Food and Beverage

The Authentic 518: Charming Small Towns on the Outskirts

November 17, 2021 By Cabrina McGinn

Brown’s Brewing Taproom in Hoosick Falls

Centuries before automobiles emerged as the singular mode of transport, the Industrial Revolution exploded upward from its epicenter of Manhattan, through the waterways that carve the landscape of Upstate New York. As a result of this rapid expansion, mill towns popped up along the creeks and streams that branch from the Hudson River.

Unlike many of the city centers in the Capital Region, the charming small towns in htis story haven’t been bulldozed for strip malls and high rises. Instead, they maintain the architecture and ambiance of the time in which they were founded. Lucky for us, they’re all just a short automobile ride away! So if you’ve ever had the urge to play out your Schitt’s Creek fantasy, or if you’re someone for whom ‘antique’ is a verb, plan your next day trip to one of these charming small towns!

Greenwich

Tour the amazing architecture all around the town square

Surprisingly, the town I hadn’t heard of before was the one with the most going on! Greenwich has some of the most beautiful historic homes in the Capital Region. Plus, there’s a bustling main street with restaurants, cafes, antique shops and craft stores.

Get your Christmas on at The Country Peddler

Formerly known as Whipple City, the town grew up around a cotton mill and continued to flourish until the mid 19th century. Be sure to take a stroll through the surrounding neighborhoods to see some of the best examples of 18th and 19th century architecture that Upstate New York has to offer.

There’s homemade white bread at Lynn’s Country Cafe

There’s great food and drink in Greenwich, too. Argyle Brewing offers tasting flights and food trucks. Nearby, Elsassers 111 offers Flammkuchen (German-style flatbread pizza). Stop into Greenwich Hardware to explore a selection of antique furniture and farming equipment, or to Wicked Wicks for handmade crafts, cappuccinos, and sip-n-paint classes. The Christmas Attic and the Country Peddler offer Christmas tchotchkes and fresh fudge year-round. And don’t miss Wallie’s, a Greenwich institution since 1929, serving patrons for almost a century in the heart of this beautiful village.

Your Greenwich Itinerary:

Kinderhook

Certainly the swankiest of the bunch, Kinderhook has drawn Michelin-star chefs, restaurateurs, and other impressive proprietors from New York City and Hudson in recent months. And, this small town was home to the nation’s eighth president, Martin Van Buren; you can still visit his estate house, Lindenwald, which is now a museum in his honor.

The food and architecture is awesome in Kinderhook. First, pop into the Saisonnier (French for farmhand) to enjoy some fresh beer and a delicious charcuterie board. Then, cross the town square to take a look at the Knitting Mill, a new project that will house several businesses in a renovated 1860’s knitting factory. The building is currently home to Morningbird and OK Pantry, with a restaurant, cocktail lounge, gallery, and apothecary line opening in the coming months. Down the street, Meghan Calcagno brings her family’s 150-year old bagel recipe from Brooklyn to Kinderhook with Broad St. Bagel Co. They’ve recently expanded to the spot next door with Focaccia Bakery, where they offer Old World Italian bread and pizza.

Your Kinderhook Itinerary:

Saisonnier
Broad St. Bagel Co. | Focaccia Bakery
DYAD Wine Bar
Cosmic Donuts
Morningbird | OK Pantry
Martin Van Buren Lindenwald

Hoosick Falls

The little village sits almost on the border of Vermont, just a hop, skip and a jump away from Bennington. The gazebo at the center of town is the spitting image of the one in Stars Hollow (the fictitious Connecticut town that serves as the backdrop for Gilmore Girls). Thankfully for us, the rest of the architecture in town follows suit.

View of the Walloomsac from Brown’s Brewing

Artists Norman Rockwell and Grandma Moses both lived in the area; their paintings are exhibited in museums around the world as examples of American Folk Art from Upstate New York and Vermont.

In more recent times, Brown’s Brewing brought fame to the area once more when they renovated a mill on the Walloomsac River. The beautiful spot now houses a brewery and full restaurant, drawing tourists from all over New York State. The Potter Hill Barn, a ‘primitive gift store’, is another classic Capital Region staple, operating for more than 25 years.

