· Make your way to newly opened Brooklyn Farmacy in Carroll Gardens and celebrate what’s in season by ordering a Strawberry Sundae, Strawberry Special, or Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. [gothamist.com]

· The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival at historic Boscobel Mansion has begun with performances of Troilus and Cressida and Taming of the Shrew. [hvshakespeare.org]

· If Eco, Luxury, Volunteering are all keywords that heighten your travel experience—and if you also like free Chipotle and Brooklyn Brewery beers—mark your calendar for the ecotourism film festival event, “Global Sustainability: Central America to Maine,” at Eastern Mountain Sports SoHo on Sunday, July 22. [greenlivingproject.org]

· Bamcinematek’s Cary Grant film series starts this weekend with the Thirty Day Princess, Charade, and North by Northwest. [BAMcinématek]

· Those looking to purchase contemporary pottery or learn the art of crafting clay should head to the Old Can Factory in Brooklyn for the free Meet Your Maker and Your Potter event this Sunday. [ceramicsbrooklyn.com]

· Grill, hula hoop, drink lemonade, and dance about in support of the Adopt-A-Farmbox initiative bringing farm and health education to four local schools this fall. [Potluck BBQthon]

· Sport your Spain or Netherlands (or USA!) jersey, and enjoy the hat tricks and vuvuzeling at the final World Cup game at 2:30pm on Sunday; pick from one of these fun six places in Brooklyn, Queens or Hoboken. [oM]

· Walk through the home of Alice Austen, a female pioneer of photography, at the opening reception of the Alice Austen House Museum this Sunday in Staten Island; it’s worth the trip on the free ferry. [dailycandy.com]

When the piping hot pavement and overcrowded parks replace a love of Manhattan with the annual summer in the city claustrophobia, don’t duck and cover in the Hamptons. Consider Scotland instead.

There is such a place in the Hudson Valley that’s got everything but the bagpipes. Just 40 minutes north of NYC, Castle on the Hudson is that mysterious, medieval-style stone hotel, tucked away in 11 hilltop acres overlooking the Hudson River. You may have seen the clouds tiptoeing over the century-old towers as you crossed the Tappan Zee Bridge into Tarrytown. The crashing waves and salty sea breezes aren’t going anywhere, but there is an upcoming event here you don’t want to miss.

In 1910, the second stage of the castle was completed under the direction of General Carroll, the son of a Civil War General. The property with the highest point in Westchester County still has paneling, found in the Oak Room, which was brought back from the General’s house in St. Germain near Paris. Since 1981, the luxury hotel has been designated a historic landmark. In addition to its rich history, peaceful honk-free setting, five-star restaurant, spa, goose-down comforters, bocce and tennis courts, if you plan your visit on June 18th and 19th, there will be enough diversion to make two days feel like a week’s worth of vacation.

The Couples Retreat and Dinner Dance includes a barbecue by the pool, an evening movie on the great lawn, a cocktail reception, three-course dinner and party in the Great Hall, plus two delicious breakfast buffets. To mix up the feasting and dance floor twisting, go for a horseback ride at the nearby Rockefeller family preserve, get out for some hiking or mountain biking, or play a game on the giant outdoor chess board.

And just think about all the fare you’re saving by not flying to Scotland.

How to get there: Take Metro North/Hudson Line to the Tarrytown stop. Assuming you’ve called ahead, a Castle on the Hudson shuttle will be waiting to pick you up. Call 800.616.4487 or 914.631.1980 to make a reservation. To book online, click here. The Couples Retreat is $1200 for two nights. Review their calendar for upcoming events.

(Castle on the Hudson, 400 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown, NY, castleonthehudson.com)

“A particular fine place for a romantic rendezvous, the cuisine in the renown Equus is splendid.” —America’s Elite 1000

Guestroom

Outdoor dining on the terrace at Equus

Castle on the Hudson Pool

"A Five Star Fairy Tale, —Amir Alexander Hasson, a guest from Boston.

Castle on the Hudson

You can only learn so much watching The Food Network. Put down the remote control and pick up a whisk at one of these culinary destinations near New York City—from the Culinary Institute of America in the Hudson Valley to a quaint bed and breakfast-hosted food and wine pairing in New Jersey. You may just find your inner Julia Child. Even if your soufflés fall and your cookies crumble, a good time (and a new take-home chef’s hat) is all but guaranteed at one of the following six gastronomical getaways–all accessible without a car, of course.

1. Le Petit Chateau Inn, Hyde Park, NY

Why: The Inn’s four rooms have all the modern amenities you need, while maintaining an elegant charm. This B&B is located on forty magnificent acres, which include a private pond. If the weather is fine, give in to temptation and sneak in a pre-breakfast row. Just make sure that you don’t miss breakfast because it is a treat. The Inn’s chefs are all Culinary Institute of America graduates or advanced students (it is just one half mile away), and prepare everything from scratch. Wine lovers are well tended to here, with complimentary afternoon sips poured freely. The Francophile innkeeper has named each suite after a different wine-producing region of France, and tokens from her favorite country can be found throughout the Inn. Check–out the in-room collection of wine-related books and guides.

