The Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Middletown and Tarrytown
Are you planning a trip between Middletown and Tarrytown? Here's a list of the top five places you should consider visiting along the way.
The Route and the Halfway Point: Sloatsburg, NY
If you're driving from Middletown to Tarrytown, the most direct route takes you through Sloatsburg, NY, which happens to be the halfway point of the trip. Sloatsburg is a small village in Rockland County and is part of the Ramapo Mountains. It boasts splendid outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby Harriman State Park. It's also home to many great restaurants and shops, making it a great pit stop for refreshments and a quick rest.
Stop 1: Brotherhood Winery
If you're a wine lover, you won't want to miss a stop at Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville. Founded in 1839, it's one of the oldest wineries in the United States and a National Historic Landmark. The winery is known for producing award-winning wines such as Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. You can choose to take a tour of the grounds and the wine cellars, sample some of the wine, or try some of the restaurant's excellent dishes.
Stop 2: Storm King Art Center
Storm King Art Center is an open-air museum situated in the Hudson Valley near Mountainville. It features a vast collection of contemporary sculpture and art pieces displayed on the museum's 500-acre property. Visitors can marvel at some of the world's most prominent artists' work while walking through the woods or taking a guided tour. Be sure to bring your camera and plan for plenty of time to explore this breathtaking museum.
Stop 3: Lyndhurst Mansion
Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival mansion situated on a beautiful landscape overlooking the Hudson River nearby Tarrytown. The mansion was constructed during the 1800s and endowed with impressive pieces of art and furniture. It's now owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is open to the public for tours. During the tour, you'll learn about the property's history and the former owners, including railroad tycoon Jay Gould. Be sure to take some time to explore the gardens and walking trails surrounding the mansion.
Stop 4: Philipsburg Manor
Philipsburg Manor is one of the oldest estates in the Hudson Valley, located in the Sleepy Hollow neighborhood of Tarrytown. It was once a thriving farming and trading complex during colonial times. Visitors to Philipsburg Manor can tour the gardens, barns, and historic manor house, which is dressed up like a Colonial-era household. There are also hands-on demonstrations and interactive exhibits that showcase how the estate operated years ago, providing an engaging educational experience for children and adults alike.
Stop 5: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is a perfect spot for history buffs and literature enthusiasts. The cemetery is located in Sleepy Hollow, made famous by Washington Irving's short story of the same name. Here, you'll find the graves of many notable historical and literary figures, including Washington Irving himself. You can also take a walking tour of the expansive cemetery, which is a beautiful and serene place to walk around on a warm day.
In conclusion, taking a trip between Middletown and Tarrytown provides many exciting opportunities for a fun and pleasant excursion. From the outdoor activities and winery visits in Sloatsburg to the art and history found at Storm King, Lyndhurst Mansion, Philipsburg Manor, and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, you're likely to find something to love here. Roll down the windows, feel the breeze, and enjoy the journey!