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.