Putnam County NY: 10+ Best Things to do in
Putnam County in a weekend
I’m always surprised to know how many things there are to do in Putnam County NY.
It’s not because I think other Hudson Valley counties are better, it’s because Putnam County is the smallest of all the 10 counties that make up the Hudson Valley.
COVID-19 NOTICE
Although some of these locations are open to the public, please follow these guidelines:
Please be safe.
Practice social distancing, wear a mask, wash hands thoroughly and follow all mandates and recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov) and NY State and local Governments.
Things to know before finding things to do in Putnam County:
- Putnam County, NY is a small area to cover and can be done during a weekend getaway.
- Several highways run through Putnam County, NY and make it easy to get from one area to another. I-684 ends in Putnam County and I-84 and the Taconic State Parkway run right through Putnam County.
- Some attractions listed here are open seasonally. Check each individual website before heading out on your outing.
Where is Putnam County, NY?
Putnam County, NY is so close to NYC but feels like a world’s away.
Located just north of Westchester County in the Lower Hudson Valley, it is the smallest of all the counties that make up the Hudson Valley Region.
Even though it is small, it doesn’t stop it from being mighty. There are so many things to do in Putnam County, such as visiting amazing venues, historical places, in addition to, State Parks full of excitement.
Putnam County, NY Towns & Cities
Located approximately 55 miles North of New York City, Putnam County borders Westchester County, Dutchess County, as well as, Rockland County.
The County is known for its many reservoirs. You, certainly, cannot drive through Putnam without bumping into one or four or more of them.
- Brewster
- Carmel
- Cold Spring
- Kent
- Nelsonville
- Patterson
- Philipstown
- Putnam Valley
- Southeast
Check out my posts all about Putnam County, NY
How can you get to Putnam County?
Putnam County, NY is accessible by train (Metro-North) and, car, by its two Interstate Highways (I-684 & I-84).
Whichever way you get there, make sure you plan ahead in order to fill the day with fun things to do in Putnam County.
According to www.putnamcountyny.com/visitputnam
Highlights of Things to do in Putnam County:
With its richness in nature and beauty at every turn, there is always something to do in Putnam County.
Things to do in Putnam County for History Lovers
Boscobel House and Garden
OPEN to the public with reservation
Take a trip to Garrison, NY and embrace the beauty of Boscobel House and Gardens. Open seasonally from mid-April through December.
A visit to Boscobel will give you a reason to fall deeper in love with the Hudson Valley Region.
Chapel Restoration
CLOSED to the public
Visit a historic and cultural landmark in Cold Spring, NY. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts an array of events, such as a Sunday Music Series and Sunset Reading Series.
Walter Brewster House
Tours and visits are made by reservation only
Located in Brewster, NY, this majestic home is also on the National Register of Historic Places. It is used as an event venue, for weddings, festivals, meetings and is also a cultural center.
Putnam History Museum
CLOSED to the Public
Located in Cold Spring, the Putnam History Museum showcases the beauty of Putnam County.
Things to do in Putnam County for Outdoor Lovers
Chuang Yen Monastery
CLOSED to the Public
A visit to Chuang Yen Monastery in Kent, NY is life-changing. Home to the largest indoor statue of Buddha in the Western Hemisphere, Chuang Yen Monastery is a place that everyone should visit. It’s open to the public every day from Jan – March).
Read my article all about my visit to Chuang Yen Monastery
Stonecrop Gardens
OPEN Seasonally to the public with pre-registration
Located in Cold Spring, NY, a visit to this majestic garden can be made during the warmer months of the year. Originally the home of Anne and Frank Cabot, this now public garden is approximately 15 acres and boasts on expansive assortment of plants.
Tilly’s Foster Farm
OPEN to the public
Located in Brewster, NY this education institute offers a great day of fun, including hiking, and visiting the resident animals. Self-guided tours are offered seven days a week. In addition, Tilly’s Table is where the learning and dining takes place.
Constitution Marsh Audubon Center & Sanctuary
OPEN to the public
Parking lot is CLOSED
Located in Garrison, this wonderful place is unique and a very popular spot for Instagram-worthy pictures. This beautiful area can get crowded on the weekends, so your safest bet is to visit during the week.
Fahnestock State Park (Clarence Fahnestock)
OPEN to the public
Located in Carmel, this 10,000+-acre park is a wonderland for anyone that loves the outdoors. This expansive park covers both Putnam and Dutchess Counties and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming and more.
Things to do in Putnam County for Arts & Culture Lovers
Garrison Art Center
OPEN to the public
Located in Garrison, this art center offers Virtual Exhibitions and rotating exhibits. This makes it an ideal place to visit over and over. In addition to showcasing artwork, they also offer classes for those interested in making art.
Magazzino Italian Art
OPEN to the public. Reservations required
Located in Cold Spring, NY, this wonderful place both researches and houses Italian art. From postwar to contemporary art, Magazzino Italian Art is sure to be a favorite for everyone that visits.
Read my article all about my visit to Magazzino Italian Art
Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center
OPEN to the public. Tour available by advance booking only.
Located in Garrison, this wonderful place houses the former home, studio and garden of Russel Wright. As a National Historic Landmark, tours of the property are offered and trails are also open to the public. It is open seasonally.
Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival
CANCELLED for the 2020 Season
Taking place on the grounds of Boscobel House & Gardens in Garrison, the HV Shakespeare Festival has brought world-class performances to the Hudson Valley. Holding the performances outdoors in a tent with the breathtaking views of the Hudson River makes this one of the most unique experiences and one of the best things to do in Putnam County.
More Things to do in Putnam County
Daryl’s House
If you’re looking for fun dining experiences then Daryl’s House Club is the place for you! Owned by Daryl Hall from Hall & Oates, not only is the food good, but the music is just as good.
Thunder Ridge Ski Area
Putnam County is great for everyone and perfect for the Outdoor Adventure lover. Their list of parks seems endless and they are also home to Thunder Ridge Ski Area.
Essential Gear Recommended For your iPhoneography Needs:
Clicks the links below to see the items I use when taking photos with my iPhone.
- Washable Face Masks – If you want to enjoy an outing in the Hudson Valley, make sure to stay safe with the washable face masks. These are the ones that I personally use and can breathe well from.
- KN95 Face Masks – These are the masks for recently recommended to stay safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
- Power Bank for your phone – While out walking all day and taking photos, I use this power bank to make sure that I will not run out of battery on my phone.
- Microfiber Cleaning Cloths – These are the cloths I always have handy to clean everything from my iPhone lens, iPhone display and my own glasses.
- Mini-tripod – This bendable mini tripod not only stands on its own, but can be bent and placed around a tree branch, park bench, fence, etc.
Tips for A Successful Visit to Putnam County NY:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing
- Check the weather the day before and right before your outing
- Confirm all information on the website of the location you plan to visit
- Many places listed here are open seasonally. Check each individual location for days/time they are open to the public.
- Many venues charge an entrance fee, admission fee and/or tour fee. Check each individual location for more detailed information regarding prices.
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Where to Next???
Now that you have information regarding Things to do in Putnam County, let’s see where you should go next…
Until the Next Adventure…
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Jacqueline Ramirez
Jackie is one of the top bloggers in the Hudson Valley. She has been featured, along with some of her photos, in several publications, locally and nationwide. Read Jackie’s crazy story, “From a Naive NYC Girl to Popular Hudson Valley Blogger & Author“. Feel free to send Jackie a message here.
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