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What to Do in Cornwall: How to Plan a Day Trip in Orange County

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MON PÈRE, MON PÈRE, 1973–75 Steel 35′ X 40′ X 40’ 4″ Gift of the Ralph E. Ogden Foundation © Mark Di Suvero. / Storm King Art Center

The small town beauty in the Hudson Valley is a hub for adventure, outdoor art, upscale accommodations, and all the good eats.

Cornwall is the picture-perfect small town when you need to get away from your busy life. With a plethora of thriving local businesses and sights, it’s hard to fit all the action into one day. Gear up for a lively 24 hours of good eats, abundant history, and socially distant adventures with this Hudson Valley itinerary.

If you go, don’t forget to tag us @hudsonvalleymag on Instagram! We just may regram you.

9 a.m. – Fuel up for the day at Fiddlestix Café

Before you begin your action-packed day in Cornwall, power up with a filling breakfast at this local favorite. If you’re pining for a luxurious meal, indulge in the Fiddlestix classic, Strawberry Fields Forever, a decadent strawberry and cheesecake-stuffed French toast. If you want to go light, try the Carbo What?? Omelet made with egg whites, grilled turkey, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and goat cheese.

319 Main St, Cornwall
845.534.3866

10 a.m. – Sip on a coffee at 2 Alices Coffee Lounge

On your way to your next activity, stop into this quaint Hudson Valley coffee shop for delightful brews. With tons of hot and cold drinks available, 2 Alices offers beverages for everyone. Keep it simple with coffee or tea or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, take a peek at the specials menu. The mocha raspberry and green tea lattes are just as delicious as they sound.

311 Hudson St, Cornwall-On-Hudson
845.534.4717

10:30 a.m. – Find new perspective at Storm King Art Center

Storm King Art Center, the gem of the Hudson Valley art scene, houses magnificent (and humongous) sculptures that are worth exploring at your leisure. The collection has featured work from Maya Lin, the lauded artist and creator of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C., and many other notable artists. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Hudson Highlands, this art center is an ideal place to get a dose of culture while still enjoying the beauty of the area.

1 Museum Road, Cornwall
845.534.3115

12 p.m. – Chow down at Café Richiesto & Pizzeria

After spending the morning exploring the grounds at Storm King, replenish at Café Richiesto & Pizzeria. Obviously, you can choose from a variety of pizzas like the margarita or buffalo chicken, but be prepared to be tempted by the Olympian egg sandwich or shrimp panini.

1795 Rte 32, New Windsor
845.458.5513

1:30 p.m. – Channel your inner explorer on a Storm King Adventure Tour

See the region in a whole new way on the Bannerman Island Castle Kayaking and Walking Tour. The adventure offers all you could want in a staycation: history, nature, and light exercise. Thrill seekers will love the chance to spot the ghosts that are rumored to roam the haunting ruins. More likely, however, everyone will enjoy learning about the space’s rich history, including its time as a military surplus warehouse and a Scottish castle-esque residence. From the river to the island, the scenery is unparalleled.

4 Duncan Ave, Cornwall-On-Hudson
845.534.7800

6 p.m. – Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Canterbury Brook Inn

Take a figurative trip to the Swiss Alps at Cornwall’s Canterbury Brook Inn. Skip the traditional and go for authentic dishes like Wienerschnitzel or swiss cheese fondue. No matter what you order, save room to end the meal with a plate of warm apple fritters with vanilla sauce. Maybe it’s all in our head, but we’d argue that the food tastes even better at a table outside under the tea lights and next to the creek.

331 Main St, Cornwall
845.534.9658

8 p.m. – Drink and be merry at Painter’s

If you want an extensive drink menu and friendly atmosphere, Painter’s is an excellent place to grab a cocktail after dinner. Sip on the Painter’s Dom, a blend of gin, blackberry, lemon and champagne. If you’re still feeling adventurous after your kayak trip, try out the Cinnamon Pear Sangria, a cocktail consisting of pear vodka, cinnamon liquor, red wine, and pears.

266 Hudson St, Cornwall-On-Hudson
845.534.2109

10 p.m. – Unwind at Cromwell Manor Historic Inn

After a jam-packed day, there’s nothing better than calling it a night in a warm, cozy bed. The Cromwell Manor Historic Inn, a longstanding bed and breakfast in the Hudson Valley, is idyllic for a day trip overnight. The inn’s main building was built in 1820, but the original house goes back to 1764.

174 Angola Rd, Cornwall
845.534.7136

Related: This Is How to Spend a Charming 24 Hours in Germantown

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