Meanwhile, young business Iron Coffee Co., has seen a booming clientele since launching their roastery in 2016. And, new favorite Hoosick Provisions is an absolute must-stop for anyone looking for their Rose Apothecary moment. You’ll find local cheeses, homemade pastries and regional produce, set against the backdrop of 19th century exposed brick.

Your Hoosick Falls Itinerary:

Schuylerville

Schuylerville is sometimes called America’s most historic village, because the Battle of Saratoga — known as the “Turning Point of the American Revolution” — was fought here. Later, in the 19th century, captains-of-industry arrived, harnessing the Fish Creek and Hudson River that made Shuylerville into a bustling township. Today, this quaint village remains a cultural hub of Upstate New York.

If you want good hikes and views of the waterways, Schuylerville is for you! Stop into Bound by Fate Brewing or The Basin Grill to enjoy a brew or bite on their beautiful patios overlooking the water. Then, get your steps in at Hudson Crossing Park and check out the beautiful Dix Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Hudson River into Washington County.

Your Shuylerville Itinerary:

Schoharie

This charming village might be the Barn-Quilt capital of Upstate New York. On the main drag alone there are four businesses exhibiting large quilt-like signage on the outsides of their historic buildings.

As a result of its rural location, Schoharie is home to a number of regionally famous farms & farm stores. As a result, local produce, plants, prepared foods and artisan products abound. One of my favorites is The Carrot Barn, a Capital Region institution offering local produce and products from all over Upstate New York. (Surprise, surprise, the carrot cake is to die for). My family has been going to Wellingtons for years – run by retired couple Carolyn and Frederick. Their 45-acre farm offers landscaped gardens, artisan gifts and collectibles. And, there’s a tea room where Carolyn serves her signature gooey butter cake and island tea.

Generations, A Vintage Consignment Store

Stop by consignment shop Generations, which offers — dare I say it — the best selection of antiques that I’ve ever come across outside of the city centers. While you’re there, say hi to Ann, a lifelong Upstate New Yorker with years of stories and Schoharie history!

Your Schoharie Itinerary:

The Carrot Barn
Schoharie Valley Farms
The Apple Barrel Store & Cafe
Generations, A Vintage Consignment Shop
The Farmers Beef & Brew
Wellington’s Herbs & Spices

This article is presented in collaboration with Straight Upstate. Visit the blog on instagram @straightupstate or online at https://straightupstate.com

Born and raised in the Capital Region, Cabrina McGinn started her blog in 2019 to highlight the exceptional bars and restaurants that the 518 has to offer. Prior to that, she had spent many years in the restaurant industry, bartending all over New York State. While the blog was started with the intention of focusing solely on cocktails and craft beverages, Cabrina has expanded the blog to feature food, events, hotels, and other unique and exceptional things that you can only find in Upstate New York. Cabrina lives in Saratoga Springs and enjoys exploring the Hudson Valley and Adirondacks on the weekends.

The Authentic 518: Can’t-Miss Farms to Visit This Fall

October 18, 2021 By Cabrina McGinn

Any Capital Region native knows that apple trees are as deeply rooted in our area’s history as they are in our soil. New York’s first known apple orchards were planted by Peter Stuyvestant in 1647 — long before New York was even a colony, let alone a state.

Today, Upstate New York is a reigning apple capital of the world, boasting orchards and farms that have operated by the same families for hundreds of years. And, our farms draw thousands of agritourists from all over the world.

We explored some of the region’s best farms to visit this Fall. Some offer family fun, others, farm brews and hard ciders. ALL are family owned and committed to keeping our autumn traditions in Upstate New York alive and well.

Indian Ladder Farms

Indian Ladder Farms has been owned and operated by the Ten Eyck Family for more than 100 years. Originally founded as a Dairy Farm in 1916, the land has seen many uses and iterations over the last century. Laurie Ten Eyck runs the farm today, along with her husband Dietrich, and her brother Peter Gansevoort Ten Eyck III.

The farm has always been known locally for their orchards, petting zoo, and farm store/cafe. In recent years, however, the opening of their Brewery & Cidery business has seen a tremendous uptick in visitors from far and wide. Dietrich, who manages the Cidery-Brewery business, tells us that their beer and cider have become so popular that they can’t make it fast enough to satisfy both the walk-in customers and their wholesale distributors. They’re rapidly expanding their brewery to be able to produce 600 gallons at a turn. And, they’re adding an additional event space that will be used for weddings and retreats.

