Shopping
Bargain Shopping
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
Central Valley
A favorite of locals and fashionistas from around the world (note the loudspeaker announcements in Japanese and other languages) who flock here on buses, this bargain-hunter’s paradise contains some 220 shops offering a wide range of high-end outlet items at affordable prices. u845-928-4000; www.premiumoutlets.com/woodburycommon
Bookstore
Oblong Books & Music
Rhinebeck, Millerton
There’s nothing quite like an independent bookstore. The coziness, the quirkiness, the knowledge, and the personality — these twin treasures have all that and more, including a bounty of books and lots of local author events. Read on! uRhinebeck 845-876-0500, Millerton 518-789-3797; www.oblongbooks.com
Boutique
Trends Boutique
Poughkeepsie
Best-known for their selection of velvet items (and their friendly service), Trends also carries high-end denim brands such as AG Jeans and Citizens of Humanity, so hip nearby college students no longer need to hop the train to Manhattan. u845-473-1950
Crafts/Hobby Store
Hobby House
Poughkeepsie
A great range of collectibles, radio-controlled cars, model trains, and rockets make this store the go-to place for hobbyists of any age or persuasion. u845-297-3341
Gift Shop
Rare Finds
Millbrook
You can find gifts galore at this lovely shop. Whether the occasion is big or small, chances are there’ll be something just right. Check out the elegantly packaged chocolates or the cute, dress-shaped wine jackets. u845-677-1776
Place for Wedding Invitations
The Paper Trail
Rhinebeck
Wedding invitations once needed to be only informative and elegant. Nowadays they are often meant to reflect the spirit of the wedding itself. While they have been in business only two years, Maureen Missner and Serine Hastings have established the Paper Trail as the top destination for busy brides who need personalized service. This duo will spend the time to find out what kind of invitation best suits the bride’s intentions. From fashioning the graphic designs and motifs, to choosing the paper stock and assembling and “layering” the pieces of the invitation, crucial decisions at the Paper Trail become joyous aesthetic adventures. Matters of etiquette and “family politics” are taken care of, as well. Budgets are respected, too: Though some invitations can cost several thousand dollars, “we can do an absolutely beautiful job for just $500,” says Hastings. u845-876-8050; www.papertrailrhinebeck.com
Farmer’s Market
Riverside Farmer’s & Artisan’s Market
Catskill
A merry mix of farmers and crafters, this market is set in a former warehouse whose big bay doors overlook the Hudson. Stop in for just-picked produce, locally raised meats, artisanal breads and cheeses, honey, or flowers, and check out the crafts while you’re there. It’s all handmade, high-quality stuff — paintings, quilts, pottery, jewelry, soaps and weavings. Adding even more merriment: live music, ranging from folk, blues, and ragtime to Celtic, Cajun and jazz. u518-622-9820; www.greenecountytourism.com
Comic Shop
October Country
New Paltz
While the focus is still on comics — and lots of ’em — this pop culture emporium also carries toys, role-playing materials, and the largest collection of trade paperbacks and graphic novels around. Interestingly, the shop’s name stems from a story by science fiction author Ray Bradbury which captured the feeling of the Hudson Valley. Shazam! u845-255-1115
Menswear Shop
Christopher’s
Poughkeepsie, Albany, Middletown
Even Esquire has given kudos to this local chain, and readers agree. With three locations in the Valley, there is no excuse not to keep your in step with the styles. uPoughkeepsie 845-296-1249, Albany 518-690-STYLE, Middletown 845-692-4322; www.christophersclothing.com
Toy Store
Enchanted Toys
New Paltz
David and Pamela Tate opened this playful store in 2002 to remind us why being a kid is so much fun. Everything from natural wood toys and beeswax clay is sold here to stir up young imaginations. This year’s big hits: Rocket Balloons, Benders (small wire action figures), and anything about pirates. u845-255-1429
General Store
American Pie
Chatham
Yes, American Pie is a “general store” — but if you’re looking to buy baking soda or batteries, go elsewhere. This unique emporium offers a wide variety of interesting and outlandish items, from stylish ladies’ hats and handbags to cheese graters, kiwi slicers and cookie jars. The selection of kitchen items (including Le Creuset cookware) is extensive, but the attractively arranged aisles are perfect for browsing for that one-of-a-kind whatsit that you didn’t know you needed, and now just can’t live without. u518-392-6632
Custom-Made Bracelets
De’S jewelers
Poughkeepsie
