Hudson-Athens Lighthouse

Hudson (Columbia County)

Why we love it

More important, why should kids love it? Because it combines two boat rides on the Hudson River with a visit to the closest thing the Hudson Valley has to a moated castle. Built in the 1870s, this brick and stone sentinel still does its job — preventing ships from wandering into the shallow Middle Ground Flats. Children will love climbing the narrow, winding staircase that rises past the first and second floors, the living quarters for lighthouse keepers and their families, to the lantern room and views that will thrill young and old alike.

More to explore

Adults will love antiques shopping on Hudson’s Main Street. Just outside the city is another kid-friendly indoor destination — the FASNY Museum of Firefighting, which features a large collection of historic trucks and other artifacts.

Highlights

• Boat rides to and from the lighthouse
• Historic restored structure
• Outstanding river views
• Best for children seven and up

Directions, hours, etc.: https://www.hudsonathenslighthouse.org/events.html