The natural landscape across the Hudson Valley can be described with one word: breathtaking. Well, we could also add one-of-a-kind, magnificent, impressive, gorgeous, exquisite… Yes, we could go on and on. Have you been here to see the incredible beauty that this area has to offer? It certainly is one reason we have visitors come from all over the world to stay at our bed and breakfast. Here are 9 of the best gardens of the Hudson Valley to visit as summer moves into its final phase, preparing the way for fall. For your convenience, they are listed in order of distance from our historic country inn.
- Storm King Art Center (5 minutes from our B&B) – Over 500 acres of woodlands and fields of native grasses and wildflowers can be found at one of our favorite places. Storm King Art Center also displays unique outdoor sculptures created by a variety of artists.
- Orange County Arboretum (21 minutes from our B&B) – The Orange County Arboretum is located in the county’s Thomas Bull Memorial Park. You will discover over 35 acres of mature trees, a Shakespeare Garden, water garden, and groomed paths where you can meander all afternoon.
- Downing Park (21 minutes from our B&B) – Downing Park is one of several public parks in the city of Newburgh. This 35-acre park was designed as a memorial to Andrew Jackson Downing and was once a farm owned by the Smith family. While looking at the pergola, imagine a 1750’s farmhouse used to stand in its place.
- Boscobel (35 minutes from our B&B) – Overlooking the Hudson River, the Boscobel House in Garrison is a must-see. A trip through the apple orchard takes you to the formal rose garden and fountain. The gardens surrounding the historic house highlight over 600 different varieties of plants and over 140 varieties of roses. There is also a one-mile trail that provides a view of the 29 acres of wooded landscape and the beautiful river.
- Stonecrop Garden (41 minutes from our B&B) – Set in the Hudson Highlands in Cold Spring, Stonecrop Garden is a 63-acre property featuring both native and exotic plants, ponds, waterfalls, a pavilion and a bamboo grove. There is also an English-style flower and vegetable garden.
- Dutch Gardens (41 minutes from our B&B) – Located in New City, Dutch Gardens is a small but impressive garden located right near the court house. It’s a tranquil place where you can walk around and relax. The gardens’ 3 acres offer a variety of flowers along the brick paths, a teahouse, gazebo, arbor and an area for sitting and picnicking.
- Van Cortlandt Manor (41 minutes from our B&B) – The stone manor house and brick ferry house are surrounded by beautiful heritage gardens. The period gardens have a stunning tulip display as well as a traditional and medicinal herb garden. There is also a path allowing you to stroll along the Croton River.
- Lyndhurst (51 minutes from our B&B) – Known as one of America’s iconic Gothic Revival mansions, the Lyndhurst Mansion overlooks the Hudson River in Tarrytown. This 19th century landscape features over 100 varieties of roses, a rock garden, and conservatory greenhouse.
- Innisfree Gardens (56 minutes from our B&B) – Located in Millbrook, Innisfree Gardens is recognized as one of the world’s ten best gardens. The landscape shows a mix of modern and romantic with traditional Chinese and Japanese influences. The 150-acre expansive garden features rocks, plants, streams, waterfalls, and terraces.
Come stay with us for a memorable time in the Hudson Valley. Also, just in time for September, we are bringing back our “Pie on the Pillow” promotion! While some places leave you a mint or a towel animal, our Inn owner, Dena, will bake a homemade pie for your pillow! Dena bakes a delicious array of pies, all made with local Hudson Valley fruits and ingredients. Head on over to our special’s page for this year’s pie flavors. This promotion is available for guests who call us at (845) 496-2954 and request it while booking, so call today!
What’s your favorite garden to visit in the Hudson Valley? We’d love to hear from you! Please share your comments below.