Rhinebeck is a charming, historic town nestled in New York's scenic Hudson Valley. It is just a short distance from both New York City and upstate New York, making it a perfect day trip destination. It is small in size, but filled to the brim with unique stores, great restaurants, relaxing spas and plenty of places to stay if you want to extend your visit. You can book a room at the Beekman Arms Inn which is the oldest Inn in America!
I stopped to explore Rhinebeck after a trip to the Walkway Over the Hudson. There are many other interesting destinations close to Rhinebeck if you want to make a weekend of your visit. For example, it is just a short drive to National Historic Sites such as the Vanderbilt Mansion, the Home of Franklin D.; Roosevelt in Hyde Park, and the Eleanor Roosevelt House in Val-Kill. The artsy town of Hudson is also close by. The region is filled with so many different things to do, you may have a hard time choosing and will have to come back for another visit!
I focused my afternoon on really exploring the village of Rhinebeck and had a wonderful time. The "four corners" area, with Beekman Arms Inn sitting on one corner, marks the center of town where a lot of the action occurs. Down the tree-lined street are many unique specialty stores that sell all kinds of things from jewelry, clothing, gifts, art, and most anything else you are looking for.
My Favorite Rhinebeck Spots:
Here were some of my favorite spots that I discovered on my visit to Rhinebeck:
Adel Chefridi Jewelry Studio and Gallery. I was especially interested in checking out this this store as Silverado Jewelry Gallery in Saratoga Springs (where I worked part-time) sells his jewelry. Adel's wife was in the store on the day I visited and was kind enough to walk me through all the collections and show me his studio in the back of the store where the magic happens. She invited some other customers to check it out as well so I think she would be happy to show anyone who was interested. Their jewelry is beautiful and it so cool to have specialty pieces made by someone in our own backyard. Check out his designs here.
Periwinkles at Rhinebeck. Periwinkles showcases local artisans and sells handmade soaps and lotions, bath fizzies, homemade dog treats and dog lover gifts, jewelry, home decor items, and some women's apparel. I found the cutest pink and cream plaid shacket that I love! Shop on-line here.
Paper Trail. A wonderful store that sells fine paper, custom invitations, personal accessories, unique gifts and home decor. It is a great place to find a gift for that discerning person who loves high quality stationery or is hard to buy for. They have a wide selection of items. Browse their offerings here.
Samuel's Sweet Shop. Perhaps my favorite store in Rhinebeck (no surprise there if you know me and my sweet tooth!). Samuel's Sweet Shop is widely known and is a destination spot for many because it is owned by actors Paul Rudd, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Hilarie Burton. The store sells a variety of throwback candy, handmade caramels and chocolates and the famous Rice Krispie treats with a picture of your favorite owner. I have to confess I sampled a few different items and they were all yummy! Check out their selection here.
After browsing the shops, I was getting hungry for lunch. There are many dining options in Rhinebeck, both fine dining and casual atmosphere. I went with casual and historic and ate lunch at Foster's Coach House Tavern. Foster's has been an operating tavern since 1890 and has occupied its location on the "four corners" for 125 years. The vibe was laid back and cozy and the cheeseburger and Toasted Almond drink I had were delicious! I highly recommend. View their full menu here.
If you have time, right next to Foster's Coach House Tavern is Upstate Films. A non-profit arts organization owns the movie house with a mission to enrich lives through cinema. They offer an alternative to the mass distribution movie theaters we usually go to. Read more about them here.
Rhinebeck is a great destination for the day or for a weekend. You will find plenty to do and see no matter how much time you spend in this quaint little village.
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