This hidden gem beckons visitors of all ages with its tranquil lakes, abundant boating and fishing, numerous lush hiking trails, historic sites, theater, entertainment, and local farms. Putnam County’s ideal location along the Hudson River—just an hour away from Manhattan with five convenient Metro-North stops—makes for hassle-free day trips and easy, relaxing summer getaways.
Discover Putnam County’s History and Culture
Putnam County is rich in history and culture, providing numerous opportunities for exploration. Cold Spring, in the county’s western region, is home to the West Point Foundry Preserve, a prominent American ironworking and machine shop during the Civil War. This historic site offers free admission, parking, a self-guided audio tour, and a waterfall hike just off the beaten path. Leave your car in the parking area and take the short walk into charming Cold Spring for some antiquing, shopping at one of the independently owned stores, or enjoying a homemade ice cream from Moo Moo’s Creamery. Don’t miss the Cold Spring Farmers Market at Boscobel on Saturdays for some fresh local produce.
Enjoy the Water
In Central Putnam County, Lake Mahopac provides an excellent opportunity to spend time on the water. Rent a boat at the Mahopac Marina for a day of fishing or simply relaxing. Dock and enjoy spectacular lakefront views while eating locally sourced ingredients at the Lake House Restaurant and Bar. Book a guided tour at Wright Over Water and discover the history of the Frank Lloyd Wright House on Petra Island, an 11-acre private island on Lake Mahopac.
Explore Putnam County’s Great Outdoors
Eastern Putnam County is a favorite for bike enthusiasts of all levels. The Westchester North County Trail & Putnam Trailway is part of the Empire State Trail, which runs from Manhattan all the way to the Canadian border. Enjoy the scenery and tranquility as you pedal along this picturesque trail between Brewster and Dutchess County. Are you heading up from New York City? Grab your bike and hop on the Metro-North train to the Brewster station for easy trail access.
Putnam’s Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a paradise for nature lovers. Spanning 14,086 acres across Putnam and Dutchess counties, the park features hiking trails, picnic areas, a picturesque campground, and plentiful boating, hunting, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. Fahnestock Park also houses the Taconic Outdoor Education Center, which offers high-quality educational environmental programming year-round.
New York’s Putnam County Offers Something for Everyone to Enjoy
From history to antiquing, biking to boating, New York’s Putnam County offers something for everyone to enjoy this summer. Whether you are a local resident or visiting for a day or more, there is abundant adventure and unique experiences for you to savor. Learn more about Putnam County and plan your visit, or call the Putnam County Tourism Department at 845-808-1015.
By car or by train, take a day trip to Putnam County, where there’s always another reason to say “I Love New York.” Check out Visitputnam.org for more information about what to do and see in Putnam County.
This project is supported by a grant awarded to Putnam County Tourism by New York State’s Empire State Development and the I LOVE NY Division of Tourism.
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