26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Cold Spring (NY)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in Cold Spring, NY?

Cold Spring is a village located in Philipstown, Putnam County, New York, United States. Its last census has its population at about two thousand.

Cold Spring has a lot of well-preserved historical landmarks and sites such as the West Point Foundry and many more.

It has national registered historical sites, which bring in a lot of tourists and history lovers to explore the historical heritage of the village.

This village, which is situated in the Hudson Highlands, serves as a great place to spend the weekend for its nearby residents and its visitors as well.

Let’s explore the top things to do in Cold Spring, New York.

Things to Do in Cold Spring, NY

1. Bannerman Castle

Located in Hudson Islands State Park on a tiny Pollepel Island, Bannerman Castle is a beautiful attraction worth adding to your list of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Bannerman Castle is a perfect place to visit during the summer months and there are guided tours around the area offered on Saturdays and Sundays from May to October.

Bannerman Castle and its surroundings also host many special events, theatrical shows, fundraisers, and more during summer.

Another novel way to explore the island is by kayak–guided kayak excursions are available from Cold Springs. They include all the necessary equipment and a guided tour of the island.

Address: Bannerman Castle, Fishkill, NY 12508, United States

2. Breakneck Ridge Loop

Located in Hudson Valley, Breakneck Ridge loop is one of the fun places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in cold springs, NY. For a “once in a lifetime” experience, Breakneck Ridge is the go-to place.

If hiking is a hubby, then Breakneck Ridge is a nice place to test your abilities as it has challenging plains and terrains, and although it is somewhat short, it is packed with a lot of surprises.

It is recommended that you come along with your gear as you come along for the hiking adventure as certain places are steep and rocky, but other than that, it’s nature waiting to be explored.

The view from Breakneck Ridge is fascinating as you can sight the Hudson River from the top of the ridge and other locations such as Bannerman’s castle, depending on the route you take.

When taking Breakneck Ridge through the white blaze markers, you’d find two paths. One leads through a daring terrain for the adventure seekers, while the other is quite simple. Both would lead to the top of the ridge with a beautiful view of the Hudson River.

Address: Breakneck Ridge Trail, USA.

3. Hudson Highlands State Park

For some fun time, add a visit to Hudson Highlands State Park to your checklist of things to do in Cold spring.

Hudson Highlands State Park is located along the east bank of the Hudson River and it spans from Peekskill to Beacon in the eastern Hudson Highlands.

Hudson Highlands State Park offers visitors an opportunity to engage in various recreational activities like fishing, hiking, bird watching, and hunting.

One of the hiking options in the park includes a 5.1-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail that cuts across the southern part of the park.

The Breakneck Ridge Trail also featured in the park is among the most popular and challenging trails in the area and it stretches about 4.6 miles.

Exploring the Hudson Highlands State Park is one of the best fun things to do in cold spring NY and it should be added to your checklist.

Address: Hudson Highlands State Park, 3011 Route 9D Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

4. Magazzino Italian Art

Are you interested in art? If yes, add a visit to Magazzino Italian Art to your list of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Magazzino is an interesting art museum that was designed by Miguel Quismondo a Spanish architect and was built in 2016.

The museum is dedicated to showcasing artworks made by Italian artists over the years.

The building that houses the museum has the appearance of a stark, modern warehouse and this is what the word Magazzino means in Italian.

The museum boasts several two-and-three-dimensional works in a modern, light-filled interior space most of which were made by renowned Italian artists from the Arte Povera Movement.

Magazzino Italian Art is just a 10min drive away from the Cold Spring train station. In addition, there is a free shuttle service that conveys visitors who travel by train from New York City.

Magazzino is one of the most fun places to visit for art lovers and it is worth adding to your list of fun things to do in Cold Spring.

Address: Magazzino Italian Art, 2700 Route 9, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

5. Little Stony Point

If miles of moving through the woods to get to your desired hiking point isn’t ideal for you, then little stony point might be the perfect place to visit.

Although the little stony point has a small land area, it still gives you that feeling of the great outdoors with views of beautiful beaches and nearby towns.

Sitting on the Hudson River, Little stony point has a rather easygoing terrain for those who aren’t crazy about dangerous-looking terrains.

