How much does one know about the history of the Revolutionary War in the Hudson Valley?…read more Like a well-written mystery novel, the Hudson Valley unfolds its secrets, luring history buffs for good reason. The American Revolution played out along the Hudson's banks--from the first riots protesting the British Quartering Act on Golden Hill in Lower Manhattan to the chaining of the Hudson and Benedict Arnold's attempted betrayal of West Point in the Highlands. Just north of the New Jersey border, Tappan, derived from a Lenape Indian word thought to mean "cold water," has the oldest surviving building in Rockland County. The DeWint House, owned by Patriot Johannes DeWint, holds a special place in American history as it served as a temporary headquarters for George Washington during the American Revolution. Washington was a guest of the house twice in 1780 and twice in 1783. It was here that Washington signed the death warrant of British Major John Andre, a spy who conspired with American General Benedict Arnold to betray West Point. Upon arrival as first-timers yesterday, my partner and I were the only vehicle in the spacious parking lot. The house built using brick and indigenous stone is a prime example of Hudson Valley Dutch Colonial architecture, showcasing the unique blend of Dutch and American styles that were prevalent during the colonial period. The house's bottom floor (the top floor is off-limits) houses the North and South Rooms. The South Room was where Washington and his staff resided. The North Room was where work was done, especially with regard to the trial and execution of Andre. The rooms are both open to the public for viewing through glass partitions. Period furniture, bedding, and desks are among the items one sees. An adjacent 19th-century carriage house contains displays of artifacts uncovered at the site during archaeological digs. A 15-minute video about the historic site can be seen, and an over 150-year-old grandfather clock keeps the correct time. So much history happened in this spot that changed this country forever. Don't miss it.

Lovely self guided tour for this history geek; takes about an hour, but guided tours ARE available…read more Stop by nearby Piermont Pier or village for bites after!

We had guest visiting and we always pass by this place so we thought, why not give it a shot!? It…read morewas a cold rainy day so we ran in not knowing what to expect. I think this is an awesome distillery and I can see it being even more fun in warmer weather! This place is know for whiskey and rye. It's cool because they do sampler in a little vile glass which I think is creative. Their cocktails were also super delicious! The service was great! It's seems that they definitely have regular customers that come in. It's not too big of a spot but there was a lot of seating both tables and around the bar.

A nice whiskey distillery with a bar/tasting room and nice outdoor seating by the stream. I love…read morethe beautiful ambiance of the outdoor seating area - its flanked by trees and you can listen to the gurgling sounds of the stream while enjoying your drinks. This distillery is also has grounds you can walk around and explore (not too big though). We took a peek at their aging/storage room with wooden casks while there, as well as their distillery. We were treated to a free, small sample of their whiskey at their bar. Its a nice stop when in upstate NY area.

Built in 1668, this establishment predates the US itself, making it one of the most storied dining…read moredestinations in the country. Wisely recognized as America's oldest tavern with its stone facade, the Old '76 House, located on Main Street in Tappan, has been welcoming guests and was restored to its pristine condition by the Norden family. Step inside, and nearly every corner tells a story that served as a meeting place for local patriots during the American Revolutionary War. It also welcomed General George Washington for dining on occasion. He once received plans at the establishment that exposed Benedict Arnold as a traitor--prompting a dramatic reaction still talked about today. Upon entering without a reservation today for lunch, my partner and I were greeted by the host and got a cozy table by the fireplace with original Delft tiles in the Tap Room. The interior features rustic beamed ceilings, four fireplaces, vintage portraits, historical certificates and documents, as well as costumes and artifacts where patrons were able to walk around and marvel at them. The menu reflects the tavern's heritage, with dishes inspired by early American cuisine. We decided on the Thanksgiving Sandwich accompanied with fries and the Traditional American Meatloaf over Mashed Potatoes and Steamed Vegetables. For dessert, we shared Hannah's Apple Crunch with vanilla ice cream. But even more than the great and delicious food was the history, ambiance, and especially the way we were treated. Our server was Joe and checked on us often. The portion was healthy and the price comparable to the area's. If one has even a passing interest in American history, then it's a must to come here. Not just a meal, but an experience!

The food was great the historical atmosphere wonderful. They had a jazz band that was very good…read more But I was there with 3 friends and wanted to talk and reminisce. Not talk over the music.

Becky was the best and the day couldn't have been planned any better! Best time ever !read more

A Hudson Valley wine tour to celebrate a friend's landmark birthday was perfect! Hudson Valley…read moreBucket list did an outstanding job coordinating the day from transport and an itinerary of beautiful wineries to a magazine photo worthy picnic lunch orchestrated by an on-site host. Our group of 12 were treated like special guests everywhere we went and we were wowed by the friendly, welcoming reception at each stop and the delicious wines we were able to taste. HVBL made planning this event easy and the day memorable

Every Sunday all year round from 10am-3pm (summer hours) at flywheel park there is a beautiful,…read morebountiful and local farmers market. Live music is played throughout the duration of the market. They sell all types of goodies from fresh produce picked by the people selling it to baked goods, fresh breads and pasta to candles, lotions/potions and fresh cut flowers. They don't have many vendors but this is about QUALITY. Seasonal produce is highlighted but they do have produce that is off season as well. The farmers who sell produce are extremely knowledgeable and proud of the foods they sell. All the vendors are personable and charismatic. I would suggest going even if you don't plan on purchasing anything! If you sign up for their weekly newsletter then you'll know which vendors will be appearing that week. Supporting local businesses by word of mouth is equally as important to me as monetary support. Stop by if you have the time and check out the local goods and harvest! It's family oriented and pet friendly.

