Armour-Stiner Octagon House: The Most Unique House in the Hudson Valley
There are plenty of beautiful historic homes throughout the Hudson Valley, but this one is unlike anything else you’ll find around here.
Tucked away in Irvington, NY, the Armour-Stiner Octagon House is one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique—and unexpected—attractions.
And yes, it really is an octagon-shaped house.
So, What Exactly Is the Octagon House?
Built in the 1860s and later transformed into the elaborate home you see today, the Armour-Stiner House is an eight-sided, domed Victorian house overlooking the Hudson River.
The house was inspired by the 19th-century fascination with octagonal architecture, but the result is anything but ordinary.
From the outside, the domed roof and unusual shape immediately catch your attention. But step inside and it gets even more fascinating.
The interiors are filled with ornate Victorian details, elaborate decorations, period furnishings, and beautifully preserved rooms that make the house feel like you've stepped into another world.
One of the most unique spaces is the Egyptian Revival Room, complete with elaborate Egyptian-inspired decoration.
✨ A Hudson Valley Hidden Gem With a Story
The Armour-Stiner House wasn't always in the beautiful condition you see today.
After years of neglect, the house needed significant restoration. Preservation architect Joseph Pell Lombardi purchased the property and spent decades restoring the home and its interiors.
Today, the house is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is open for guided tours.
👻 And It's a Little Spooky...
The house's unusual architecture, Victorian interiors, and fascinating history make it feel like it belongs in a gothic novel—and the property has embraced that vibe over the years with special events and programming.
One of the most intriguing seasonal experiences is the Myths & Mysteries Tour, which dives into some of the legends, stories, and mysteries surrounding the Armour-Stiner Octagon House. It’s a fun way to experience the home from a different perspective and discover some of the tales that have become part of its history and lore.
And honestly, with its winding staircases, ornate interiors, hidden details, and unmistakable Victorian atmosphere, the house feels like the perfect setting for a little mystery.
It's especially fun to visit during the fall when the Hudson Valley is covered in autumn color.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Armour-Stiner Octagon House
📍45 W Clinton Ave, Irvington, NY 10533
Irvington, New York
The house is open for guided tours, which are the best way to experience the history, architecture, and stories behind the property.
If you're looking for something different to do in the Hudson Valley, in Westchester County add this one to your list.
Because how many people can say they've toured a 19th-century octagon-shaped mansion with a dome?
Halloween Things to Do in the Hudson Valley
If there’s one place that knows how to do Halloween, it’s the Hudson Valley. From thousands of glowing pumpkins and historic haunted attractions to ghost walks, spooky markets, and Halloween events for the whole family, October is the perfect time to explore the region.
Whether you’re looking for something spooky but not too scary, planning a Halloween date night, gathering your girlfriends for a fall adventure, or looking for something fun to do with the kids, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Halloween in the Hudson Valley.
Here are some Halloween attractions, events, and parades to add to your October calendar.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
📍 Croton-on-Hudson, NY
If you haven’t experienced The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, October is the time to go.
Held at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, The Blaze transforms the historic property into an illuminated pumpkin wonderland featuring more than 7,000 hand-carved jack o’lanterns. The pumpkins are arranged into elaborate displays, with synchronized lighting and an original soundtrack creating an immersive nighttime experience.
And there are new things to see in 2026, including a longer path, Creature Feature Forest with movie-monster photo opportunities, The Big Book of Fables filled with storybook characters, and a pumpkin DJ dance party at the end.
The event runs September 18 through November 8, 2026 with every night in October included in the schedule. Tickets are timed and must be purchased in advance, so this is one to plan ahead for.
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses
📍 Ulster Park, NY
If you’re looking for something significantly scarier than pumpkins, head to Ulster Park for Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses.
The attraction features 13 different experiences, including a theatrical hayride, haunted houses, walking trails, and more. For 2026, the main hayride is themed “The Cursed Earth of Crow Hollow,” taking guests into a story involving a cursed town, a mysterious infection, and something that refuses to stay buried.
