If you’re planning a vacation to the Hudson Valley and have a furry friend, I’m sure the question “Are you dog friendly?” has crossed your mind! Being a short two hour drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley is the perfect getaway for city dwellers looking to exchange the hustle and bustle of city life for small town charm, winding back roads and epic pet-friendly adventures.
Pack your bags and get ready to set your feet (and their paws) into some of our favorite pet-friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley!
For the Views
Walkway over the Hudson – Access in Poughkeepsie & Highland, NY
The Walkway Over the Hudson has become a right of passage in the Hudson Valley. Connecting the towns of Highland and Poughkeepsie, the bridge stretches over the majestic Hudson River. Dress extra warm as it can get a bit breezy up there in the colder seasons. Chances are you’ll see a lot of other cute dogs enjoying the smells and scenery, people rollerblading and jogging, and everyone enjoying the view.
Shaupeneak Ridge Park – New Paltz, NY
Located in eastern Ulster County in the town of Esopus, Shaupeneak Ridge Park is a sprawling 790 acre recreational forest best known for its scenic hikes, beautiful scenery, and an abundance of wildlife making it a great choice to visit any time of the year. Whether you are biking, walking, or enjoying wildlife your dog is welcome to join on a leash!
Ulster County Dog Park – New Paltz, NY
Because every dog-friendly list should include a dog park! Located in Ulster county, For Paws Park is a volunteer managed dog park that is the perfect stop for anyone with a furry friend looking to give your dog a place to run around unleashed and make some new friends.
Ferncliff Forest – Rhinebeck, NY
This 200 acre forest is available for hiking, biking, fishing and picnics at no charge. Ferncliff Forest has a fire tower that leads you up to breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley. Pets are not allowed on the fire tower, however they can enjoy the rest of the day with you in the beautiful Ferncliff Forest.
For the Food Treats & Trinkets
Main Street – New Paltz, NY
New Paltz is one of the most popular tourist areas in the Hudson Valley. A walk through the town will you bring you past quaint coffee shops, delicious eateries, and awesome shops for trinkets.
After browsing Main Street you and your sidekick can enjoy a delicious lunch at:
- Huckleberry
- Schatzi’s Bier Garden
- The Parish
- Lola’s Cafe
Twin Star Orchards – New Paltz, NY
You won’t want to miss this! Enjoy a beautiful walk through the orchard and around the lake, wood-fired pizzas, burgers and award winning hard apple cider from Brooklyn Cider House. You can catch live music on the weekends, and sit by a firepit with your pup while you enjoy the gorgeous scenery of upstate, NY.
Stone Ridge Orchard – Stone Ridge, NY
This 200 year old working orchard is located on a 115 acre farm in the heart of the Rondout Valley. Enjoy their extensive offerings including camping, apple picking, and cider tastings all in the beautiful timeless setting of an Upstate New York apple orchard.
Whether you and pup prefer being deep in trails, strolling through small towns or the combination, the Hudson Valley is a great place to be. We know how important it is to be able to bring your dog – and these are some of our favorite places to go!