- As New York slowly begins to reopen following the novel coronavirus, many city dwellers will be looking for a weekend getaway where they can enjoy nature and escape the crowds.
- Airbnb is a great option for travelers since it offers the option to book a private home and removes interactions with other guests, which promotes social distancing.
- With loads of leaf-peeping, outdoor activities, snowy recreational pursuits, and plenty of craft breweries, towns in the Hudson River Valley offer the perfect year-round weekend vacation. Popular places like Beacon, Hudson, Rhinebeck, and other neighboring areas are accessible from New York City by train or bus, eliminating the need for a car.
- We looked for top-rated Airbnb rentals in the Hudson Valley ranging from $95 to $350 per night.
As states including New York begin to lift travel restrictions put in place due to the novel coronavirus, many people will be seeking a getaway where they connect with nature, enjoy some space, and still practice social distancing.
For New Yorkers looking for a quick weekend getaway, the Hudson Valley is a worthy destination. Ideal in every season, travelers can enjoy activities from hiking and tubing to sipping on craft brews and leaf-peeping in the fall.
Best of all, it takes away the issue of needing to own or rent a car for the trip if you’re coming from New York City. If you do own a car, there are plenty of affordable and unique Upstate New York Airbnb rentals within a three-hour drive that aren’t too hard to reach. But, if you really want to make things easy, some of the best gems are located right along major transit lines in the Hudson River Valley.
Hudson Valley towns like Beacon, Cold Spring, Hudson, and others are all teeming with stunning Airbnbs available to rent. Major New York City train and bus lines reach them in around two hours or less, meaning you can easily leave after work on Friday - no OOO necessary.
For those worried about travel safety right now, staying at an Airbnb as opposed to a hotel may appeal as a better option for safe social distancing. Airbnb recently implemented new procedures and cleaning policies, including the Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, and only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities. These listings maintain a 24-waiting period after a guest checks out before entering to clean, followed by another 48-hour waiting period before guests check-in.
As an alternative, hosts may opt into Booking Buffer, which enforces a 72-hour vacancy period between stays. Or, hosts can choose to do neither, in which case, it's important to remember that cleaning practices, and prices, vary widely. Some hosts are also outlining new cleaning policies right on the listings to help put travelers at ease. Those are noted below where applicable.
However, no matter the policy, it's worth taking extra preventative measures such as running dishware through the dishwasher, and using a disinfecting wipe over all flat surfaces and high-touch areas. Of course, that also means you're now cleaning the home for which you already paid a lofty cleaning fee.
If you're wondering if staying at an Airbnb is safe at all, the answer, according to an infectious disease expert, is by and large, yes. We've also asked experts to weigh in on other travel risks like renting a car, flying, and more. However, without a vaccine, there is no guarantee as to safety. It's important to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing. The risk of infection depends on many variables, namely, the number of people you encounter and the length and nature of such interactions, as well as where you want to go, the rates of infection in your chosen destination, and your anticipated behavior once you arrive.
Part of the appeal of a spot like the Hudson Valley is the ease of practicing social distancing on a hike in the woods or in a remote cabin as opposed to busy city streets. That said, you'll still want to assess your own individual risk factors before deciding if travel is right for you.
With those precautions in mind, these Hudson Valley Airbnb listings are all a short walk, or few minutes' drive from the local train station. Popular cities like Beacon or Hudson do typically price on the higher end, as there's not only increased demand, but more to do in town, too.
To ensure your money is well spent, I set the following parameters to identify truly unique properties:
- Airbnb listing is for the entire home (no awkward kitchen conversations with your host while sipping morning coffee).
- All are highly-rated Airbnb listings in New York's Hudson Valley, with a review score of 4.7 or higher.
- Decor is highly regarded, incorporating unique furniture, design accents, historical elements, and attention to detail. These are not simply crash pads.
- Properties feel cozy and warm for the ultimate mountain getaway feel.
Once you're settled in your Airbnb rental, you'll quickly see why these Hudson Valley towns are so special.
Keep reading to book any of these 13 Hudson Valley Airbnbs for every price point, ranging from $95 to $350 a night.
Downtown flat in Hudson, $95
Book this apartment starting at $95 per night
This Hudson Airbnb is immaculate. The living room is Pinterest-worthy, design touches like platform beds and a claw foot tub feel super retro, and the deck and backyard are lit by twinkle lights. With two bedrooms, the price is quite affordable when split between two couples. Writes one review, "Annabel's place was a dream. Beautiful, comfortable, convenient to everything and with lots of outdoor space to get fresh air. Oh, and that record player - lounging around listening to Nina Simone was everything. We'll be back."
No cleaning policies are specifically outlined in the listing, but the hosts have a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness.
Rating: 4.87
Rustic barn in New Paltz, $145
Book the barn starting at $145 per night
There's something especially cozy about a barn, especially in Upstate New York. New Paltz is fast emerging as a Hudson Valley favorite and this former barn easily gives away why. Large globe lanterns hang from open, vaulted ceilings, and simple furnishings are accented by bright pops of yellow. There's a propane fireplace inside, plus a grill to dine alfresco under the stars.