With their animals, orchards, and biergarten, Indian Ladder Farms is great for families or an outing just for adults. They have fire pits for evening gatherings and their Brewery/Cidery now has indoor seating & a full menu, open year-round.

Offerings:

Pick your own apples
Farm Brewery & Cidery
Full Food Menu
Cider & Doughnuts
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Animals
Farm Store

Ellms Family Farms

The Ellms family have owned and operated this farm since the 1980’s, originally growing Christmas Trees. They’ve now expanded to pumpkins, corn, and more than 40 ‘agratainment’ activities for kids and adults alike. Garth Ellms, who runs the farm with his two elder sisters after having taken it over from their parents in 2005, tells us that the farm spans 240 acres of land, and draws anywhere from 1000-2000 people per day during the Fall Season.

Running the farm is a family affair for the Ellms. Currently there are eight grandchildren, many of whom have buildings named after them at the farm. Some even run ticket sales for the train rides all by themselves. They make around 1600 Cider Doughnuts per day. While I must say there was some razor-thin competition, they were my favorite of all of the cider doughnuts I tried while researching this article.

Ellms is perfectly geared towards children and families. They even do children’s birthday parties and offer an evening drive-through light show with cider doughnuts and kettle corn!

Offerings:

40 Children’s Activities
Cider & Doughnuts
Full Food Menu w/ alcoholic beverages
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Animals
Farm Store

Saratoga Apple

The Darrow family has been growing apples in Schuylerville for 5 generations, and their Farm Store might just be the busiest in all of Saratoga County – open 7 days a week. They stock all kinds of local products and produce, and make cider doughnuts year-round! In recent years they’ve also launched a hard cider business and tasting room, offering two of their own hard ciders among other local brews, meads, and spirits.

Perhaps their most unique and authentic product, however, is their old-school traditional cider called ‘Scrumpy,’ made using the natural yeast on the apples. There are no added sulfites, and no added sweeteners, resulting in a very dry hard cider (and my personal favorite).

Saratoga Apple offers some of the most beautiful views in the Capital Region, as well as some of the best selection of local products. Their tasting room has lots of options, making this a great destination for adults.

Offerings:

Hard Cider & Tasting Room
Pick your own apples
Cider & Doughnuts
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Store

Windy Hill Orchard East

Run by the Goold Family since 1910, Windy Hill Orchard East was purchased and expanded in 2019 by Scott and Todd Seeberger. Like the Goolds, this family aren’t new to the apple business. Since then, the Seeberger family have remodeled the Farm Store, added fire pits and Adirondack chairs throughout the orchard, and started doing wagon rides, corn mazes, and other children’s attractions.

Their orchards span 116 acres and offer around 12 different varietals of apples, while their farm store offers homemade fudge, cheese, and cider doughnuts among other local goods. On Saturdays and Sundays throughout October, Windy Hill East is hosting ‘Fall Family Days,’ with live music, food trucks, and a craft-vendor market. They’ve also recently added a Cidery & Winery business, and are renovating the 120-year-old barn on the property to house their tasting room someday.

Windy Hill East is great for both families or adults – their Fall Family Days offer free admission and are a perfect way to spend a fall afternoon with live music, food trucks, and local vendors!

Offerings:

Wine & Cider
Pick your own apples
Cider & Doughnuts
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Store

Golden Harvest

The orchards on route 9 in Valatie have existed since at least the 1870’s, long before Daniel and Madeline Zinke would purchase them and open the first Farm Stand on this spot in 1957, naming it ‘Golden Harvest’.

Today, their grandson Alan Grout and his sons own and operate the farm. Golden Harvest has now expanded to include a bakery, a distillery, and a smokehouse grill. The farmstand is one of the largest and most impressive in the area; with everything from eggs, to baked goods and local jams & honey, you could almost do a full grocery shop here! Their bakery offers fresh cider doughnuts, unique pastries and 9 types of pies. They also specialize in custom, large scale bakery orders – in fact they supplied the Presidential Inauguration in 2013. Their Distillery offers tastings and a full cocktail menu as well as full bottles for purchase.