If you’re looking for some extra sparkle and shine to brighten up your jewelry collection, scope out the fabulous selection of bracelets, pearls and diamonds at this family-owned business. Their customized bracelets make a great gift — especially the Add-A-Link style: Start out with one or more diamond links, then add additional ones on special occasions. u845-452-0026; www.desjewelers.com
Place for Irish Items
Back in Ireland
Cold Spring
From Guinness gifts to claddagh rings to Bewley’s Regency Tea, this Main Street merchant carries everything you could want from the Emerald Isle. It’s also the perfect spot if you need a few things for an Irish wedding, including the traditional bridal five pence or an Irish wedding blessing pillow. Erin Go Braugh! u845-265-4570; www.backinireland.com
Outdoor Sports Store
Gander Mountain
Kingston
A one-stop-shopping mecca that’s a nature lover’s dream. Find all the supplies you’ll need, plus innovative, durable head-to-toe garb for camping, jogging, skiing, biking and virtually anything else you’d like to do in the great outdoors. There’s also a huge selection of top-notch gear and accessories. u845-382-2500; www.gandermountain.com
Boutique for All Ages
Birch Tree
Woodstock
No matter what age (or size or height) you are, this stylish boutique carries something you’ll look good in. There are lots of clothes by Flax, quilted vests and coats by Iridium and more tailored things from Gerties and Bryn Walker. The clothes are aimed at sophisticated, professional women who have a slightly artistic bent and don’t want run-of-the-mill mall wear. Says owner Eliana Smith, “Even the socks are unusual.” u845-679-7585; www.birchtreewoodstock.com
Florist
Morgan’s Florist and Nursery
Poughkeepsie
Readers love the contemporary designs and unique arrangements of this family-owned and operated fleuriste, which imports its flowers directly from Holland within 48 hours of being cut. u845-471-3960; www.morgansflorist.com
Home & Garden
Antiques Shop
Antique Barn at Water Street Market
New Paltz
Two full floors of antiques fill this charming, old-fashioned red barn. You’re sure to find something unique as you browse through the spacious emporium’s collection of rarities and oddities of all sorts. u845-255-1403; www.waterstreetmarket.com
Auction House
George Cole Auctions & Realty
Red Hook
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or just enjoy watching the live action, you’ll love this roomy, air-conditioned auction hall. They specialize in estate liquidation, real estate, and antiques, but also have experience auctioning vehicles and equipment. SOLD! u845-758-9114; www.georgecoleauctions.com
Hardware Store
Davies Hardware
Poughkeepsie
Tired of those huge, impersonal, big-box retailers? Head to Davies, where the wide range of products at affordable prices is enhanced by the friendliness and one-on-one support only the little guys can give you. Don’t worry, you won’t get screwed here. u845-452-6741; www.davieshardware.com
Home Design Center
H.G. Page & Sons Home & Hardware
Poughkeepsie
Customers have been stocking up on supplies (not to mention advice) for building, decorating and remodeling at Page for more than 80 years. The store sells everything from paint to power tools, but it’s the quick, easy access to items — plus highly rated customer service for contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike — that sets this shop apart. Their kitchen and bath design center is adjacent to the hardware store; it features cleverly laid out (and beautiful) walk-through rooms, where customers can see the latest design ideas in action. u845-452-7130; www.pagehomecenter.com
Plumbing Supplies
N&S Supply
Kingston, Fishkill, Brewster
This company has been in the plumbing supply business since the Depression — but they’ve certainly kept up with the times. And they’re not all about copper pipes and u-bend widgets, either. Their three Valley showrooms display a tantalizing array of elegant sinks, hand basins, whirlpools, saunas, and a host of accessories like towel warmers to help transform your ordinary bathroom into a spa. uKingston 845-331-7100, Fishkill 845-896-6291, Brewster 845-279-8075; www.nssupply.com
Plant Nursery/ Garden Store
Sabellico
Hopewell Junction
Not only will you come home with dozens of plants, vegetables, and flowers, you’re sure to have a grand case of green thumb as well. Sabellico’s has teamed up with the National Audubon Society to encourage the creation of wildlife habitats in our own backyards. So along with making the Valley a much prettier place, Sabellico’s is making it better for our feathered friends as well. u845-226-5943; www.sabellico.com
Furniture Store
Davis Furniture
Poughkeepsie
Need a new couch? Dining room set? Davis offers 14 product lines — all at reasonable prices. And the friendly, professional staff aren’t paid on commission, so you know you’re getting real advice. u845-473-1990; www.1davisfurniture.com
Garden Ornaments
From Europe to You Antiques
Saugerties