Culinary Packages: Two cooking classes are offered. A CIA trained chef will privately teach you and your lucky guest to prepare a meal from start to finish. The Gold Package will have you preparing a lunch menu, and costs $175 per couple midweek or $195 on weekends. A chef will show you how to concoct a customized dinner menu for $195 mid-week or $225 on weekends with the Platinum Package. All menus feature Hudson Valley ingredients. If you are looking for hands-on training in a casual setting, consider Le Petit Chateau Inn.

How to get there: Metro North Hudson line to Poughkeepsie. Call the adorable owner, Valerie, who will be glad to pick you up at the station. (39 West Dorsey Lane, Hyde Park, NY, 845.437.4688)

2. The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

Why: This is the goliath of American cooking schools, and many of the most respected chefs in the country have graduated from the CIA’s rigorous and highly respected programs. If you don’t have several years to spare, have no fear, the CIA offers several options for non-professionals.

Culinary Packages: Attending the CIA, the dream of many passionate home cooks, can be a reality. The Weekends at the CIA programs focus on a specific technique or cuisine. You will be preparing dishes in a beautiful CIA kitchen, learning from talented chef-instructors. Novices and seasoned kitchen-mavens alike will acquire new skills and gain confidence. If you have even the slightest interest in food or cooking, this is a must-do experience to add to your bucket list. Your classmates will be fellow foodies, who provide an encouraging atmosphere and a sense of camaraderie. Classes cost $250 and run five hours. You are given an apron, chef’s hat, and a cookbook as take home souvenirs. Classes include The Italian Table, The Flavors of Asia and Spain and the World Table, but the list of offerings is extensive, so there is something for all tastes.  Baking enthusiasts are not left out, and offerings include Cake Decorating and Artisan Breads. (Gift certificates are available, if you are looking for a special something for your top-chef.)

If you want to take it up a notch, try Boot Camp, which gives you an intensive immersion into the world of food. Culinary Boot Camp Vacations last from two to five days. The Boot Camp immersions start at $995.

How to get there: Metro North Hudson line to Poughkeepsie, 10 minute taxi to the CIA in Hyde Park. If you choose to stay overnight, Le petit Chateau Inn would be a convenient resting place. The Holiday Inn Express in Poughkeepsie has a shuttle that will drive and pick you up from the CIA. (1946 Campus Drive, Hyde Park, NY, 845.452.9600)

3. The Emerson Resort and Spa, Mount Tremper, NY

Why: Nestled in the lush Catskill Mountains, this resort boasts a great spa, and an Inn with 26 premium suites, and five duplex loft suites, all with a 24-bottle in-room wine selection. 27 family-friendly suites are located in the rustic yet elegant lodge. The location provides a range of outdoor activities, from on-premise ice-skating in winter, to mountain biking and hiking during the warmer months.

Culinary Packages: The Emerson Signature Cooking Class is a two-hour private class for you and that lucky someone. A chef will take you thru the paces as you prepare a soup or salad and a pasta entrée. Sip complimentary wine as you learn to create delicious dishes to add to your repertoire. The cost is $250 per couple, and includes a culinary-inspired gift to take home. The class needs to be booked with two weeks advance notice, and can be customized to accommodate your interests.

How to get there: Adirondack Trailways from Port Authority to Kingston. Not all Kingston bound buses continue on to Mount Tremper, so check when you purchase your ticket.  The driver will drop you off at the Emerson upon request. (5340 Route 28, Mount Tremper, NY, 877.688.2828)

4. Main Street Manor Bed & Breakfast, Flemington, NJ

Why: Innkeepers Donna and Ken Arold run a B&B that couldn’t be any quainter. Their accommodating attitude and genuine hospitality make this Inn special. There are five distinctly decorated rooms and a comfy front porch, complete with rocking chairs. Breakfast and tea feature seasonal organic produce, locally sourced.  Don’t skip the desserts and cookie jar treats, lovingly baked by Donna’s mom Grace.

Culinary packages: Hunterdon County, New Jersey is making a name for itself as a wine-producing region, and what better way to experience it than through the Inn, which will arrange a Wine Tasting and Touring Package for $80 per person. Spend the afternoon being driven to the areas finest wineries, where you will taste their best blends. When you return from your tour, the Inn will provide you with a gift bottle of local wine. Main Street Manor runs periodic food-oriented tasting events in their gorgeous Victorian parlor. The recent Wine and Chocolate tasting event sold-out, so a Beer and Chocolate tasting event is in the works for later this spring. Check the Inn’s website for dates and times. Tasting events cost $35.