This is definitely on the seriously scary end of the Halloween spectrum. The attraction itself warns that guests should expect things like sudden frights, fog, strobe lights, loud noises, and other intense effects.
There are also separate Children's Days on October 3 and 17 for a more family-friendly Halloween experience.
Sleepy Hollow at Twilight Village
📍 Sleepy Hollow, NY
It doesn’t get much more Halloween than spending an evening in Sleepy Hollow.
Twilight Village returns to Philipsburg Manor October 2–31, 2026 transforming the historic site into an immersive Halloween experience filled with live storytellers, fire performers, fortune tellers, a pop-up market, food, drinks, music, and appearances by some of the characters from Washington Irving’s legendary tale.
And yes, the Headless Horseman makes an appearance.
For 2026, the experience has been expanded with additional characters and performances, making it a fun option if you want Halloween atmosphere without committing to a traditional haunted house.
Gothic Market at Lyndhurst Mansion
📍 Tarrytown, NY
For something a little more witchy than scary, add the Gothic Market Weekend at Lyndhurst to your October calendar.
Taking place October 23–25, this market brings more than 50 vendors to the grounds of Lyndhurst Mansion selling everything from gothic jewelry and curated antiques to oddities, witchy wares, and other unusual finds.
You can also explore the mansion, enjoy seasonal food and drinks, and take in the dramatic Gilded Age setting.
Basically, it's the perfect place to find something you didn't know you needed.
Masque of the Red Death at Lyndhurst
📍 Tarrytown, NY
If you like your Halloween a little more gothic, theatrical, and grown-up, add The Masque of the Red Death at Lyndhurst Mansion to your October plans.
For select evenings October 15–30, Lyndhurst Mansion transforms into Prince Prospero's abbey for an immersive theater experience inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's The Masque of the Red Death. Guests move through the Gothic halls of the 1842 mansion as the story unfolds around them, with the historic setting becoming part of the experience.
The experience is performed and produced by the Irvington Shakespeare Company and is recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are $45 plus fees, and the event can sell out, so advance reservations are recommended.
Peace, Love & Pumpkins at Bethel Woods
📍 Bethel, NY
Halloween gets a little different at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Peace, Love & Pumpkins returns October 9 through November 1, bringing a Halloween experience to the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival. The walk-through experience features thousands of carved pumpkins and seasonal displays, creating a family-friendly Halloween outing with a distinctly Hudson Valley setting.
There’s also a special Friday Night Fright planned for October 30 if you're looking for a little extra Halloween fun.
Explore Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown for Halloween History, Tours & Parades
📍 Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown, NY
If you're looking for a place where Halloween is practically part of the town's identity, make a day of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown.
This area is home to the legends that inspired Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, making October one of the best times to explore its history, historic sites, and spooky stories.
Start with a visit to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the final resting place of Washington Irving, and take a guided walking or lantern tour to hear more about the area's history, legends, and famous residents. You can also explore Philipsburg Manor, where the historic setting becomes especially atmospheric during the Halloween season.
Then head into Tarrytown for its charming downtown, restaurants, shops, and seasonal events. Throughout October, the area hosts Halloween-themed activities, including Tarrytown Halloween parades and community celebrations, making it a fun option whether you're visiting with kids or simply looking for a festive fall day.
And don't forget to leave time to wander. Grab a coffee, explore the historic streets, pop into a local shop, and take in the fall scenery along the Hudson.
Nyack Halloween Parade
📍 Nyack, NY
For a Halloween experience that's less about being scared and more about getting into the spirit of the community, head to the annual Nyack Halloween Parade.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, downtown Nyack comes alive with costumes, floats, and plenty of Halloween fun. The parade is one of the village's signature community events and is a great excuse to get dressed up and spend an afternoon or evening exploring Nyack.
Come early to walk around downtown, browse the local shops, grab dinner or drinks, and find your spot along the parade route. And don't be surprised if the costumes are just as entertaining in the crowd as they are in the parade!
