Photo: Boscobel House & Gardens © Courtesy of Putnam Tourism
An hour north of Manhattan, nestled between the Hudson River and the Connecticut state line, is a wonderful gem in the Hudson Valley: Putnam County. Putnam is a small but mighty treasure trove of crystal lakes, beautiful hiking trails, historic sites, art and cultural experiences, and quaint restaurants and shops. You do not have to stay cooped up inside all winter long. With five Metro-North stops, Putnam makes day trips hassle-free and offers a truly easy getaway.
Experience the Charms of Our Local Farms
Enjoy a delightful escape into the world of local farms, fresh produce, and hands-on agricultural experiences. Visitors can explore charming family-owned farms, pick seasonal fruit, and meet family-friendly farm animals while enjoying the county’s breathtaking landscapes.
Interact with goats and Highland cows at Ridge Ranch Farm. Buy fresh-cut pork and chicken at Lobster Hill Farm. Buy freshly picked sweet produce and their famous apple cider donuts at Salinger’s Orchard.
Enjoy the Mesmerizing Fall Foliage
Putnam County has beautiful locations that provide perfect picturesque views of the changing colors. Take a relaxing drive along Route 301 from Carmel to Cold Spring. Along the way, make a pit stop and experience a bit of Zen at the Chuang Yen Monastery, home of the largest indoor Buddha in the Western Hemisphere. Explore the seasonal flowers at Stonecrop Gardens. Stroll the grounds and learn about Putnam’s history at Boscobel House & Gardens and the West Point Foundry. At both venues, you will enjoy stunning views of the majestic Hudson River, Constitution Marsh, and the United States Military Academy at West Point. Be sure to stop by the Cold Spring Bandstand along the waterfront.
For outdoor enthusiasts, hike the amazing trails at Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area, Fahnestock State Park, Hudson Highlands State Park, or Arden Point. If you are not afraid of heights, climb to the very top of the 80-foot-tall Nimham Fire Tower and soak in the different shades of red, orange, and yellow leaves. You may be able to get a clear view of the Catskills. Or take a bike ride down the Putnam County Trailway (part of the Empire State Trailway) and watch the foliage change near some of our county’s pristine waterfronts.
Explore the History, Places, and Personalities That Built a Nation
Our nation’s Founding Fathers believed that all men were created equal and had certain unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This area of New York, along the east side of the Hudson River, saw bloodshed, espionage, resilience, bravery, and determination—playing a vital role in creating the United States.
Putnam’s history comes alive through a new audio tour, Revolutionary Road to Putnam County, narrated by Putnam County resident and philanthropist George Carroll Whipple. The tour will guide visitors to key historic sites, including Boscobel House & Gardens—once home to a wealthy Loyalist—and the Daniel Nimham memorial at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park. Visit RevolutionaryPutnam.org to learn more.
Your Putnam County Adventure Awaits
Putnam County’s natural beauty sells itself. Visit us. Your adventure awaits.
New York’s Putnam County offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a resident or visiting for a day or more, you’ll find plenty of adventures and unique experiences to savor.
Learn more about Putnam County and plan your visit by calling the Putnam County Tourism Department at 845-808-1015 or visiting VisitPutnam.org
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Come and see us, get to know us! Putnam County, from its eastern borders teeming with lakes and farmland, charming villages and more!