Love this family-friendly + dog-friendly park on the pier in Piermont, NY. We come on Sundays for…read morethe farmers market. Come here for the fresh produce, local vendors, or a stroll along the water. There is plenty of seating along the park, as well as a shaded gazebo next to the water.

Located in the Village of Piermont on the west shore this small park offers a great vantage point…read moreto take in the grandness of the "Mighty Hudson River". Its a nicely groomed area with a small boardwalk covering the hundred plus feet of northeast facing riverfront. The park is planted with a few shade trees, a nice garden and outfitted with benches to sit and relax. From the Villages web site: "Frank Parelli Park - This park is located at the site of the former Mill beach and is named after a long time resident and 1st President of the Piermont Lions Club Frank Parelli. This park facing the Hudson River has a small boardwalk with benches and is used by both Village residents and our visitors." Parking is right across the street, the park is free for all to use and open till 9pm. BSE23

TEP deserves more than 5 stars for the amazing start to finish service we experienced on our 7 day…read moreadventure to Peru to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. From the time we signed up, to the time we boarded the plane to return home, TEP took care of every detail. We commented amongst ourselves that we felt like kids on vacation with our parents, as we didn't have to worry about any of the details - just show up and follow Neptali (our guide). From airport pickup in Cusco in luxury Mercedes vans where we were promptly served Coca tea to help with the altitude acclimation, to group dinners at amazing Peruvian restaurants, to historical tours and education on the history of the Inca - everything was covered and taken care of for us. And that was all before the amazing trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! Of course the trek itself was the highlight of the trip, and although it was extremely challenging for us, TEP's unbelievable attention to detail did not fail us on the trail. With nearly a 2:1 porter to trekker ration, our every need was met on the trail. We dined like kings every meal, and were consistently amazed with the quality (and nutritional appropriateness) of the food our chef and sous chef were able to put out with minimal kitchen conveniences. The thing I felt was most special about TEP's approach to this trip was the focus on gaining a cultural and historical appreciation for what we were experiencing. Every step along the way, we learned about the native people of Peru, the Inca civilization, the many ruins we came across, the vegetation we saw and how it was and is used, and the history of modern Peru. It was the trip of a lifetime, and have the help of The Explorer's Passage made it so much more enjoyable, and so much more memorable. The value of what they provide is amazing for the cost....rather, for the investment. I highly recommend them!

What a fabulous tour! I did the "Washington in NYC" tour in June 2017 and it was such a wonderful…read moreexperience! So much fascinating historical information that I can't wait to share with all my friends now; such a great group of fellow explorers; and all so perfectly run - well planned, perfectly on time, with a great variety of sights and insights for all types of travelers. I recommend this tour highly - and will be on the lookout for future adventures from The Explorer's Passage! :)

Went on 6/5/22. Boring, expensive and not good. 10 bucks just to walk in, food was just ok in taste…read morenothing amazing....what do you expect from a pile of food sitting in a metal tray for hours? I go to this thing every few years and every time I go I'm even more disappointed, it's getting worse... Food took forever to get, very disorganized, people just starting new lines and getting served, people cutting lines, the tables to sit at are dirty and very old. Only 3 food vendors serving polish food....who has a festival with just 3 vendors????? there was also a jamaican and Mexican booth but why go there for Mexican or jamaican food so I don't know why they showed up. Most of the vendors just sold some junk or t-shirts and hats. I didn't actually see anyone buying anything. I'll prob never go again.

pretty good. I'm Polish, the people just aren't really warm and the old bartender lady was so rude…read more I decided not to bother with her attitude and just get food. food is amazing. I brought my mom with me and the music is awesome, we come every year. will come tomorrow if it doesn't rain. the difference this year is they charge entrance $5 per person, but if you come the first day out of the two day event, the bracelets work for the next day.

I HAD to go back to this because it's such an amazing experience. I'm sure they do more than "Fall…read moreFoliage" trips but that's when I visited in the past. Despite my best efforts in the past to do Fall train rides, which turned out to be disappointing only because there was never any good colors on trees, this by far is the very best fall foliage experience I've ever had in my life. You get great views of the tree color transitions and just great photo opportunities. It does get cold on the water so bring a jacket. Experience is as excellent as last time with beverages and snacks for purchase. If you enjoy fall colors, great scenery and boats then you have to do this at least once.

A peaceful Hudson River cruise from Peekskill to Bear Mountain. Beautiful views and a truly…read morerelaxing experience! Such a wonderful way to spend the day. Very pleased with this cruise!

Philip is amazing, he is personable, entertaining and the best magician in the Tri State area. If…read moreyou are looking for some fun for any age, Philip is your guy.

I hired Phil to perform at my daughter's Bat MItzvah luncheon. He did a wonderful job…read more This was a pretty diverse audience -- jaded post-Millennial middle schoolers, 40-something parents and 70-something alterkakers all under the same roof. Phil effortlessly moved from group to group entertaining with close-up sleight of hand. If I needed to find him in the room, all I needed to do was look for a crowd of pre-teens -- he was always right in the middle of it. I'm a big fan of sleight of hand and Phil is excellent. There are some crappy strolling magicians out there, but Phil is a consummate pro. A magician's magician if you will. In addition to the great performance, Phil was also VERY easy to work with leading up to the event. He was responsive to both e-mails and phone calls and flexible when we needed to make some small changes to the schedule. If you've ever thrown a Mitzvah party you'll know the value of a reliable professional. Hiring Phil gave us a great entertainer with no worries or angst. Highly, highly recommended.,