A one-mile loop is also available for those who enjoy a long walk and as you would be braced with the view of the river border along the pathways.

The sight of an old mining shaft is hard to miss as you pass by. Also, the locals sitting and enjoying the summer sunshine is one thing you would not miss.

All in all, from the nice terrain to the beautiful view, to the friendly locals, Little Stony point, would prove to be a really fun location for a visit.

Address: 3007 Bear Mountain-Beacon Hwy, Cold Spring, New York

6. Foundry Dock Park

In the past, this peaceful riverfront oasis used to be full of the rumbling sounds from the West Point Foundry loading dock for the ironworks center in the 19th century (now it is the West Point Foundry Preserve).

The view today is different with expansive views of the rolling Hudson Highlands. It’s also a gateway from where you can explore Foundry Cove and Audubon New York’s Constitution Marsh Sanctuary.

The park is an excellent spot to watch kayakers cruising through the Hudson to explore the Foundry Dock Cove. 

It’s, in addition, one of the most convenient places close to The MetroNorth Railroad station, so people coming into New York City will be certain to be able to view it once they exit the train.

Visitors who visit the park can hire canoes and kayaks at Hudson River Expeditions. 

A visit to this spectacular park is a perfect addition to your checklist of fun things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

7. Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus)

For some out recreation, add a visit to Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) to your list of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Part of the Hudson Highlands State Park, the area was named Bull hill because of a bull that lived and terrorized the inhabitants.

The mountain was given the name ‘Mount Taurus’ after the bull was forcefully removed from the area by a hunting party.

Currently, Bull Hill boasts different hiking trails, the most popular being the Bull Hill Full Loop.

The Bull Hill Full loop stretches about 5.5 miles and it leads to a beautiful scenic waterfall.

Other trails that can be found in the area include the Washburn Trailhead close to the Little Stony Point parking area at the north of Cold Spring.

Bull Hill is the perfect place to go hiking and it is worth adding to your list of fun things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Address: Bull Hill, Philipstown, NY 10516, United States

8. St Mary’s Episcopal Church

Located at 1 Chestnut Street, Cold Spring New York, St. Mary’s is a beautiful site to visit for the history and art-loving souls.

The church is a few minutes walks from the railway and comprises a variety of stained glass windows with its artwork well detailed and soothing to behold.

If historical sites and lectures are your things, then St. Mary’s Episcopal church should do the job as it features many historic attractions.

The building’s architectural design is one to be admired even in its declining years. The old stone building and its inhabitants have quite the historical lectures for as many as need one.

It is also said that at the church, you could see a tree planted in the memorial of the fiftieth anniversary of the Second World War. It’s a hotspot for history and art-loving individuals.

Address:1 Chestnut St, Cold Spring, NY 10516-2516

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9. Peruse Main Street

Exploring Peruse Main Street is one of the best things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

The heart of Cold Spring is located on Main Street. The main street runs along to the east bank of Hudson River. Main Street is lined with antique shops and cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

From outdoor eating to live music, there is always something happening on Main Street.

Some parks run along the river, complete with benches and a pavilion. This area of Cold Spring is also regarded as a historic district.

It includes some of the most impressive examples of townhouses from the 19th century preserved that have both colonial and Victorian styles.

Explore 19th-century churches, homes, and other buildings built just before the Civil War, when the West Point Foundry was at its peak of production.

The Historic District includes a large portion of Main Street and downtown, including the Hudson River waterfront park. The Historic District is home to more than 200 structures.

A popular local spot on Main Street is Bijou Galleries, renowned for its antique collectibles and art, decor, and antiques.

Address: Bijou Galleries 50 Main Street, Cold Spring, New York, United States

10. Stonecrop Gardens

If you are a nature lover add a visit to Stonecrop Gardens to your checklist of things to do Cold Spring.

Stonecrop Gardens started as a private garden and was opened to the public in 1992. The garden is located in a beautiful, elevated area in Hudson Highlands.

The gardens spread across about 15 acres of land space and it is home to a variety of plants from different parts of the world.