How to get there: Trans-bridge bus gets you from Port Authority to Flemington in 90 minutes. From the Liberty Village stop, walk to the Inn is under 5 minutes. (194 Main St., Flemington, N, 908.782.4928)

5. La Cucina at the Market, Reading Terminal, Philadelphia, PA

Why: Food lovers from around the east coast flock to Philadelphia’s historic farmer’s market. Well known for its Amish specialties, many ethnicities are represented here. In the middle of it all sits La Cucina at the Market, housed in a sleek demonstration kitchen, full of the most modern appliances. Philly native Anna Florio runs the show.  Her love and knowledge of Italian cuisine is genuine, having spent childhood summers in her parent’s native land. Luckily, Anna aims to share her expertise, teaching us the secrets of La Cucina Italiana. A respected line-up of local chefs headline a variety of classes.

If you are not stuffed after all this cooking and eating, head over to 17 and Sansom Street and try chef Guillermo Tellez’s take on American cuisine, liberally infused with the flavors of his native Michoacan, Mexico. Square 1682 is getting a lot of well-deserved buzz, and if you sit in the lower level of this duplex space, you will get to see the chef at work in the open kitchen.

Culinary package: Hands-on classes include homestyle vegetarian on April 27 and homemade pasta on June 15, but La Cucina’s schedule is loaded with interesting offerings.  Classes usually run two hours and start at $45.

How to get there: MegaBus stops at Independence Hall, on 6th and Market. The Reading Terminal Market is on 12 and Arch, a 10-minute walk. (51 North 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 215.922.1170)

6. The Four Seasons Hotel, Boston

Why: Executive Chef Brooke Vosika’s upscale comfort food is so delicious, trust us, you will want to learn his secrets. He holds monthly, themed group cooking classes for novices as well as savvy semi-pros. Brooke’s guidance, the convivial atmosphere of the Bristol Lounge and the youthful, after-work crowd make for an informative and creative evening.

Culinary packages: The two-hour hands-on classes start at 6:30 p.m., and cost $125 per person, including light fare and wine. Upcoming classes include Chef’s challenge cook-off on Wednesday, May 12, and Summer barbecue favorites on Tuesday, June 15. Be on the look out for fall classes that incorporate the best fresh products of the season, along with Chef Vosika’s skill as a wine and cider maker. September features a grape crushing class. In October, local varieties of apples are used to make a first press cider. The number of participants is limited, and classes fill-up quickly.

How to get there: BoltBus and MegaBus both go to South Station. If the weather cooperates, you can walk across the Common to the hotel in minutes. (200 Boylston St., Boston, MA, 617.338.4400)

Less than a two-hour train ride north of Manhattan, Rhinebeck is a quirky slice of New York history with all the trappings of a quaint upstate town. Home to the state’s Sheep and Wool Festival and the big annual Dutchess County Fair, this village in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains packs a pleasant punch, between the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, non-commercial shopping avenues, time-honored traditions, and “hiya neighbor” local spirit; don’t be too surprised when a stranger invites you to an open house for dinner—and you find yourself wanting to extend the weekend just one more day.

What to do

American history buffs, commence drooling. Rhinebeck is located in the center of the National Historic Landmark District, a stretch of 16 miles of contiguous riverfront estates associated with the Hudson Valley’s rich and famous of the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Among the most legendary of the estates include those of the Vanderbilts, former President Franklin D. Roosevelt (Hyde Park), and Samuel Morse.

Rhinebeck is also an ideal destination for restless New Yorkers seeking some open-air adventure. The town and its surrounding area cater to almost any outdoor sport you can imagine; biking, hiking, horseback riding, and camping, just to name a few. Under the intensifying spring sun, the cool rippling waters of the Hudson may prove too tempting. At their Norrie Point Paddlesport Center in Staatsburg, a town between Hyde Park and Rhinebeck, Atlantic Kayak Tours (845.889.8461, atlantickayaktours.com) offers beginners kayaking tours on the Hudson for $50/person, including equipment.

However, if you chose to stay in town, there is still plenty to do and explore. Rhinebeck is renowned for its antique markets. Two to try are Asher House Antiques (6380 Mill Street, Rhinebeck, 845.876.1794, asherhouse.com) for antiques and home furnishings, and The Antique Market, an antique emporium housed in a red barn behind The Beekman Arms Inn (Route 9, Rhinebeck, 845.876.3477, beekmandelamaterinn.com).

Upstate Films (Route 9, Rhinebeck, 845.876.2515, upstatefilms.org) is Rhinebeck’s resident movie theater. In contrast to the town’s sleepy charm, Upstate shows an eclectic mix of what’s current in international and independent cinema.

Where to eat

For breakfast, take a stroll through the town to find a cozy café that’s just the right fit. New York City visitors will recognize Bread Alone, the organic Hudson Valley bakery of Greenmarket fame (45 East Market Street, Rhinebeck, 845.876.3108, breadalone.com).

The Rhinebeck Deli (112 East Market Street, Rhinebeck, 845.876.3614) is a must-stop for packing your lunch to go. A much nicer feel than your typical New York City deli, mingle with locals while you pick-and-chose from a selection of Boar’s Head cold cuts to customize your sandwich.

