Buchanan New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Buchanan, New York.
1. Bear Mountain State Park
SCENIC PARK ESCAPE
Bear Mountain State Park offers a picturesque natural retreat just a short drive from Buchanan. Visitors can explore hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful lake, making it ideal for both active outings and relaxing afternoons. The park's sweeping vistas of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains are especially popular during autumn foliage season.
2. Perkins Memorial Tower
HISTORIC HUDSON VIEWS
Perkins Memorial Tower sits atop Bear Mountain and is renowned for its panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. Built in the 1930s, the tower commemorates George W. Perkins, the first president of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. Visitors enjoy both the scenic drive to the summit and the breathtaking vistas from the tower's observation deck.
3. Bear Mountain Bridge
ICONIC RIVER CROSSING
The Bear Mountain Bridge offers travelers a dramatic crossing over the Hudson River with stunning views of the surrounding highlands. It is a favorite spot for photography, cycling, and walking, connecting popular trails on both riverbanks. Its historic significance as the only bridge across the Hudson north of New York City for many years adds to its allure.
4. Hudson Highlands Gateway Park
HIKER'S PARADISE
Hudson Highlands Gateway Park provides expansive woodlands and well-maintained trails for hiking and birdwatching near Buchanan. The park's varied terrain includes scenic ridges and tranquil streams, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting and the chance to spot native wildlife along the way.
5. Charles Point Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION
Charles Point Marina in nearby Peekskill is a hub for boating, fishing, and riverside dining along the Hudson. The marina offers slips, rentals, and vibrant waterfront events during the summer. Its location makes it a favorite launching point for river adventures and sunset cruises.
6. Blue Mountain Reservation
OUTDOORS & TRAILS
Blue Mountain Reservation features over 1,500 acres of varied landscapes, with trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding near Buchanan. The park is especially popular for its mountain biking routes and family-friendly nature walks. Its expansive woodlands and serene ponds offer visitors a break from city life.
7. Camp Smith Trail
RIDGEWAY HIKING ROUTE
Camp Smith Trail, traversing the ridge between the Bear Mountain Bridge and Peekskill, is well-known for its challenging paths and rewarding river views. Hikers traverse rocky outcrops and shaded forests while enjoying frequent overlooks across the Hudson Valley. The trail is part of the larger Hudson Highlands network and draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
8. Depew Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Depew Park in Peekskill offers fields, walking trails, and a well-equipped playground for families and visitors from Buchanan. The park is also home to a community swimming pool and provides ample space for seasonal sports and picnicking. Its convenient location makes it a popular urban oasis close to Buchanan.
9. Lincoln Depot Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY HUB
The Lincoln Depot Museum, located in Peekskill, celebrates the area's Civil War-era history and President Lincoln's 1861 visit. Interactive exhibits and restored rail artifacts provide a glimpse into 19th-century travel and local heritage. The museum is a short drive from Buchanan and popular with history buffs and families alike.
10. Buchanan Pool
LOCAL SWIMMING SPOT
Buchanan Pool is a favorite summertime destination for residents and visitors seeking a refreshing break. The community pool features swim lanes and child-friendly sections, ideal for families. Seasonal memberships and special swim events make it a lively local hub during warm months.
11. Shopping
RETAIL & SOUVENIRS
Shopping in the Buchanan area is centered in nearby Peekskill, where visitors enjoy exploring the Peekskill Farmers Market, Homestyle Desserts Bakery, and Bruised Apple Books. These shops offer everything from fresh local produce to unique books and gourmet treats. Downtown boutiques and galleries also provide a fun mix of gifts, art, and Hudson Valley specialties.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining options near Buchanan are best found in Peekskill, where restaurants such as Birdsall House, Gleason's, and Taco Dive Bar serve up diverse and delicious menus. From farm-to-table American fare to creative tapas and international cuisine, the city's dining scene satisfies a range of tastes. Cozy cafes and riverside eateries make it an excellent choice for food lovers.
13. Hiking
TRAIL ADVENTURE
Hiking opportunities around Buchanan abound at Hudson Highlands Gateway Park, Blue Mountain Reservation, and Bear Mountain State Park. Each destination features well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels, with scenic overlooks and opportunities to spot wildlife. Local enthusiasts enjoy both short nature walks and challenging summits right near the village.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S RETREAT
Fishing near Buchanan is popular at Charles Point Marina and the banks of the Hudson River in Peekskill. Anglers can cast for striped bass, catfish, and perch from both shorelines and piers. Seasonal fishing tournaments and boat rentals enhance the local fishing scene.
15. Camping
OVERNIGHT NATURE EXPERIENCE
Camping is available close to Buchanan at the campgrounds within Bear Mountain State Park, offering tent and RV sites set amidst picturesque forests. The park's camping amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and access to hiking trails and the park lake. Families and adventurers alike enjoy spending nights under the stars with easy access to the Hudson Valley's outdoor attractions.