Visit these #nofilterneeded spots along the Hudson River for your next hike, picnic, or walk.
Let’s be honest. Part of the appeal of planning a day trip is the chance to Instagram about it later. Luckily, the Hudson Valley has dozens, if not hundreds of scenic spots worthy of a photo shoot. The next time a sunny day presents itself, book a detour to one of the destinations on our list. As you hike through the woods or enjoy a picnic hillside, take the opportunity to snap a picture or two. We can almost guarantee that once you start clicking away, you won’t stop until there’s no room left on your camera.
Vanderbilt Mansion
119 Vanderbilt Park Road, Hyde Park
845.229.7770
Hyde Park’s historic homeland is a dream location for picnics and lazy day strolls. Snap a few pictures of the estate house before meandering behind it for a view of the Hudson River. One look and you’ll understand why the Vanderbilts settled there in the first place.
Olana State Historic Site
5720 State Route 9G, Hudson
518.828.0135
With its vibrant colors and Middle Eastern design, the home of Hudson River School artist Frederic Church is impressive in its own right. Yet the outside of the abode is where Church drew the bulk of his artistic inspiration. The serene farmland and hilltop views make the Hudson hotspot a must-visit for artists and photographers alike.
Walkway Over the Hudson
61 Parker Avenue, Poughkeepsie
845.454.9649
Since opening to the public in 2009, the Walkway has become a popular attraction for bikers, runners, and walkers galore. It also happens to be a haven for Instagrammers in search of the perfect Hudson River shot. Trek to the middle of the bridge on a blue sky day for the best pics.
Long Dock Park
23 Long Dock Road, Beacon
845.473.4440
Situated a short walk away from Dia:Beacon, Long Dock Park is a worthy day trip for warmer days. The riverfront hub boasts a kayak pavilion, wetlands area, and waterside trails. Head here for a day in the sun, but don’t forget to stop along the shore for a few beach shots as well. The view along the coast really is something else.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCowUfKlCrF/
Storm King Art Center
1 Museum Road, New Windsor
845.534.3115
Big Apple visitors and Hudson Valley residents love to flock to Storm King for the latest and greatest in the world of oversized art. Understandably, the open-air museum is a standby when it comes to capturing gridworthy photos. Whether you snap an architectural close-up or aim your camera at the rolling hillsides instead, you will no doubt walk away with a Facebook gallery full of pictures.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BtWtn3Oleca/
Indian Brook Falls
Off of Indian Brook Road, Philipstown
Temporarily closed; find other Hudson Valley waterfalls here
Play hooky for the day and head out to Constitution Marsh in Cold Spring for a leisurely hike. Although the natural scenery stuns all on its own, the winning photo op comes at Indian Brook Falls, the little waterfall hidden within the rocky hillside. Even if you’re not a hiker, the view of the falls will make the trek there worth it.
Did we miss one? Tag us on Instagram and share your favorite Hudson Valley scenes. We’ll regram our favorites!
