Weekend Getaway: Rhinebeck, NY
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In summer and fall, weekend warriors, artists, winemakers, and organic farmers all converge on Rhinebeck, a village in New York’s Hudson River Valley. Though it’s just 120 miles north of New York City, Rhinebeck’s colonial history, gourmet food, and beautiful countryside make it feel worlds away from the Big Apple. Taste some wine, buy heirloom veggies, catch the sunset over the river—and be sure to save time for a massage before you head home.
Where to stay
Oozes History: 1766 Beekman Arms
FDR delivered his victory speeches from the front porch of this charming old inn that hosted George Washington and Alexander Hamilton back in the day. Creaky pine plank floors, low ceilings, and country decor make for a cozy feel. Rooms from $140 per night. 6387 Mill Street/Route 9, Rhinebeck; 845.876.7077; www.beekmanarms.com
Gilded Age Gluttony: Belvedere Mansion
Gorgeous rooms in a neoclassical mansion are done in marble baths, French antiques, and silk and damask fabrics. Catskill Mountain and Hudson River views complete the luxurious setting. Rooms from $225 per night. 10 Old Route 9, Stattsburg; 845.889.8000; www.belvederemansion.com
Where to eat
Tomorrow’s Master Chefs: Culinary Institute of America
Student chefs run five restaurants on the Hyde Park CIA campus. Try the roasted pork tenderloin and other regional fare at American Bounty or classic French cuisine at Escoffier. The Apple Pie Bakery Café has more casual eats. 1946 Campus Drive off Route 9, Hyde Park; www.ciachef.edu
A Sacred Affair: Terrapin
Choose creative tapas, Guinness-braised lamb shanks, or farm-fresh Pekin duck, all served inside a converted old church. 6426 Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck; 845.876.3330; www.terrapinrestaurant.com
Quick Bite: Bread Alone
A CIA grad bakes European-style organic breads in ovens custom-made by a Parisian mason. 45 East Market Street, Rhinebeck; 845.876.3108; www.breadalone.com
Where to drink
Mingle With Locals: Rhinebeck Wine & Liquor Store
Stop in any Friday or Saturday for happy hour, with free tastings and hors d’oeuvres. The owner stocks a wide variety of quality wines, from local labels like Millbrook Winery and Clinton Vineyards to old-world finds. 41 East Market Street, Rhinebeck; 845.876.6264
Colonial Ambience: The Tap Room at the Beekman Arms
Low beams and an open hearth create a cozy setting in which to sip a tasty brew or two. Order tavern fare from the inn’s restaurant menu. 6387 Mill Street/Route 9, Rhinebeck; 845.876.1766
Nightcap: Belvedere Mansion
This full-service inn prepares signature cocktails like the Fusion Royale (champagne with white rum, lime leaf, and lemongrass ginger icicle) at an elegant copper bar inside the mansion or outside on the terrace. 10 Old Route 9, Stattsburg; 845.889.8000; www.belvederemansion.com
Where to chill out
Renaissance to Rococo: Vanderbilt Estate
Bring a picnic to this riverside mansion and tour a 50-room Gilded Age masterpiece. Route 9, Hyde Park; 845.229.9115; www.nps.gov/vama
Heal Yourself: Omega Institute
Sign up for a massage, Ayurvedic therapy, a yoga workshop, or a “rejuvenation retreat.” All programs at this progressive center take place on a beautiful 195-acre campus. 150 Lake Drive, Rhinebeck; 845.266.4444; www.eomega.org
Indie Fix: Upstate Films Theater
From The Best of Youth to Hotel Rwanda to March of the Penguins, Upstate Films has shown alternative media since 1972. Its guest-speaker series attracts well-known filmmakers, novelists, and other creative types. Don’t miss the homemade brownies and muffins at the candy counter. 6415 Montgomery Street, Route 9, Rhinebeck; 845.876.2515; www.upstatefilms.org
Local Bounty: Dutchess County Wine Trail
It’s not quite Napa Valley, but three small wineries between Rhinebeck and the neighboring towns of Red Hook and Millbrook offer their own refreshing whites and earthy reds. www.dutchesswinetrail.com