Around 100 miles from New York City lies the beautiful town of Saugerties. This quaint area resides right on the Hudson River and is a place people have traveled to for decades in search of a new beginning. With the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River on either side of Saugerties, people are always visiting or traveling through the area.
In this article, we will look into the current attractions that bring people to Saugerties while looking back at the town’s history. Trendy restaurants and shops are ideal for all kinds of travelers, while the historical and environmental attractions are great for families of all ages. Real estate in the town is booming, with properties perfect for families and investment opportunities for those looking to step into the real estate investing world.
A Brief History of Saugerties
The Dutch first settled in Saugerties in the mid-1600s. Years later, Governor Edmund Andros purchased the town from the Esopus Sachem Tribe with a piece of cloth, a loaf of bread, and maize. Years later, the town’s name changed to Saugerties.
During the 1960s, the town lost many of its residents when manufacturing jobs started to disappear. The town regained momentum in the late 1990s. Summer horse shows began to come to Saugerties and perform along the Hudson River. This not only brought more travelers to see the show but helped increase the popularity of the town, encouraging more people to move there.
Other than the summer horse shows, other sources of entertainment drew people back to the area. Esopus Creek provided the ideal ice skating location for those in neighboring towns. The Hudson River offered plenty of bountiful fishing spots and boating opportunities. Mountains attracted skiers in the winter, and the water life attracted people in the warmer months. People began to see the real potential of Saugerties and moved there in increasing capacities.
With the influx of residents came a stronger economy and system of local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and sightseeing attractions. What once was a vacant residential town has now become a popular tourist destination. Between residents who live in the town full-time, tourists, and New York state residents looking for a quick day or weekend trip, the bustling town of Saugerties has several activities for all community members.
What to See in Saugerties, New York
Saugerties is located right between the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains. While those two sights are worth their own trip, Saugerties has plenty to offer its visitors and residents.
Opus 40
One of the most popular attractions in Saugerties is the Opus 40. Many people take the trip out to see this magnificent sculpture when traveling to or through the area. As one of the largest environmental sculptures created in NY, this ecological model is located right in the town itself. Created by Harvey Fite, the sculpture comprises pedestals, dry-stone ramps, and platforms. The entire sculpture runs through 6.5 acres of a bluestone quarry.
Most people who visit the attraction refer to it as a breathtaking rock sculpture garden. Made from stone, different shapes and patterns run through the entire sculpture as it intertwines with nature. Trees and foliage grow all around the quarry and help elevate the entire sculpture. The area hosts artistic events as well, offering several concerts throughout the week and other special events. Residents gather to attend the events, and they can be a fun addition to a family’s day trip.
The Saugerties Lighthouse
Since Saugerties resides next to the Hudson River, the area naturally developed a relationship to the water. Visitors can see the Saugerties Lighthouse, built right on the river in 1835. To access this remote location, travelers can take a short hike along the river to reach the tower. Once there, a small bridge runs over the water so travelers can walk from land to the lighthouse.
People enjoy visiting this attraction as it is sort of a two-in-one sight to see. The short hike offers a great view of the river and the foliage and at the end, you reach your stunning destination. Additionally, the lighthouse also encompasses a bed and breakfast for those who want to spend the night. The residence has two bedrooms for travelers to select from, who can then wake up to a fresh breakfast before moving forward with their other activities for the day.
Hessel Museum of Art
For those who appreciate art, Saugerties offers a museum that features rotating exhibitions and consistent collections. Built in 2006 as a part of Bard College, the museum features contemporary art and over 3,000 one-of-a-kind pieces. The museum also includes installations, like the, “Parliament of reality” (Olafur Eliasson, 2009). Visitors can usually view the collections on weekdays from 11am to 5pm.
Falling Waters Preserve
Saugerties offers plenty of amenities for those who enjoy nature. Falling Waters Preserve can be ideal for people looking to hike or fish. A series of trails lead to streams and waterfalls located throughout the town. This preserve is just west of the Hudson River and has convenient access for anyone in the Saugerties area. This spot is accessible year-round from sunrise to sunset at no cost to residents or tourists.
Best Restaurants in Saugerties
Along with all of the different types of attractions Saugerties has to offer, travelers can also count on great food to enjoy when they need to refill for their next adventure.
Miss Lucy’s Kitchen
Visitors looking to enjoy classic American food should be sure to check out Miss Lucy’s Kitchen. As one of the top-rated restaurants in the town, Miss Lucy’s Kitchen features classic American fare-style food that offers country-comfort surroundings. This is also an ideal choice for those with children, as the kitchen offers plenty of kid-friendly options.
The menu features salads, sandwiches, and classic American comfort food like burgers, ribs, and fried chicken. For those who like brunch, try going Saturday or Sunday between 11am and 3pm to experience their tasty brunch menu options like the challah french toast.
