Saugerties

Most people go to Saugerties, NY for its unique Garlic festival that happens there every year, but most will be surprised by the town’s lovely parks, such as Saugerties Beach, which is great for swimming and relaxing leisure time, or the kids can go wild on the park’s quality playground. Perhaps what’s best about Saugerties, NY is the affordable living costs (most homes go for between $200,000 and $300,000, and seniors and low-income families are accomodated here, too), and the town’s many museums and excellent restaurants.

Excellent museums in town include the Justin Love Painting Gallery and the Woodstock Museum, which honors the famous 60’s festival, and the Erika House Doll Museum, which houses more than 10 rooms full of different kinds of dolls for your purchasing (or viewing) pleasure. Most unusual however is Opus 40, a curious structure made out of bluestone rock that was built by creator Henry Fite, who created this masterpiece inside an old quarry. The structure is now open to the public (students and seniors get a discounted ticket), and you can stand on the walkable sculpture and marvel at how one man alone made this amazing and unique creation. People will also love HITS (otherwise known as “Horseshows in the Sun”, and you can see live cabaret in town via the Stark Realty Theater Company. If you’re in the mood for some reading, stop by the Inquiring Mind Bookstore in town (there’s also Raising Children). Saugerties has two wonderful day spas: New Beginnings and Golden Touch, where you can relax while someone gives you an invigorating (yet calming) message; however, if you’re in a more active mood, perhaps Shakti Yoga is best for you.

When I’m hungry in Saugerties, I hit up Lucy’s Kitchen for BBQ rib tips, and kids will love the children’s menu which offers your basic hamburger and fries as well as hot dogs, ect.; afterwards, grab an iced or hot coffee treat at Dunkin’ Donuts before you go kayaking on beautiful Esopus Creek.

Schools here are fair; kids perform well in both reading and math. Nearby transportation is in the town of Hudson, and if you need to catch a plane, visit Stewart International Airport in Newburgh. Saugerties lies in the valley of the beautiful Catskills and is not far from the Hudson River, which opens out at the mouth of lovely Esopus Creek. For a fun night out, don’t forget the Dutch Ale House for karaokeing and trivia on any given day of the week, though the types of fun alternate between days usually. Enjoy!