If you’re on the hunt for a new place to spend your evenings, afternoons, or weekends, these third places can be your perfect home away from home. Don’t get caught up in the monotony of work, sleep, repeat. Instead, head to these fun spots to spice up your usual routine and see some new faces. Whether you’re searching for a relaxing vibe to help you wind down at the end of a long day or an exciting activity to let off some steam and get the blood pumping, these third places have you covered in the Hudson Valley.
Bars & Breweries
Billy Joe’s Ribworks
Newburgh
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At Billy Joe’s Ribworks in Newburgh, you’ll experience more than just legendary barbecue and spectacular views (although there is plenty of that, too). The riverside restaurant just so happens to be a popular nightlife location, with themed events and happy hours galore. If you’re interested in trying a new hobby, head to the Orange County venue for country night every Tuesday, and make sure to bring your cowboy boots to line dance the night away.
Happy Valley
Beacon
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While any bar is a good time, nothing compares to Happy Valley in Beacon. The arcade bar is stacked with fun, vintage games like Pac-Man, Frogger, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, and much more. Get your game on while you sip one of the themed cocktails, such as the Megamanhattan or the Sex on the Koopa Troopa Beach, and enjoy some of your favorite small bites, including tater tots, mac and cheese bites, chicken fingers, and all the other foods that will remind you of childhood.
Sloop Brewing Company
Fishkill
If you’re an IPA lover, chances are you’ve tried a Sloop beer, but have you ever visited the brewery? At Sloop Brewing Company, join others for weekly events like trivia and live music, and drink your way through the brewery’s ever-changing menu to experience some authentic Hudson Valley hops. Interesting food also excites at the venue, with a menu that’s described as “a passport through international street foods,” featuring the flavors of Korean barbecue, Mediterranean, and southern cuisine.
Bookstores
Good Books
Cornwall
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A family-owned independent bookstore in Cornwall, Good Books is relatively new to the Hudson Valley arts and culture scene. The shop is decidedly community-centered and seeks to bring locals together in any way that it can. From author readings to book signings to creative writing workshops, the bookstore is a place for literature and art lovers to gather to learn something new or just hang out.
Rough Draft Bar & Books
Kingston
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Name a better combination than a bar and bookstore (we’ll wait). Rough Draft is exactly that in Kingston, and the venue is dedicated to providing only the best selection of beer, cider, wine, coffee and books. Stop by any time from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to enjoy a latte with a good read or grab a cocktail alongside trivia or live music. If you really enjoy your time at the Kingston locale, consider joining the book club that meets monthly.
Cafes
The Crafted Kup
Poughkeepsie
At its Raymond Avenue location in Poughkeepsie, The Crafted Kup is a chill hangout location for students and Dutchess County natives alike. The corner coffee shop whips up handcrafted coffee beverages, baked goods, and delectable café fare to enjoy while you read a book, chat with friends, or stick around for live entertainment. The Crafted Kup showcases both local bands and singers, as well as in-house talents during open mic nights.
Underground Coffee & Ales
Highland
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In the heart of Highland, Underground Coffee and Ales is a funky spot to lounge at any time of day. A robust and extensive coffee menu is perfect for your caffeine fix in the mornings, while afternoons are reserved for ales that are sweet, tart, fruity, or sour. When you get hungry, vegan options like buffalo Brussels and tofu wings are tasty treats while beef sliders and BLTs are on the more filling side. Either way, don’t miss out on the Underground fries, topped with cheese sauce and crispy bacon.
Fun
2nd Nature Skatepark
Peekskill
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No experience is necessary to book a session at Peekskill’s 2nd Nature Skatepark. The indoor park is a popular destination for skateboarders and BMX riders, offering a wide range of ramps, rails, and ledges to practice and hone your skills. If you’re looking to learn a new hobby, sign up for a workshop to meet others in the same boat or come with friends to hop on a skateboard and drop into the bowl together.
Muse Paintbar
White Plains
Artists and wine lovers unite at this premier paint and sip destination in Westchester that serves as the perfect third place. Muse Paintbar is all about fun and friends, striving for an inclusive environment where anyone can unwind and explore the artistic process, regardless of skill. Sit back with a glass of pinot or merlot and let your paintbrush do the talking as you create something memorable to take home. What’s more relaxing than that?
Related: 6 Open Mic Nights to Check out in the Hudson Valley
