Now through New Year’s Day, New York’s Lower Hudson Valley glistens with the sights and sounds of the holiday season: festive shop windows, stunning art galleries, eclectic shops and a plethora of diverse restaurants that make the region a foodie and shopper’s destination. On the west side of the Hudson River, New York’s Rockland and Orange counties offer a unique mix of scenic villages, fine dining and antique and novelty shops. It’s the perfect antidote to the monotony of retail mall madness. Shop for distinctive gifts and experiences for everyone on your list with some of these local finds.
Colin Holmes, Nyack, New York
The historic Hudson Valley has many fine antique shops and galleries promising something for all tastes and occasions. Poke around Colin Holmes, a Nyack staple specializing in an eclectic mix of furniture, art, lighting fixtures, French clocks, jewelry, upholstery, garden décor and more. Visitors can expect personalized service and an array of unique gift ideas, home décor treasures and inspiration. 87 Main St, Nyack, 845-358-2565; www.colinholmesnyack.com
The Shops at Jones Farm, Cornwall, New York
Located in Cornwall, New York, the family owned and operated Jones Farm has been supplying the Hudson Valley with quality food and gifts for over 100 years. John H. Jones originally purchased the picturesque acreage in 1914 from Miss Emily Cromwell, a direct descendent of Oliver Cromwell, the 17th-century English military and political leader. Jones Farm is still owned by the same family, with three generations working together side by side. The multifaceted homestead that greets visitors today includes a charming country store, gift shop, art gallery and bakery, Grandma Phoebe’s Kitchen, known for its swoon-worthy pies. Everything in the shop is proudly made from scratch, from the crust to the filling. Try a classic slice like apple or blueberry pie or venture out and taste the chocolate chip pecan pie served hot with a heaping scoop of ice cream. 190 Angola Road, Cornwall, 845-534-4445; www.jonesfarminc.com
Photo credit: Knitting Nation
Knitting Nation, Nyack, New York
As the temperatures dip lower, “cozy season” is in full swing in the Hudson Valley. The age-old hobby of knitting is a great way to connect with local crafters and is perfect for gift-giving, staying warm or passing the time. Whether you’re a beginner or veteran, Knitting Nation offers classes for all skill levels. Buy a package of classes or a single session, like Fixing Mistakes or Sock Sundays, with materials included. With its wide selection of luxury yarns, make sure to buy materials on location. 30 N Broadway, Nyack, 845-348-0100; www.knittingnation.com
Photo credit: 8 North Broadway
8 North Broadway Restaurant, Nyack, New York
Treat a loved one to an authentic culinary experience this holiday season in one of Nyack’s many casually elegant restaurants. Known for its boutique- and restaurant-lined thriving downtown and proximity to New York City, Nyack offers visitors a variety of international cuisine such as 8 North Broadway, a seasonal Mediterranean restaurant overlooking the Hudson River. Inspired by locally sourced seafood, beef, lamb, poultry and organic produce, the menu reflects the freshest ingredients from the Hudson Valley, while a swerving copper bar, exposed brick and large store-front windows are design focal points. Don’t miss the meze and sizzling octopus platters. 8 N Broadway, Nyack, 845-353-1200; www.8northbroadway.com
Photo credit: Piermont Straus
Piermont Straus, Piermont, New York
For the fine art and literary aficionado in your life, visit Piermont Straus, a gallery, foundation and specialty bookstore celebrating the natural beauty, history and culture of the Hudson Valley. Located in Piermont, 15 miles north of Manhattan, the cozy storefront specializes in one-of-a-kind and limited-edition, artist-made prints, paintings, pottery, woodworking, textiles, jewelry, sculpture and an array of plants in unique, handmade earthenware. This magical find, the vision of award-winning photographer Laura Straus, now represents more than two dozen artists and offers an ever-changing, sophisticated selection of treasures to explore that capture the spirit of a creative mind. The gallery is open on weekends or by appointment. 10 Round House Road, Piermont, 845-459-3124; www.piermontstraus.com
Photo credit: Hand & Stone
Hand & Stone, New City, New York
Treat yourself or a friend to the gift of self-care with Hand & Stone’s many spa services, which range from traditional Swedish massage to new treatments like the Himalayan salt-stone massage, which uses salt crystal stones to soothe away stress and tension. First-time guests can snag a one-hour massage or facial for $59.95. Hand & Stone, 170 S. Main St., New City, 845-708-0808; handandstone.com/locations/new-city
Photo credit: Edward Hopper House Museum and Study Center
Edward Hopper House Museum and Study Center, Nyack, New York
This holiday season, give a gift that can be enjoyed year-round while benefitting arts education in Hudson Valley public schools: a membership to the Edward Hopper House Museum and Study Center in Nyack. Hopper, widely acknowledged as one of the most important painters of 20th century America, was born in Nyack, and his restored residence is on the National Register of Historic Places. Memberships, which can range from $35 for seniors to $70 for an entire household, offer exclusive benefits, including unlimited free admission, 10 percent discount in the museum shop, discounts on museum programs and invitations to member-only events, exhibits and programs. 82 N, Broadway, Nyack, 845-358-0774; edwardhopperhouse.org
