Summer, a season northerners look forward to all year long, fills our imaginations with long beach days, hours in the pool or taking a long awaited vacation with the family. For me, it’s a time when I love the calmness it brings to busy New York City life; al fresco weekend brunches, outdoor concerts and exhibits, and late night walks that can feel endless in the warm summer air. Whatever our tastes, it’s an excuse to escape the confines of indoor life at long last. But of course, summer 2020 is different.

The Covid-19 pandemic has forever changed what this summer could have been. We now find ourselves more attached to our apartments than ever before. Shifting our priorities from spontaneous summer fun to cautious planning can feel exhausting.

Still, after 3 months of staying mostly indoors, for many, the craving for natural spaces is the new priority. Despite the distances, the time it takes for travel or knowing what to expect, people who can hit the road are doing it.

For those who don’t know where to begin, I have listed my top five outdoor locations that are in the lower Hudson Valley. All of them are open to the public, have an abundance of wide open spaces (for social distancing) and are within 2 hours of New York City. So get out of town and soak up the fresh air while staying safe!

Harriman State Park

Spanning both Rockland and Orange Counties, Harriman State Park is a perfect summer destination for outdoor activities. There are multiple picnic areas, lakes for boating and swimming, and fishing, hiking trails and camp grounds. The scenic beauty is in every direction so you can’t go wrong with anything you choose to do here. It is also a great place to take a summer drive.

My recommendation:

The beautiful Seven Lakes Drive is an almost 18 mile road through forest, lakes and hiking trails. It’s most stunning during the summer and autumn months and a good way to become familiar with the park. I recommend starting from either end, and pulling off any of the parking lots along the way. Bring a bring a blanket and a packed lunch, and venture into the surrounding nature. There are plenty of natural spots to take a break and eat lunch. Enjoy the quiet time and the view.

Bear Mountain State Park

My recommendation:

If you are a first time visitor, head to the lake and enjoy the accompanying trail. But if you prefer to hike, follow any of the several marked trails on site. Along the way you will find great views of the valley and Hudson River.

Storm King Art Center

Recently opened after closing for Covid-19, Storm King Art Center is a massive outdoor sculpture park located in Mountainville, NY. Not only is there an abundance of green space for spreading out, but the collection of contemporary sculpture throughout is beautiful and perfect for picture taking.

My recommendation:

To guarantee appropriate social distancing, reservations are required at this time, so plan ahead. Also, consider bringing bottled water and a head covering as there is minimal shade. The property is large and can take well over an hour to cover everything, so it’s best to visit when you have the time to enjoy it.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Located in Ulster County, Minnewaska State Park is unparalleled in natural beauty. It is situated on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge which is a stunning natural formation that can be seen for miles from the surrounding countryside. Hiking and rock climbing are the most popular reasons for visiting, but there are other activities to enjoy like swimming, bike riding, boating and picnicking.

My recommendation:

Hiking is the way to go here as the views from the summit are breathtaking. Lake Minnewaska is a must-see. A mountain top lake with trails, spots to sit and enjoy the views and beautiful limestone cliffs are unforgettable. In the summer, you can find wild blueberries throughout the surrounding forest. Prepare to spend the better part of the day here. It is worth it!

Innisfree Garden

Located in Millbrook, NY is Innisfree Garden, tucked away from any busy main roads. The gardens are an expression of international garden design, and are meant to transport visitors into a paradisaic world of natural beauty. You will need to carefully follow the directions to get here, as it is not located on any main thoroughfare. But this is part of the overwhelming charm of Innisfree. It is serene, quiet, a place for reflection and meditation at every turn. Leave your stress and worries in the car before you stroll into the Innisfree world.

My recommendation:

If you can take advantage of visiting midweek or early in the day, you will feel as if the entire gardens are yours. There are several adirondack chairs to sit and enjoy the grounds so take advantage and bring a book or painting supplies. Innisfree will inspire your creative side so take your time soaking it all in.