fun ride
Urban Cowboy Lodge, Big Indian
April 3
Celebrate the start to fly fishing season in the Hudson Valley at the spectacular Urban Cowboy Lodge in the Catskills. Craft beer will be poured, live music will be played, and BBQ will be served at this event. Make a weekend out of it and stay in one of the unique rooms with top-tier amenities like a relaxing soaking tub. No trip to the Catskills will be quite like the one spent at the Urban Cowboy Lodge.
Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz
April 17
New Paltz is home to both engaging history and gorgeous natural offerings. This nature walk with Justin Wexler, a local ethnoecologist, features a little of each. Titled “Springtime Medicines,” the program starts at the replica Esopus Munsee wigwam and leads visitors up Huguenot Street, through the Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors will learn about what the Hudson Valley was like five hundred years ago, and how the local environment has changed.
The Ashokan Center, Olivebridge
April 23-25
The Ashokan Center’s annual Old Time Rollick celebration returns in 2021. Guests will be immersed in the arts for an entire weekend, with classes for every skill level. Participants can take a stab at learning to play the banjo, fiddle, guitar, or mandolin; learn about flatfooting; and even hone their singing chops while at the Rollick. Enjoy a staff concert Saturday night and test newfound skills with a joyous square dance.
Discover the hottest happenings according to Westchester County Tourism this month.
Online, Caramoor
Throughout the month
Craving live music? Caramoor’s Spring 2021 season continues its commitment to present music of a wide range of genres. The streaming season includes performances from Schwab Vocal Rising Stars, Son Little, Thalea String Quartet, and more. Baroque flute groups, jazz trios, and other bands take the stage in this virtual format. Visit Caramoor’s website for the programming schedule and pricing information.
Online, Tarrytown Music Hall
April 28, 7 p.m.
Even more live music awaits in Westchester this month from the Tarrytown Music Hall. Live from the iconic Music Hall Stage, country singer Brian Dunne serenades fans across the Hudson Valley. Dunne reflects on his experiences growing up in New York and puts on an incredible show. Tune in from the comfort of home.
Throughout Westchester County
Throughout April
The Hudson Valley possesses gorgeous hiking trails, nature preserves, and well-manicured gardens. Many of the region’s treasures can be found right in Westchester County. A few of Westchester Tourism’s picks for scenic spring visits are Untermyer Gardens, Greenburgh Nature Center, Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Rockefeller State Park, Tarrytown RiverWalk, and more.
Sleep in an architecturally significant B&B, or book a room at a nationally known hotel. Casual travelers as well as visitors looking for luxury will find a wide range of properties to consider. There are lodging options for everyone – Try our user-friendly lodging search below and come stay with us in Orange County, NY.
