Hudson Valley ‘Staycations’: Into the Wild

If a trip to the Caribbean or even the West Coast isn’t in your family’s budget, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy summer close to home. This week Patch takes you 'into the wild'—of the Hudson Valley that is—for a look at some of the most amazing wildlife and nature centers.

What’s not to love about animals? While a trip to the Bronx Zoo is certainly something worthwhile, there are plenty of “zoo-like” nature centers right here in the Hudson Valley that consist of amazing wildlife. With diverse habitats including forests, meadows, marshes, rivers, and shores, this area is whole lot more fascinating than many of us may realize. So this week, there is no need to spend the money on an African Safari because we’re taking you on your very own Hudson Valley Adventure.

Bon Voyage!

1. The Bear Mountain Zoo

Spanning more than 32 acres of land, in the Harriman region, The Bear Mountain Zoo is one of the most incredible wildlife sites in the Hudson Valley. Don’t forget, from Patch’s ‘Staycations’ a few weeks ago, that this park sits 250 feet above the Hudson River and its views are breathtaking. That, coupled with a diverse groups of creatures and critters who have been there for centuries, makes this spot a must-see. The zoo is a self-educating, three-quarter mile walk through a habitat with vultures, turkeys, bald eagles, assorted owls, coyotes, otters, porcupines, and more. Altogether, the space has close to 190 different species filling in every nook and cranny. And the best part—this makes a pretty frugal trip with admission costing $1 for adults and nothing for younger children.

For hours and information click here.

2. Marshlands Conservancy (Rye)

Coming up as number two on Patch’s wildlife list is Rye’s Marshlands Conservancy. This hotspot covers 173 acres of pure bliss. It is a wildlife sanctuary with assorted diverse habitats such as dark forests, salt marshes, sandy shores, and fresh meadows. The Conservancy lines the waters of the Long Island Sound and boasts three miles of trails. The animal of choice for this area? Birds. The Marshlands Conservancy is one of the Hudson Valley’s most captivating bird watching locations.  And get this: More than 230 species of them exist there. In such a tranquil setting with only the beautiful birds to accompany you, nothing could be more relaxing on a warm summer afternoon.

For hours and information .

3. Lenoir Preserve (Yonkers)

Next up, we have just a few more birds. Overlooking the Hudson River, on 39 acres of grassy lands, is Lenoir Preserve located right in Yonkers. The park includes expansive fields, hardwood forests, various trees, a butterfly garden, and a dragonfly pond. And while the spot is an awesome stop for the summer, you may want to wait a few weeks. The amazing part about this preserve is that it is an immensely popular migration spot for birds in the fall. With beautiful views of the Hudson River, there is no more magnificent place to watch hawks, ducks, and blackbirds migrate for the winter. In addition to watching the migration, the butterfly farm and dragonfly pond are definitely worth taking a look at.

For hours and information click here.

4. Croton Point Nature Center

This next spot is the biggest on our list. The Croton Point Nature Preserve boasts a whopping 504 acres of land. The picturesque peninsula sits on the Hudson River and is part of Croton Point Park.  Exhibits in the center include flora and fauna, local history, specimens from the Hudson River itself, and other hands on activities. Explore the world around you by taking a closer look at this area and by taking a stroll down four miles of Hudson River shoreline. If you prefer to wait a few months to visit, the park also attracts eagles and is an important bird area in the winter. A former landfill is home to a diverse group of butterfly species. So really, this is an opportunity to head to a beach, but with a bit of added education and wildlife.

For hours and information click here.

5. Constitution Marsh Audubon Center & Sanctuary (Cold Spring)

The last stop on Patch’s wildlife center list is a wetland that you just can’t miss.  Located on 270 acres of tidal marsh, the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center & Sanctuary—wow that’s an exciting mouthful!—is set along the east shore of the Hudson River in Cold Spring. At this unbelievable nature hub visitors can enjoy a first hand look at the river. Rich wildlife such as various species of birds, fish, crabs, and more give people new insight into the river world. The center also offers group school, canoe, and outreach programs for you to make the most of your visit. Who needs the Caribbean shore anyway? We’ve got the Hudson Valley’s right here!

For hours and information click here.