Illustrations by Shannon Blanton
Amelia Wilson writes the bestselling Substack newsletter Happy on Purpose, on habits, happiness, and thriving in midlife.
A native of Australia, Amelia Wilson lives in Millerton with her husband, two teenagers, and their dog, Ollie. The whole family loves the area’s natural beauty, farm-to-table cuisine, and year-round sporting activities. Here are Amelia’s favorite cold-weather places in and around Millerton—the spots she takes winter houseguests to show off the area’s best.
Restaurants
HARNEY TEA SHOP
Browse locally made teas and gifts, then stay for lunch in the coziest place in Millerton. The food is exceptional: English scones, sandwiches, curries, salads, soup, and gourmet tater tots!
THE WOODLAND
This Lakeville restaurant is a family favorite with something for everyone, including excellent sushi, oysters, steak, and more. The warm atmosphere and generous portions are especially inviting in winter.
OAKHURST DINER
This Millerton hangout features breakfast classics, burgers, avocado toast, tacos, and pho. I love the Cobb or quinoa salad for lunch—and don’t miss the milkshakes made with local Ronnybrook milk.
STISSING HOUSE
In nearby Pine Plains, you’ll find wood-burning fireplaces, exceptional service, and celebrated American and British-inspired comfort food in a historic 1782 tavern. Reservations are tough, but early arrivals can usually snag bar seats.
TENMILE DISTILLERY
Whisky, gin, and vodka are distilled in a stunning barn in Amenia with a wood-burning fireplace. The restaurant serves exceptional cocktails and food.
WILLA
A farm-to-table restaurant on Main Street in Millerton, perfect for dinner before or after a movie at The Moviehouse. We love the burgers, bites, appetizers (including fresh focaccia and Japanese-style fried chicken) and the excellent full bar.
Shops
WESTERLIND
Unique, high-quality, heritage clothing and home brands from Europe, including $30 scented candles, Scandinavian cold-weather gear, plus a fabulous mini grocery mart. This is the Millerton branch of the multi-store and online company.
DUTCHESS TRADING COMPANY
An eclectic store in a much-loved and historic Millerton building; you’ll find Lambertson Truex bags, French wool slippers, Marvis toothpaste, cozy knits, and a wall of colorful Panama hats!
MONTAGE ANTIQUES
Every antique store on Millerton’s Main Street is worth perusing, but this is my favorite. Bunny Williams and other design luminaries pop by for treasures from the owners’ regular European buying trips.
ABODE HOME GOODS
A curated selection of design-forward home pro-ducts in a tiny Millerton shop, with tablecloths, vases, salt and pepper shakers, alarm clocks, and original art.
JOIE MAISON
In Salisbury, this gift store is open every day and carries barware, Simon Pearce glassware, and clothing and accessories for women and children. Pop across the street for a meal at The White Hart, or get coffee and cake from Sweet William’s.
Winter Activities
SNOWSHOEING AND CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Wethersfield and the Harlem Valley Rail Trail (which runs through Millerton) offer beautiful winter trails.
MOVIES
The Moviehouse shows new releases, blockbusters, and live performances from The Met Opera and The National Theatre. Exceptional popcorn, Harney teas, local beers, and wine.
SKIING
Catamount and Mohawk are closest, and Butternut is a short drive away.
SUNSETS
Winter sunsets spectacular from the crest of Sheffield Hill Road in Amenia, and Charlie Hill Road in Millerton, famously one of FDR’s favorite picnic and painting spots.
