If you’re like me and need a break from the non-stop energy of NYC, here’s what you need: a day trip to Cold Spring, NY—a cozy village upstate in the Hudson Valley that’s just a 1.5-hour train ride away.
I’ve been here a few times now, and every visit feels like a breath of fresh air (literally). Whether you’re into hiking, history, or just chilling by the river, Cold Spring has something for everyone.
In this guide to Cold Spring, I’ll walk you through all the best things to do in Cold Spring, from must-see spots to hidden gems. So grab your tea and let’s start planning the perfect day trip to Cold Spring!
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Is Cold Spring, NY worth visiting?
Do you love the outdoors? The hikes, the trails, and being one with nature?
Btw, you’ll also love Untermeyer Park and Garden in Yonkers!
Or maybe you’re all about shopping in cute boutiques and hunting for treasures in antique stores?
And hey, history fans—what if I told you that this tiny village of just 2,000 people has a fascinating industrial past that played a key role in the Civil War?
If you said YES to any of the above, then the village of Cold Spring is absolutely worth your visit! This cozy little place is packed with outdoor activities and offers such a refreshing contrast to the fast-paced city life.
So it’s no wonder that it’s a popular spot for New Yorkers who’re looking to swap skyscrapers for scenic hikes, cute antique shops, and some of the best ice cream around.
Cold Spring in the fall is especially a popular time to visit because it’s one of the best places to see the fall foliage.
How to Spend a Day in Cold Spring
I’ve been to Cold Spring so many times—it’s one of my favorite Hudson Valley getaways. Honestly, one day in Cold Spring is never enough, which is why I keep coming back!
This one-day Cold Spring itinerary is based on a recent day trip I took with two friends. Use it as a guide to plan your own perfect day, whether you follow it step-by-step or mix and match to create your ideal adventure!
Boscobel House and Gardens
Our first stop of the day was the Boscobel House and Gardens, and it turned out to be the perfect way to kick off our Cold Spring adventure. Here’s why we started here:
- Convenient Location: If you’re driving from NYC, Boscobel is right on the way to Cold Spring. It’s practically a no-brainer to stop by!
- The Marsh Trail: I was really excited to check out the marsh, and Boscobel has one of the entrances that leads there.
- Weather Issues: The forecast predicted rain later in the day, so we wanted to make the most of the sunny morning by tackling all the outdoor activities first.
As soon as we stepped onto the property, I was struck by the rows of apple trees—big, round, and perfectly ripe apples everywhere! They looked so juicy! Honestly, I was very tempted to grab an apple.
But, as if they could read my mind, there was a giant sign that said, “Do not pick the apples.” (Guess I’ll have to settle for apple-picking at an orchard next time!)
The entrance fee to access the grounds and the mansion is $14. You can buy the ticket at the visitor’s center near the parking lot. There’s also a gift shop in the center if you want souvenirs.
The only part of the 19th century Georgian mansion open to visitors is the basement. This is where they showcase the before and after photos of the restoration of the mansion. And it’s pretty interesting to see.
Once you walk to the edge of the grounds, you’re welcomed by a beautiful view of the wetlands below. As a group of three girls that love taking pictures, we spent way more time here than planned. We ended up needing to cross off a few things on our original itinerary. Oops.
So if you love snapping photos, allocate more time to your plans as a buffer!
Trails in the Boscobel House and Gardens
There are also two trails you can take from the property. One trail (easy) loops around the woods and the other trail (moderately hard) takes you down to the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary.
The Constitution Marsh is 270 acres of wetland on the Hudson Valley. You can find over 200 species of birds, so it’s great if you love birdwatching.
Since we did not plan to do any hiking, none of us were in hiking gears. So we attempted the easier loop. On the trail, you’ll get to see more of the wetland and a view of the West Point Military Academy across the river.
Spray TONS of bug repellent before you enter the woods!
I’m not exaggerating when I say these blood suckers are super toxic. I had the bites swell up more than a few inches! It’s still a mystery how I am the only one out of three that became mosquito food, even though we all use the same repellent…
Shopping at the Modern Maker’s Market
When we finally left the Boscobel House and Gardens and made it to town, we happened across the Modern Maker’s Market. We were pretty lucky because it’s only scheduled for a couple of weekends each year.