Main Street Restaurant
Other than American-style food, Saugerties also offers delicious Mexican food. At Main Street Restaurant, visitors can enjoy a variety of Southwestern classics like tacos, nachos, and quesadillas. Even if Mexican food isn’t your favorite, this place is still worth a try as they cater to all and offer wings, salads, and burgers. Those interested in celebrating their birthday can receive a free dessert. Beer enthusiasts can grab a pint for just $4 during their weekday happy hour, which runs from 4pm to 6pm.
Mirabella
Another great option for food located in the town of Saugerties is Mirabella. This restaurant features a mixture of Italian and American cuisine, featuring favorites like garlic knots, pizza and calzones, and several wraps and sandwiches.
This restaurant also offers a catering menu so you can enjoy their food at your large social gathering. There are several local beers are on tap and tasty cocktails. Also including a kid’s menu, this family-friendly spot has a meal for everyone.
The Avenue Steakhouse
Meat lovers who are reading for a fine dining experience can look toward The Avenue Steakhouse. This restaurant serves all cuts of steaks and classic sides to enjoy along with your main dish. They also offer multiple fish options for those who are not ready to load up on a heavy beef dish. Look toward the bottom of their menu to find a wide array of specialty sauces, where the adventurous eater can select a sauce flight to accompany their steak.
The Saugerties Real Estate Market
Looking to buy or rent property in Saugerties? Their local market offers traditional family-style homes, condos, and apartments to rent if you’re not ready to be a homeowner. People should also consider looking at Saugerties as a place for an investment opportunity. All of these properties could make ideal rental locations for those traveling in or through the area.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
33 Barclay Street
For those who have a little extra money to spend, consider taking a look at this gorgeous home. Located at the top of a hill in Saugerties, New York lies this 7,275-square-foot mansion. This historic home overlooks the Hudson River and comes complete with eight bedrooms and six bathrooms. Ideal for large families who need a lot of space, this home could be perfect.
Investors looking for a great opportunity in Saugerties should also consider this property as their next rental income property. This home sits on the waterfront and allows easy access to the Hudson River as well as amazing views right from the house itself. The large house has plenty of space to accommodate large groups. Listed at $4,995,000, this home comes at a lower price than previously offered when listed in 2018.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
94 Livingston Street
Small families and first-time homebuyers can look toward 94 Livingston Street, located right in the middle of Saugerties. This property is just a short walk away from shopping, restaurants, and cafes all downtown. Featuring two bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms, this home is ideal for a smaller family or as a starter home for a couple looking to purchase their first property. The home, originally constructed in the1800s, recently underwent renovations to modernize the kitchen with updated appliances. With a generously-sized backyard, this listing comes with a purchase price of $284,900.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
25 South Partition Street
A perfect opportunity for the hungry investor, 25 South Partition Street is a 30-room hotel in an ideal location. Located only a mile away from the New York State Thruway, 20 minutes from Hunter Mountain Ski Resort, and 1.6 miles from HITS Equestrian Show Grounds, this hotel is perfect for accommodating all who travel to Saugerties. Inside the property is a grand ballroom to offer weddings or large formal events which comfortably seat over 400 guests. Listed for $14,000,000, 25 South Partition Street is an investor’s dream opportunity.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
54 W Bridge Street
Generously sized and bustling with amenities and features, 54 W Bridge Street offers a beautiful home for a multigenerational family, or someone seeking to also rent out part of their home. This Colonial-style, multifamily property contains the main house with three beds and three bathrooms, while the detached second home holds the additional two beds and baths. The main house features an eat-in kitchen and chef’s kitchen, ideal for those wanting to cook gourmet meals.
Homeowners will appreciate their large inground pool in the backyard, along with a detached two-car garage. Whether homeowners are looking to turn this home into a source of rental income or a beautiful in-law suite, interested buyers can take advantage of this $979,000 listing.
Conclusion
Saugerties, New York is home to trendy restaurants, shops, and beautiful real estate. Travelers going to visit the area should be sure to check out some of the top attractions. For those who enjoy nature, the Opus 40 and the Falling Waters Preserve are relaxing hikes that lead to stunning scenery that everyone will enjoy. The Hessel Museum of Art located on Bard’s campus is a great place to go to appreciate one-of-a-kind pieces of art.
After exploring all of Saugerties’ most popular attractions, go grab a meal at one of their best restaurants. Classic American food can be enjoyed at Miss Lucy’s Kitchen or try some Mexican food at Main Street. If you are looking for more of a fine dining experience, check out The Avenue Steakhouse.
Saugerties, New York can be a great location for both homebuyers and investors. The market holds plenty of family homes as well as investment opportunities for investors. These properties have all kinds of prices to accommodate anyone looking to move to the area. Great for both visiting and living in, Saugerties, New York is a beautiful location everyone should check out.
