Town: Rhinebeck

The town of Rhinebeck, close to many great hikes, is fun for a lunch and afternoon stroll. It’s centered around the Beekman Arms, the self-claimed oldest inn in America, so the crowd tends to be more mature than in northern Hudson (many parents and grandparents of college students at the many schools in the area). Despite an influx of cool restaurants and shops, the town feels authentic and has largely resisted big brands moving in. The banks are local, the CVS was only allowed to build practically out of sight of the main road (and had to install a garden out front), and the size of the signage of the businesses is strictly regulated. Don’t miss such shops as Zephyr and Paper Trail. Restaurants to consider for lunch include Market Street and Arielle. The Local is only open for dinner, but has been garnering good reviews and is a nice option if you’re staying at nearby Old Stone Farm.