Top Hudson Valley Activities

By Car

The Hudson Valley is known for its pastoral beauty and scenic highways..so coming by car is always a great choice. Just GPS our address and take advantage of Route 22 or the Taconic State Parkway for the prettiest roadways. Feel free to email us at hello@themillbrookinn.com for advice if you want to make some stops to eat, shop, or take in some historical sights on your way.
3 Gifford Road, Millbrook, NY 12545

By Private Plane

Flight Level Dutchess

Hudson Valley Regional Airport, formerly known as Dutchess County Airport, is in Wappinger Falls, only a short drive from the inn, New York. For complete information on their services, visit their website at flightlevelaviation.com or give them a call at (845) 849-3770 to arrange for your own plane or one of theirs.
flightlevelaviation.com | (845) 849-3770
FAA Identifier: POU

Skyacres Airport

Built from a converted farm and barn, this airport captures the charm of upstate New York. It also houses a great diner and ice cream shop; on weekends, people love to grab some breakfast and watch all the jets come and go. Its less than 15 minutes from the Inn.
skyacresairport.com | (845) 677-5010
FAA Identifier: 44n (Millbrook)

Tradewind Charter

Don’t have your own plane? Charter one. Tradewind Charter can get you here from places like East Hampton, Bar Harbor, and Teiterboro.
flytradewind.com | (800) 376-7922

By Train

There are several stations that get you close to the inn. AMTRAK has a station in Poughkeepsie, 30 minutes west of the inn.
Metro North in NYC has two lines that operate out of Grand Central Station. If you take their Hudson Line to Poughkeepsie, you will have lovely views of the Hudson river most of the journey up. The second line, is the Harlem Line: not as scenic, but will bring you to Dover Plains, only a 15 minute drive from the inn. You can pre-arrange to have taxis or car rentals meet you at either. See our car information for options.

Local Car Service

Millbrook Car Service

Available 24/7, offering taxi services from the airport, train, or any local trips you need.
(845) 677-1000

Hertz and Enterprise Car Rental

Hertz and Enterprise both have local locations in Poughkeepsie, and are willing to make pick up and drop off arrangements at Skyacres Airport or the train stations. Call the local offices to make your arrangements.
Hertz Car Rental: (845) 462-6160
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: (845) 485-2222

Whether its hiking, horseback riding, golf or hunting, Hudson Valley has something for the outdoor-love in everyone. Check out our sporty list of things to do near Millbrook, NY.

Orvis Sandanona

For an outdoorsman, there can be no better thrill than a day at Orvis Sandanona, located right here in Millbrook. Housed on an estate that began during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, history and beauty come together in the oldest permitted shotgun shooting club in the country. Open 363 days a year, it welcomes seasoned shooters and first timers equally. Attend one of the world-famous 1 and 2 day schools specializing in wingshooting, upland hunting, and fly fishing. If you don’t have time to commit to a full day, book a private lesson! Whether its sporting clays, guided fly fishing or hunting, or your very first lesson, there is something for everyone.
orvis.com | (845) 677-9701

The Links At Union Vale

Just 15 minutes from the inn, this 18-hole championship public course has been ranked #2 in New York State by Best of Golf Advisor. It has spectacular views of the Catskill mountains, and the natural shape of the land, with its swells and natural hills result in a challenging course, with tees that range in length from 5198 yards to nearly 7000 yards. The course features an online booking system, so you can make your tee times in advance, and rest assured your weekend of golf is set and ready to go. The club also features a pro shop with everything you need for a day on the links, and offers lessons if you are interested. The course and pro shop are open daily until dusk.
luvgolf.com | (845) 223-1002

Innisfree Garden

Recognized as one of the world’s best gardens, it was designed at the height of mid-century design and sensibility. For over 50 years, landscape architect and Harvard Professor Lester Collins oversaw the creation of this Asian-inspired landscape garden on the Millbrook country estate of heiress Marion Burt Beck and her husband, artist Walter Beck. Cliffs, waterfalls, streams, and picnic spots dot the 40-acre lake that is the centerpiece of the 150 acre garden. It may be enjoyed on your own, but guided tours are also available. Either way, wear hiking boots! The garden’s website offers a convenient digital map of the gardens and its highlights on the walking path, which can be downloaded onto your phone. There is parking on site. Email the office to inquire about private guided tours.
innisfreegarden.org | (845) 677-8000

Wethersfield Estate & Garden

This 1000-acre estate was built by Devereux Stillman (whose grandfather founded what eventually became Citibank). He was an avid conservationist, art lover, and equestrian. Now the estate is open for guided tours of his home and 10 acres of formal gardens; and the rest of the acres and acres of property is filled with beautiful hiking/riding trails that you are free to investigate on your own. Check out the website for a trail map you can download, plus a schedule of great events each summer weekend, like educational bird walks; book signings, and art exhibitions. House and gardens are open May through September. The trials are open all year long, so think of show shoes; cross country skiing, and horse-drawn carriage rides in the winter.
wethersfield.org | (845) 373-8037

Sure, the Hudson Valley is full of outdoor adventure; but there is an abundance of history, art, antiques, and just all around fun things to do in Millbrook, NY. Here are just a few ideas: check with us about the many activities in Millbrook and beyond.