The Rhinebeck Farmers Market (Municipal Parking Lot, East Market St.)—voted best farmers market in the Hudson Valley by Hudson Valley Magazine for the last two years—reopens for the 2010 season on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9. If you’re visiting that weekend, make sure to stop by for some fresh produce or homemade tarts, and free seedlings for you or your mom.

Starr Place restaurant and bar is a convenient spot for lunch or dinner if you plan on catching a movie next door at Upstate Films (6417 Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck, 845.876.6816, starrplace.com). This sophisticated eatery serves up American and Mediterranean style cuisine and live music every Saturday night. On warmer nights, grab an outdoor table and observe the quiet bustle of foot traffic as you dine.

Where to stay

Rhinebeck is home to The Beekman Arms, America’s oldest operating inn (Route 9, Rhinebeck, 845.876.7077, beekmandelamaterinn.com). Located in the center of Rhinebeck, the historic hotel is within walking distance of the town’s attractions. The inn has remained true to its colonial heritage, retaining many of its original structural features since its founding in 1766. Along with the basic amenities, each of The Arms’ 23 guest rooms comes standard with a decanter of sherry. The Tavern at The Beekman Arms is open daily for lunch and dinner, and non-guests are also invited to enjoy a meal here.

For a true taste of the wild countryside, consider staying at the Whistlewood Farm Bed & Breakfast, situated near the Rhinebeck Performing Arts Center, Rhinebeck Tennis Club, and Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. Wake up to the sound of whinnying horses or the smell of a homemade breakfast. Double occupancy rates start at $165. (52 Pells Road, Rhinebeck, 845.876.6838, whistlewood.com)

If you are looking for a more intimate lodging experience, Rhinebeck has many cozy bed and breakfasts to suit your fancy. For a complete list of Rhinebeck lodging, visit the Rhinebeck Chamber of Commerce online at rhinebeckchamber.com/lodging.

How to get there: Rhinebeck is easily accessible from New York City by trains out of New York Penn Station or Grand Central Station. From Penn Station, Amtrak will take you to Rhinecliff, a small town outside of Rhinebeck. MetroNorth will take you to Poughkeepsie, and Rhinebeck is less than a 20-minute cab ride from there.

If this were James Cameron’s world, following a dreary winter and a rainy spring day like today, the line for flights to Pandora would be considerably long.

But he’s only got real clout in the film world, so we earthlings must set our sights on the next best thing. The setting in mind, 60 minutes north of Manhattan in the Hudson Valley, is 500 undulating acres of lush land filled with striking pieces of art. Here, you may think you’re high even if you don’t touch the stuff. Storm King Art Center is one of those places you hope will remain unfettered, and this warm Thursday, April 1, the outdoor museum reopens for a monumental season. On June 5, it will celebrate 50 years with two new exhibits—5+5: New Perspectives and an indoor tribute, The View from Here: Storm King at Fifty.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of one of the greatest sculpture parks on the planet, 10 artists loaned 12 new works, six of which were specially created for the event. Storm King director and curator David R. Collens has brought in such pieces as Darrell Petit’s Kiss, involving a 25-ton granite element measuring 17 feet high, Stephen Talasnik’s Stream: A Folded Drawing comprised of 3,000 bamboo poles tied together, standing 12 feet high yet seemingly ready to roll down the hill, and Chakaia Booker’s sculpture made out of car tires that have been cut, twisted, and looped.

For more information on Storm King Art Center, read offManhattan’s review or visit the destination’s website below.

How to get there: Coach USA (formerly Short Line Bus) offers a day tour package leaving from Port Authority with direct drop-off at the park. For a bus schedule and to purchase tickets visit coachusa.com. Storm King Hours: April 1 to October 31, 2009, Wednesday through Sunday (10am-5:30pm). November 1 to November 15, 2009, Wednesday through Sunday (10am-5pm). Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, open until 8 pm. Holiday Mondays (10am-5:30pm). Closed to public from November 16 to March 31. Fees: Roundtrip bus transportation and museum admission for adults—$44.00, Children ages five to eleven—$22.00.

(Storm King Art Center, Old Pleasant Hill Road, Mountainville, New York. 845.534.3115, stormking.org)

From the first whiff of fresh mountain air at the train station in Rhinecliff to the old white churches long since converted into homes that dapple the road to your hotel, there is an absolute release of stress that comes with a sojourn in the Hudson Valley. The gravel parking lot at the Peekamoose tap room is packed and the smoky tendrils from the outdoor fire pit follow our shuttle as it zooms by. The Catskill Mountains sandwich both sides of Route 28 and you’ve forgotten all about skyscrapers and a steel-blocked horizon.

Light years away from Manhattan, the Emerson Resort & Spa is a long, intriguing stretch of property that includes 26 opulent suites, five duplex loft rooms, a family-friendly lodge, two restaurants, an eco-friendly spa, country store, the world’s largest kaleidoscope, and 40 some odd copies of Emerson: Poems by the Everyman’s Library Pocket Poets.

