If you think we have lots of craft makers and artisan food entrepreneurs in New York City, you should head up the the Hudson River Valley.
People like Alex Adams and Ariel Schlein (Dutch's Spirits) are making traditional bitters in an infamous old Prohibition-era farm. Paul Coughlin founded Taconic Distillery, where they are producing whiskeys, rums, and versatile maple syrup. Robb and Lydia Turner are also focused on maple syrup at Crown Maple. The McEnroe Family have been operating their eco-friendly farm and greenhouses since the 1950's. Katie and her father Bob Ferris run a dairy farm and ice cream barn.
These are just a few of the artisans and hard-working farmers contributing to the tasty and innovative Hudson River Valley. And that's one of the big reasons we have teamed up with the folks at Escapemaker to offer immersive tours from Grand Central up to the Hudson River Valley to meet these producers and taste their products.
The What:
Starting this week and running through the end of October. you can join one of our themed tours that leaves from Grand Central Terminal and heads up to either Rhinebeck, Poughkeepsie, or Wassaic (depending on the tour). You could find yourself immersed in fiber supplies and handcrafted products on a wool and sheep farm or tasting your way through the best local wineries and distilleries in the state.
For Labor Day weekend, we are launching with a Farms & Distilleries tour which will introduce you to both Dutch's Spirits and Taconic Distillery. You'll also get a chance to explore the scenic town of Rhinebeck and pick up some local produce at Montgomery Place Farmstand. And the best part is tickets are just $37 and that includes your transportation!!
Later in the season, bring the family on an Artisanal Eats & Apple Picking adventure or learn about Sips, Syrups, & Sustainability. Summer might be coming to an end, but fall brings some great experiences and is by far the most beautiful and bountiful time to explore this rich region.
The Why:
The Hudson River Valley is just north of the city, but without access to a car, it is difficult to explore all the great producers. We solve that problem. By hooking up with Metro North at Grand Central, our guide meets you upstate and then transports you via a shuttle bus from one exciting stop to the next.
And it's no surprise that many artists, brewers, and chefs are moving from places like Brooklyn and Queens to the more pastoral and affordable towns in this region. Lucky us that there are some great local businesses to visit and support.
The Where:
EscapeMaker's Farm Fresh Tours
Leave from Grand Central Terminal,
480 Union Street
Brooklyn, NY 1123