With its rolling hills, majestic mountains, river views, rich culinary heritage and significant place in shaping American history, New York’s Lower Hudson Valley is dotted with scenic and historic towns that have long attracted city professionals and urban dwellers.
For many buyers, the high cost of New York City real estate often prompts a move to the suburbs. The prospect of more space for the money, a grassy yard and excellent school systems are key motivating factors. Markets including New York’s Rockland and Orange counties and their Hudson River towns continue to be favored by buyers who live in New York City, especially Manhattan and Brooklyn. From the quaint village of Nyack and secluded, celebrity-laden enclave of Snedens Landing to historic Tuxedo Park, there is a suburb for everyone to call home.
Perched above the banks of the Hudson River, Overledge is an exquisite representation of early 20th century architecture, with extraordinary views, four working fireplaces and endless charm. 159 River Road, Grandview, New York.
Nyack, New York
Just 20 miles from Manhattan, the eclectic and energetic village of Nyack is a creative hub for music, film, theater and art enthusiasts, complete with vibrant dining, entertainment and unique shops. Nyack’s proximity to the Hudson River and Hook Mountain also makes it an ideal recreational destination for boating, kayaking, fishing, cycling and hiking. Year-long events and activities, from farmers markets to street fairs, add to the charming old-style town appeal while
the sleek new Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, which replaced the Tappan Zee spanning the Hudson River between Rockland and Westchester counties, means improved commutes to and from the city for people on the west side of the river. Head-turning architecture, charming main streets and engaging culture and lifestyle are all part of the allure.
The lovely gardens and charm of this sun-filled, three-bedroom, three-bath 1939 cottage make it a desirable respite for city dwellers who crave solace in the country and the natural landscape that is hallmark to Tuxedo Park. 2 Stable Road, Tuxedo Park, New York.
Tuxedo Park, New York
Birthplace of the tuxedo and once the home of tycoons, Tuxedo Park is one of the oldest gated communities in the United States. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the village was built in the 1880s by Pierre Lorillard, the tobacco heir, as a hunting and fishing retreat for his affluent New York friends. Considered one of the nation’s finest examples of pre-World War I architecture, Tuxedo Park also offers an abundance of hiking, biking and riding paths within the private compound’s acres of bucolic parks. Several stunning lakes, suitable for swimming, also are stocked with trout and bass for fishing. The commute to New York Penn Station, via New Jersey Transit, takes under 50 minutes.
The Henry Dobbs House, built and named for a Hudson River boat captain, is the quintessential Snedens Landing home, steeped in rich history and the arts, with easy access to New York City. The renovated 1812 stone-and-clapboard home features three wood-burning fireplaces, original wide-board pine floors, stone walls, beamed ceilings, garage with small studio and a terraced yard with double porches and views of the Hudson River. 63 Washington Springs Road, Snedens Landing.
Snedens Landing, New York
Nestled among the steep cliffs of the Palisades in Rockland County, just 12 miles north of the George Washington Bridge, Snedens Landing is a secluded enclave dating back to the 1700s offering a coveted lifestyle just a short hop from the city. With renovated turn-of-the-century homes, including 18th- and 19th-century cottages and farmhouses in historic districts, its sense of old-fashioned Americana makes it one of Rockland County’s most-sought-after markets. The rural hamlet has attracted widely known residents for decades. Angelina Jolie spent part of her childhood here as did Hayden Panettiere. Laurence Olivier, John Steinbeck, Katharine Hepburn, Mick Jagger, Al Pacino, Bjork, Bill Murray and Diane Sawyer are among those—to name a few—who have called Snedens Landing home at one point or another, while Scarlett Johansson is reportedly the area’s latest resident.
The Hingle Estate, once part of the landmarked Cobblestone Farm and former home of character actor Pat Hingle, is a renovated gem complete with a separate four-room guest cottage, saltwater pool, tennis court and three-car garage. 41 Viola Road, Suffern, New York.
Suffern, New York
Suffern, a Rockland County village dating back to 1796, is steeped in history, with an urban vibe. Accessible by trains, buses and highways, Suffern is home to a thriving business district and array of diverse restaurants, shops and a growing arts, film and cultural activities center, most recently serving as the backdrop for the CBS television show, “Instinct.” Lafayette Avenue, Suffern’s main street, is named in honor of Revolutionary war hero Marquis de Lafayette. Other notable guests have included George Washington, who made camp in the village several times during the war, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. The scenic village, framed by the Ramapo Mountains and Ramapo River, offers numerous hiking, biking and running trails.