Inside door #504, the colorful and modern Asian-themed chamber with a fireplace, jetted bath, and mountain-facing balcony makes you wish you were staying longer than 36 hours.

But you realize—after a massage, 15 minutes in the outdoor Jacuzzi, shopping in the old 19th century dairy barn, and a sitar-serenaded feast at The Phoenix restaurant—that two days and two nights at Emerson is the perfect quick escape from NYC.

How to get there: Take the Adirondack Trailways bus to Rhinecliff station where an Emerson Resort shuttle will be waiting; it is advised you set up travel plans with the hotel in advance. Emerson will also offer transportation to and from Belleayre Mountain. For those interested in a ski and spa deal, including dinner and breakfast, Emerson offers a two night package, from $1,435 at the Inn. Rates for the standard regal or royal suite start at $299 per night.

(Emerson Resort & Spa, 5340 Route 28, Mount Tremper, NY, 877.6882828, emersonplace.com)

The Emerson Resort & Spa, Catskills

A Standard Regal Suite at Emerson Resort

Cozy fireplaces come in every regal and royal suite at Emerson.

Butternut Squash Soup at The Phoenix restaurant at Emerson.

Crisp fried calamari with Cajun remoulade.

Chinese Five Spices Boneless Duck Breast and wasabi whipped potatoes.

Homemade apple tart and vanilla bean ice cream with a little digestif.

A delicious locally-sourced breakfast at the Phoenix restaurant is included in the room rate.

The soon-to-be fully eco-friendly spa at Emerson.

A waterfall sculpture with stones from nearby Esopus Creek at the Emerson Spa.

With Eduardo Ivan at his Velsani antiques shop at Emerson's Country Store.

The World's Largest Kaleidoscope.

Hello, my name is Lauren, and I’m a Twitterholic.

In March 2009, I started Tweeting. What began as a harmless online activity that all the cool social media kids were doing has now become an energy-zapping, headache-inducing, and quite frankly, lonely little cyber sport that I can’t seem to tear myself away from.

Just now, in the middle of writing this I had to go on Twitter: check new followers, hotel buzz, travel deals, wedding tips, restaurant openings, iTampons?? Must.make.it.stop.

What better place to plan an escape from your computer than New York’s Hudson Valley? (I’d tell you to leave your iPhone at home, but I know you’ll bring it anyway—and probably Twitter about the trip too. Sigh.)

oMmmm.

Castle on the Hudson | 400 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown | 914.631.1980 | castleonthehudson.com

Stay at a hotel that takes you back to the middle ages—long before the Internet. Wrap yourself in a goose down comforter or cozy up to a wood-burning fireplace with a good book. This 100-year-old castle, just 30 minutes north of Manhattan, also comes with regal views of the Hudson Valley and surrounding hillsides.

How to get there: Take Metro North to Tarrytown station. If you haven’t set up free transportation with the hotel in advance, take a 5-minute taxi ride.

Cost: Castle escape special offers one night in a deluxe room plus a $50.00 voucher towards food or non-alcoholic beverages for $275.00, Sunday-Thursday.

Brotherhood Winery | 100 Brotherhood Plaza Drive, Washingtonville | 845.496.3661 | brotherhoodwinery.net

North Fork shmorfork. Take a tour of the underground, hand excavated cellars at America’s oldest winery, dating back to 1839. The experience of exploring a historic landmark will return when you’re drinking the wine at Home restaurant in Manhattan.

How to get there: Take Metro North to the Salisbury Mills-Cornwall station, then take a 7-minute taxi to Brotherhood.

Cost: For $10, the tour & tasting pass includes a tour, tasting, and a Brotherhood wine glass.

Huguenot Street | 18 Broadhead Ave., New Paltz | 845.255.1660 | huguenotstreet.org

The words “historic charm” take on new meaning at this remarkably intact street dating back to 1677. Walk the grounds of six original homes built by the first French-speaking Protestant settlers, find some knickknacks in the town’s antique shops, pick up some local produce at the Winter Sun Farmer’s Market, and bask in the brilliant views of the Shawangunk Ridge.

How to get there: Take the Adirondack Trailways bus line out of New York Port Authority on 8th Ave and 42nd St. to New Paltz bus terminal.

Cost: Free to wander outside, $9 standard tour.

Village Tearoom | 10 Plattekill Ave, New Paltz | 845.255.3434 | thevillagetearoom.com

This is where the locals go for a romantic meal that celebrates slow food and fresh, organic, all natural ingredients from Hudson Valley farms. Inside the homey red barn-like building (parts of which originated in 1833), order the artisinal cheese platter, crisp roasted free-range chicken with house-made heirloom apple chutney, then a slice of lemon lavender pound cake or a plum tart for dessert.

How to get there: From Huguenot Street, take a 4-minute cab ride or in nicer weather, walk the 15 minutes.

