Up North Part 1: Hudson Valley

Day 1: Any morning that starts in the country is a good one. Take your pick from outdoor yoga at Fishkill Farms followed by their delicious apple cider donuts, to a drive up towards Millerton, NY to indulge in antiquing on Main Street. McEnroe Organic Farm also makes for a fun farm visit friendly animals and fresh farm stand. Depending on the season, ask about the asparagus and strawberries!

And there is no shortage of art & culture in the area, whether it is Storm King Art Center, which is stimulating and vast enough for a full day in itself, or a combination of Dia Beacon in the converted Nabisco Factory to the brand new Magazzino Italian Art which is an art space focusing on Post-War and Contemporary Italian art.

Best way to enjoy the evenings in the country is by cooking and gathering friends around the table. What better feast than the one that uses all the farm fresh ingredients gathered from your day and a stop at Adam's Fairacre Farms which sources local produce and meats from surrounding farms.

Day 2: A drive further up towards Hudson is worth the trip for a stroll through the charming town. Stop for brunch at one of the many local farm to table establishments such as Rivertown Lodge, which can have a long wait, or Grazin, the local diner with delicious grass fed burgers and more.

A walk along Warren Street will reveal a mix of design, antique and contemporary concept stores to feast the eyes and satisfy any shopper. Be sure to also check out the Basilica Hudson event calendar for art shows, flea markets and concerts.

Find an excuse to stop by Wm. Farmer & Sons, for an early dinner or creative cocktails. Another option is Crimson Sparrow, where you can enjoy a cocktail in their courtyard garden.

Alternative Day 2: After breakfast or brunch and a stroll along Warren street in Hudson, continue down to Rhinebeck for it's traditional charm. If you have room for lunch, choose between contemporary Italian on the casual porch of Market St or the historic charm of Liberty Public House.

If there's room for one last stop, my favorite is to Mercato in Red Hook for an early Sunday night dinner before driving back to the city. The seasonal menu and the local crowd never fails to please.