Now that we have kicked off July celebrating this great country that we call home why not keep the spirit going for the rest of the summer. There are lots of great places to visit in the Hudson Valley for a Staycation and there is definitely no shortage of historic place to visit. Some are about American History, Some are about American Art and some are just about Mother Nature. Checkout some cool place to visit with the family this summer that are right in our backyard.

Art History

Olana - The amazing home and grounds that artist Frederic Church used to inspirer is magnificent paints offers tours and an opportunity for art lovers to immerse themselves in the Hudson River's rich art history.

Thomas Cole - The Thomas Cole house located across the Hudson River from Olana gives the Hudson Valley art lover another chance to experience art in early america and how it's influence in the Hudson Valley created an art period.

American History

West Point - Whether you want to learn about the military history of our great nation or about the hero who were apart of it West Point offer the history buff lots to do. There are tours and monuments, a library and parade fields. Not to mention a cemetery that is full of our nation's heroes including General George Armstrong Custer.

Washington's Headquarters - Located in Newburgh this is the nation's first publicly owned historic site. Travel back in time to the birth of our great nation and all that was happening around the Hudson Valley during the Revolutionary War.

Mother Nature

Bannerman's Island - Located in the middle of the Hudson River just off the shore from Cold Spring and Cornwall this Island once privately owned has an historic ruin which you can now tour. They also offer special events on the Island such as art installations and even movie nights.

Lake Minnewaska - A great place to hike and swim, lake Minnewaska has been a favorite place for as long as I can remember. Once a bustling resort it is now a tranquil nature preserve which is run by the state of New York parks system. There are rules to follow but generally you can head up there year round to take in what the Shawangunk Ridge has to offer.

 

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