Walkway Over The Hudson

The world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, it spans the Hudson River and connects the cities of Poughkeepsie and Highland. Open 7 A.M till Sunset everyday, and every season has its own unique view. The walkway also offers an audio tour in 4 languages, so you can listen to while on the bridge. After your visit, stop by Rossi’s Deli on the Poughkeepsie side, whose roasted sandwiches were voted best sandwich in New York State.
walkway.org

FDR Presidential Library

Built on the site of FDR’s childhood home, this is a must- see for history-buffs. The museum is wonderful self-guided interactive experience that takes you through his historic presidency. His home, intact with his original furniture and art, is also open for view..and you can add a ticket for Val Kill Cottage, Eleanor Roosevelt’s home. Open at 9AM every morning, it offers you plenty of time to explore the museum, home, and grounds…and then enjoy lunch at the Culinary Institute of America, located minutes away.
fdrlibrary.org | (800) 337-8474

Culinary Institute of America

Located right on the Hudson River, The Culinary Institute Of America is recognized as the world’s premier culinary college, but there are dozens of classes open to the public during the summer months when school is off-session. Try a single skill class for an hour or two, or commit to a “mini boot camp” and spend a weekend upping your “chef game” in the various courses they offer; use the inn as your home base for a good night’s sleep!
ciachef.edu | (845) 452-9600

Millbrook Shopping District

With its quaint storefronts and tree-lined streets, shopping in Millbrook is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Located right on Millbrook’s Franklin Avenue shopping district..the Millbrook Antiques Center has been operating for nearly 30 years and features over 25 dealers under one roof, so there is sure to be something for every taste. Alicia Adams Alpaca raises her own local alpaca wool to make artisanal, unique home decor and apparel. Merritt Bookstore is a real old-fashioned bookstore, where the employees actually read the books and can answer your questions.
millbrooknewyork.com

For every season there is a reason to come to Dutchess County! From antique car shows to pre-broadway summer theater; from county fairs to pick-your-own Christmas trees; there is always a reason to spend a weekend in Millbrook, NY. Below are just a few; reach out to us for dozens more!

The Millbrook Horse Trials

Held every summer, this is one of the largest equestrian competitions on the East Coast: where top riders from around the world use the event as an opportunity to get their horses ready to qualify for the international and team competitions that dominate the Fall season. What’s also great about this event: its free to the public! Spectators are given free entrance into the 4 day event, and are allowed to roam around the grounds and watch hundreds of horses and their riders in the dressage, jumping, and cross country events that take place throughout the day. Attendees will also get a chance to enjoy the wide array of local restaurants and vineyards who set up booths for annual event.
millbrookhorsetrials.com

Powerhouse Theater Festival

A summer staple for 35 years, this summer theater season is a partnership with Vassar College and New York Stage and Film. Its an opportunity to see complete shows before they make their way to broadway, but also works-in-progress: Hamilton famously was workshopped here. You can purchase single tickets, or for the season. But this is something you need to plan ahead, as tickets sell out fast. Check their schedule and order tickets online. As its less than 30 minutes away from the inn, we make a great place to stay for your all your summer theater needs. Their box office is open June-July.
vassar.edu/powerhouse | (845) 437-5599

Dutchess County Fair

August means there’s is a county fair happening somewhere…and the Dutchess County Fair is not only recognized as the largest agricultural fair in NYS, but industry “insiders” know this is the best 6-day fair in the country. Formed in 1841, it is also one of the oldest! It has grown from a purely agricultural fair to one that also features nightly live concerts; amusement park rides and foods; animal races, turn-of-century life with live blacksmith demonstrations, dog competitions, and a horticultural center with dozens of themed gardens. Located in Rhinebeck, it is only a short drive north of the inn, which makes us a great base to really experience all the fair has to offer. There is a fair app to download to purchase tickets and follow each day’s sked, so you don’t miss a thing.
dutchessfair.com | (845) 876-4000

