Meet Rachel—local Instagram legend @Hudson_ValleyGirl—a digital tastemaker with a heart for the Hudson Valley. With over 65,000 followers and a feed of curated recs, she’s built a community around spotlighting the best places to explore, sip, shop, and stay.
1. Where To Eat
Waterfall views & Afghan street food
If you haven’t had a mocktail on the deck at Roundhouse in Beacon, hit up the group chat and make that rezzy! The waterfall views are so peaceful—it’s my go-to spot when I want to slow down. After that, I walk over to Nansense (a total hidden, and newer, gem) for one of their Afghan burgers and fries. Most of the menu is made from scratch—even the ketchup. Trust me when I say you can totally taste the difference.
2. Where To Shop
Farmstand, flowers & feel-good vibes
Barton Orchards in Poughquag has become one of my favorite places—it’s more than just a farmstand. Between the petting zoo, the sunflower field, the live music, and the cider doughnuts, it’s the kind of place where you can spend hours without realizing it. I love going with friends, grabbing something from the farm market, and just taking in the fresh air and nature.
3. Where To Sip
Rosé that changed my mind
I’m not usually a rosé girl … but Millbrook Vineyards & Winery totally changed that for me. I did their tasting flight, and was honestly shocked at how much I liked their rosé: super light, and perfect for summer. Their Hunt Country Red is also a fav. Bring a picnic, sit out on the lawn, and just take in those vineyard views. It’s dreamy.
4. Where To Sweat
Yoga with llamas & DIY loofahs—yes, really
If you’ve never done yoga while a llama casually walks by, you’re missing out. Clover Brook Farm in Hyde Park offers the most peaceful and fun classes, with llamas and alpacas roaming around; it’s the definition of “feel-good movement.” Pro tip: Swing by the Vanderbilt Mansion nearby for some epic views and a dose of local history.
5. Where To Chill
Scenic ice cream?
Moo Moo’s Creamery in Cold Spring is legendary for a reason: The flavors are amazing, and the vibe is pure summer magic. My move is grabbing a double scoop (yes, always double), then heading across the street to sit on a bench by the Hudson. The river, the breeze, the mountains—it’s all just chef’s kiss. Total main character moment.
6. Not-to-Miss Event
Did you know the Hudson Valley has its very own annual Hot-Air Balloon Festival?
This festival is pure magic: Watch dozens of colorful hot air balloons lift off over the scenic countryside at sunrise and sunset. With live music, local vendors, food trucks, and tethered balloon rides, it’s a dreamy summer weekend that makes for incredible memories (and aesthetic photos!). Just make sure to check the weather before you go; balloons only launch in safe conditions, and some years they don’t go up at all! The 34th Annual JPMorganChase Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival will be held August 29 – 31 at Tymor Park in Union Vale.
Photo by Ryan Lavine