This week, we're launching Gothamist's travel content, Gothamist Getaways. Four times a year, we'll have a week of posts featuring looks at travel, food, products and tips, near and far, for making your trips more pleasurable. So enjoy and let us know if you have any hints for us—email travel@gothamist.com.
While many New Yorkers jaunt upstate in the fall to see the foliage turn, we actually prefer heading there in the springtime. The flora and fauna are just coming out of their winter hibernation, and the entire area is much calmer without all the returning-student and hectic city-dweller traffic that clogs its bucolic roads come September.
Rhinebeck is no exception. During the autumn months, every B&B in the area is booked weeks in advance with New Yorkers looking to find the perfect pumpkin patch or unpicked-over thrift shop. On the other hand, May and June find many of Rhinebeck's accommodations and restaurants only partially full.
A Sicilian Orange Salad with Fennel, Green Olives, and Onion from restaurant Caterina de’ Medici at the Culinary Institute of America
Serious foodies should trek over to the Culinary Institute of America, the campus in Hyde Park, just 12 miles south has a surprising number of dining options for every budget.
Another favorite in the area? The Hyde Park Drive in Theater, which is re-opening in early May. If you've never been to a drive-in before, make a vow to do it soon—these relics of Americana are disappearing fast, and we think it'd be a shame if you never got to experience one. Down the road from the drive-in is another timeless treasure, Roller Magic, a Hype Park roller rink will bring you back to the days of roller discos.
GETTING THERE: This jaunt is ideal as a roadtrip. But if you don't have a Zipcar membership or a car at the ready, you can take a bus, but you’ll be limited to only seeing Rhinebeck and not the surrounding area (this is still a great option!)
WHERE TO STAY: If you take the bus, it will drop you off and pick you up in front of the Beekman Arms , which is America’s oldest continuing operated hotel. $155/Night for a historic room, $220/Night. Starting in May, there is a two night minimum stay.
Another homey and inviting option is the Olde Rhinebeck Inn . Built in 1745, it's charmingly situated on a quaint country lane. Rooms are decorated with a balance of the rustic and the luxurious, and homemade baked goods are available throughout the day. Rates start at $250/night.
WHAT TO DO:
Farmers Market: Every Sunday in the municipal parking lot, peruse the freshest local goods - including veggies, flowers, meats, cheeses, honey and pastries - while enjoying free samples (we love those) and live music.
Treasure Hunt: Go antiquing at the Beekman Arms Antique Market, which is held in the large, red barn behind the historic 'Beek' hotel and attracts dealers and buyers from all over. The barn is surprisingly clean and bright, and the mix of wares is eclectic and good quality. If antiques are really your thing, clinics, large-scale appraisals, and workshops are offered here throughout the season.
Feast: You know it’s almost summertime when you can dine outside and people watch while drinking an Arnold Palmer at Terrapin. Housed in an old church, Terrapin, a staple in the Rhinebeck food scene, offers a casual menu at the Red Bistro, but you might want to splurge for a supper off the Dining Room menu.
