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. With things beginning to return to normalcy, there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of summer than with outdoor events and visits to scenic, open-air destinations.
To help scout out the hottest events in the Valley, we reached out to local tourism directors from Albany to Westchester 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.
Pearl St, Albany
June 19, 12- 8 p.m.
Albany celebrates the memory of Juneteenth in the Capital Region. The African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region hosts the festivities with a slew of programming. Sample free soul food, examine engaging art exhibits, and screen topical films outdoors. AACCCR curates virtual events and music streaming as well. Bring the kids for fun and educational youth activities. Plus, everything is entirely free.
C.H. Evans Brewing Albany Pump Station, Albany
June 24
Thursday nights in June, enjoy an hour-long guided bike tour along the recently completed Empire State Trail. The path through Albany highlights the region’s rich history of canals, politics, and, of course, beer. After the June ride, cyclists will unite at C.H. Evans Brewing Albany Pump Station for a delicious pint. Brewery founders will give pointers on the beverage industry in New York State, and historians from Historic Albany Foundation dive into the Erie Canal. Register online for just $20 and, for serious cyclists, continue the tour throughout the summer all the way upstate.
Hudson River, Albany
June 5 & 19
Relax on the Hudson River and enjoy scenic Albany sunsets. Dutch Apple Cruises offers dazzling evenings on a triple-decker boat. On the top level, sip cold beverages and dine outdoors. The two-hour trip runs from Albany south to Castleton and showcases gorgeous golden hour views. Bring binoculars and try to spot bald eagles native to the region.
Read up on Columbia County Tourism’s highlights for things to do in the Hudson Valley this month.
Lebanon Valley Speedway, West Lebanon
June 29, 5 p.m.
Dutchess Tourism President and CEO Melaine Rottkamp shares her top recommendations for the month.
Main St, Poughkeepsie
June 12, 12 p.m.
Welcome Pride Month in the Hudson Valley with the PKGO Price Car Parade. This Dutchess County event hosts actress and singer Lea DeLaria (of Orange is the New Black fame) as the parade’s “grand marshal.” Members of the Poughkeepsie community and beyond are invited to decorate their vehicles and join the caravan while competing to win most colorful, most creative, or funniest display. Stay tuned for Pride events throughout June including Drag Bingo, Rainbow Prom, and much more. For a full list of June Pride celebrations, visit the Dutchess Pride Center calendar.
Todd Hill Farmers Market, Lagrangeville
Fridays starting June 18
Taste NY at Todd Hill showcases the vast bounty of the Hudson Valley. Browse seasonal produce at Todd Hill Farmers Market just outside the historic building off the Taconic State Parkway. Shop fresh meat, cheese, yogurt, spirits, and more delicious farm-to-table goodies. The open-air market offers prime convenience and an enjoyable way to experience local fare. Return to Todd Hill any Friday afternoon all the way through October.
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
June 26 & 27
Shop the wares of over 200 fine craft artisans and contemporary artists at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. One of the Hudson Valley’s top shopping events, it’s a go-to spot to check out original clothing, unique accessories, handcrafted jewelry, and more. For those looking for home décor, shop pieces made from ceramics, wood, glass, and other diverse materials. Plus, gourmet food and beverage vendors accompany the other creators, so attendees can taste locally produced wines, spirits, and other adult beverages. Kids can enjoy craft demonstrations, stilt walkers, face painting, and interactive puppet theater.
Look no further for the coolest attractions and activities in Greene County during the month.
Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Catskill
June 4-6, 11
Visit the home and studio of renowned Hudson River School founder Thomas Cole. This National Historic Landmark offers vast trails and lush gardens. On guided tours, witness the breathtaking Hudson Valley landscapes that Cole captured so beautifully in his paintings. Museum educators lead visitors around the site, offering tons of insight into Cole’s life, the Hudson River School of Art, and his expert techniques. Each tour runs for 30 minutes and must be reserved online and in advance.
Dutchman’s Landing, Catskill / Coxsackie Riverside Park, Coxsackie
Thursdays starting June 17 / Sundays starting June 27
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music outdoors in Greene County this summer. Dutchman’s Landing in Catskill hosts free concerts along the Hudson River every Thursday night, beginning June 17. Country, blues, rock, and other genres bring timeless tunes and original songs to the Catskills. Over at Coxsackie Riverside Park, Sunday nights are the time to boogie. Pull up with a chair or a blanket for this free concert series, starting June 27. Check each calendar listing online for a full lineup of artists to take the stage and bring summer music back to the Hudson Valley.
Mountain Top Arboretum, Tannersville
June 26-30
Tannersville’s marvelous base for wildlife education and hiking alike, Mountain Top Arboretum has plenty to offer Hudson Valleyites during the month of June. The family-friendly “Story Walk in the Woodland” series runs from June 26-30. Talk a walk through the idyllic wooded paths of the Catskills and enjoy readings from cute and folksy children’s stories. This is an excellent way to experience the beginning of a gorgeous summer season in the Hudson Valley.