Cost: $5-$25

Walkway Over the Hudson | 9 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie | 845.454.9649 | walkway.org

At 200 feet high, the former railroad and tallest pedestrian bridge in the world opened this past fall. You’ll be so enamored of the Hudson Valley views you won’t want to reach for your phone to snap a twitpic. Imagine that. If it’s a nice day, bring your bike on Metro North and ride the rail trails.

How to get there: Take the Metro North to the century-old Poughkeepsie station, and make sure to look up at the bridge. (Use your iPhone GPS to navigate you the rest of the way.)

Cost: Free

If you are planning a visit to the area’s historic hot spots, contact Myriam at Hudson Valley Traveler.

Photo: Hardie Truesdale

Train ride along the Hudson River.

Castle on the Hudson

The Village Tea Room in New Paltz

Candied Kumquat Crostata at Village Tea Room

Abraham Hasbrouck House, Built 1694, Huguenot Street, Huguenot Historical Society, New Paltz; photo by Hardie Truesdale

Walkway over the Hudson Valley

Huguenot Street

Bevier-Elting House on Huguenot Street

You will pass Bannerman's Castle on Metro North

If you want to embrace the most colorful and eerie of all the four seasons, Sleepy Hollow—home to Washington Irving’s horror novel about Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horsemen—is a good place to go. 30 minutes after departing from Grand Central Station, your trip begins at the Tarrytown Station. From Depot Plaza, a six-block meander down Main Street leads to the dividing line between North and South Broadway, one of the main vessels of its charming, historic downtown.

Walking down Broadway, there are as many antique venues as there are Starbucks in Manhattan. The line between junk store and antique shop can often blur, but in Tarrytown, you are granted both quality and quantity in all of the numerous shops. Filled with rare old objects, Pretty Funny Vintage offers a wide selection of furniture, clothing, and trinkets. Further down Broadway is Whimsies Incognito, which is somewhere between a gift shop and a gallery, stocked with everything from The Indie Rock Coloring Book to kitty greeting cards to local artisan crafted house wares.

Along the way, stop into the cozy and quaint Silver Tips Tea Room for a pot of ginger peach tea and a balsamic turkey wrap. Some patrons may be on luncheon dates, while others nestle into a good book, sipping coffee and nibbling on baked goods. Turn the corner down Main Street, popping into Carol Master Galleries, which offers a more retro spin on the antiquing experience. Across the street, the historic Tarrytown Music Hall, built in 1885, is a historic theater that will be hosting the likes of Neko Case, Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings, and Mavis Staples in the upcoming months. Next door, Flying Fingers Yarn Shop is a destination for knitters and carries a quality inventory of supplies. As an added bonus for the knitting enthusiasts, Flying Fingers has a free Yarn Bus that picks up at multiple locations in Manhattan on Saturdays and Sundays. Just set up a reservation by emailing them. Grab a cone of homemade Bumpy Road ice cream at old-fashioned parlor-like Main Street Sweets.

You have two options for exploring historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery from the corner of Main Street and North Broadway in Tarrytown. Travel route #1: You could walk or bike north on N. Broadway 1.3 miles. Travel route #2: You could turn back to the Tarrytown station on the Hudson line, and head outbound one stop to Philipse Manor. The time difference according to the Google Maps estimate is negligible, leaving the choice up to what your legs are ready for.

Opting to walk, one can cross over the bridge featured in the fabled chase sequence of The Legend of Sleep Hollow and enter the portal of yesteryear’s haunted masterpiece. Just off the grand gated entrance of the cemetery is The Old Dutch Church, which was constructed in 1685. The surrounding cemetery is more charming than frightening, offering a combination of head stones and mausoleum’s from a variety of time periods. Dating back as one of the oldest cemeteries in the country, it houses the cadavers of such notable characters as Andrew Carnegie, William Rockefeller, Leona Helmsley, and of course, Washington Irving and many of his extended family members. You could kill an afternoon wandering through this sprawling graveyard, following the points of interest on their complimentary map. If you prefer an in depth tour of the graveyard, historian Jim Logan offers afternoon and evening lantern tours with advance reservation which can be arranged at SleepyHollowCemetery.org.

Both Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow have a rich line-up of fall and Halloween events filling the month of October. Everything from a Jack-o-lantern blaze, Scarecrow Invasion, to hay rides, a Halloween Parade, and a reading of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The full calendar events of all this local can be downloaded at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery’s website above.

How to get there: From Grand Central Station, take the Hudson Line on Metro North to the Tarrytown or Philipse Manor stops. Consult the map below for specific locations.

