Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Carmel, NY to Town of Wawarsing, NY
Driving from Carmel, NY to the Town of Wawarsing, NY may sound like a typical road trip, but this route offers a lot more than just long stretches of highway. This scenic drive takes around two and a half hours and is jam-packed with pleasant surprises and hidden gems that travelers might want to explore. Whether it's trying some artisanal food or exploring wonderful antique shops, this route has something for everyone.
Halfway Point: Newburgh, NY
Newburgh, NY is the perfect halfway point between Carmel and Wawarsing. Located on the Hudson River, this city offers some fascinating things to do and areas to explore. It is home to some beautifully preserved historic buildings, including Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site, which served as George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War. Furthermore, the city has some fantastic restaurants and coffee shops that serve everything from classic burgers to vegan-friendly meals. Don't forget to stop by Blacc Vanilla cafe, known for its organic coffee beans and delicious sandwiches.
1. Storm King Art Center (1 Museum Road, New Windsor, NY)
The Storm King Art Center is an open-air museum situated on 500 acres of stunning landscape. This place is an exceptional spot to connect with nature and admire some stunning artwork. The sculpture park is home to over 100 pieces of beautiful outdoor art, including towering statues, stone structures, and alluring sculptures. Some of the most notable artists whose works are on display here include Alexander Liberman and Roy Lichtenstein. End your visit to this art center by having a lovely picnic in the grass with some local cheese and craft beer from Hudson Valley Brewery.
2. Kelder's Farm (5755 Route 209, Kerhonkson, NY)
Kelder's Farm is a fifth-generation family farm known for its delightful homemade ice cream and harvest-your-own-fruits experiences. This place has something special in each season. In the summer, visitors can enjoy blueberries, peaches, strawberries, and cherries straight from the fruit trees. Autumn brings apple-picking and pumpkin patches, and winter brings Christmas trees. Visitors can take a stroll around the farm and visit with friendly farm animals, including chickens, pigs, and goats. The farm store also sells everything from local honey to jams and syrup. Their homemade raspberry and vanilla swirled ice cream, though, is a must-have.
3. The Golden Notebook (29 Tinker Street, Woodstock, NY)
Since 1978, The Golden Notebook has served as the heartbeat of the literature community in Woodstock, NY. This iconic indie bookstore is known for its quality selection of fiction, non-fiction, and art books. Visitors can browse through the shelves of the bookstore and take a break in their cozy nooks set amongst the books. The staff is especially helpful in giving recommendations, making this a perfect spot for book-lovers. Visitors should indulge their literary desires while sipping a hot mug of coffee from the shop's "Buddha located in the back of the store."
4. Bread Alone Bakery (3962 NY-28, Boiceville, NY)
Bread Alone Bakery is a favorite spot for bread lovers in the Hudson Valley. This bakery is famous for its hand-crafted bread made using the traditional methods of European baking. The aroma alone is enough to bring a smile to the face of any visitor. From crusty sourdough loaves to sweet croissants, the bakery offers a wide array of baked goods that are made fresh every day. Visitors can enjoy a hot cup of coffee and some freshly-baked pastries or bread while basking in the bakery's beautifully designed outdoor teahouse.
5. Old Game Farm (22 Blanchard Road, Catskill, NY)
The Old Game Farm served as a wildlife park and zoo from 1933 to 2006. It was home to various exotic animals, including elephants, tigers, and zebras. Today, this non-profit thrift store sells a variety of animal-themed items, including collectibles and t-shirts, and displays a few animal statues, murals, and signs. The Old Game Farm is a quirky, nostalgic place that offers visitors a glimpse of the past. Visitors should not miss the chance to take a picture with the "World's Largest Garden Gnome" located on the farm's property.
This route provides travelers with remarkable experiences that are off the beaten path. Don't forget to indulge in the delicious food options available in each location, such as artisanal cheese, homemade ice cream, freshly baked bread, and classic burgers. Travelers should pack their bags, leave stress behind, and embark on this scenic road trip that's guaranteed to inspire and soothe your soul.