Road Tripping from Brookfield, CT to Putnam Valley, NY
Embarking on a road trip can be one of the most thrilling ways to explore new places and break out of your everyday routine. Hitting the road from Brookfield, Connecticut to Putnam Valley, New York presents a fascinating journey full of history, natural beauty, and recreation.
Interesting Fact: The two towns are only about 65 miles apart, but taking a road trip along this route can take anywhere from two to three hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way!
Halfway Point: Brewster, NY is a charming village that served as a crucial transportation hub in the 1800s, thanks to its connections to several railways. The village's historic downtown offers plenty of delightful shops and restaurants, making it a perfect stopping point to stretch your legs and experience some local culture.
Trip Length: The road trip from Brookfield, CT to Putnam Valley, NY is 65 miles long and can take between two to three hours, depending on your travel pace. Stopping at these attractions, landmarks, and parks will make the trip even more memorable.
Top Five Places to Visit:
- The Glass House (New Canaan, CT) - This architectural masterpiece is a must-see attraction for design enthusiasts. The Glass House was designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson and features an innovative glass-walled structure that provides stunning views of the surrounding woods. The Glass House is open from May to November and requires advanced reservation.
Point of Interest: Take a stroll through the nearby "Sculpture Walk," featuring works by famous artists such as Alexander Calder.
- Danbury Railway Museum (Danbury, CT) - Travel back in time at this fascinating museum dedicated to the history of railroading in the region. Visitors can explore vintage trains and railcars, including a fully decorated luxury private car. The Danbury Railway Museum is perfect for families, especially children fascinated by trains.
Point of Interest: The museum offers short train rides on select days, which is a unique and exciting way to see the surrounding area.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum (Hyde Park, NY) - Step inside the life and legacy of one of America's most beloved presidents at this exceptional museum. The FDR Presidential Library and Museum showcases the life of President Roosevelt, from his youth to his significant impact on history during his presidency. Tour the museum's vast collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts from his life.
Point of Interest: Visitors can explore the beautiful Rose Garden located on the museum grounds, which was one of Eleanor Roosevelt's cherished projects.
- Storm King Art Center (New Windsor, NY) - Art and nature blend seamlessly at this vast open-air museum, situated on 500 acres of beautiful rolling hills. The Storm King Art Center features over 100 sculptures by many world-renowned artists, including Alexander Calder and Mark di Suvero. Nature and art lovers alike will be amazed by the center's stunning views and unique installations.
Point of Interest: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the vast grounds, which offers spectacular views of the Hudson River and beyond.
- Manitoga (Garrison, NY) - This hidden gem is a must-visit stop that offers visitors a truly unique look into the mind of one of America's most innovative landscape architects, Russel Wright. Manitoga was Wright's personal estate and a prime example of organic modernism, utilizing natural elements and motifs to create a holistic and harmonious living environment. The estate includes hikes around the scenic Dragon Rock and tours of the iconic Russel Wright House.
Point of Interest: Make sure to take the guided tour of the home's interior to hear tales of Wright's innovative nature-driven interior design.
Conclusion:
Exploring the towns between Brookfield, CT, and Putnam Valley, NY offers a fantastic journey with a wide range of attractions, landmarks, and parks to fit any interest. The trip length can be anywhere from two to three hours, depending on how many stops you make. With the top five places to visit, you'll experience compelling architecture, railroading history, presidential heritage, art in nature, and organic modernism, each with its own point of interest. Get ready to embark on an adventurous road trip unlike any other!