WHY GO: There’s something divine about sunrise in the Mid-Hudson Valley. Even more so from a private balcony at the Buttermilk Falls Inn.
It takes just 1 1/2 hours to get here from New York City by train or car. And then, to bask in Mid-Hudson Valley luxury and serenity. This Getaway is rare in that it is focused almost exclusively on one place to stay.
Yes, there are a few reasons to venture “off-campus,” and we’ll tell you how. (Start with a visit to Hyde Park and Poughkeepsie).
But for the most part, bring a book and an appreciation for farm animals, leisurely strolls, and the simple life. Keep Calm and Carry On up to Mid-Hudson Valley NY.
Looking for more dreamy escapes in New York State? Our Best Romantic Getaways in NY post has you covered.
What To Do Near the Buttermilk Falls Inn
DRIVE: Rural Mid-Hudson Valley Backroads
Buttermilk Falls is just outside of the tiny hamlet of Milton, NY. Take the back-roads to Milton’s tiny red train station, now on the Historic Register. You just might be lucky enough to see a Union Pacific Freight train idling there, “re-crewing.”
On your way, you’ll probably get stuck behind a tractor or two. But take joy. This rich farmland is the source for most celebrity kitchens and chefs in New York City and environs.
VISIT: Kedem Winery Tasting Room, Marlboro NY
Originally owned by Joseph Herzog, brother Michael Herzog still owns this maker and purveyor of Kosher wines – the main competitor of Manischewitz-sweet grape-juice for the holidays. Kedem’s Tasting Room also serves as a shop for all makes of Kosher wines from Alfasi to Carmel and others. It’s the perfect place to stock up for the High Holidays and Passover.
VISIT: Gomez Mill House, Marlboro NY
Purchased by Jewish merchant, Luis Gomez in 1714, this proud stone and brick home, now the historic Gomez Mill House, is “The Oldest Jewish Dwelling in North America.” Learn the history of the man whose family fled from the Spanish Inquisition and who purchased 6,000 acres of land on the Hudson River as a trading post. Now undergoing an extensive renovation, check website for opening date and more information.
EAT: Henry’s Restaurant, Milton
Buttermilk Falls Inn’s on-site restaurant, Henry’s Restaurant, is just steps from the front door. Named for the owner’s son, this is true garden-out-back-to-table dining. Or at least hyper-locally sourced. Chances are you’ll see at least a portion of your meal poking from the ground on your walk around the property.
Massive glass globes hang like hot air balloons from barn rafters. Candlelit tables are rustic-chic. And waitstaff are attentive and helpful. Try a toothsome cocktail – like Sex on the Farm ($13). It combines moonshine, liqueurs, and juice for a refreshing buzz.
EAT: Ship Lantern Inn, Milton
The iconic Ship Lantern Inn occupies a building that dates to the Revolutionary War. But that’s just one of its charms. Known as one of the best very fine dining restaurants in the Mid-Hudson River Valley, Ship Lantern was established in 1925 by John Foglia – one of four founders of Chef BoyArDee. His grandson, A. Michael Foglia, now presides over a menu rich in local meats and produce.
Try innovative dishes like Graham Crack Crusted Calamari with Serrano chile scented apple jelly and Hudson Valley Breast of Chicken Scarpariello roasted with Wild Boar Sausage. This restaurant may look touristy and dated from the outside. But inside, its cuisine is a revelation.
STAY: Buttermilk Falls Inn and Spa
The eco-friendly Buttermilk Falls Inn juxtaposes renovated 1700’s cottages with abstract contemporary buildings on 75 acres. It’s no longer that “secret” hideaway 90 miles from Manhattan on the west bank of Hudson River.
In the 40’s and 50’s, what’s now Buttermilk Falls belonged to famed Black soprano and education activist Dorothy Maynor, and her husband, Reverend Shelby Rooks (two suites are named after them). In 2004, real estate developer Robert Pollock purchased the farm and turned into an 11 room inn.
Get a Spa Treatment
** Be aware that as of Spring 2022, the Spa Building and Pool are closed for renovations. Opening TBD.
Although the spa and pool house is currently undergoing renovations – massages are still available in an alternate building overlooking the Hudson River on the grounds.
Stroll the Grounds
An invigorating stroll (or snowshoe hike) around the Buttermilk Falls Inn property rewards you with the pleasures of river and farm. Watch for friendly Angora goats, voguing llamas, Alpacas and cuddly miniature donkeys as well as a bunch of laying hens (fresh eggs in the morning), beehives (creamy honey) and sizable organic garden on your way.
Gravestone Rubbing
There’s a small, historic Cemetery on Buttermilk Falls grounds, adjacent to the spa. This final resting place harks back to the time when Leonard Smith owned the property in the mid 1700’s. One headstone marks a couple born in 1709 in “Plymouth Colony,” buried here in 1800.
Check website for main house guest rooms and whole cottages rates and availability.
