Where the Country Begins: Winter Sports, Shopping, and Nightlife in Putnam County

The crisp, colorful days of autumn and the cozy weekends of winter are a great time to get to know Putnam County, the glorious slice of the Hudson Highlands just about an hour from Manhattan or Kingston with a personality all its own. With outdoor fun, dining, nightlife, and shops, there is way too much here to do in a single visit, but here are four must-hit Putnam County attractions to get your wheels turning.

Get to know Tilly Foster Farm.

Newly revitalized, with an educational institute, new farm animals, and gorgeous trails to explore, the farm is a great place to spend an afternoon. Or enjoy a farm-to-fork feast of seafood and steak at Tilly’s Table on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, with live music and stand-up comedy on weekend nights. Or head here on Sunday morning for a picturesque, unforgettable brunch experience.

Get to know Cold Spring Village.

Eat and shop at restaurants and boutiques that blend urban sophistication with small-town welcome. Holiday shopping in Cold Spring is a sweet mix of glam and down-to-earth, all of it top quality; the culinary options along the way will please the choosiest foodie. Get inspired by the exquisite detailing of the 19th-century architecture, then find yourself the perfect antique to bring home.

Get to know Fahnestock Winter Park.

With 18 kilometers of groomed, tracked, and mapped trails to explore beside a sledding hill and an outdoor fireplace, Fahnestock is a renowned winter recreation spot for families. Rent skis, snowshoes, or tubes for a day in the winter sunshine, then warm up with hot chocolate from the Acorn Cafe. You’ll find more great winter family fun nearby at Thunder Ridge in Patterson. Complete with a lift and a lodge with a cafeteria and pub, Thunder Ridge is the perfect place for your young ones to learn to ski or snowboard.

Get to know the Philipstown Depot Theatre.

From black box-minimal to tromp l’oeil-elaborate, from solo performers to full ensemble, the Depot blends live theater with a curated series of documentary screenings attended by the filmmakers along with select musical performances, serving as a cultural hub for the community. From October 31 through November 17, you can catch a live performance of Mel Brooks's hilarious "Young Frankenstein."