Stonecrop Gardens consists of several themed gardens, including wetlands, woodlands, and alpine and grass gardens.

Among the many features of Stonecrop Gardens include an Alpine display house, hundreds of dwarf bulbs in the Pit House, and an English-style flower garden.

Stonecrop Gardens is open to visitors during the month of April through October from Monday to Saturday.

Address: Stonecrop Gardens, 81 Stonecrop Lane, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

11. Putnam History Museum

The history museum located at 63 chestnut street, New York, is a beautiful yet small historical seething pot for those looking for the thrill of art and history.

The museum collects, interprets, and preserves the history of its district. It uses its historical collections to teach its district its role in nation-building.

The museum contains amazing historical sitings, such as the visit of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to Cold spring New York.

It also has relics such as the parrot gun, which speaks volumes about the foundry and its bequest to the civil war.

If history is your thing, Putnam History museum has a wealth of historical information and heritage for its visitors. Most assured is the thrilling experience of those seeking a good history site.

Address: 63 Chestnut St, Cold Spring, NY 10516-2613

12. Vera’s Market and Garden Center

Vera’s Marketplace and Garden Center is an interesting attraction that is worth adding to your list of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Established in 1982 by Italian immigrants Vera and Tony Giordano, Vera’s is a friendly marketplace that offers beautiful cut flowers and fresh local organic produce.

Vera’s Marketplace and Garden Center also offers a variety of Italian specialties, fresh mozzarella cheese, and delicious apple doughnuts.

If you wish to purchase beautiful plants or get some gardening advice, Vera’s on-site garden center is the perfect place to visit.

Address: Vera’s Marketplace and Garden Center 3091 Rout 9, Suite 102, Cold Spring, NY, United States

13. West Point Foundry Preserve

One of the best fun things to do in Cold spring is visiting the West Point Foundry Preserve which is worth adding to your checklist.

Several munitions factories were created in the early 1800s when President James Madison realized that the United States was not prepared to hold off any hostile attacks.

Among the many munitions factories established is the West Point Foundry in Cold Spring, which developed munitions like cannons and thousands of shells used during the Civil War. The foundry was later closed in 1911.

If you wish to explore this abandoned foundry that takes its spot on the 87-acre West Point Foundry Preserve, download an online mobile guide and follow the trails that cut across the site.

Address: West Point Foundry Preserve, 80 Kemble Ave, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

14. Cold Spring Antiques Center

Cold Spring Antiques, also known as the “vault,” is owned by Tom and Nancy Alfaro and has been a beautiful landmark for the residents of Cold Springs, New York.

If one-of-a-kind antiques are your interest, cold spring antiques are one place to be as it contains beautiful collectibles, clothing, and of course, antiques.

For those seeking an on-site alternative for online shopping, the antique is a sure place to visit and explore to the fullest.

From vintage jewelry to comic books to postal cards, the “vault “is got it. It’s a good place to get unique stuff for a very reasonable price.

For antique-loving individuals who are in search of beautiful collectibles, the cold spring antique center is a cool place to visit.

Address: 77 Main St, Cold Spring, NY 10516-2810

15. The Chapel

If you are interested in architecture, add a visit to The Chapel to your list of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Built in 1833 on the banks of the Hudson River, The Chapel is the oldest Catholic Church north of Manhattan.

The Chapel was erected to serve the ecclesiastical needs of several Irish immigrants who moved into the area between 1820 and 1860.

The chapel served this purpose for years but was later abandoned in 1906 after which it fell into decline and in 1927 it was ravaged by fire.

Presently, The Chapel has been restored to its original glory and it now serves as a historic landmark that is also a place of gathering for locals in Cold spring.

The beautifully restored Chapel now serves as a hosting ground for storytelling events and regular music. The building can also be hired for private events like weddings.

Stop by this wonderful historical structure if you are interested in history or architecture.

Address: The Chapel Restoration 45 Market Street, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

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16. Butterfield Library

Are you a bookworm? If yes, add a visit to Butterfield Library to your checklist of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

Located in a beautiful historic building, The Butterfield Library is a public library with a lot of knowledge to offer its visitors.

Although a small library, Butterfield Library has lots of literary materials and also links to many other community libraries through which books requested can be acquired.