Ready to Explore the Hudson Valley This Halloween?
Whether you’re looking for thousands of glowing pumpkins, spooky history, haunted attractions, Halloween parades, or a festive fall day with your girlfriends, there’s something happening throughout the Hudson Valley this October.
From The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson to Peace, Love & Pumpkins at Bethel Woods, the Gothic Market at Lyndhurst, Twilight Village in Sleepy Hollow, and the Halloween festivities happening throughout Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown, and Nyack, October is the perfect excuse to get out and explore somewhere new.
And remember—you don't have to wait until October 31 to celebrate Halloween. Pick a weekend, grab your friends or family, put on your favorite fall sweater, and make a day of it. 🍂🎃
Which Hudson Valley Halloween experience are you adding to your October bucket list?
Save this guide for later and share it with the person you're planning your spooky season with!
Tulip Fields & Farms in New Jersey and New York
If you’re searching for the most beautiful tulip fields and farms in New Jersey and New York, spring is the perfect time to plan a colorful day trip. From sprawling flower farms in NJ to scenic Hudson Valley gardens, these destinations offer peak bloom experiences just a short drive from NYC.
Whether you’re creating content, planning a girls’ day, family day, or just want to soak up spring, here’s your go-to guide for where to see tulips in NJ and NY.
🌷 When to See Tulips in NJ & NY
Tulip season in the Northeast typically runs from mid-April through early May, with peak bloom lasting about 2–3 weeks depending on weather.
👉 Pro tip: Follow farms on Instagram for bloom updates—timing can shift quickly!
🌸 Best Tulip Fields in New Jersey
🌷 Holland Ridge Farms
The most iconic tulip destination in New Jersey—and one of the largest on the East Coast.
🌷 Millions of tulips across 300+ acres
📸 Endless photo ops (windmills, props, colorful rows)
🌮 Food trucks + bakery on-site
✂️ U-pick tulips to take home
2026 Season: Expected mid-April through early May
👉 Why visit: If you want that bucket-list tulip field experience near NYC, this is it.
🌷 Dalton Farms
A South Jersey favorite offering wide-open tulip fields and a more laid-back vibe.
Large fields with vibrant blooms
Seasonal festivals and events
Ideal for sunset visits
👉 Perfect for: A less crowded, scenic experience
🌷 Von Thun Farms
A great mix of tulips and farm attractions, especially for families.
Tulip fields combined with farm activities
Food, drinks, and weekend events
Interactive and family-friendly atmosphere
👉 Perfect for: A full-day outing with kids or groups
🌷 Arrowhead Farmstead
A charming farm offering a more intimate tulip experience.
Beautiful rows of tulips
U-pick opportunities
Relaxed, local feel
👉 Perfect for: A quieter, low-key spring day
🌼 Best Tulip Farms in New York (Hudson Valley & Beyond)
🌷 Kelder's Farm Tulip Festival
A vibrant, family-friendly farm experience in the Hudson Valley.
🌷 800,000+ tulips
🐐 Farm animals and attractions
🍔 Food + drinks available
✂️ U-pick tulips
👉 Why visit: Great for a fun, casual spring day with activities.
🌸 Mohonk Mountain House Tulip Festival
A more refined and scenic tulip experience at a historic resort.
🌷 30,000 tulips in curated gardens
🫖 Afternoon tea, wellness activities, and live music
🏞️ Mountain views and luxury setting
👉 Why visit: Perfect for a romantic getaway or elevated girls’ trip.
🌷 Albany Tulip Festival
One of the most iconic spring festivals in New York, celebrating Dutch heritage and the beauty of tulips.
🌷 Thousands of tulips in Washington Park
🎶 Live music and vendors
🌷 Cultural celebrations
👉 Why visit: One of the largest tulip festivals in New York State.
🌷 Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden (Long Island Tulip Festival)
A must-visit on Long Island, known for its expansive tulip fields and seasonal events.