Whether you’d like to give your garden a touch of horticultural haute with a simple iron bench, an ornamental urn, some Grecian-style statuary, or a cast-iron tortoise the size of a compact car, you’re bound to find something among the bronze, marble and cast-iron objects at this emporium. Best of all, prices are reasonable. u845-246-7274; www.fromeuropetoyou.com
Place to Buy a Tractor
Pine Bush Equipment
Pine Bush, Holmes
Ready to trade up from your Lawn Boy to the real deal? Pine Bush Equipment has a complete inventory of full-size, 3,000-plus-pound tractors to call your own. You can even add a cool attachment like a rake or brush-cutter. This company has been keeping customers happy since 1956, so even if you need a less-ambitious machine, like a log-splitter or generator, you can also buy or rent one here. uPine Bush 845-744-2006, Holmes 845-878-4004; www.pbeinc.com
Kitchen Supplies
Bluecashew Kitchen Pharmacy
High Falls
This store’s two rooms are packed with high-end, attractive food-related goodies: Emile Henri clay ovenware, Staub cast-iron and enamel cookpots, , a few select small appliances (like espresso makers), Match Pewter dinnerware, and more. Even if you can’t cook, this stuff will make you want to learn. u845-687-0294
Golf shop
Pro Golf of Brewster
Brewster
Owner Anthony Valentino (along with some of his staff) is a graduate of the Mitchell Golf Equipment Institute. In other words: These guys can fix your clubs, and luckily, they’re also experts at club fitting . In addition, the shop is stuffed full of colorful golf apparel and footwear. But our favorite thing is the computerized simulator: Step in and see how your swing measures up. These folks will analyze every detail to match you with the best possible equipment — and insist that you test everything out before buying. u845-278-4600
Do-It-Yourself Help
Williams Lumber & Home Centers
Rhinebeck (and seven other locations)
Let’s face it, even the handiest of us could use a little help when it comes to those home improvement projects. Whether you’re taking advantage of their “close to cost” estimating system, their computerized paint matching system, their new power tool repair center, or just attending a demo day, the friendly folks at Williams Lumber take away the fear and make the whole experience more fun. u845-876-7011; williamslumber.com
Jewelry Store
Zimmer Brothers
Poughkeepsie
Family-owned and operated since 1893, this Hudson Valley institution is a reader favorite for the best place to snag sparklers, stones and simply stunning jewels of all varieties. u845-454-6360; www.zimmerbrothers.com
Window Dressing
Rambling Rose Boutique
New Paltz
Sure, sometimes they just arrange the merch in the window, but Julie Mazur (who owns this lovely boutique) and assistant Kathryn Stephenson usually have a concept. Every once in a while, they really bust loose. Last year, Stephenson, who is also studying fashion merchandising at Marist, created Elizabethan gowns for a winter window. Made of construction paper, tissue, and handmade papers imbedded with flower petals, they were so gorgeous we wished we could wear them. u845-255-3899
Kids & Pets
Way to Introduce Kids to Nature
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum
Cornwall-on-Hudson
For a nature class that doesn’t feel like learning, take the young’uns on a Discovery Quest. Purchase a guidebook at the museum’s visitor center for any of four quests — Pond, Field, Woodland, and Hiking — then set off on your outdoor adventure. By referring to the book at various learning stations throughout your walk, you’ll be clued in to the environment’s sights, sounds, even smells. Riddles and poems keep the learning lighthearted. Each quest ends with a hidden message. Don’t be surprised if the message you get from your kids is, “Can we go on another Discovery Quest?” u845-534-5506; www.museumhudsonhighlands.org
Free Thrill for Kids
Spouting Sprinkler Turtles at Bowdoin Park
Poughkeepsie
These giant reptiles snap up children and don’t let go. No, it’s not what you think. The trio of plastic turtles shoots 10-foot geysers of water that make the little ones squeal with delight. Kiddies have been known to climb on, clamber over, and cuddle with the critters for hours, making parents squeal with delight for this respite from child-rearing chores. u845-298-4600
Hike for Little Kids
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
New Paltz
Red-blazed Minnewaska Carriageway, which skirts the eponymous lake, is a first-rate trail for introducing tykes to the great outdoors. There are interesting rock formations to explore, a gazebo perched high above the water, and a superb view of the Hudson Valley halfway along. But best of all, if you come in summer, make the 1.9-mile loop in a clockwise direction, and you can finish up with a dip at the lake’s sandy beach — the perfect enticement to keep those little feet moving. u845-255-0752; www.lakeminnewaska.org/state.html
