Putnam County (New York) Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Putnam County (New York) with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore, and learn about local customs and health and safety tips.


The Ultimate Travel Guide to Putnam County (New York)

Welcome to Putnam County, a picturesque destination nestled in Mid-Hudson and Catskills regions of New York. This charming county boasts natural beauty, rich history, and a lively food and drink scene. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Putnam County has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what this county has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Putnam County (New York)

Here’s a list of must-see attractions that will make your trip to Putnam County memorable.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re a history aficionado, you’ll love the array of museums and historical sites Putnam County has to offer.

  • The Putnam History Museum: Learn about the history of Putnam County through exhibits, lectures, and special events.
  • Boscobel House and Gardens: A historic house museum with beautiful gardens and views of the Hudson River.
  • Foundry Dock Park: An educational and recreational park where you can learn about the historic iron industry of Putnam County.
  • Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site: The headquarters where General George Washington commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.

Natural Attractions of Putnam County (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Putnam County is famous for its scenic views and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

  • Fahnestock State Park: A popular park for hiking, camping, boating, and fishing.
  • Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve: Home to beautiful hiking trails and stunning views of the Hudson River.
  • Canopus Lake: A perfect spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Chuang Yen Monastery: A serene retreat center with beautiful Buddhist temples and architecture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Putnam County (New York)

Putnam County is known for its beautiful trails and scenic views, making it a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes you can take:

  • Hudson Valley Rail Trail: A trail that runs along the former New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad.
  • Breakneck Ridge Trail: A challenging trail with stunning views of the Hudson River.
  • Fahnestock Winter Park: A popular park for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports.
  • Putnam County Trailway: A multi-use trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Putnam County (New York): Activities and Tours

Putnam County has no shortage of activities and tours to offer. Here are some of the best things to do during your stay:

  • Tour the Tilly Foster Farm and Educational Institute: An opportunity to learn about sustainable farming practices and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Visit Stonecrop Gardens: An oasis of flora and fauna and a popular destination for garden enthusiasts.
  • Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Rides: Take in the beauty of the Hudson Valley from a hot-air balloon.
  • Visit the Thunder Ridge Ski Area: A popular ski resort that offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Putnam County (New York)

To make the most of your trip, we recommend this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Hike the Hudson Highlands and explore Bannerman Castle.
2 Visit Manitoga and tour Russel Wright’s Modernist home.
3 Go on an adventure with Hudson Valley Outfitters and explore the Hudson River.
4 Explore the history of Putnam County with a tour of the Putnam History Museum and Foundry Dock Park.
5 Go on a farm-to-table tour of Tilly Foster Farm and the surrounding area.
6 Take to the skies with Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Rides
7 Relax and unwind at Chuang Yen Monastery and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Food and Drink Scene of Putnam County (New York)

Putnam County has a diverse food and drink scene that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grass-Fed Beef Burger from Sprout Creek Farm
  • Apple Cider Donuts from Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
  • Wood-Fired Pizza from Terra Sole Ristorante
  • Smoked Brisket from Bull & Barrel Brewery

Local Beverages

  • Hudson Valley Wine: Enjoy local wines from Tousey Winery and Millbrook Vineyards & Winery.
  • Putnam County Beer: Sip on locally brewed beer at Bull & Barrel Brewery and Industrial Arts Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Putnam County (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodations in Putnam County. Here are some suggestions:

  • Inn at Lake Joseph: Enjoy a luxurious stay at this cozy inn with breathtaking views of the lake.
  • Chalet on the Hudson: A peaceful retreat with stunning river views and access to hiking trails.
  • Hudson Valley Guest House: A charming guesthouse in the heart of Cold Spring, with easy access to attractions and activities.

What to Buy in Putnam County (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Putnam County offers unique souvenirs and products to take home. Here are some suggestions:

  • Handcrafted pottery from Chuang Yen Monastery
  • Local honey from The Land of Oz Farm
  • Artisanal cheese from Sprout Creek Farm
  • Handmade soap from Cold Spring Apothecary

Local Culture and Customs of Putnam County (New York)

Putnam County is a friendly and welcoming community. Here are some local customs to keep in mind:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife.
  • Be courteous and friendly to locals and visitors alike.
  • Follow the leave-no-trace principles when hiking and camping.

Best Time to Visit Putnam County (New York)

The best time to visit Putnam County is during the fall, when the foliage is in full bloom. Fall also marks the harvest season, which is a timely opportunity to taste local produce and participate in autumnal festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Putnam County (New York)

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Putnam County:

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife.
  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Plan ahead and make reservations for popular attractions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment in any way.
  • Disturb wildlife or natural habitats.
  • Be disrespectful or disruptive in any way.

Safety and Health

It’s important to stay safe and healthy during your visit to Putnam County. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Putnam County (New York)

  • Always wear appropriate clothing and footwear when hiking or exploring natural attractions.
  • Be cautious while driving on hilly and winding roads.
  • Follow safety protocols when participating in adventure activities.

Health in Putnam County (New York)

  • Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen when spending prolonged periods outdoors.
  • Check for ticks after spending time outdoors, as the county is known to have tick-borne illnesses.
  • Make sure to have any necessary medication and travel insurance for emergency situations.

Getting to Putnam County (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Putnam County is easily accessible via several transportation options:

Airports Near Putnam County (New York)

The nearest international airports are John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City.

Bus Stations Near Putnam County (New York)

The county is accessible via the Metro-North Railroad, with stops in Cold Spring, Brewster, and Southeast.

Other Options

Car rental services and private car services are also available for travelers.

How to Get Around in Putnam County (New York)

The best way to get around Putnam County is by car. Car rental services are available from major rental companies, who offer a range of rental options.

Where to Go Next from Putnam County (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Putnam County is in close proximity to other famous destinations in New York and the Northeast. Here are some suggestions:

  • New York City: The city that never sleeps is only an hour’s drive away from Putnam County.
  • The Catskill Mountains: Explore the majestic mountain range with hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural attractions.
  • The Berkshires: A cultural and natural haven with museums, theaters, and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Putnam County is a hidden gem in the state of New York, perfect for those seeking natural beauty, rich history, and a unique food and drink scene. We hope this guide has given you insights into what to expect and ideas for your next trip to Putnam County. Happy travels!