Millions of tulips across multiple fields
Photo ops, live events, and activities
Great for both families and content creators
👉 Perfect for: A colorful Long Island spring escape
🌿 Flower Farms & Planning Your Day
Across both New Jersey and the Hudson Valley, smaller farms offer more intimate experiences like:
U-pick tulip days
Floral design workshops
Seasonal bouquet subscriptions
👉 These are ideal for less crowded visits and unique content opportunities.
📸 Tips for Visiting Tulip Fields
Go early morning or golden hour for best lighting
Wear soft neutrals or pastels for photos
Bring a basket or tote for tulip picking
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
🚗 Easy Day Trip Ideas from NYC
New Jersey Option:
Visit Holland Ridge Farms → lunch at local café → scenic drive home
Hudson Valley Option:
Brunch in New Paltz → Mohonk Mountain House or Kelder’s Farm → winery stop → sunset views
🌷 Why Visit Tulip Farms in NJ & NY?
Tulip season is one of the most beautiful—and short-lived—spring experiences in the Northeast. Visiting these tulip fields in New Jersey and New York is the perfect way to:
Enjoy a scenic outdoor escape
Capture stunning spring content
Support local farms
Create a memorable seasonal day trip
Grab your friends, plan your outfits, and start checking these off your spring bucket list 🌸
17 Creative Classes & Workshops to Try in the Hudson Valley
Looking for hands-on experiences in the Hudson Valley? From artisanal crafts to culinary adventures, this region is full of creative workshops that make perfect weekend plans or gift ideas. Whether you’re mastering pasta, pottery, perfume, or wine, here are 17 must-try classes and workshops across the Hudson Valley.
1. Wine Tasting Workshops at Peck’s Wine & Spirits (Warwick, NY)
Sip, learn, and savor regional and global wines at wine tastings often led by Amanda Marsh of AM Solutions. Peck’s “Upstairs Education Series” pairs guided regional tastings with educational insights — ideal for both beginners and wine lovers.
2. Pasta Making & Cooking Classes at Flours Pasta & Bakeshop (Haverstraw, NY)
Flours Pasta & Bakeshop offers pasta-making and cooking classes for adults, teens, and kids, making it one of the most versatile culinary experiences in the region. Whether you’re rolling fresh pasta from scratch or learning new kitchen skills, these classes are equal parts educational and fun.
3. Custom Perfume Making with Harbinger Perfume
Create a scent that’s uniquely yours with Harbinger Perfume’s custom fragrance workshops. You’ll learn about notes, blends, and scent profiles while crafting a perfume that reflects your personality—an unforgettable sensory experience and keepsake.
4. Weaving Workshops with Courtney Salerno (@madeby_cjk)
Dive into fiber art with weaving workshops led by Courtney Salerno. These sessions are perfect for beginners and creatives looking to unplug, work with their hands, and leave with a beautiful, handmade piece.
5. Candle Making at Mundane (Cold Spring, NY)
Hosted at the thoughtfully curated shop Mundane, these candle-making workshops combine creativity with mindfulness. You’ll design your own candle using beautiful vessels and scents, at their custom scent bar with 50+ options, making it a cozy and calming Cold Spring experience.
6. Needle Felting with Jenny Torino
Needle felting classes with local textile artist Jenny Torino are playful, creative, and surprisingly therapeutic. Learn how to sculpt wool into charming designs while enjoying a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.
7. Pressed Flower Art at Witch Hazel (Beacon, NY)
Create delicate, frame-worthy pressed flower art with Jill at Witch Hazel in Beacon. This workshop blends nature and creativity, making it a perfect activity for spring and summer—and a beautiful way to bring florals indoors year-round.
8. Flower Arranging at Hudson Wildflower Co. (Milton, NY)
Learn the art of floral design with Hudson Wildflower Co., in Milton, NY known for their seasonal, locally inspired arrangements. These workshops focus on natural beauty, sustainability, and creative expression.