Check out Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana’s selections for the best things to do this month.
Motorcyclepedia Museum, Newburgh
Thursdays in June, 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 Ted 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.
Tin Barn Brewing, Sugar Loaf / Palaia Winery & Meadery, Highland Mills
Fridays in June / Saturdays and Sundays in June
Nothing goes better with live music than Hudson Valley beverages. At Tin Barn Brewing, Fridays get the weekend started all month long. Enjoy fresh-brewed honey ales and pastry stouts alongside gourmet pizzas cooked to perfection in an Italian dome oven. Plus, the recently completed outdoor deck is a perfect way to enjoy warm weather. Plus, tons of of different acts keep things fresh at the Sugar Loaf venue, with performers covering unique genres like ’80s new wave. Over at Palaia Winery & Meadery in Highland Mills, the magnolia tree is in full bloom and the grass is green, so it’s time for live music every weekend. Visit the online calendar for a full schedule of acts to take the stage, and don’t forget to sample wines and meads from the Hudson Valley’s own “hippie winery.”
Greenwood Lake
June 5-6
A mainstay for the first weekend of every month, Greenwood Lake Maker Market celebrates the creative community of Orange County. The quaint village’s diverse group of artists, independent brands, small-scale makers, and craft artisans make this monthly festival unique. Early June boasts incredible weather in the Hudson Valley, making it the perfect time to visit the outdoor market.
Main St, Washingtonville
June 20
Washingtonville Farmers and Artisans Market series continues in June with a special iteration of FarmArt Market. The Father’s Day car show theme creates a fun environment for Hudson Valley dads. Shop fresh, local produce and tons of specialty items from Orange County makers. Craft beverages, bath and body products, scented candles, accessories, and other artisan goods are available for purchase at this open-air event.
Read up on Putnam County Tourism Director Tracey L. Walsh’s picks for things to do this month.
Putnam County Golf Course, Mahopac
Fridays starting June 4
The lush grounds of Putnam County Golf Course host heart-pumping concerts all summer long. Fans of classic rock will adore the tributes to legendary acts such as Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, The Eagles, and more. Other acts take the stage to perform original material, and dancing is always encouraged. Online tickets also gain visitors access to a barbecue buffet under the stars. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and visit the cash bar for craft cocktails.
Carmel
Throughout the month of June
Hudson Valley historians will need to visit Carmel during the summer. Anyone gearing up for Independence Day will love the statue of Sybil Ludington, the mighty heroine of the Revolutionary War. Her all-night horseback ride through the Hudson Valley alerting militia of British troops is immortalized in this work of art. Other destinations include the historic Putnam County courthouse, the second oldest in New York, and the shores of Lake Gleneida, which receive over 500 American flags dedicated to the memory of veterans. Plus, Carmel has plenty of delicious dining options to keep visitors happy and well-fed.
Cold Spring
Throughout the month of June
Always wanted to explore the Hudson River? Make an expedition to iconic destinations like Bannerman Castle, Constitution Marsh, and more. Kayak and paddleboard through the Hudson Valley, and even make an overnight trip. The 2021 Hudson River Paddle includes camping gear, catered meals, paddling equipment, and everything else one would need on such a journey. Check the online schedule for a full list of Hudson Valley adventures.
Glynwood, Cold Spring
June 13, 5 p.m.
Eating by the season is one of the best parts of living in the Hudson Valley. Celebrate the flavors of early summer at Glynwood Center for Regional Food & Farming in Cold Spring. The inaugural benefit picnic showcases June vegetables grown onsite and prepared by Fresh Company Catering. Explore the lush grounds of Glynwood and support new farmers and farm apprentices. Hudson Valley beer, wine, cider, and other beverages pair expertly with Glynwood’s farm-to-table cuisine.
Plus, visit these local farmers markets throughout Putnam County in June:
Brewster Farmers’ Market/Hudson Valley Regional Farmers Market
Blue Stone Farm
Boni-Bel Farm at Green Chimneys
Carmel Farmers Market at Lake Mahopac
Cold Spring Farmers’ Market at Boscobel
Glynwood Farm Store
Kent Lakes Farm Market
Putnam Valley Residents Coalition Farmers Market
Ryder Farm Cottage
Salinger’s Orchard
San Damiano Farm at Graymoor
Southeast Market/R&G Produce
Take a browse through Director of Economic Development and Tourism Jeremy Schulman’s picks the hottest things to do in Rockland County throughout the month.
African American Memorial Park, Haverstraw
Through June 7 / June 18 & 19
Head to Haverstraw to see a magnificent piece of art honoring one of America’s greatest heroes. As the Harriet Tubman Journey to Freedom Statue tours the nation, it stops for several weeks in Rockland County. The nine-foot-tall statue weighs 2,400 pounds and is made of solid bronze. Tubman is depicted leading a young girl to freedom. Also stop by the park’s kiosks dedicated to the history of African diaspora in the Hudson Valley. A parade, live music, cultural cuisine, and other festivities honor Juneteenth later in the month. A particular focus will be on speakers and storytelling that documents the storied contributions of African Americans from Haverstraw.