Way to Introduce Kids to the Classics
Powerhouse Theater
Poughkeepsie
A summertime tradition at Vassar College for 23 years, Powerhouse is known as the place where future hit plays and musicals get their first tryouts. But the performances put on each year by its Apprentice Company, featuring some of America’s finest young talent, are equally enthralling. Their abridged takes on classic plays — last summer’s lineup included Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya and Shakespeare’s As You Like It — are a perfect way to immerse children in the world of grown-up theater. The plays are performed outdoors, so if the little ones get antsy, they can go off and play while you keep watching. And if you have to leave early, you’re out nothing — the performances are free. u845-437-5902; www.powerhouse.vassar.edu
Place for Kids to Learn Horseback Riding
Hollow Brook Riding Academy
Putnam Valley
It’s just off the Taconic State Parkway, but this great horsey hangout might as well be in the old Wild West. One of the few places in the Valley that teaches Western-style riding (as opposed to the formal English style), kids love the academy’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere as they learn to feel at home in the saddle. From an introductory lesson to a three-week camp which culminates in a horse show and cowboy barbecue, kids are happy as they access their inner cowboys and cowgirls. Scenic trail rides are available for cowpokes over 12. u845-526-8357; www.hollowbrookriding.com
Place to Eat with Kids
Sweet Sue’s
Phoenicia
No mystery here: “Kids really like our pancakes,” says owner Susan Taylor. They especially clamor for the shop’s clever pancake variations including chocolate chip, Red Monkey (strawberry-banana), Blue Monkey (blueberry-banana) and the famous Pancake Sundae (with vanilla yogurt, fresh fruit and homemade raspberry syrup). Kid-friendly waitresses — “they’re all moms themselves,” Taylor says — and colorful pancake-themed artwork keep the little ones amused as they fill their tummies. u845-688-7852
Exotic Pet Place
The Bird House
Saugerties
Birds, like most animals, are instinctively afraid of humans. Which is why the most labor-intensive part of the process for these popular purveyors of plumed pets is the all-important nurturing period of a bird’s life, which begins about 10 days after hatching. “This is when imprinting takes place,” explains Mike Della Chiesa, who opened The Bird House with his wife Judy nearly 20 years ago. “So, if you want a bird to be sociable and comfortable perched on your hand, you have to create that bond right away.” Join Mike and Judy as they nurture and coddle canaries, cockatiels, parrots, parakeets, small finches and cartoon-like macaws. u845-246-6302; www.snkgraphics.com
Animal Sanctuary Makeover
Pets Alive
Middletown
Sara Whalen founded the Pets Alive no-kill animal sanctuary in Middletown nearly 35 years ago, offering a home to abandoned, abused and neglected “throw-away” animals, many of which had been turned down by other shelters. When Whalen developed cancer and eventually died last March, the more than 500 animals she had cared for, as well as the sanctuary itself, needed lots of tender loving care — and fast. Enter the “rapid-response team” from Utah-based Best Friends Animal Society — the largest no-kill sanctuary in the nation for all kinds of abused and abandoned critters. The same crew that coordinated much of the animal rescue in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina descended on the Pets Alive facility, which had deteriorated extensively during Whalen’s illness. The Best Friends team and dedicated volunteers alike pitched in, resulting in a remarkable transformation. In just 90 days, they redesigned and rebuilt the entire 80-acre shelter, largely with donations from animal lovers around the Valley and across the country. And since then, at the request of the Pets Alive board of directors, Best Friends continues to run the sanctuary — now a cheerful, inspiring home to more than 70 dogs and 90 cats (many are available for adoption), plus cows, goats, pigs, chickens, parrots, and even “retired” New York City carriage horses. “Our goal is to keep alive the Pets Alive mission — to rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for animals in need, thanks to Best Friends’ help,” says new manager Kerry Clair. u845-386-9738; www.petsalive.com
Pet Bakery
Beacon Barkery
Beacon
Think humans are the only ones moving toward more natural, wholesome foods? Nope — Fido and Fluffy have jumped aboard the health food bandwagon, too. Fresh-baked dog treats made with ingredients like eggs, honey, and cinnamon fill the shelves of this charming new place for pets, where you can also find all sorts of goodies and accessories for your furry friends. Treat your kitty or canine to a gourmet snack — they have pet-friendly versions of cannoli, bacon-cheddar biscuits, and