Young visitors can be part of the regular storytime hosted by the library and adult visitors can partake in any of the regular talks or adults lecture.

Butterfield Library also features an outdoor garden area where visitors can relax and enjoy a good book.

Address: Butterfield Library, 10 Morris Ave, Cold Spring, NY 1056, United States

17. Cold Spring Tots Park

If you are a parent and need someplace to have some time with your kids, cold spring tots park would be worth visiting.

One thing the park is well known for is its safety for the little kids, so if you are concerned about the well-being of your kid, the park is a sure spot to visit.

The park is well maintained and consists of a lot of peaceful spots for the parents. It has a lot of trees for shade and a bench for parents to sit at keep watch over their kids.

The park consists of a lot of things for the kids, such as the swing set, outdoor tiny picnic tables, peddle cars, and circular boardwalks.

Tots park is a wonderful and fun location for those seeking a quiet time for themselves and a great time for their kids ranging from ages one to five.

Address: High St, Cold Spring, NY 10516

18. Glynwood

If you are in Cold Spring and wish to try out some of the area’s best organic locally-grown vegetables, Glynwood farm is the perfect place to visit.

The Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming focuses on teaching ignorant farmers and food technologists all there is to know about regenerative agriculture.

Glynwood has a remarkable Farm Store that offers fresh organic vegetables and pasture-raised meat. The store is open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from May to November

You can also visit the store on Thursday afternoons to purchase meats and self-items during the winter months.

Address: Glynwood Farm, 362 Glynwood Road, Cold Spring, NY 10516,

19. Moo-Moo’s Creamery

Locals will inform you that a visit to Cold Spring would be incomplete without a visit to  one of the most sought-after gathering spots in the town.

One of the best things to do in Cold spring with kids is visiting Moo-Moo’s Creamery and it is worth adding to your checklist.

Moo-Moo’s Creamery is one of the most popular meeting places for locals and it serves some of the best ice creams in the city.

This renowned ice-cream shop started with a secret family recipe that make use of fresh and natural ingredients to make refreshing creams.

Moo-Moo’s Creamery has grown from offering a small number of flavors to about 16 flavors daily.

Moo-Moo’s Creamery also boasts a spectacular setting with a comfortable porch that gives a beautiful view of the Hudson River.

Address: Moo-Moo’s Creamery 32 West Street, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

20. Cold Spring Apothecary

Cold spring apothecary is a gift shop located at 75 Main Street, New York. The store makes available organic products such as sprays, lip balms, and scented candles, to mention a few.

The store is a good location to visit if you’re looking for soothing organic products and satisfactory customer service.

The employees are friendly and ready to help out whether you’re there to get a gift for a loved one or to get something else in the store.

The place in question has a beautiful interior view alongside the soothing fragrance that seems to welcome its visitors.

If gift shops are your Nich, cold springs apothecary could just be the place for you. As far as the hospitality of the workers and the all-around great experience goes, it’s a great place to visit.

Address: 75 Main St, Cold Spring, NY 10516-2825

21. Explore Art and Antiques

One of the best fun things to do in Cold Spring is exploring different Art and Antiques and it is worth adding to your checklist.

The villages and towns in the Hudson Valley are known for their clusters of creators and artists. Cold Spring is no different and it is home to galleries to demonstrate that. 

There are dozens of galleries throughout Cold Spring and the surrounding towns, making it the ideal place to browse through the works of international and local artists.

Magazzino Italian Art is one of Cold Spring’s most well-known museums institutions.

The museum-meets-research center was created to encourage individuals to practice and study postwar and contemporary Italian art. 

The current exhibition, Arte Povera, is one of the largest researches of this particular movement that emerged during Italy’s transition in the 1960s.

Address: Magazzino Italian Art, 2700 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, New York, United States

22. Hudson House

Hudson House is another historic attraction that is worth adding to your checklist of things to do in Cold Spring, NY.

The Hudson House was Built in 1827 and has been a historic landmark in Cold spring and a beacon of hospitality excellence for more than 175 years.

This historic attraction has been painstakingly preserved and it offers its visitors a memorable hotel experience in Hudson Valley.