Honesty, we had way too much fun: browsing, talking to the vendors, trying out the samples, and leaving with a few souvenirs. If you have a flexible schedule, definitely come on a weekend when this takes place!
Walking around Main Street in the Village of Cold Spring
Next up, we walked around Main Street, going into all the boutiques and antique stores. Whenever we saw a photo op, we stopped for photos. I got no excuses -> Main Street is incredibly photogenic. You won’t be leaving Cold Spring without a bunch of photos in your album, that’s for sure!
On the way to the waterfront, we took a break from the heat and ate some delightful homemade ice cream at Moo Moo’s Creamery. It got my attention because it’s self-declared to be the world’s best ice cream shop!
Which is why I was unsurprised to find the place super packed. I mean…I can’t be the only one curious whether it can live up to its claims! Plus, the intense sun did not help.
It’s a really refreshing treat after being out in the heat, but the ice cream was melting like crazy. We were rushing to finish it before it turned into a puddle. Since I didn’t get to enjoy the ice cream in its perfect form, I can’t say if it’s THE BEST ice cream in the world, but I love the flavor.
Finally, for our last stop in Cold Spring, we walked to the Cold Spring Pier for some beautiful views of the Hudson Valley. The dockside park is a great place to unwind, take in the views, and enjoy the breeze from the water.
More Things to Do in Cold Spring, NY
Cold Spring might be small, but it’s packed with charm and plenty of activities to fill your day. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or just shopping around town, here are the best things to do in Cold Spring to make the most of your visit!
West Point Foundry Preserve
Did you know the West Point Foundry played a huge role during the Civil War, producing munitions for the Union Army? It’s such a big part of Cold Spring’s history that the village was named a Federal Historic District in 1973. How cool is that?
As a bit of a history nerd, I love digging into the stories behind the places I visit, and this preserve is a goldmine. If you’re like me, you won’t want to miss it!
And if you want to dive even deeper into the history, stop by the Putnam History Museum. It’s packed with exhibits about the foundry and the history of Putnam County!
Water Activities: Kayaks, Canoes, and Paddleboards
If you’re looking to explore the Hudson River Valley by water, why not rent a kayak, canoe, or paddle board? Hudson River Expedition offers rentals from May to October. While they accept walk-ins, I highly recommend booking online to secure your spot.
You can paddle through some beautiful spots, including:
- Foundry Cove
- Constitution Marsh
- Along the Cold Spring shoreline
It’s the perfect way to experience the river and take in the stunning views!
Bannerman Castle
Did you know there’s a castle near Cold Spring? It’s on the Pollepel Island in the Hudson Valley.
If you take the Hudson line train to Beacon, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the castle from afar. You won’t be able to see anything if you’re driving because the trees will obstruct the views of the Hudson River.
To get onto the island for a closer look, I recommend booking one of the official tours. They even got seasonal tours!
Magazzino Italian Art Museum
Just a little bit further from town, you’ll find the Magazzino Italian Art Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum and research center focuses on postwar and contemporary Italian art.
For just $3, you can conveniently catch their round trip shuttle service from the Cold Spring train station. The ride to the museum takes around 15 minutes. Best part? They timed their schedule to match up with the incoming trains from Grand Central Station.
Go Hiking in Cold Spring
Cold Spring is a nature lover’s paradise, with spots like Hudson Highlands State Park and the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center offering endless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for you—from the easy Cornish Estate Trail to the challenging Breakneck Ridge.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring an insulated water bottle to keep your water cold and some bug spray to keep those annoying bugs away!
Farmer’s Markets in Cold Spring
Cold Spring Farmer’s Market
If you’re looking to support local farms and grab some fresh, locally grown produce, don’t miss the Farmer’s Market located right outside Boscobel House and Gardens every Saturday. SNAP & EBT benefits are accepted!
There are two schedules:
- Summer (May-October): Open 8:30am – 1pm
- Winter (November-April): Open 10am – 1pm
Modern Maker’s Market
You’ll have over 60+ venders of artisans, designers, and artists showing off their craft in this Modern Maker’s Market. There are free samples you can try before you buy, so you know you’ll love it!