9. Paper Flower Workshops with Poy at Summer Space Studio
These paper flower workshops are a unique twist on floral design. Hosted at Summer Space Studio, you’ll learn how to craft stunning blooms that last forever—perfect for creatives, event lovers, or anyone looking for something different.
10. Pottery Classes at The Newburgh Pottery(Newburgh, NY)
The Newburgh Pottery offers hands-on ceramic classes in a vibrant, community-centered studio. Whether you’re new to pottery or looking to refine your skills, these classes are both grounding and creatively fulfilling.
11. Pottery Classes with Serina at Nature’s Impact
Serina’s pottery classes at Nature’s Impact emphasize intentional creativity and connection to nature. Expect a slower-paced, mindful approach to working with clay in a welcoming environment.
12. Cooking Classes at The Culinary Institute of America (Hyde Park, NY)
Cook like a pro at one of the world’s top culinary schools. For a world-class culinary experience, the CIA in Hyde Park offers recreational cooking classes taught by expert chefs. From technique-focused sessions to themed menus, these classes are ideal for serious food lovers.
13. Cooking Classes at WatergrassHill B&B(New Paltz, NY)
Hosted in a cozy, intimate setting, Watergrass Hill B&B’s cooking classes feel like learning in a friend’s kitchen—if that friend happens to be an incredible cook. These experiences are warm, personal, and deeply Hudson Valley–inspired.
14. Sourdough Classes with The Focaccia Florist at Wildflower Farms, Auberge Collection
Held at the stunning Wildflower Farms, Auberge Collection, in Gardiner, NY these sourdough classes combine luxury, nature, and culinary artistry. Learn fermentation basics while enjoying one of the most beautiful settings in the Hudson Valley.
15. Kintsugi Workshops with HV Kintsugi
Kintsugi—the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold—teaches both technique and philosophy. HV Kintsugi workshops focus on embracing imperfections and creating beauty through repair, making this a deeply meaningful experience.
16. Charcuterie Classes with Boards by Kae
Build beautiful boards like a pro. Learn how to build a show-stopping charcuterie board with Kaela, Founder of Boards by Kae. These classes teach styling, pairing, and presentation tips you can use for hosting, holidays, and everyday entertaining. Great for hosts, foodies, a girls night out, and party planners.
17. Cookie Decorating Classes with Lady Whisk A Lot
Enjoy hands-on cookie decorating workshops while learning professional icing techniques, piping skills, and seasonal designs. Whether it’s a seasonal theme like Halloween or Valentine’s Day, Snowman and Santa you can expect each class to be fun and beautifully delicious.
Why Take a Class in the Hudson Valley?
These workshops aren’t just about learning a skill—they’re about slowing down, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a girls’ day out, or intentional solo time, the Hudson Valley offers endless opportunities to connect, create, and be inspired.
If you’re looking for more Hudson Valley experiences, food, travel, and community-centered inspiration, this list is just the beginning.
Discover Ochs Orchard: The Best U-Pick Fruit Experience in Orange County, NY This Summer
If you're searching for a delightful summer activity in Orange County, NY, look no further than Ochs Orchard in Warwick, NY. This family-owned farm offers a charming pick-your-own experience that combines fresh air, scenic views, and the joy of harvesting your own fruit.
🍓 A Bounty of Summer Fruits
Ochs Orchard's pick-your-own season kicks off in June with strawberries and continues through the summer with a variety of fruits:
Strawberries: Early June
Cherries: June to early July
Raspberries: June to October
Blueberries: June to July
Blackberries: July to August
Peaches: July to September
Later in the season, from August to November, visitors can pick apples, tomatoes, vegetables, and pumpkins.
🌿 More Than Just Fruit Picking
Beyond fruit picking, Ochs Orchard offers a variety of attractions:
Farm Market: Open year-round, featuring fresh produce, specialty nut butters, local honey, jams, jellies, baking supplies, fresh-made apple cider and apple sauce, and more.
