Summer Like A Local: Visit Columbia County

New York City has the energy, but Columbia County has the air.  

When Mat traded riding the subway for walking outdoor trails nearly more than 10 years ago, he didn't look back. But truth be told, even in he and Brian's latest move to the Hudson area two years ago, he still feels a bit like a "cidiot" sometimes—getting his baby goat legs and always hungry to explore more of the 635 square miles of valley, hills, farms, and villages that make up this incredible county.  

Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or looking for that perfect, uniquely upstate keepsake, consider this your open invitation to experience Columbia County like a local this summer. Here’s a big list of what’s mentioned in Episode 134: "Summer Like a Local" in partnership with Columbia County Tourism. 

🍽️ Part 1: For the Foodies

Columbia County is a certified foodie paradise, and the "farm-to-table" scene means your dinner was likely harvested just down the road.  

Country Cafes & Coffee Breaks

• In Hudson: If you're arriving via Amtrak, start right across the street at Kitty’s. Further up on Warren Street, The Maker Cafe and Little Rico are amazing staples that are open every single day. For your afternoon caffeine fix, check out Wylde Hudson, Moto, or Supernatural. Want a killer lunch sandwich? Stop by Lev & Ida’s Sandwich Counter in the Cannonball Factory (I'm a regular!).  

• Beyond Hudson: Drive just outside town to Quinnie’s in Claverack for a farmhouse vibe and great outdoor picnic tables. Heading to Ghent? You can't miss Bartlett House, a country-style cafe with an extraordinary bakery (and they make their own artisanal jams!).  

• Local Neighborhood Spots: Every town has its gem. Try Fork & Whisk Cafe & Bakery in Chatham, Cook & Larder or Twisted Sisters Coffee House in Hillsdale, Otto’s sandwich counter and market in Germantown, Briskette & Birdie in Canaan, or Blueberry Hill Market Cafe in New Lebanon.  

Classic & Upscale Diners

We love a good roadside diner. For a literal time capsule, head up to Spencertown to visit Dan’s Diner, a beautifully restored 1925 Jerry O’Mahony diner. Down in Ancram, the newly opened Dove’s Diner serves up a stellar tuna melt. If you're looking for something more upscale, the new Hudson Diner in downtown Hudson features a collaborative menu from a beloved local butcher and baker—plus excellent cocktails.  

Local Fact: Did you know the cocktail was actually defined right here? The first known published definition of a "cock-tail" appeared on May 13, 1806, in the Claverack-based newspaper Balance and Columbian Repository. We’ve been fuddling heads elegantly ever since!  

Local Sips & Tasting Rooms

Spend an afternoon hopping around our local craft drink scene:

• Neverstill Wines Tasting Room (Hudson) - learn more in Episode 117.  

• Return Brewing, Union Street Brewery, Upper Depot (Hudson) 

• Cooper’s Daughter Spirits at Olde York Farm (Claverack) – featuring an adorable cocktail barn right on a stream.  

• Roe Jan Brewing Co. (Hillsdale) – incredibly dog-friendly and right by the trail head.  

• Suarez Family Brewery (Clermont) – celebrating 10 great years.  

• Hudson-Chatham Winery (Ghent) – Columbia County’s very first winery.  

Finer Dining & Special Occasions

For a night out, book a table at Bimi’s Canteen (be sure to check out the gorgeous speakeasy downstairs!) or the classic French spot Shadow 66 in Ghent. My personal favorite for special occasions is Feast and Floret in Hudson, where you can even pick up a fresh bouquet of flowers on your way out. Also in Hudson is Serre at The Maker Hotel (hear from chef Jonas in Episode 134). And for unparalleled sunset and Catskill mountain views, head up the hill to Klocke Estate in Claverack. 

Saturday Farmer's Markets

By "Cidiot" rules, if you're here on a Saturday, you are obligated to go to a market. It’s the best place to get fresh produce and catch up on local gossip. In addition to Hudson’s farmer’s market in the center of town, check out the Hillsdale-Copake Farmer’s Market at Roeliff Jansen Park, or the market in the main square of Kinderhook. Don't forget local indoor markets like Talbott & Arding in Hudson (famous cheese counter!) and Woodlife Farm Market in New Lebanon.  

🌲 Part 2: For the Outdoor Types

After eating your way through the county, you'll want to walk it off. The Columbia Land Conservancy (and their helpful site letsgococo.org) is the ultimate tool for filtering trails by activity. Here are a few of my favorite spots to stretch your legs (and bring the dog!):  

• Greenport Conservation Area: Offers a stunning meadow walk that leads to a pagoda with panoramic views of the Hudson River and the mountains.  

• Borden's: Located just outside Chatham, it's a peaceful spot for a long walk surrounded by birdsong.  

• Clermont Historic Site: Walk the historic grounds of the Livingston family mansion along the river. It’s the perfect spot to lay out a picnic blanket.  

• Olana State Historic Site: A local must-visit designed by Hudson River School artist Frederic Church.  

• Art OMI: A breathtaking, 120-acre outdoor sculpture and architecture park in Ghent.  

Getting on (and in) the Water

If it's a hot summer day, check out High Falls in Philmont (also Columbia Land Conservancy) to see the county’s highest waterfall. To get in the water, head to Lake Taghkanic State Park for swimming, paddleboats, and kayak rentals. For a perfect sunset view on the water, take the Hudson Ferry across the river to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse or to the village of Athens.  

🛍️ Part 3: Upstate Shopping

You can't go home empty-handed. Columbia County is world-renowned for antiquing and unique home goods.  

• Antiquing Treasures: Spend hours browsing the massive Hudson Antiques Warehouse near the Hudson train station (keep an eye out for the giant giraffe!). You can also find stellar local antique shops like Quittner in Germantown and the Olde 1811 Antique Shoppe in Chatham.  

• Boutiques & Home Decor: Stroll Warren Street to visit curated shops like Finch Hudson, Lili and Loo, and The Quiet Botanist.  

• Local Brands to Take Home: Stop by the Tierra Farm Store between Chatham and Valatie for an incredible, 100% gluten-free selection of nuts and dried fruits (plus free coffee and a chance to visit their farm animals!). Finally, swing by the Kinderhook Farm Store for local meats and maybe pick up one of their signature "Grass Fed" baseball caps for the summer.  

Create Your Adventure

Columbia County is incredibly easy to access by car or the Amtrak train, making it the perfect summer escape. To plan your itinerary, head over to columbiacountytourism.org.  

As Mat says at the end of every Cidiot episode, come visit!  

Photo Credit: Andy Wainwright (hero post photo)