Choose any of the room or suites that overlook the Hudson River maximum fun experience. You can also hit Main Street for recreational activities like sight-seeing, hiking, antique-hunting, boating, and kayaking.

In the hotels’ vicinity are two on-site restaurants; Tavern Room which offers a casual atmosphere with relaxed pub-style dining, and River Room restaurant which overlooks the Hudson River.

Address: Hudson House 2, Main Street, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

23. Gallery 66 NY

Exploring Peruse Main Street is one of the best things to do in cold spring, NY.

The heart of Cold Spring is located on Main Street. The main street runs along to the east bank of the Hudson River, and it boasts antique shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Peruse Main Street is always lively due to many events in the area, including outdoor dining and live music.

Some parks run along the river, complete with benches and a pavilion. This area of Cold Spring is also regarded as a historic district.

The street features some of the most impressive examples of townhouses from the 19th century that have been preserved, both colonial and Victorian-style buildings.

Explore 19th-century churches, homes, and other buildings which were built just before the Civil War, when the West Point Foundry was at its peak of production.

The Historic District includes a large portion of the area of Main Street and downtown, including the Hudson River waterfront park. The Historic District is home to more than 200 structures.

A popular local spot on Main Street is Bijou Galleries, renowned for its antique collectibles and art, decor, and antiques.

Your visit to Cold Spring will not be complete without exploring the beauty of Peruse Main Street.

Address: 66 Main St, Cold Spring, NY 10516-3016.

24. Putnam County Wine and Food Festival

The Putnam County Wine and Food Festival is a popular two-day outdoor event in Cold Spring, NY. It accommodates the region’s and world’s prominent wine producers, local artisans, and fresh produce. 

Visitors can sample wines, ciders, or spirits produced by New York’s and world-famous producers during the festival. You can buy whatever brand you prefer.

Ensure to come with lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy delicious dishes and live music. There are also art and craft exhibitions and entertainment for the children during the festival.

Buy discounted festival tickets by following the Metro-North Hudson Line to Cold Spring Station. Some of the funds from the festival are donated to assist the Feed The American Children Campaign. You can also check out their website for more information.

Address: 61 Fair St, Cold Spring, NY 10519, United States

25. Washburn Trail

This scenic loop trail spans 7.2 miles with an elevation gain of 2,000 ft. It provides beautiful views of the Hudson River, the Storm State Park towards the west, and the Point Military Academy. The Washburn trail is considered a strenuous hike.

The Trail has various starting points, and you can begin your hiking journey from the lowest starting point, the Washburn Trailhead.

Activities to do on this trail include biking, boating, and hiking. The Washburn Trail is close to famous tourist attractions like Hyde and Woodstock Park.

While hiking, you will enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River. You can fish for trout, bass, and salmon on the Hudson River.

Don’t forget to hold a picnic and enjoy wildlife viewing, as you might see birds, deer, and bears.

Address: Washburn Trail, Philipstown, NY 10516, USA

26. Doug’s Pretty Good Pub

The owner of this business, Dough O., in the 1980s and 1990s, operated some restaurants and pubs in Los Angeles, Boston, and New York City.

In 2001 he relocated to Cold Spring, NY; in 2014, he opened Doug’s Pretty Good Pub. The Pub provides delectable foods and fresh beer for residents and tourists on vacation.

You should come with your friends and loved ones so that everyone enjoys the beautiful setting and variety of great foods and drinks offered at this place.

Their menu includes grilled cheese and tomato, chicken wings, breaded chicken tenders, kalay’s salad, Gouverneur Kemble’s Steak Sandwich, and burgers.

This restaurant is open all through the week from morning till evening. Their staff is very welcoming and friendly. 

Address: 54 Main St, Cold Spring, NY 10516, United States

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Plan your trip to Cold Spring

From art to beautiful natural attractions, to the blood-pumping hiking experience, historic sites, beautifully scented gift shops, cold spring has it all!

There are so many beautiful landscapes to see, so many great pictures waiting to be captured, and so many great experiences to have as you visit!

Cold spring promises to be a blast of an experience. Good packing would be recommended.