We got a chance to speak with Derek Grout, who was the first to receive a NYS Farm Distillery license when he founded Harvest Spirits in 2007. They boast nine spirits, “never made with grain, never sweetened with sugar, never artificially flavored or colored, never charcoal filtered, and never blended with products distilled elsewhere.” Outdoors, they offer ample seating, a fire pit, and corn-hole. While Golden Harvest is not offering pick-your-own this year due to extensive re-planting and remodeling of their orchards, they are still offering over 20 varietals of apples for purchase.

This farm is a must-stop for their Distillery, Bakery, and Smokehouse! A great spot to spend the day shopping an extensive offering of local produce/products, or spend an evening with a BBQ dinner, sipping craft spirits and cocktails in their garden.

Offerings:

Farm Distillery & Tasting room
Harvest Smokehouse – Full Menu
Cider & Doughnuts
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Store

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

This article is the first of our The Authentic 518 Series done in collaboration with Cabrina McGinn and Straight Upstate.

Born and raised in the Capital Region, Cabrina McGinn started her blog in 2019 to highlight the exceptional bars and restaurants that the 518 has to offer. Prior to that, she had spent many years in the restaurant industry, bartending all over New York State. While the blog was started with the intention of focusing solely on cocktails and craft beverages, Cabrina has expanded the blog to feature food, events, hotels, and other unique and exceptional things that you can only find in Upstate New York. Cabrina lives in Saratoga Springs and enjoys exploring the Hudson Valley and Adirondacks on the weekends. Visit the blog on instagram @straightupstate or online at https://straightupstate.com

Stay tuned for more of our monthly The Authentic 518 articles – from hidden gems to Capital Region classics, we’re exploring all the spots that embody the authentic 518.

Saratoga’s Beekman Street Arts District – It’s a Vibe

October 18, 2021 By Cassie Fiorenza

When you think of Saratoga Springs, you probably picture horses and the bustling Broadway. You’re not wrong, but there is so much more to this adorable “city in the country.” One such place is the Beekman Street Arts District. Boasting some of the best restaurants and coolest shops in Saratoga, Beekman is still a bit off the beaten path. Just a few blocks from Broadway, you’ll find a different vibe; unpretentious, artsy, creative, and a little weird – but in the best way.

The Arts District sits in Saratoga’s historic West Side (west of Broadway). This area was home to the Irish and Italian immigrants who worked on the Railroad (in fact, there’s a sign declaring this area “Dublin”), and African Americans when there weren’t many other places for them to go. Ask any Westsider and they’ll have memories of legendary pizzas and even some unsavory activities. About 20 years ago, however, this area was full of artists looking for a community, and they built one. If you’re looking for something different and authentic, come to Beekman. Here are just some of the highlights:

Collective 131

I started Collective 131 online in my Hoboken apartment (131 was my address) to feature women artists. When I moved back Upstate, I opened my first brick-and-mortar. I saw an ad for 74 Beekman and instantly felt like this was the right spot. The airy, light space was totally my vibe and I loved the authentic feel of Beekman Street. Here, you can find local and regional artists in a range of media and subjects — but all affordable. Our price range is around $20 to $300. It’s also important to me to showcase women and minority makers. Aside from art, I LOVE fun stationery and thoughtful gifts, like our Schitt’s Creek birthday cards and ceramic ring dishes and tote bags.

Grateful Threads

The new kids on the block, Grateful Threads owners Noah and Hunter have a ridiculous inventory of vintage tees, jerseys, and hats. They have a huge online following, and people are flocking to their new brick-and-mortar for these awesome finds. They definitely bring a fun vibe to Beekman with their ever changing cardboard cut-outs out front like Shaq and Dale Earnhardt. Hunter loved the Beekman Street Art Fair in June, and hopes we can host more events like that during the year.

The Vintage Shop

“Beekman is where the one-of-a-kind speciality shops are. It made more sense for me to be here than on Broadway.” Walking through Denise’s The Vintage Shop at 65 Beekman Street is like walking through time. Here you’ll find a trove of vintage designer clothes, accessories, and even a few oddities. Her forte is sourcing quality, maintained pieces, and she’s a perfectionist when it comes to cleaning. Think vintage Versace jeans, Ferragamo shoes, Pendleton sweaters, and so much more.

