Insights & Travel Guides

Your guide to the best of the Hudson Valley and Catskills

Scenic Hudson Valley landscape view from Birchwood estate in Accord NY

March 15, 2026·8 min

Best Things to Do in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley offers an extraordinary range of experiences — world-class hiking, award-winning restaurants, vibrant arts scenes, and charming small towns, all within 90 minutes of NYC.

Birchwood luxury estate exterior perfect for weekend getaways from NYC

Travel Guide

March 15, 2026·7 min

Weekend Getaways from NYC: Escape to the Catskills

Just 90 minutes from Manhattan, the Catskills offer the perfect weekend reset — mountain air, stunning hikes, incredible food, and the kind of quiet that recharges your soul.

Cozy interior at Birchwood estate near Kingston NY

Local Culture

March 15, 2026·7 min

Kingston NY Guide: Where to Eat, Shop & Stay

Kingston is the cultural capital of the Hudson Valley — a city of stone buildings, world-class restaurants, independent shops, and a thriving arts scene just 25 minutes from Birchwood.

Natural landscape near Birchwood ideal for hiking the Shawangunk Ridge

Outdoor Adventure

March 15, 2026·9 min

Hiking Guide: Mohonk Preserve & Minnewaska State Park

The Shawangunk Ridge is home to some of the best hiking on the East Coast. Here's your complete guide to trails at Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park.

Artistic retreat setting at Birchwood near Woodstock NY

Local Culture

March 15, 2026·7 min

Woodstock NY Guide: Music, Art & Nature

Woodstock has been a beacon for artists, musicians, and free spirits for over a century. Today it's a vibrant village where creativity, nature, and community come together.

Outdoor adventure basecamp Birchwood near New Paltz NY

Local Culture

March 15, 2026·7 min

New Paltz Guide: Rock Climbing, Breweries & More

New Paltz is where outdoor adventure meets college-town charm — world-class climbing at the Gunks, craft breweries, a vibrant Main Street, and easy access to the Shawangunk Ridge.

Elegant gathering space at Birchwood perfect after Hudson Valley wine tasting

Local Culture

March 15, 2026·7 min

Hudson Valley Wineries & Distilleries Worth Visiting

The Hudson Valley is one of America's oldest wine regions, and today it's home to world-class wineries, craft distilleries, and cideries worth a dedicated afternoon or full-day tour.

Seasonal

March 15, 2026·8 min

Best Seasons to Visit the Hudson Valley

Every season in the Hudson Valley brings its own magic — spring wildflowers, summer swimming, spectacular fall foliage, and cozy winter retreats by the fire.

Family-friendly outdoor space at Birchwood estate in the Catskills

Travel Guide

March 15, 2026·9 min

Family-Friendly Activities in the Catskills & Hudson Valley

The Catskills and Hudson Valley are a natural family playground — easy hikes, farm visits, swimming holes, and rainy-day museums keep kids entertained and parents relaxed.

Luxury interior at Birchwood vacation rental in Accord NY

Booking Tips

March 15, 2026·5 min

Why Book Direct? Save on Your Hudson Valley Vacation

Booking directly at Birchwood saves you 10% compared to Airbnb and VRBO — no platform fees, best rate guaranteed, and direct communication with your hosts.