Map of Featured Locations in Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

View Exploring Historic Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow in a larger map

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Visit Washington Irving's grave

Irving Family Plot

Mausaleum

Irving Headstone

Headless Horseman Bridge

Headless Horseman Bridge

On Headless Horseman Bridge

Graveyard in Sleepy Hollow

Amidst the Graves

Ye old grave sites

Carol Master Antiques

Pretty Funny Vintage Typewriters

Pretty Funny Vintage goods

Tarrytown Music Hall

Carol Master interior

Whimsies Incognito

Main Street Sweets

The world renowned Dia: Beacon museum is reason enough to follow the train tracks north for a city escape. But the town of Beacon is also an enclave for art lovers looking for a cultural getaway. This weekend, artists around town will once again open their workplace for Beacon Open Studios, a town-wide artwalk, and the old printing factory will participate in the free Smithsonian Museum Day. Beacon’s signature event, the 32nd annual Spirit of Beacon Day, takes over the city on Sunday with a full parade including marching band, floats, and costumes inspired by the quad-centennial honoring Henry Hudson.

“The richness and history of the city itself is alive on Main Street. The community, its residents and the city’s growing success all comprise the spirit and essence of Beacon,” said Ann Meagher, president and CEO of Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce.

When we last visited Beacon for the bi-annual Fall Cavalcade, we wound up exploring old red bricked buildings, the historic railroad at East End, and secret garden cafes, and in the process found nine must-see Main Street stops for artists and foodies alike.

Grab your grind of choice at ZuZu’s coffee shop and take in the view. The community shop displays local artists’ work along its walls—currently Robert Paschal. The huge listing board towards the back has locations for upcoming features like its Wintergreens CSA and local Farmers Market.

You’ll smell the fresh bagels at The Beacon Bagel before you step inside its expansive space. The highlight of Art and Anick’s six month old shop is their warm and perfectly crusty gluten-free bagels.

Across the street, wicker furniture and antique dressers hug the sidewalk at Dickinson’s Antiques (440 Main Street, 845.838.1643). Prepare yourself for the wall-to-table collectables like turn of the century clocks, aged doorknobs, out-of-use rotary phones, and vintage Wellington and Underwood typewriters.

Locals like to loiter in the parking lot of The Piggy Bank for a community block party or laidback outdoor (vegetarian-friendly) barbecues. When the city lights come on, ease inside for a full menu of down home fare and suburban-priced drinks.

For a not-so greasy burger and sufficiently seasoned French fries, you must stop your storefront hopping and have a sit down at Poppy’s, an orange themed burger joint that locally sources its food. Try the popular black bean burger with avocado and jalapeno aioli.

Beacon Bookmark co-owner, Kristy and CakeHouse Designs’ Kristen just opened the house wares storefront Clay Wood and Cotton, which peddles art, pottery, and tea napkins to suit ones fancy.

Beacon Bath and Bubbles (464 Main Street, 845.440.6782) has a hodgepodge of scents, homemade rose and coconut soaps, and personal care items are easy on the nose and light enough to bring back to the city.

Before making your way down the hill to the Metro North station, be sure to indulge in a sweet at Beacon Creamery. Their classic Neapolitan staples and other choice flavors are served courtesy of Janes Ice Cream made locally in the Hudson Valley. You’ll be tempted to have it for breakfast—which we did—and then again for desert, paving the way for a nice train ride home.

How to get there: Beacon is located five minutes from the Beacon train station, which is served by Metro-North Railroad trains from Grand Central Terminal. After exiting at Beacon, head North on Railroad Dr. towards W Main St. Turn left onto Beekman St, Right onto North Ave, left onto Main Street. For train information, visit mta.info or call 212.532.4900.

Photo: Courtesy of katyopolis

What: Hudson River/Champlain Valley Heritage Weekend

When: September 12-13

Where: From the Bronx to Albany

Why: The Government of The Kingdom of the Netherlands has you covered for all Dutch-discovery related events in Manhattan with the NY400 program, which culminates with the New Island Festival on Governors Island on September 20. But if you’re interested in a more moving celebration of the 400th anniversary since Henry first sailed his namesake river, there is a unique window of opportunity to explore the historically rich banks and valleys, and for free this weekend. Across two days and 19 counties, 100 sites are opening their doors to give visitors an intimate look at well-preserved national landmarks and the homes of presidents, painters, and railroad tycoons.

Here is a list of the top sites near and far worth visiting:

Hudson Valley

Olana State Historic Site | Hudson, NY | olana.org
The 250-acre hilltop home of Frederic Edwin Church, a landscape painter and key figure in the Hudson River School movement, is a remarkable relic of the 19th century. You feel as if the man of the house is still alive as you tour Church’s “Persian fantasy,” walking into each perfectly intact room—look out for the artist’s “Sunset Jamaica” and “Petra”—and out onto the lush grounds, where the impressive views of the river and valley will cause you to linger. How to get there: Take the Metro North to Hudson station, then a 10-minute taxi to Olana.

Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site | Hyde Park, NY | nps.com
It is an eerily familiar experience to walk through the “Action and Action Now” exhibit at the FDR Library, which illustrates (through incredible footage, photos, and documents) the depression era president’s first 100 days. See FDR’s animal figurine-filled desk as it was the day he died, visit the Roosevelts’ grave site in the rose garden, then tour the simply elegant and stately home, where FDR was born, where he developed wartime military strategies with Churchill, and where the family’s beloved dog, Fala, slept at the foot of their bed. How to get there: Take the Metro North to Hudson station, then a 10-minute taxi to Olana. Click here for information about the Roosevelt Ride shuttle.

Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site | Hyde Park, NY | nps.gov
Following FDR’s 300-acre Springwood estate, put a picnic in your bike basket or stroll the two miles through Hyde Park over to a strikingly different setting. Frederick Vanderbilt’s imperial stark white columns usher you into the gilded age of antiques, marble statues, ornate fireplaces, and regal Hudson River views. How to get there: Take Metro North to the Poughkeepsie station, then Wallace Center from the Poughkeepsie station, where taxis will take you to Wallace Center in Hyde Park.

Lyndhurst Castle | Tarrytown, NY | lyndhurst.org
Its fairy tale-like towers peek out above the tree tops of Tarrytown and you’ve never seen anything like it, at least not on this coast. This beautiful Gothic Revival structure will cast its spell as you wander the 84 rooms where railroad magnate Jay Gould lived in 1880. How to get there: Take the Metro North Hudson Line to Tarrytown station, then a 10-minute taxi to the castle.

Walkway Over the Hudson | Poughkeepsie, NY | walkway.org
Rarely do we think of a bridge as a destination for reading, picnicking, and general merrymaking, but that’s exactly what the tallest pedestrian bridge in the world will offer after its opening on October 3. Bring your bike on Metro North, ride the rail trails, and revel in the magnificent Hudson River views atop the 200-foot-high former railroad built in 1888. How to get there: Take the Metro North to the century-old Poughkeepsie station, and make sure to look up at the bridge. Use your iphone GPS to navigate you the rest of the way.

Dia:Beacon, Riggio Galleries | Beacon, NY | diaart.org
In the charming town of Beacon, contemporary art institution Dia: will surprise you with large-scale art in a unique space. How to get there: Dia:Beacon is located five minutes from the Beacon train station, which is served by Metro-North Railroad trains from Grand Central Terminal.

Boscobel House and Gardens | Garrison, NY | boscobel.org
Even though the Shakesepeare Festival is over, the landscape boasts some of the most spectacular Hudson River views of any historic site during Heritage Weekend. If you’re planning to picnic on landmark lawns, this is the place. How to get there: Take Metro North to Cold Spring Station. Once on Main Street, the Cold Spring trolley will charter visitors to Boscobel and back again for .50. Call 845.265.9575 to make a reservation.

New York City

Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum | Bronx, NY | bartowpellmansionmuseum.org
Experience the Bronx as it was in the mid-1800s. After wandering the beautifully furnished rooms in the Grecian style stone mansion, picnic on the grounds in Terrace Garden or go for a hike through Pelham-Bay park. How to get there: Take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park station, then hop the Westchester Bee-line #45 bus, which stops at Bartow-Pell.

Old Croton-Aqueduct State Historic Park | Dobbs Ferry, NY | aqueduct.org
Follow offManhattan writer James Sibley’s recommendation to hike the “41-mile engineering marvel” that supplied New York City drinking water from 1842 to 1955. Head to the buried aqueduct for a quick fall getaway from the city and into the serene and scenic outdoors, where you’re sure to catch views of other historical sites like Lyndhurst Castle and Philipse Manor Hall. How to get there: Take Metro North–Hudson Line from Grand Central Station to any of the following riverfront communities, which are just minutes on foot from the Aqueduct Trail: Yonkers, Greystone, Hastings-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Ardsley, Irvington, Tarrytown, Philipse Manor, Scarborough, or Ossining.  Read Sibley’s story for further directions.

Cost: All sites are free and open to the public.

How to get there: If you intend to hit more than a handful of sites this weekend, consult offManhattan’s guide to renting hybrids in Manhattan. For more information on the various sites open on Saturday and Sunday, visit heritageweekend.org/

Olana was inspired by the painter's world travels.

The rooms are left completely intact as Frederic Church had them.

Views from atop Olana

Frederic Church's painting supplies.

At Olana.

Frederic Church's house at Olana State Historic Site

The Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College, designed by Frank Gehry

Boscobel House Built in 1808

Vanderbilt Mansion

Vanderbilt Mansion

Gigi's farm to table market in Red Hook, worth a stop in for lunch or to take picnic fixings to go.

Chicken at Gigi's

Locally sourced food at Gigi's.

Fruit tart at Gigi's

Lunch at Gigi's in Red Hook, Dutchess County.

Gigi's Market has a little bit of everything fresh and local.

FDR Sailing (on view at FDR museum)

FDR's desk as it was the day he died.

FDR's library

FDR's leg braces

The rose garden where FDR and Eleanor are buried.

Walkway over the Hudson Valley

Looking South down the Hudson from atop the Walkway

Take Amtrak or Metro North, and watch how an hour goes by in a beautiful blink.