Little Darling Studios

Nicole Darling is the tattoo artist behind Little Darling Studios. She opened her own studio and chose artsy Beekman Street for her location. “I absolutely love Beekman. Not only am I the owner of Little Darling Studios, I am a very unique tattoo artist and a wedding photographer,” says Nicole, so she fits in perfectly in the Arts District. Follow her Instagram to see her in action and her amazing creations. She also sells her own branded candles!

Living Resources Arts 70 Beekman Gallery

This studio and gallery serves the community in so many ways. Part of the larger Living Resources organization, Marcus Anderson and his staff provides fine art instruction to students with disabilities. The artwork created is also on display at all times in the gallery. “It’s great to have a community art space for them to exhibit and work side by side with emerging and established artists from the community. The Arts District is important because we make one another stronger through teamwork,” says Marcus.

Eden Compton

A leading fixture of the arts district, Eden Compton has had her gallery and studio on Beekman Street for several years. Her first studio was at 74 Beekman (where Collective is now!), and she’s now at 73 – a lovely yellow building with an inviting porch. Her specialties are cityscapes, landscapes, and portraits, and Eden displays her own work for sale inside along with the art of other local and regional artists. She is also a skilled teacher, offering painting classes and workshops to art lovers of all ages and abilities. She can’t wait to regularly have shows and openings like in the good old days (pre-COVID).

“I love Beekman Street because of the warmth of the community. It feels like a neighborhood and is a lovely respite from the hustle and bustle of Broadway.”

Textile Studio

Cecilia Frittelli and Richard Lockwood are master textile artists. I could spend hours watching the duo weave on their traditional looms in this adorable studio on the corner of Beekman and Grand. They are some of the original pioneers of the Arts District, opening their studio in the early 2000s in this historic 1850 building on the West Side. Frittelli and Lockwood textiles are found all over the country at galleries and craft shops, including Saratoga’s own TOGA HERITAGE. They also sell apparel and accessories out of their studio and online. “After many years behind closed doors as a production studio, we welcomed being part of an arts community,” Cecilia said.

Kraverie

Korean BBQ and crepes might sound like an odd pair, but trust me, it works. Michael Gasser is the owner and he and his family have a long West Side history. “Come to Beekman and hit the Kraverie trifecta: Korean BBQ, craft beer, and live music,” says Michael. My personal favorites are the sweet and spicy gochujang chicken wings and the kimchi fried rice. And of course, finish your night with a delicious crepe.

The Local Pub and Teahouse

It’s an Irish tradition to call the neighborhood pub “the local,” so this bar and restaurant fits perfectly in this historic “Dublin” area. “We pride ourselves on our draft diversity and quality,” say The Local Pub and Teahouse owners Jonathan Haynes and Michael Phinney. With its mix of traditional pub fare and a rotating tap, you’ll find a comfy place to sit with family, friends, and your loyal pup. A customer favorite is the classic Fish ‘n Chips.

Principessa Elena Society and the Frederick Allen Lodge

The area’s history is preserved by the Principessa Elena Society and the Frederick Allen Lodge. Nicknamed the “Black Elks Club,” the Frederick Allen Lodge #609 is the local chapter of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World. The Lodge remains open for events, workshops, and other charitable initiatives. The Principessa Elena Society was founded in 1900 by Italian-American men to assist the Italian immigrants that came to Saratoga. Today, they support the community with charity and scholarships, and host Italian Friday Dinners.

ABOUT ME

Cassie Fiorenza is the owner of Collective 131 on Beekman. Originally from Loudonville, Cassie and her husband moved upstate in 2020 and settled in Saratoga Springs.

ACE’s Ultimate Capital Region Apple Picking List

September 29, 2021 By upstatecreative

Want apples? We got em! With 25 places to pick your favorite type, there’s no better place to be in autumn than New York’s Capital Region. Lots of these places also have pumpkins, freshly made cider donuts, local products and more, so you can really get your Fall on.

Want a downloadable version? Click here.

Tag #upstatecreative when you post on social. Don’t see your favorite? Write us and we’ll get yours on ours!

