Spotlight: Hudson Valley


BY MATTHEW CASTELLUCCIO

This Walkway over the Hudson is iconic of the Hudson Valley.
This Walkway over the Hudson is iconic of the Hudson Valley. Photo by Ziggi Landsman.

My Take
The Hudson Valley is blessed with a number of wonderful state parks, but there are two that really stand out for the breadth of their accessible options: Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain State Park. The two parks are located less than seven miles from each other and are bound to offer something you’ll enjoy.

Harriman State Park has 31 lakes and reservoirs and a number of accessible options on the water, including fishing and kayaking. Bear Mountain State Park also offers lots of water recreation, including accessible boat rentals.

One of my favorite things to do is take a picnic to Bear Mountain and make a day of it with my family. There’s a great zoo that is accessible, a newly renovated lodge and plenty to keep the kids entertained while the adults relax. While you’re there, don’t miss the breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley from the many scenic viewpoints.

Skinny on the Area
You’ll hardly believe you’re only 50 miles away from America’s biggest, most urban city when you visit New York’s Hudson Valley. I’ve lived in the region my whole life, for the last 13 years as a wheelchair user, and have grown to appreciate the bounty of nature and beautiful, accessible recreational opportunities.

Places to Go
Whether you were a hippie, you love music or you just want to have a good time, don’t miss the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Located on the famed grounds where Woodstock took place in 1969, Bethel Woods has transformed the once farmland area into a wonderful nonprofit performing arts center and museum with great, regularly scheduled concerts and lots of history without destroying the vibe that helped draw so many people almost 50 years ago.

They’ve made a real effort to make everything accessible, as seen in the solid seating options at the amphitheater, the accessible shuttle that can take you around the sprawling grounds in your wheelchair and well-marked accessible pathways. To top it off, the events are usually reasonably priced, so you don’t have to break the bank.

If you’re looking for good food and wine, you may want to check out the Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, New York, or one of the Valley’s many wineries. There are a number of restaurants on the culinary institute campus offering high end cuisine, and you will save a few bucks since the students and staff are also the chefs. The Valley’s wineries aren’t always fully accessible, but I’ve found the proprietors are very willing to accommodate wheelchair users and make it a great experience.

Available Health Care
Helen Hayes Hospital in Haverstraw, New York, is the biggest and best rehab option in the area. With 155 beds, the hospital draws from a huge swath of New York. Thanks to a long history as one of America’s earliest rehab hospitals, Helen Hayes has developed many beneficial programs for both inpatients and community members. I oversee our adaptive sports program which has year-round offerings in 17 sports (see Chapter Check In). The hospital also offers peer mentoring and support groups.

Getting Around
There are some accessible cabs in the area and even visitors can arrange for paratransit, but if you really want to get around and see the Valley, you’re probably better off renting a vehicle. Metro North Railroad does have some accessible stations, making it relatively easy to hop a train and head into New York City should you desire. There are also accessible buses you can use to explore the region.

Must See, Must Do
Walkway Over the Hudson: A nonprofit transformed the abandoned Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge into a beautiful state park and what is now the best way to handcycle, walk or roll across the Hudson River. You can’t beat the views or the access.

Shopping: If you’re done with the arts and culture, or just want to shop ‘til you drop, the Palisades Center has you covered. The country’s eighth largest mall also has a number of good restaurants. Another great local option is Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets, one of the country’s largest outlet centers. The sprawling center is fully accessible and features just about every major shop you could want.

Click here to learn about the Hudson Valley Chapter.


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