Spring and Fall Antiques At Rhinebeck

Held every Memorial Day weekend and again in the Fall, this iconic antiques show spans two days and features dozens of upscale exhibitors from all over the country. It features rugs, jewelry, furniture, porcelain and ceramics, books, folk art, textiles, watches..there is really something for everyone. Let the inn give you an early breakfast, so you can get an early start and be ready to shop till you drop!
barnstar.com | barnstar1@aol.com

Pick-Your-Own Farms

The area is surrounded by all sorts of “pick-your-own” farms for every season: from pumpkins and apples in the fall; Christmas trees in December; or berries in the spring; there is always something to pick. It’s a great way to connect with the land, and to keep enjoying it for days after you are back home. Try Fishkill Farms, beginning with strawberries in June and ending with pumpkins and a cider bar in October (and everything else in between). Barton Orchards is the premiere apple orchard in the area, with a farm-stand and shop that sells their own cider (and cider donuts of course!). Evergreen Farm is your full-service Christmas wreath and tree farm: they will cut and carry it to your car for you, or they will lend you the tools to do it all yourself.
pickyourown.farm

The Vintage at The Millbrook Inn

At our on-site restaurant, the term “local food” is taken literally. We insist that our restaurant menu is sourced only from the finest ingredients in the Hudson Valley. Our elevated, but not fussy, American cuisine is crafted with ingredients of every kind from the local farmers and purveyors. Our bar carries the same theme, showcasing the best spirits and wines produced right here in Millbrook and the Hudson Valley, and in New York state.
The Vintage | (845) 605-1120

Cafe Les Baux

Locals and weekenders alike go here for its cozy atmosphere, French bistro fare, and extensive wine list. Rated the #1 French Bistro in Dutchess and Westchester Counties by Zagat.
cafelesbaux.com | (845) 677-8166

Barbaro

Modern Italian with a wood-burning pizza oven turning out delicious pizzas; extensive menu, and wonderful terrace if you want to sit outside.
barbaromillbrook.com | (845) 677-4440

Canoe Hill Market

Located right in the center of town, this market features a full bar, barista, amazing prepared foods, wine and purveyed goods. Grab a cocktail or speciality coffee, sit outside at a bistro table and take a shopping break!
canoehillny.com

Serevan

Chef Serge Madikians is a a James Beard Award nominee and has been recognized as Best Chef in the Hudson Valley. His farm-to-table cuisine is presented through an Armenian/Iranian lens, giving you some of the most creative cuisine in the valley. Housed in a charming historic home, be sure to ask for the table by the fireplace.
serevan.com | (845) 373-9800

There is an explosion of food, spirits, and vineyards in every town surrounding the inn; here are just a few suggestions for restaurants and eateries near Millbrook, NY, but please reach out to us for many more countless others to suit every taste and mood.

Tenmile Distillery

Owned by a 4th generation Millbrook farming family who brought a Scottish Master Distiller on board, this Distillery isn’t only beautiful, it packs a punch. A must on your “to-do” list when you visit. The produce several spirits, including gin, vodka, and whiskey (of course). You can book your visit online on their website and have Master Distiller Shane Fraser share and taste his passion with you personally!
tenmiledistillery.com | (845) 877-6399

Taconic Distillery

Taconic Distillery produces the number one craft bourbon in New York State. Their award-winning bourbon and rye are made in small batches, using local grains and natural spring water right from their property The term “farm to table” really means something here! The distillery features a tasting room, lawn games, and a fire pit overlooking the scenic farmland. No reservations needed, and feel free to bring your own lunch!
taconicdistillery.com | (845) 393-458

Shady Knoll Distillery

Shady Knoll is one of a few distilleries in New York State that grows its ingredients on its farm and is certified as “New York Grown & Certified”. Their single barrel Rye Whiskey is small-batch, barrel-aged for over 4 years, and distilled and bottled on site. For their Shady Knoll Apple Brandy, they combine over 120 varieties of European and American apples then distill the flavorful juice in French brandy distilling equipment. Shady Knolls is only minutes from the inn, and welcomes visitors to tour their facilities and taste the spirits.
shadyknolldistillery.com

Millbrook Winery

Millbrook Winery is 35 years old, and considered “Hudson Vallley’s flagship winery” by the New York Times, and offer weekend tastings every half hour.
millbrookwine.com

Milea Estate Vineyard

Milea Estate Vineyard is the youngest of the three, but Travel and Leisure Magazine recently named this winery one of the 12 best in New York State. Tastings of wine and hard cider available Wednesday-Fridays.
mileaestatevineyard.com