Did you know that Columbia County is home to Olana State Historic Site, which houses over 40,000 works created by renowned Hudson River School painter Frederic Church? This artistic treasure is just one of many hidden gems awaiting discovery in this picturesque region of New York’s Hudson Valley. Nestled between the Hudson River and the Taconic Mountains, Columbia County offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that draws visitors year-round.
Getting to Columbia County
Columbia County is conveniently located about two hours north of New York City, making it an ideal weekend getaway destination. The region is accessible by various transportation options, allowing you to choose the most convenient method for your journey.
By Air
The closest major airports to Columbia County are Albany International Airport (about 45 minutes away) and Stewart International Airport (about 1 hour away). From these airports, you can rent a car or arrange for transportation to your final destination in Columbia County.
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By Car
Driving to Columbia County is straightforward via the Taconic State Parkway or I-87 (New York State Thruway). The county is accessible from all directions, with Route 9 and Route 23 serving as major thoroughfares through the region. Having your own vehicle or renting one is recommended for exploring the area’s scattered attractions.
Rent a car for your Columbia County adventure:
By Train
Amtrak provides service to Hudson station on its Empire Service line between New York City and Albany. The train journey from NYC’s Penn Station to Hudson takes approximately 2 hours and offers scenic views along the Hudson River. From the Hudson station, you’ll need to arrange local transportation to reach other parts of the county.
Best Time to Visit Columbia County
Columbia County experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities. Your ideal visiting time depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for various weather conditions.
Summer (June-August)
Summer brings warm temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season when you can enjoy hiking, swimming at Lake Taghkanic State Park, farmers’ markets, and numerous cultural festivals. Summer weekends often feature outdoor concerts and art shows throughout the county.
Fall (September-November)
Fall is arguably the most spectacular season in Columbia County, with brilliant foliage colors peaking in mid-October. Temperatures range from 45-70°F (7-21°C), ideal for hiking, apple picking, and scenic drives. Don’t miss the Columbia County Fair in September and harvest festivals at local farms and vineyards.
Winter & Spring
Winter (December-February) offers skiing at Catamount Mountain Resort and cozy experiences in historic towns. Spring (March-May) brings blooming landscapes and the reopening of seasonal attractions, with temperatures gradually warming from 40-65°F (4-18°C) and fewer crowds than summer months.
Getting Around Columbia County
Columbia County’s rural nature means that having access to a vehicle is essential for exploring its scattered attractions efficiently. While some towns like Hudson are walkable, the distance between major points of interest requires transportation.
By Car
A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring Columbia County at your own pace. The county’s scenic roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate with GPS or maps. Most attractions have dedicated parking areas, though some may charge a small fee during peak season.
Reserve your rental car in advance for the best rates:
Local Transportation
Columbia County Public Transportation (CCPT) offers limited bus service between major towns, but routes and schedules are restricted. Taxi services and rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available in more populated areas like Hudson but may be limited in rural parts of the county. Some accommodations offer bicycle rentals for exploring nearby attractions.
Where to Stay in Columbia County
Columbia County offers diverse accommodation options ranging from historic inns and boutique hotels to vacation rentals and campgrounds. Each town provides a different experience, with Hudson being the most vibrant and offering the widest selection of places to stay.
Find Your Perfect Accommodation
Browse and book the best hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals in Columbia County:
Hudson
As the county’s cultural hub, Hudson offers the highest concentration of accommodations, from luxury boutique hotels in restored historic buildings to charming B&Bs. Stay here if you want walkable access to restaurants, shops, and galleries. The Warren Street area puts you in the heart of Hudson’s vibrant scene.
Chatham & Kinderhook
These historic villages offer a quieter alternative to Hudson, with several charming inns and B&Bs in restored historic buildings. The pace is slower, but you’ll still find good dining options and easy access to cultural attractions like the Shaker Museum and Martin Van Buren National Historic Site.
Rural Retreats
For a more immersive nature experience, consider vacation rentals or farm stays in the county’s rural areas. Copake, Ancram, and Hillsdale offer beautiful countryside settings with mountain views. Lake Taghkanic State Park provides camping options for outdoor enthusiasts during the warmer months.
Top Attractions in Columbia County, New York
Columbia County offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From historic estates to outdoor adventures, there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy.
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Historic Sites
Olana State Historic Site
The crown jewel of Columbia County’s attractions, Olana was the home and studio of Hudson River School painter Frederic Church. This Persian-inspired architectural masterpiece sits on a hill overlooking the Hudson River, offering spectacular views and housing an impressive collection of Church’s artwork. Take a guided tour of the mansion and explore the 250-acre landscape designed by Church himself.
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
Visit Lindenwald, the retirement home of the eighth U.S. President, Martin Van Buren. This National Historic Site in Kinderhook offers guided tours of the restored mansion and grounds, providing insights into 19th-century politics and daily life. The site includes exhibits on Van Buren’s presidency and his significance in American history.