Homemade Ice Cream: Available from May to November during store hours, made with fruits from the farm.
Petting Zoo: Free and open daily, home to goats, donkeys, and peacocks.
🧺 Planning Your Visit
Location: 4 Ochs Lane, Warwick, NY 10990
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: $5 per person (over five years old); children under five enter free.
Season Passes: $15 per person, includes a basket and allows entry for summer picking through Labor Day. (You will be paying for the fruit, prices vary per pound.)
Parking: Always free.
Payment: Cash or card (note: card transactions incur a 4% processing fee).
Tips:
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hilly terrain.
Bring your own beverages to stay hydrated; water is also available for purchase.
Summer months get HOT, bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses.
Picnics are welcome, but please take your trash with you.
Porta-potty next to the entrance of the U-Pick field.
Dogs are not allowed in the picking areas.
Stay Updated: Picking schedules change daily; check Ochs Orchard's Facebook page or call (845) 986-1591 before your visit.
Whether you're looking to fill your basket with fresh fruits, enjoy homemade ice cream, or spend a day outdoors with family and kids, Ochs Orchard offers a memorable summer experience in the heart of Orange County, NY.
Bucket List Cooking Experience at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY
Looking for unforgettable cooking classes in the Hudson Valley? Discover what it’s like to take a hands-on culinary course at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, NY—including tips, class info, and what to expect.
Why the Culinary Institute of America Has Always Been on My Bucket List
For years, I dreamed of cooking at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York. As someone who has taken dozens of cooking classes—from Sur La Table workshops to pasta making in Italy and jam preserving in Brooklyn—this felt like the ultimate foodie milestone.
I’ve cooked everything from macarons and croissants to tamales, steak, and festive desserts like Bûche de Noël, but stepping into the CIA kitchen was an experience on an entirely different level.
My Experience: "Spain and the World Table" at CIA Hyde Park
I chose a single-day class called “Spain and the World Table,” taught by the amazing Chef Eric Sauber. His energy and positive attitude made the experience approachable, even as we tackled more complex techniques.
We began the class with a deep dive into knife skills—spending nearly an hour just learning to properly cut onions and garlic. Then we broke into teams of four, and each group was assigned four Spanish-inspired dishes to prepare.
We cooked nonstop for three hours, collaborating in a fast-paced, professional-style kitchen. Then we sat down to enjoy our hard-earned feast. It honestly felt like I was part of a culinary competition—but in the best way possible.
What Sets CIA Cooking Classes Apart
While I’ve participated in many cooking classes over the years, this one stood out for its intensity, structure, and teamwork. It felt like a true behind-the-scenes experience in a professional kitchen.
That said, I would have loved a bit more instruction or cultural background on the regional flavors of Spain. A brief overview of traditional dishes or culinary history would have elevated it even more. I'd even loved to have planned a bit better and done this with a friend because relying on strangers was challenging!
Still, the hands-on learning, expert instruction, and teamwork made this a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
CIA Boot Camps, One-Day Classes & What You Need to Know
The CIA in Hyde Park offers a variety of culinary learning opportunities, including:
CIA Boot Camps (multi-day immersive programs)
Single-Day Cooking Classes
Beverage & Wine Classes
All are led by experienced CIA chef-instructors and held in state-of-the-art teaching kitchens.
💰 Cost: My one-day class was $250
📅 Booking Tip: I had to reserve my spot 5 months in advance—these classes fill up quickly!
What to Explore After Your Class at CIA
After class, I took time to explore the beautiful CIA campus and bookstore. I highly recommend checking out:
Student-run restaurants on campus (highly rated and open to the public)
Campus tours, offered on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m.—just $15, with proceeds going directly to student scholarships
Final Thoughts: Is the CIA Cooking Experience Worth It?
Absolutely. If you're a passionate home cook, food enthusiast, or just looking for a unique weekend experience in the Hudson Valley, cooking at the Culinary Institute of America is a must. It’s immersive, inspiring, and yes—100% bucket list-worthy.
