The season is changing, and fall is the perfect time to venture outside of the city to take in the beautiful, lush scenery that is abundant just a short train ride outside of Manhattan. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, the Hamptons, North Fork and Hudson Valley offer a wide variety of outdoor activities that make these spots perfect for an autumn mini-vacation: vineyards, pumpkin patches, vibrant fall leaves and apple orchards all beckon. This is the season to throw on your favorite wool sweater and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Southold, NY
Southold, NY located on the northern Long Island’s North Fork peninsula, is known for being New York’s wine country. Test your palate with a trip to Mattebella Vineyards, whose sustainable practices offer a cleaner, healthier and more environmentally friendly approach to the art of handcrafted winemaking. Enjoy tastings from their vault of old world blends as well as their standard varieties of chardonnay, reds and roses. Be sure to bring a bottle back for a taste of nostalgia.
When seeking a family-friendly attraction, plan a day of pumpkin and apple picking at Woodside Orchards near Jamesport. Woodside Orchards was established in 1982 and has received critical acclaim for their baked goods and their farm that produces more than 20 varieties of apples seasonally. For $15 a peck, families can roam the grounds and pick their own apples during the months of September and October. Don’t forget to try a slice of their famous Best Ever Apple Pie.
East Hampton
Creative souls will find solace at the Art House Bed and Breakfast’s rustic setting in beautiful East Hampton. Local artists Rosalind Brenner and Michael Cardacino have acquired positive real estate PR for their unique and spacious villa located in a country setting with access to activities like kayaking, fishing and beachcombing. Those with artistic lifestyles will especially appreciate the original works that line the halls. The luxurious waterfall hot tub brings an added calm to the relaxing atmosphere that Brenner and Cardacino cultivate.
Make a short trek to the neighborhood of Amagansett for a day boutique shopping. Fine tastes are appeased at well-known jewelry shops like Tiffany & Co. and Gloria Jewel, while Teelia Peploe, opened by an Australian designer, offers unique clothing and biodegradable shoes, a part of her own unique brand development. Gone Local is another popular neighborhood destination for high-end gifts and craftwork from local artisans.
Ulster County, Hudson Valley
Located 90-minutes north of New York City, Ulster County embodies the phrase “farm-to-table” with an endless number of family farms and sustainable dining. For visitors seeking a decadent weekend, the Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa in Milton, NY offers premium lodging and a gourmet restaurant on a 40-acre farm where alpacas, miniature donkeys and angora goats also reside. Enjoy an organic massage, then dine at Henry’s on the Farm, which sources fresh herbs, greens, rhubarb, apples, eggs and honey from the surrounding grounds to curate an ethically sound and unforgettable menu.
The 1850 House and Tavern is another option for those accommodated to the upper-crust lifestyle. The recent $1.5 million renovation brings upscale amenities to the historic building which still features a unique collection of antique compasses and kaleidoscopes. Its close proximity to a number of galleries and the beloved Rosendale Theatre makes it an attractive option for couples and families looking to enhance their relaxing getaway with world-class cultural activities.
Photo courtesy of: Kenny Louie