Discovering Top 5 Hidden Gems of Cold Spring, NY

5 min readNov 24, 2023

Cold Spring is a hidden gem of Upstate New York, and a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip from the city. This charming and historic village is situated along the Hudson River, and offers a stunning combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local charm. You can explore the scenic trails, the historic sites, the quirky attractions, and the vibrant shops and restaurants that make Cold Spring a unique and memorable place to visit. In this article, we will reveal some of the hidden gems of Cold Spring that you may not have heard of, but are definitely worth discovering. These are the places that will make you fall in love with Cold Spring, and make you want to come back again and again. Here are the top 5 hidden gems of Cold Spring, NY.

1. Ruins of the Cornish Estate

Embark on an adventurous trek to the abandoned Cornish Estate, a once-opulent mansion now nestled in decay amidst the Hudson Valley woods. Constructed in the early 1900s by Edward J. Cornish and his wife, Selina, the estate witnessed grandeur until their passing in the 1930s. Eventually sold to a developer in the 1950s, ambitious plans to transform it into a hotel faltered, leaving the mansion to crumble. Within Hudson Highlands State Park, explore the remnants of stone walls, fireplaces, staircases, and a forgotten swimming pool at your own risk. The 4-mile round-trip hike reveals breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the majestic surrounding mountains, offering a haunting yet captivating glimpse into a bygone era.

2. West Point Foundry Preserve

Another hidden gem of Cold Spring is the West Point Foundry Preserve, a 90-acre site that was once the most important military supplier in America. The foundry was established in 1818, and produced cannons, steam engines, iron bridges, and other machinery for the U.S. Army and Navy. The foundry also played a vital role in the Industrial Revolution, as it was one of the first places to use steam power, water power, and railroads. The foundry closed in 1911, and the site was abandoned for decades. In 1996, the site was acquired by the Scenic Hudson Land Trust, and turned into a public park. You can now walk along the trails and see the remains of the foundry buildings, furnaces, waterwheels, and railroads. You can also learn about the history and the ecology of the site through interpretive signs and audio tours.

3. Mt. Taurus Quarry

If you are looking for a challenging hike with rewarding views, you can try the Mt. Taurus Quarry trail, which leads you to an abandoned quarry that is now a reforestation project. The quarry was opened in the late 1800s, and supplied granite for the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty pedestal, and other landmarks. The quarry ceased operations in the 1930s, and the site was left to nature. The quarry is now filled with water, creating a serene pond that reflects the sky and the trees. The hike to the quarry is about 5 miles round-trip, and involves a steep ascent and descent. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of the Hudson River, the Storm King Mountain, and the Breakneck Ridge.

4. Jed’s Godzilla

If you are looking for something quirky and whimsical, you can visit Jed’s Godzilla, a shrine dedicated to a teenager who died in a car accident in 1996. The shrine is located on a hillside near the Cold Spring Cemetery, and consists of a large statue of Godzilla and an assortment of plastic dinosaurs. The shrine was created by Jed’s father, who wanted to honor his son’s love for Godzilla and other monsters. The shrine is also a tribute to Jed’s artistic talent, as he was a talented painter and sculptor. The shrine is open to the public, and you can leave a note or a toy for Jed and his Godzilla.

5. Main Street

One of the most obvious but still hidden gems of Cold Spring is its Main Street, which is lined with quaint and colorful shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can find everything from antiques, books, and art, to clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. You can also sample some of the local delicacies, such as ice cream, coffee, pizza, and burgers. Main Street is also a great place to admire the architecture and the history of Cold Spring, as many of the buildings date back to the 19th century. You can also catch a glimpse of the Hudson River and the mountains from the street, or walk down to the waterfront park and enjoy the scenery.

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Conclusion

Cold Spring is a hidden gem of New York, and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for nature, history, or culture, you can find it in Cold Spring. You can hike to the ruins of the Cornish Estate, explore the West Point Foundry Preserve, admire the Mt. Taurus Quarry, visit Jed’s Godzilla, and shop and dine on Main Street. These are just some of the hidden gems of Cold Spring that will make your trip unforgettable. The next time you are planning a trip to New York, don’t miss the chance to discover the hidden gems of Cold Spring, NY.