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Discover Putnam - Putnam County Tourism

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Choo choo! Ride the rails and visit Putnam County

30 June 2025

If you're looking for a quick day trip that's far enough to explore an unfamiliar area but still close enough that you can sleep in your own bed, look no further than Putnam County. Putnam has Metro-North stops which offer numerous activities ranging from shopping and dining to outdoors sports that satisfy your travelling bug.

The Hudson Line

Garrison offers many unique art and culture experiences like the Garrison Art Center and the Antipodean books and print store. Whether you're checking out the newest modern art exhibit by local artists, a live theatre performance or looking at some books and maps from the 1800s, you'll be partaking in lots of cultural enrichment.

For some adventure, Arden Point provides scenic trails and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Finally, after a long day of exploring, head over to Dollys Restaurant for a beautiful sunset dinner overlooking the Hudson River before your journey back home.

If you take the train one stop north, you'll enter the village of Cold Spring. Of all the stations on this list, Cold Spring has the densest and most diverse range of activities.

For a stronger local and national historical experience, visit the Putnam History Museum to see exhibits from the American Revolutionary War to the advancements in the Industrial Revolution in the Hudson Valley. An alternative way to see history is by walking the grounds of Westpoint Foundry Reserve. An “outdoor museum”, this reserve shows one of Americas most important industrial sites during the Civil War.

Treat yourself to great shopping, Cold Spring is home to many different shops ranging from apothecaries, vintage clothing, and books just to name a few.

Before going back home, end your day with a nice meal from a selection of different food genres ranging from American, Spanish, French, Italian, and more!


The Harlem Line

Brewster has an historical past rooted to the locomotive industry. For history buffs, stop by the Southeast Museum. The Southeast Museum explores the historical aspects of Putnam County and the Town of Southeast.

The Brewster station is one of the only two stops off the Metro North that's accessible to the Empire Trail. Fuel up with some breakfast at the Country Kitchen or the Bagel Train Cafe for a delicious meal or grab water and snacks at one of the nearby delis before embarking on your journey.  

Go further north and get off at the Patterson station; you'll realize the tracks run through the entrance of a park. The Patterson Environmental Park is a 23-acre nature preserve that offers beautiful trails and diverse wildlife.

If you like faster paced and adrenaline pumping activities, Patterson is home to Liberty Paintball and Thunder Ridge Skiing which are both quick and cheaper alternatives to visit within the county. (Thunder Ridge even has a shuttle to and from the train station). After your long day of high intensity sports, stop by Sauros Town Square Pizza for a quick bite to eat or Iron and Wines Happy Hour to unwind before your travels home.

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Welcome Message

Nestled between the Hudson River and the Connecticut state line, Putnam County offers an abundance of adventures and experiences to suit every lifestyle. From hiking and boating to dining and shopping, Putnam is a small but mighty treasure trove of crystal lakes, beautiful hiking trails, historic sites, art and cultural experiences and quaint restaurants and shops. With five Metro-North stops, we are just an hour away from Manhattan, making day trips hassle-free and a truly easy getaway.

Contact the Tourism Department

  • Tara Keegan

    Director of Tourism