On any given day in Newburgh, a particular sense of excitement buzzes through the air. It lingers in historic brick-lined roads and ripples along the ever-expanding riverside district. On Liberty Street row in the center of town, it’s almost a tactile thing, thanks to an ever-expanding lineup of eateries and businesses that are quirky and off-kilter in the best way.
Newburgh is on the up and up, and it’s doing so in its own terms, on its own time. As the Orange County city continues to reimagine itself, it draws budding artists, entrepreneurs, and restaurateurs who bring culture, food, and entertainment with them in the process. Because of this, Newburgh is a prime destination for a Hudson Valley day trip. Unlike happening New Paltz and charming Nyack, Newburgh is a thing unto itself — and we’re here for all it has to offer.
Ready to spend 24 hours in town? Tag us @HudsonValleyMag on Instagram if you follow our day trip guide to Newburgh!
9:30 a.m. – Savor coffee and a bagel at 2 Alices Coffee Lounge
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A staple of Broadway in Newburgh since its doors opened, 2 Alices Coffee Lounge is the local favorite for all things espresso. Start the day off with a classic Americano or iced latte, or browse the shop’s specialty menu for seasonal flavors like the lavender vanilla cold brew, white pistachio cappuccino, or rose and elderberry iced tea. Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, try one of the breakfast offerings from veggie and cream cheese packed bagels to sweet or savory loaded toasts.
117 Broadway, Newburgh
845.563.7124
11 a.m. – Take a blast to the Revolutionary past at Washington’s Headquarters
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It’s hardly a secret that the Hudson Valley played a major role in the American Revolution. Yet, while the Americana event made marks everywhere from Fishkill to West Point, its significance for the city of Newburgh continues to remain relatively understated. On a day trip to town, brush up on local history by spending some time at Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site.
Otherwise known as the location where George Washington ended the war, the destination now plays host to community tours and educational programs. Whether you walk through the Newburgh destination on your own or take a guided meander, you’ll depart with more than a few tidbits to add to your arsenal of Hudson Valley trivia.
84 Liberty St, Newburgh
845.562.1195
12:30 p.m. – Sample a slice — or two — at Pizza Shop
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When the lunchtime hangries threaten to get the best of you, cure the worst of them with a few slices at Newburgh’s Pizza Shop. Owned by the team that operates Cosimo’s in the Hudson Valley, Pizza Shop brings a casual, approachable twist to gourmet pies.
Go with a friend and swap samples of multiple varieties to taste all this Newburgh hotspot has to offer. Opt for the Boom Room for a cheesy slice topped with roasted mushrooms, provolone, fontina, mozzarella, and ricotta, or treat your taste buds to the Bee Sting, which is topped with herbed ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, pepperoni, pickled Fresno chilis, and drizzled with hot honey for an extra kick.
27 South Water St, Newburgh
845.565.7467
In the mood for more Americana fare? Betty’s Snack Bar tempts with a daytime menu and cafe/market space that’s utterly charming.
97 Liberty St, Newburgh
1:45 p.m. – Brush up on biker history at Motorcyclepedia Museum
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Whether you’re a dedicated biker, sideline enthusiast, or newbie to the two-wheeled contraptions, you should strongly consider making a trip to Newburgh’s massive Motorcyclepedia after lunch. The museum fills over 85,000 square feet of space with 650-plus motorcycles that date back 80 years. Expect to see vintage rides, Harleys galore, and even military models at the revved-up Newburgh retreat.
250 Lake St, Newburgh
845.569.9065
3 p.m. – Shop the best of Newburgh
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Hit Broadway and its adjacent streets in town for some window shopping and gifting inspiration. Antique aficionados will swoon over the old-timey treasures at Newburgh Vintage Emporium off of Route 9W or its sister Newburgh Vintage Warehouse on Route 17K, while anyone searching for a unique gift can browse jewelry, candles, note cards, and more at the Newburgh Mercantile, and clothing collectors obsess over new-in styles at Cream Boutique. Just make sure you bring quarters, since you’ll probably need to feed the meter quite a bit while you meander about Newburgh.
6 p.m. – Enjoy street tacos and snacks at Hudson Taco
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Dining at Hudson Taco is always a great choice in Newburgh, especially when you can do it al fresco in the spring and summer months. The repurposed industrial building that houses this taco spot provides panoramic views of the Hudson River through large windows that are often open to let the breeze in. Start with a specialty margarita or mojito before sampling taco classics like Baja fish, chorizo, or pork belly. Be sure to order some Mexican-inspired sides like fried plantains, street corn, spicy cucumber salad, and fresh pineapple to go with your meal.
27 South Water St, Newburgh
845.565.8226
Can’t get enough of waterfront dining? Check out this article for even more foodie options along Newburgh’s Hudson River drag.
7:30 p.m. – Grab the Hudson Valley’s version of a nightcap at Newburgh Brewing Company
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No true day trip to Newburgh is complete without a visit to Newburgh Brewing Company. Located right along the Hudson River, the hoppy brewery is a must-visit on weekends, when live music thrums throughout the space on Friday and Saturday nights. If you visit on a Wednesday, get ready to compete for a prize at the brewery’s trivia night. As for what to drink, snatch any of the limited releases while you can, since we can almost guarantee they won’t be available next time you visit. Year-round, the Brown and Cream Ales are as iconic as the Newburgh brewery itself.
88 South Colden St, Newburgh
845.569.2337
For even more arts and entertainment, check out the Silk Factory, which hosts a stellar lineup of shows to go along with its in-house dining program.
299 Washington St, Newburgh
845.563.3000
9 p.m. – Sleep like a local at a Newburgh Airbnb
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As it stands now, Newburgh awaits the influx of bed and breakfasts and inns that swept through towns like Kingston and Rhinebeck. Yet that doesn’t mean day trippers should cross the bridge to Beacon to stay overnight (save that for another day). Instead, make like a local and rent a room, or an entire house, inside one of the city’s historic edifices.
Whether you want a bespoke downtown studio, gorgeous country villa, or quaint tiny home, you’ll find a dreamy retreat in town on Airbnb – and for a bargain, too.
Related: Here’s How to Spend a Relaxing Weekend in Rhinebeck