County	Company Name
Albany	Altamont Orchards
Albany	Indian Ladder Farms
Albany	Stanton’s Feura Farm & Markets
Columbia	Fix Bros Fruit Farm
Columbia	Golden Harvest Farms
Columbia	Hopedale Farm
Columbia	Love Apple Farm
Columbia	Mead Orchards
Columbia	Philip Orchards
Columbia	Samascott Orchards
Columbia	Smith Farms
Columbia	Yonder Fruit Farms
Greene	Boehm Farm
Rensselaer	Best Berry Farm
Rensselaer	Lakeview Orchards
Rensselaer	Windy Hill Orchard East
Saratoga	Bowman Orchards
Saratoga	De Voe’s Rainbow Orchard
Saratoga	Riverview Orchards
Saratoga	Saratoga Apple
Washington	Apple Hill Orchards
Washington	Billy Bob’s Orchard
Washington	Hicks Orchard
Washington	McWhorter’s Orchard
Washington	Sbardella Orchards

Six Capital Region Rural Farm Brewery Road Trips

September 28, 2021 By upstatecreative

Want to drink beer in a pastoral field, amidst trees ablaze in orange and red? These rural brewery road trips are adventures. Some of them are quite rural — you’ll see corners of the region that you’ve never ventured to before. We checked our GPS on almost every trip, because we were sure we’d gotten lost. Some have limited (weekends only) hours, and yes, one even has an outhouse.

What you’ll also get to see is the ecosystem that’s resulted in the Capital Region’s craft brewing explosion. Brewers are making their hobbies into businesses, and setting up barns, yards and garages as tap rooms amidst rustic fields.

To make it a full day, we’ve added nearby stops for food, hiking and exploring along the way to the breweries. Your stunning fall road trip will take you through farmland and rural landscapes. And, you’ll taste local brews on the farms where they’re made, while seeing where your hops come from.

R.S. Taylor Brewing

R S Taylor & Sons Brewery has been called “the most beautiful farm brewery in America,” and that sounds about right to me. It’s is a destination farm brewery founded by Richard and Kelley Taylor, located on 50 acres of waterfalls and rolling hills at the head waters of Black Creek in Salem, New York.

All of the ingredients used in every beer at this brewery are grown on the farm or locally, and tours and tastings are on tap for individuals or groups visiting the rustic brewery year-round. They’re a hands-on operation — you can tour the grounds and take part in the harvesting process for hemp and hops.

While you’re in Hebron, in rural Washington County:

Get amazing local foods (and pick berries, in season) at Gardenworks, a century-old, third generation family farm in Salem
Wander through the 119-acre Cary Hill Sculpture Park sculpture at Salem Art Works
Have lunch and get homemade chocolates at Steinengers in Salem
Walk the Carter’s Pond Nature Trail in Salem

R S Taylor & Sons Brewery, 3602 County Route 30, Hebron, NY. Hours: Thursdays and Fridays 4 – 9 pm, Saturday 12 – 9 pm, Sunday 12 – 6 pm.

Old Klaverack Brewing

This one is definitely for adventurous types! OKB is situated in a remote, woodsy backyard, with a brewing shed, a small tent, and picnic tables, all in a hops field – with an outhouse. The beer is excellent (we recommend the deep Dunbar Stout and the hazy, hoppy Spookrock IPA). Owner Eric is now hard at work building a second, in-town location in Hudson, which should open this winter or spring.

OKB works really well as a quirky stop on a multi-venue Columbia County road trip:

Downtown Hudson is nearby, as are the beautiful, small towns of Kinderhook and Valatie (try the excellent Mexican food at Magdelena’s).
Art Omi, a vast, outdoor sculpture park, is about 9 miles away.
Hike the trails next to the Martin Van Buren Historic Site.
Pick apples at Love Apple Farm.

Old Klaverack Brewing, 150 Thielman Rd, Hudson NY, 12534. Hours: Friday 5pm – 9pm, Saturday 1pm – 9pm.

S & S Farm Brewing

S&S Brewery is operated on a 6th generation family farm located in Nassau, NY. The location is RURAL – some portions of our route were on dirt roads! – and the scenery is fantastic. Thankfully, so is the beer. S & S has 10 signature ales, half of which are ABV 5.0 or under. And, there are two very good local wines. (Sure, I was skeptical when I saw two kinds – “the red” and “the white” – but I happy report that both are really good.)

Many nights, there are bands and some pretty awesome food trucks on hand. The crowds are surprisingly large and super friendly. In cooler weather, there are fire pits, in addition to limited indoor seating.