I seriously love everything. If I can, I’ll buy everything, but I got a budget and limited hands. One of my best purchases was these beautifully designed handmade soaps. It made a wonderful gift for friends!
| Modern Marker’s Market Schedule | 2025 Weekend Dates |
| Time: 11am-5pm | May 17 & 18 |
| Place: St. Mary’s Episcopal Church | June 7 & 8 |
| Free admission | August 2 |
| September 6 & 7 | |
| source: Hops on the Hudson | November 8 & 9 |
Boutique and Antique Shopping in Cold Spring
I had a blast exploring the charming boutiques and antique shops along the Main Street in Cold Spring. They have an amazing collection of vintage clothing and antiques that you won’t want to miss!
Oh, and my friend scored her absolute favorite leather jacket from one of the antique stores.
- Supplies for Creative Living: Plenty of art supplies and cute stationeries.
- The Shoppes at Historic Palen’s Drug Store: It’s like opening the door to a wonderland. Made up of smaller shops inside, you get a variety from spices, comics, vinyls, to even Japanese goods!
- Cold Spring Apothecary and Wellness House: Stock up on candles and diffusers. There’s even a full on spa service, which is perfect after a day of hiking!
Best Restaurants & Cafes in Cold Spring, NY
Here are some personal and local favorites! Yep, I made sure to ask around for dining recs from the locals.
- Cathryn’s: Craving Tuscan food? This spot got you covered, plus they have a lovely garden if you want outdoor seating! It’s the perfect weekend lunch spot on a sunny day.
- Riverview Restaurant: A local favoritefor comfort food, known for its great service and friendly staff.
- Cold Spring Depot: A former train depot turned eatery, serving classic American comfort food. And yes, since it’s right next to the train tracks, passing trains are part of the charm!
- Le Bouchon: A cozy French bistro for when you’re in the mood for classic French fare.
- Rincon Argentino: This Argentinian cafe has such a cute exterior. You have to try their empanadas!
- Angie’s Bake Shop & Cafe: A cute little bakery with delicious pastries for a quick breakfast in the morning. Just a heads up- there are no restrooms here!
- J Murphy’s on Main: Perfect for big groups. Great atmosphere and large portions for food.
Honorable mention: Hudson Hil’s used to be one of Cold Spring’s best spots to grab brunch. Unfortunately, it’s now permanently closed.
Where To Stay In Cold Spring
Accommodations in Cold Spring itself are pretty limited. Most of the village inns only take reservations through their own websites or by phone. Keep in mind, these inns often have a minimum stay requirement for weekends, so they’re better suited for a full weekend getaway.
- Pig Hill Inn
- Hudson House River Inn – riverside hotel
If you’re looking for more options, you’ll have better luck finding apartment rentals on Airbnb. Or, consider staying in nearby towns in Putnam County —there are plenty of great places just a short drive away!
- Cold Spring Hotel – One of the few rare ones you can book online
- Beacon Hermitage – If you have a car, it’s a super short drive.
Getting to Cold Spring from New York City
Cold Spring is the perfect day trip because of how easy it is to get to from NYC, whether you’re driving or taking public transit.
If you’re going by train, just hop on the Metro-North Hudson Line at Grand Central Terminal and enjoy a scenic ride along the Hudson River.
No matter how you get there, the trip takes about 1.5 hours (depending on where you’re coming from).
To make things even easier, I’ve put together a guide on how to get to Cold Spring from NYC—check it out!
Final Thoughts
Cold Spring is one of the most popular weekend getaways from NYC, and it’s easy to see why. With its charming small-town vibe, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, it’s the perfect escape for anyone looking to trade city life for a day of relaxation and adventure.
With this list of the best things to do in Cold Spring, you’re bound to have an amazing time! So pack your bag, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with this Hudson Valley gem. Happy exploring!
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2 comments
Great post! Does the one-day trip really give enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed? Also, is the train from NYC easy to manage for a spontaneous day trip?
Thank you!! One day is definitely plenty of time to explore the town of Cold Spring. Most people will go on a hiking trail in the morning, grab lunch, and then shop around Main Street in the afternoon. And even after that, you’ll still have time to fit in more activities if you want.
The train runs about once every hour, so you don’t have to stress too much about planning ahead — I’m all for spontaneous trips! If you want more details, feel free to check out the post I wrote about getting from NYC to Cold Spring by train.