Downtown Nyack
June 6
Celebrate Pride Month in downtown Nyack. Traffic shuts down for this gathering of eclectic dining, clothes shopping, artisan vendors, and so much more. Performances from musicians and drag queens keep things exciting along Nyack’s streets. Presented by the Rockland County Pride Center, Pride Promenade fosters an inclusive gathering of the LGBTQ+ community and Rockland small businesses alike. As the site says, this event is free and open to all, as anyone can get down to support equality and justice.
Harriman State Park
All month long
With two sand beaches and 31 reservoirs and lakes, New York State’s second-largest park has plenty to explore. Guests can work up a sweat on the 200 miles of hiking trails or opt to go boating or fishing. Swimming is available at Lake Tiorati and Lake Welch’s sandy beaches, but Lake Sebago presents an extra special experience. Book Tentrr glamping sites throughout Harriman State Park during June.
Read up on Ulster County Tourism’s event highlights for the month.
Hudson River Maritime Museum, Kingston
June 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27
Have you ever wanted to take a tour of the Hudson River? At Kingston’s iconic Rondout Landing, the Hudson River Maritime Museum introduces folks to Solaris, a 100-percent solar-powered tour boat. The museum’s Wooden Boat School constructed this vessel. Even at night with reserve battery power, Solaris can hit 50 miles without a recharge. Experience the beauty of the river on a peaceful tour on the smooth-riding Solaris. Guests choose exactly what they want to see on a visit to Kingston, from local lighthouses to native birds to live music. Visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum for a full list of tour themes.
99-101 Broadway, Kingston
June 13, 20, 27
Kingston’s Multicultural Festival returns for its eighth year. 2021’s fest features artisan crafts, performances, and delicious cuisine. The fest brings two different pop-up food vendors to the Waterfront Farmers Market all three weeks. Students from the Applied Food Studies program from The Culinary Institute of America helped curate the vendor list. Local musicians and dancers perform every day at the gazebo. For crafts, make a “Worry Doll” from Guatemalan tradition and unload all of the anxiety caused by the past year while honoring immigrant culture.
Belleayre Mountain, Highmount
June 26
Belleayre Mountain is a prime destination for winter fun in the Hudson Valley. However, the summertime brings its own host of unique and engaging activities. Starting June 26, hit the beach and work on your tan, explore the water on a stand-up paddleboard, take a partner out in a kayak, and, of course, cool off while swimming. Picnic tables, basketball courts, volleyball nets, and horseshoe pits offer plenty of family fun. Off the beach, tour the mountain on scenic gondola rides. Biking, hiking, and other activities keep Belleayre a destination throughout the summer season.
Esopus Creel, Phoenicia
June 26
Frequently called the birthplace of fly fishing in America, the Catskills are the ultimate setting for this three-season sport. Go head-to-head against dozens of fly fishers for the chance to win the $1,500 grand prize for largest fish. Anglers will compete in teams of two in a total tournament of 25 teams. Picturesque views, rich history, and prime fishing in the Esopus Creek await. Half of the entry fees will go directly toward protecting the majestic Esopus Creek and its surrounding waters. Enter this second annual tournament and support The Ashokan-Pepacton Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
Discover the hottest happenings according to Westchester County Tourism this month.
Lyndhurst, Tarrytown
June 12 & 13
Tune into FOX Sports networks to spot a familiar Westchester County destination. Lyndhurst hosts the 145th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Watch the spectacle of well-groomed pooches as they strut their stuff across the stage. Lyndhurt’s plans for restoration have the Hudson Valley landmark looking better than ever, and worthy of the century-and-a-half-old event.
Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, Yonkers
Weekends throughout the month of June
Speaking of beautiful Hudson Valley scenery, the Untermyer Gardens’ amphitheater is an absolute work of art. Samuel Untermyer constructed the venue for his wife, Minnie. The pair adored music and brought singers, dancers, and other acts from around the world to take the stage in Westchester. In her honor, catch one of nine performances at the historic locale. From jazz bands to Persian dance, there is something for everyone to discover amidst the flowers and butterflies of Untermyer. Reserve tickets in advance and check out the full lineup online.
Caramoor, Katonah
Starting June 19
When celebrating the return of music to the Hudson Valley, one can’t forget about Caramoor. Special premieres, experimental workshops, and genre-specific festivals resume in Katonah this June. The season begins with a seven-week festival that features over 35 live performances from jazz bands to folk roots artists and more. While onsite, explore the gardens, woodlands, and art installations of the Caramoor grounds. June 19 kicks things off with renowned trumpeter Wynton Marsalis backed by the Lincoln Center Orchestra.
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.