Outdoor Adventures
Lake Taghkanic State Park
This beautiful park centers around a crystal-clear lake with a beach for swimming in summer. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, boating, picnicking, and camping. The park is particularly beautiful in fall when the surrounding forests display vibrant foliage colors.
Catamount Mountain Resort
Known primarily as a ski destination in winter, Catamount transforms in summer to offer thrilling zipline adventures, aerial obstacle courses, and mountain biking. The resort straddles the New York-Massachusetts border and provides activities for all ages and skill levels.
Harlem Valley Rail Trail
This paved trail follows a former railroad corridor, offering a flat, scenic route for walking, running, and cycling. The completed sections pass through beautiful countryside, wetlands, and small towns, providing an excellent way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Arts & Culture
Hudson’s Warren Street
The main thoroughfare in Hudson is lined with art galleries, antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings. Spend a day exploring this walkable street, which has earned Hudson its reputation as a cultural destination. Don’t miss Hudson Hall, a restored 19th-century opera house that hosts performances and exhibitions.
Art Omi
This 120-acre sculpture and architecture park in Ghent features large-scale contemporary works set in fields, forests, and wetlands. Visitors can walk the grounds for free and experience art in a natural setting. The park also includes indoor galleries and hosts residency programs for artists, writers, and musicians.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Columbia County
Columbia County’s farm-to-table dining scene has flourished in recent years, with restaurants showcasing fresh ingredients from local farms. The region’s agricultural heritage provides a bounty of seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally raised meats that inspire creative menus throughout the county.
Hudson Dining
Hudson offers the county’s most diverse dining scene, with options ranging from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to casual cafes and international cuisine. Warren Street is home to acclaimed establishments like Swoon Kitchenbar, Wm. Farmer & Sons, and Lil’ Deb’s Oasis. For coffee and pastries, try Moto Coffee Machine or Café Le Perche.
Rural Gems
Some of the county’s best dining experiences are found in its smaller towns. Visit Gaskins in Germantown for sophisticated comfort food, Crossroads Food Shop in Hillsdale for exceptional breakfasts, or The Bartlett House in Ghent for artisanal baked goods and seasonal fare. These establishments have earned devoted followings among locals and visitors alike.
Farmers Markets & Food Trails
Experience the source of Columbia County’s culinary bounty by visiting farmers markets in Hudson, Chatham, and Kinderhook. The county also features several food trails, including the Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail, which connects local wineries, breweries, and distilleries offering tastings and tours of their production facilities.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Throughout the year, Columbia County hosts a variety of events and festivals that celebrate its cultural heritage, agricultural bounty, and artistic community. These gatherings provide excellent opportunities to experience local traditions and connect with residents.
Summer Events
- Columbia County Fair (September) – One of the oldest county fairs in the country, featuring agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live music, and food vendors.
- Falcon Ridge Folk Festival (July) – A three-day celebration of folk music and dance held on a farm in Hillsdale, with multiple stages and camping options.
- Hudson Music Festival (August) – A weekend of free concerts throughout Hudson, showcasing diverse musical styles and local talent.
Fall & Winter Events
- FilmColumbia (October) – An annual film festival in Chatham screening independent, international, and documentary films.
- Harvest Festivals (September-October) – Various farms host apple picking, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and harvest celebrations.
- Winter Walk (December) – Hudson’s Warren Street transforms for a holiday celebration with decorated storefronts, live performances, and seasonal treats.
Practical Tips for Visiting Columbia County
Make the most of your Columbia County experience with these helpful tips that will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this charming region of the Hudson Valley.
Planning Essentials
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during summer weekends, fall foliage season, and for special events.
- Check opening hours before visiting attractions, as many operate seasonally or have limited hours during weekdays.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring towns and hiking trails.
Getting Around
- Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in rural areas.
- Plan for limited public transportation – a rental car is highly recommended.
- Bring a good camera to capture the scenic landscapes and historic architecture.
Local Etiquette
- Support local businesses by shopping at farmers markets and independent stores.
- Respect private property when exploring rural areas and farms.
- Make dinner reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
Plan Your Columbia County Adventure
Columbia County offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and farm-fresh cuisine that makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Hudson Valley experience. Whether you’re drawn to historic mansions overlooking the river, hiking trails through scenic landscapes, art galleries in restored buildings, or farm-to-table dining experiences, this charming region has something to delight every visitor.
The county’s proximity to New York City makes it perfect for weekend getaways, while its diverse attractions can easily fill a week-long vacation for those with more time to explore. Each season brings its own unique charm, from summer’s outdoor activities to fall’s spectacular foliage, winter’s cozy experiences, and spring’s blooming landscapes.
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