Comeback
Pine Ridge Dude Ranch
When Pinegrove Ranch and Family Resort’s owner passed away suddenly in 2017, the dude ranch resort closed, jobs were lost, and horses were without a home. Former guest and barn manager Mike Offner came to the rescue (with two other former guests), buying the resort and 31 out of 34 horses, and hiring back all of the managers and most of the staff. It reopened as Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in May 2018. Now, after $2.5 million in upgrades (and more to come), it is once again a destination for some old-fashioned and affordable family fun, whether it’s on the trails, learning a line dance, or on the “Friendly Feud” stage.
Kerhonkson, www.pineridgeduderanch.com
Dinner at an Inn
The Villa at Saugerties
A tiny Mediterranean modern oasis in the heart of the Hudson Valley, The Villa at Saugerties brings new meaning to the notion of farm-to-table. On select Saturday evenings, owners Amanda and Joe invite guests of The Villa to an incredible rustic feast at The Barn to celebrate the best of the Hudson Valley’s local and organic ingredients. Bring your favorite wine and toast to the season with new friends and lots of laughs.
Saugerties, www.thevillaatsaugerties.com
New Family Fun Destination
Kartrite Resort and Waterpark
This 324-suite luxury hotel, which opened in April, has the distinction of being home to New York’s biggest indoor water park. But there’s so much more than the 11 main water attractions. The Kartrite also has a ropes course, gigantic arcade, bowling alley, indoor rock-climbing wall, 3D gaming theater, laser tag, and a virtual reality experience — along with seven casual and fine dining options.
Monticello, www.thekartrite.com
Place for Animal Lovers
The Gray Barn at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
This brand-new, modern-style inn offers five en-suite rooms, Shawangunk views, seasonal vegan breakfast, and a tour of the sanctuary for $250 per night. Current and future members can book stays as part of their memberships, and all funds go toward supporting the Farm Sanctuary’s work rehabilitating and supporting abused and exhausted farmed animals.
High Falls, www.thegraybarn.org
Readers’ Picks
Bed & Breakfast or Inn
Beekman Arms & Delmater Inn
Rhinebeck
Hotel or Resort
Pine Ridge Dude Ranch
Kerhonkson