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Explore the Historic Hudson Valley Village of Rhinebeck

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2024-05-04 06:56:00

For more than 300 years, folks have traveled from near and far to explore the village of Rhinebeck in Upstate New York’s Hudson Valley. Established in 186, Rhinebeck enjoys a rich history, as well as plenty of attractions and activities, shopping and dining opportunities, places to stay, outdoor recreation, arts and entertainment, and more, all situated in charming setting filled with tree-lined streets and historic architecture.

Rhinebeck is home to one of the largest historic districts in the country, with historic sites and unique homes and architecture seemingly around every turn. Many big names in American history have left there mark here: Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was born and spent his life in nearby Hyde Park, began his presidential campaign in Rhinebeck, and his niece lived at what is now the Wilderstein Historic Site.


The Hudson Valley has also been home to many powerful and influential families who shaped American history, including the Livingstons and Astors, as well as modern actors, musicians, and other public figures. Rhinebeck is also home to the oldest inn in America, Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn, which has been open since 1766—before the Revolutionary War—as well as many other unique and boutique lodging options, including spas and bed and bed and breakfasts to help visitors relax and unwind.  


Another of Rhinebeck’s claims to fame is the famous Old Rhinebeck Aerodome, a comprehensive living history museum open from May to October with more than 60 vintage aircraft, classic cars, and other unique exhibits on the history of aviation, as well as biplane rides, air shows and more.

The Town is well-known for its robust arts, culture, and culinary scene, with plenty of museums and galleries, performing arts and independent film venues, and restaurants ranging from family-friendly casual to fine dining, many with a farm-to-table focus on local products, in-season ingredients, and culinary creations from a variety of diverse cuisines. You can also sample local flavor at the Rhinebeck Farmers Market, which won a Best of the Hudson Valley award in 2022 and is held in the village’s municipal parking lot on Sundays from early May through December.


There are more than 40 unique shops within the village, many featuring products made by local artisans, and local wineries and breweries can be found nearby. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the miles of hiking and biking trails to be found throughout the area, along with local parks like Legion Park, home to Crystal Lake and Asher Dam, to get some fresh air and take in the beautiful views.  


A variety of events and activities fill the calendar throughout the year, especially because Rhinebeck is also home to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. The fairgrounds host the Rhinebeck Crafts Festival each June; the Dutchess County Fair each August; the Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival each September; and the Rhinebeck Handcrafted Oktoberfest and New York State Sheep and Wool Festival each October. The annual day-long Sinterklaas Festival is not held at the fairgrounds, but on the streets of Rhinebeck each December as the holiday season kicks off, and a variety of other special events take place throughout the village year-round.


Whether you’re looking for shopping and dining, festivals and events, outdoor recreation, arts and entertainment, or the opportunity to explore history, you can find all of it in Rhinebeck, making this Hudson Valley village is a must-add to any itinerary, no matter the time of year.

 
PHOTO CREDITS

Wilderstein historic site photo credit Enjoy Rhinebeck
Beekman Arms photo credit Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn
Planes photo credit Old Rhinebeck Aerodome
Shops on street photo credit Enjoy Rhinebeck
Lake view photo credit Rhinebeck Area Chamber of Commerce
Dutchess County Fair photo credit Dutchess County Fairgrounds

 

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