Nearby are lots of outdoor activities, including:

Hiking, kayaking or fishing (by permit) at Ooms Conservation Area.
Birding and hiking at Wilson M. Powell Wildlife Sanctuary.
Hiking the four trails of the Albert Family Community Forest.
And, the gorgeous towns of Valatie, Chatham, Kinderhook (see an exhibit at Jack Shainman Gallery: The School) and Averil Park are all within a short drive.

S & S Farm Brewery, 174 Middle Road, Nassau, NY 12123, (518) 336-0766. Hours: Friday and Saturday, 5pm – 9pm

Indian Ladder Farm Cidery and Brewery

The granddaddy of farm breweries, Indian Ladder Farms Cidery and Brewery makes beer and hard cider on their 100-year-old family farm located in Altamont, beneath the dramatic cliffs of the Helderberg Escarpment. Their beer and cider are made using ingredients grown on Indian Ladder Farms as well as other New York State farms and is dedicated to the farm to table movement. Owners Laura Ten Eyck and Dietrich Gehring even co-authored a book on hops growing.

Do note that ILF is a HUGE local attraction on fall weekends, when families from near and far come to pick apples. Try a weeknight for a calmer, quieter visit. And, the food here is fantastic, as are the apples, of course!

While you’re here:

Pick apples and pet the animals at Indian Ladder Farms
Don’t miss a hike or drive to see the fall foliage at Thatcher State Park.
If you’ve got kids — or are a kid at heart — there’s Wildplay zipline and adventure course, located inside of Thatcher Park.

Tasting Room
Monday – Tuesday 12-6, Wednesday 12-8 (Teacher Night), Thursday – 12-8, Friday – 12-9, Saturday – 11-9, Sunday – 11-6

Food Service
Thursday/Friday: 4-8, Saturday: 11-8, Sunday: 11-5

Brewery LaHoff

Andre Latour was an art director in NYC, and moved to Catskill (from Brooklyn) to go pro as a brewer. He spent four years transforming an old dairy barn into a tasting room, and now has a slew of great Brewery LaHoff beers on tap. The setting is gorgeous, with fields to while away an autumn afternoon.

Try the cider/ale mashup called Orchard House Ale, and the Wildflower Wheat, brewed with honey from their neighbors at Twin Spruce Apiary. Plus, they rolled out a Imperial Farmtoberfest Grand Cru, just in time for fall..

When you’re at Brewery LaHoff:

Visit the town of Coxsackie (about 10 minutes), Athens (15 minutes), or Catskill (20 minutes)
Take a hike on Cohotate Preserve or Willows at Brandow Point trail
Visit Honey Hollow Brewery (see below) — it’s right down the road from Brewery LaHoff

Brewery LaHoff, 50 Vedder Rd, Coxsackie NY 12051. Hours: Friday 4 – 8pm, Saturday 12 – 8pm, Sunday 12 – 4pm

Honey Hollow Brewery

You might wonder if you’ve taken a wrong turn while you’re on the way to Honey Hollow – it’s pretty remote. My advice is to check your GPS, and then stick to the route. Honey Hollow is worth the drive. There are gardens, fields, fire pits, and a bacci court. Live music is often on tap, and Nervosity9 is grilling pizza on the outdoor oven in summertime. The beer is great, too — terrific ales, stouts and porters are all on tap.

The road trip tips for Honey Hollow Brewing are similar to Brewery LaHoff (but they’ll take more time to get to from Honey Hollow):

Visit the town of Coxsackie (about 15 minutes), Athens (20 minutes), or Catskill (25 minutes)
Take a hike on Cohotate Preserve or Willows at Brandow Point trail
Visit Brewery LaHoff (see above) — it’s right down the road from Honey Hollow
Daniel Baehrel, a highly acclaimed destination restaurant based on completely self-derived, sustainable, living off the land cuisine called Native Harvest, is nearby. It’s SUPER hard to get a reservation, and the meal lasts over 5 hours, but I thought I’d mention it, because there are some unusual characters in the Catskills.

Honey Hollow Brewery, 376 E Honey Hollow Rd, Earlton, NY 12058. Hours: Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 1-8pm

Maureen Sager is the Executive Director of ACE. This article was researched with the help of many willing and adventurous friends, and her boyfriend named Tom who enjoys a good beer and didn’t mind heading out into the Capital Region wilderness.