RRockland County New York is 12 miles (19 km) north-northwest of New York City and is part of the New York Metropolitan Area. As New York’s southernmost county west of the Hudson River, it is suburban in nature and has a considerable amount of scenic designated parkland. During the Revolutionary War, Rockland County was a strategic crossroads, camping ground and vital link between the northern and southern colonies. Troops often used Kings Ferry at Stony Point and Dobbs Ferry at Snedens Landing in Palisades.
Rich in history, infused with culture and smitten with small town charm there is no place quite like the village of Nyack. Hayden Panettiere claims it as one of the bright spots of the area. A residential community Nestled on the west shore of the Hudson River, just 25 miles north of New York City, the colorful town is chock full of unique art and antique shops, delicious restaurants, historical landmark, festivals, street fairs, parades, a farmer’s market, theaters, restaurants and nightclubs just waiting to be discovered.
BORN TO PLAY
For an ideal getaway of a weekend or a week, take in the the magnificent Hudson River views, 32,000 acres of unspoiled parklands, rolling mountains and sparkling lakes that once inspired a whole school of American painters. Ideal for hiking, swimming, fishing and boating, it also holds unique historic sites that made important contributions to America’s earliest history. But don’t be fooled by this seemingly rural charm. Because of the county’s proximity to New York City there is a sophistication usually found only in big cities. From the bountiful natural beauty, through key historical significance, Rockland county ends in modern day cool and comfortable.
To take in the beautiful landscape, nothing beats The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, designated a linear National Park by the 1968 National Trails System Act, is a continuous, marked public footpath extending approximately 2,144 miles from Mount Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, Georgia along the Appalachian Mountain range. The trail enters New York state on the ridge overlooking Greenwood Lake, traverses Harriman-Bear Mountain State Park (where the Appalachian trail was first conceived), crosses the Hudson River on the Bear Mountain Bridge, heads northeasterly towards and through Fahnestock State Park until it finally crosses into Connecticut near Kent, CT.
For a more cerebral adventure, revisit The American Revolution in the Hudson River Valley. Fort Montgomery is just north of Popolopen Creek in Bear Mountain State Park. Fort Montgomery and its sister fort, Fort Clinton, were the scenes of fierce American Revolutionary War battles for control of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands. Today, Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin, a genuine vestige of our nation’s struggle for independence.
Lyndhurst Castle in Tarrytown was designed in 1838 by Alexander Jackson Davis. In 1864-65 Davis increased the size of the mansion for the second owner, George Merritt. In 1880, the estate was purchased by Railroad magnate Jay Gould. With a very cool Gothic revival design – stained glass windows, tracery, quatrefoil design, vaulted ceilings and really cool bathrooms it is clear that wealth accumulated here, with valuable paintings and physical pieces of art, books, and more. Each room has a particular theme and a real sense of being in luxury for their time, and even now, while a bit ornate, still embodies a rich culture and schemes of color. A must see! Head to the Hudson river cafe for lunch before or after and enjoy.
Edward Hopper House in Nyack is the birthplace and childhood home of the renowned realist painter and print maker (1882-1967). Since 1971 it has operated as a non-profit art center whose mission is to preserve and maintain Hopper’s birthplace as well as to encourage and nurture community engagement with the arts. Early Hopper work and memorabilia is on view in one gallery, while two other galleries feature the work of emerging and established artists. Lectures, workshops, concerts, and more take place throughout the year.
For nightlife, there are some great local bars to take in the scenery. The Tapp, Tarrytown, NY has a good bartender (i.e. homemade sangria and martinis), and an awesome local beer selection. If you are interested in a late night snack, the kitchen is open late and the food is great, try the pulled pork or meatball sliders, the burgers are great too. 17 N Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591
The Black Bear Saloon, is a sports bar with a solid beer selection, big screen TV’s playing all the games with the direct ticket package and a really good crowd. All in all, definitely a cool spot to watch sports & do some day or night drinking. 82 Main St., Nyack, NY 10960
O’Donoghue’s Tavern A great local bar, with really good food. If you desire a great hangout, this is your place, a mix of local folks, good food, and a relaxed, although busy, place to eat and drink. 66 Main St. Nyack, NY 10960
BORN TO EAT
For more of a dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Hudson House – A longtime favorite in Nyack, formerly the Village Hall, is complete with Jail Cell Wine Cellar and is a great place to unwind and enjoy a fine wine, a spectacular dinner, lunch or Sunday Brunch. You can find it in the heart of the Nyack Scene and directly across from Riverspace/Helen Hayes Theatre.134 Main St. Nyack.
The Lighthouse on the Hudson in the quaint river town of Piermont, is a surf and turf restaurant that seats over one hundred people on its spacious riverside deck, complete with Tiki Bar overlooking the Hudson River with a direct view of the Tappan Zee Bridge. It’s a mini-vacation in itself with a Sunday Brunch that rivals any. Check out the Wine List, featuring world class wines from around the globe, while keeping an emphasis on New York. Located at 71 Piermont Ave. Piermont, NY
Xavier’s Restaurant, another of Piermont’s gourmet gems, has a fabulous 5 course tasting menu with wine pairing. It is a culinary experience in an intimate setting. From the amuse bouche to dessert, you won’t be disappointed 506 Piermont Ave, Piermont, NY 10968
BORN TO SHOP
Palisades Center is a large mall With just about every possible place to satisfy most shoppers. With its I-Max theater, movie theater(w/ stadium seating), gym, barber shop, dentist, tattoos, and even a ferris wheel, you can’t go wrong. There truly is something for everyone.
On the more intimate side, Maria Luisa is a quaint boutique with French music playing in the background, to complete the quaint Parisian shopping vibe. It’a full of distinctive and original items Maria Luisa travels the world to find, and even better Maria will be there to help you personally. 77 S Broadway Nyack, NY 10960
Sanctuary is a lifestyle shop featuring beautiful handmade jewelry, organic clothing, , unique gifts, fair trade and exotic finds. A true feast for the senses, let the beautiful aura of incense & candles draw you into the vibrant, colorful space. Great for gifts for friends, family, or yourself. 60 South Broadway Nyack, NY
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