The Hudson Valley area of NY is one of the hottest spots to move if you’re looking to relocate from New York City. Despite being a much more peaceful and nature-filled area than the heart of the Big Apple, it’s still got plenty of cultural attractions and charms to keep residents busy. If you’re interested in moving to Hudson Valley or already call this part of NY home, here are five local attractions you can’t miss.

Summer Music Festivals

With so many gorgeous forests and meadows scattered around the area and the Catskill Mountains in the background, it’s no wonder Hudson Valley is home to multiple music festivals each spring and summer. Options range from the Taste of Country Festival with big names in country and western music to the Bard SummerScape at Bard College with opera and classical music performances to the historic Bethel Woods Center for the Arts with a diverse mix of performances. There’s something for everyone and it’s all taking place within the Hudson Valley area!

See the Best of Newburgh, NY

When you’re looking for some great dining and entertainment options, Newburgh, NY is a good place to start. You can find some of the area’s best restaurants, bars, and breweries here. People come from all over New York just to take in the incredible views of the Hudson River from Newburgh’s Waterfront. The Waterfront is full of art galleries, high-end boutiques, and similarly stimulating places to browse. It’s a great place to spend a day, whether you’re traveling alone or bringing along the entire family. While you’re in Newburgh, make sure to check out some of the impressive Victorian-style homes and other historic buildings along Grand and Montgomery Streets.

Sample the Fine Wines Grown in the Valley

Thanks to rich soils and a mild summer climate, the Hudson Valley area is perfect for growing many varieties of wine grapes. Whether you want to sample dozens of different wines at the Hudson Valley Wine Fest each fall or can’t wait to take a winery tour any other time of the year, there’s plenty of ways to taste what the valley has to offer. If you really want a hands-on experience with winemaking, consider attending a crush festival in which grapes are stomped the old-fashioned way or take one of the many wine-making and tasting classes available from area vineyards.

Celebrate Art Both Outdoors and In

Since many artists come to the Hudson Valley specifically for the inspiring scenery and abundant natural beauty, it’s not surprising that one of the area’s best attractions is an outdoor art center. The Storm King Art Center is named after a massive piece of art installed in a field where it can be viewed from both afar and up close. This open-air museum in Cornwall, NY stretches over 500 acres and includes multiple large scale pieces of both land art and sculptural additions. If the weather’s better suited to indoor pursuits, try the Dia: Beacon Art Foundation in Beacon, NY. Contemporary art shows will keep you on the cutting edge of culture without having to head to the city.

Engage in the Local Farming Phenomenon

In addition to growing grapes and making wine, Hudson Valley farmers are also famous for growing everything from crisp apples (Check out the Hudson Valley Apple Farm Guide) to farm-raised beef and pork. Farm-to-table fare is in major demand in the towns and cities of the region, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore what’s available in your neighborhood and county. Maybe you’ll even grow a few of your own vegetables to join in.