Drive into Red Hook on a Saturday morning and you’ll have a hard time not falling in love with the Hudson Valley town. Unlike Rhinebeck, its sister city, Red Hook exudes a pleasantly sleepy small town aura. It’s somewhat surprising, considering that Bard College, an internationally recognized liberal arts college, is right next-door in Annandale-on-Hudson. Of course, Bard students seem to love Red Hook for its quaint charms just as much as locals and visitors do, and for good reason. When it comes to upstate living, Red Hook has it all.
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9 a.m. — Chow down at Historic Village Diner
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No Hudson Valley day trip is complete without a trip to a diner. Fortunately, Red Hook has a roadside eatery that fulfills all your breakfast dreams. Walk through the door of the metallic railroad car edifice and you’ll feel like you journeyed back to the 1950s. Order any of the classics or ask about the daily pastry specials. The gourmet cakes taste even better than they look.
7550 N Broadway
845.758.6232
Open Tuesday — Sunday, 6 a.m. — 8 p.m.
11 a.m. — Stroll along the Poet’s Walk Park in Red Hook
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After a hearty breakfast in Red Hook, get your legs moving on the picturesque Poet’s Walk. The sprawling two miles of trails weave through woods and grassy hills. The Hudson Valley destination is ideal for anyone who enjoys reading from the likes of Wordsworth or Coleridge, since the hillsides look just like a scene from a Romantic poem. Who knows? As you meander along the path, you may be inspired to jot down a stanza or two yourself.
776 River Rd
Open daily, 8:30 a.m. — dusk
12:30 p.m. — Stock the pantry at Greig Farm in Red Hook
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Red Hook is fortunate enough to house one of the Hudson Valley’s premier foodie farms. Bring the kids to the fields for pick-your-own fruits and veggies to bring home. If you are pressed for time, direct your attention to the farm market instead. The marketplace serves both breakfast and lunch daily and doles out dinner to go. While you’re there, you might even catch an impromptu string concert from some of the Valley’s talented performers or an exciting art exhibition from local makers.
227 Pitcher Ln
845.758.8007
Open daily, 10 a.m. — 7 p.m.
2:30 p.m. — Experience ice cream magic at Holy Cow
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You’ll thank yourself for sticking to a light lunch when it comes time to make the drive to Holy Cow in Red Hook. The unofficial ice cream capital of the Hudson Valley is beloved by all for its low prices and oh so creamy cones. As the days get warmer, don’t be surprised if a line extends out the door and into the parking lot. The wait is worth the banana split or chocolate-dipped cone or hot fudge sundae or, well, you get the picture.
7270 S Broadway, Ste 1
845.758.5959
Open 12-9 p.m. Tuesday — Saturday, 12-8 p.m. Sunday
3:30 p.m. — Shop around town
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With lunchtime a wrap, work off the food coma with a stroll around town and into a number of charming shops. The Crows Nest is an ideal spot for ultra-chic home goods, while Hudson Valley Vintage is a fun detour for DIY delights. And, if you want a few goodies for the kitchen, don’t skip on a stop to The Corner Counter, where top-notch cheese and artisanal foodie treats await.
5 p.m. — Have a pizza party at Lucoli in Red Hook
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Anyone who has lived in the Hudson Valley long enough knows that choosing the “best pizza” in the region is an understandably divisive topic. That’s why it’s a big deal to say that Red Hook’s Lucoli is a serious contender. The brick-oven process, organic ingredients, and in-house mozzarella and sauce preparation help the pies to shine. Try an out-of-the box-option like “Melanzana,” with eggplant and ricotta, or “Cavolo,” with artichokes and tahini, for a vegan option. The brick-oven spot is takeout only, so it makes for the perfect meal on the go.
7476 S Broadway
845.758.5600
Open Thursday — Sunday, 3-8 p.m.
P.S. Prefer more of a sit-down experience? Brigitte Bistro feels like a slice of France right here in the Hudson Valley.
6 p.m. — Devour delectable chocolates at Taste Budd’s Café
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With scrumptious chocolates, hot java, and plentiful seating, Taste Budd’s is a community staple in Red Hook and the Hudson Valley as a whole. Throughout the day, the café is a treat to visit. Enjoy gluten-free and vegan options in addition to the cafe’s signature desserts like petite pastries, tiramisu, or specialty cakes. Call ahead or visit the shop’s Facebook page to check in on special menu offerings during the week.
40 West Market St
845.758.6500
Open 7 a.m. — 7 p.m. Monday — Saturday, 8 a.m. — 7 p.m. Sunday
9 p.m. — Stay the night at The Grand Dutchess
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Whether you live out of state or around the corner in the Hudson Valley, treat yourself to a night at the charming Grand Dutchess. This glorious Victorian inn is a step into the past against the backdrop of an idyllic evening in Red Hook.
7571 Old Post Rd
845.758.5818
Related: 4 Great Day Trips for Spring Adventures in the Hudson Valley