Rating: 4.89
Farm house in Kingston, $145
Book the farm house starting $145 per night
For Hudson Valley appeal coupled with sweeping views, consider this renovated farm house with three bedrooms. Light and bright, it sits on a hill overlooking Kingston and the full Hudson River Valley. Admire one-of-a-kind style choices like periodic table pillows, decorative paddles, and period rugs. Throw a log into the wood-burning stove and savor a slower pace.
No cleaning guidelines are listed, but several recent guests have marked this Airbnb "sparkling clean."
Rating: 4.97
Mid-century home in Newburgh, $145
Book the mid-century home starting at $145 per night
When Beacon is overbooked, but you still want to easy access to the art of Dia Beacon, consider staying across the river in Newburgh. From the outside, this Airbnb looks like a trendy gallery, but it's really a mid-century marvel of an apartment with a private garden. You'll be walking distance to restaurants and shops in the village, and the ferry to Beacon.
One reviewer notes, "Our stay was truly 10/10 in every possible way thanks to Cynthia's helpful communication and attention to detail, and also her beautiful, spacious apartment! The neighborhood is as quiet as can be if you're looking for a great night's sleep. With so much to see, do, and eat all within easy walking and driving distance, I wouldn't hesitate to book Cynthia's place again!"
The hosts note "We provide fresh towels and linens. You will arrive to a professionally cleaned space in which we place our utmost care."
Rating: 4.96
Carriage house in Hudson, $180
Book this carriage house starting at $180 per night
I'm not sure what I love more: the rustic yet exceedingly chic look of this gorgeous carriage house or the fact that it's merely a two-hour ride on Amtrak from New York's Penn Station. If you beat me to booking this one, enjoy the exposed brick, sleek wood, and mod design, in addition to fun perks like a private upstairs lounge and courtyard. Spend a crisp evening outside with your beverage of choice, and bites from Talbott & Arding Cheese & Provisions, my local pick for cheese, produce and fresh-baked treats.
The listing notes the property is cleaned by a professional cleaning service after every visit for guests' safety and peace of mind.
Rating: 4.81
Chic studio in Garrison, $190
Book this studio starting at $190 per night
Fancy hotel or Airbnb? It's hard to tell thanks to a well-curated designer look. This striking studio is part of a larger home, but rest assured it's totally private with a separate entrance. Though the shared amenities are worth using: two ponds and a garden, fire pit, swings, and an orchard. Better still, it's close to West Point and Storm King, and only minutes from the Garrison Metro North train station, which is only an hour from New York City.
No specific cleaning guidelines are outlined, but the host is a Superhost and recent guests have marked this listing "sparkling clean."
Rating: 4.83
Bowler house in Hudson, $221
Book the 'bowler' starting at $221 per night
Just a 10-minute walk from the Hudson Amtrak station, this historic home blends antique statement pieces with a sense of understated luxury. Many original details from 1860 remain, such as pre-tin plaster moldings, mahogany stairwells, and etched glass, with newer renovations paying homage to the past. And can we talk about the kitchen? The vintage fridge, stove and radio will transport you to another era, while the tiled mosaic floor deserves a firm place on your Instagram feed. There's no outdoor space, but the plush sleigh bed looks especially homey.
No new cleaning policies are listed, but the host has a perfect 5.0 on cleanliness.
Rating: 4.95
Mechanic's loft in Hudson, $225
Book the mechanic's loft starting at $225 per night
With three bedrooms and an airy loft layout, this is a great option for groups. A former converted industrial building, the fully renovated unit is centrally located to Hudson's main commercial district. There's also an outdoor courtyard shared with another unit for added fresh air.
One review notes, "This loft is chic and stylish. It has a very open feeling and is located at the top of Warren street in Hudson. The location is perfect for exploring town and going out to restaurants. We were very, very pleased with the location and the loft. It could not have been better!"
No new cleaning guidelines are specified, but 14 recent guests said this place was "sparkling clean."
Rating: 4.86
Tudor home in New Paltz, $249
Book this Tudor home starting at $249 per night
The New York Trailways bus zips straight up to New Paltz from the city in 95 minutes and will drop you off just five minutes from this adorable Tudor. In fact, the attentive host includes everything you need to know about arriving by bus in his listing, likely one of the many reasons his property has earned so many rave reviews.
One shares, "This is a very cute apartment right in the village. Very comfortable bed. A brand new and stylish bathroom, but everything else is charming with older appeal. You can park on the street comfortably and then walk to most of where you'd want to go in the village."
No cleaning policies are noted, but the host has a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness and recent guests have marked it "sparkling clean."
Rating: 4.73
Loft apartment in Rhinebeck, $249
Book this loft starting at $249 per night
Rhinebeck is another Hudson Valley darling, reachable by train in under two hours. I'm a fan of this luxe loft with its distinctive features, such as the low profile, upholstered king size bed; mid-century furniture, and subway-tiled bathroom. There's also a complimentary minibar, reading nook, and plenty of space to stretch out. One weekend review raved, "Wonderful and thoughtful hosts! Better than a five-star hotel ... beautifully decorated, so many special touches, snack and stocked fridge, unbelievably comfortable bed, and so close to town. Would book here again and again!"
The host hasn't outlined cleaning procedures, but the property has a perfect 5.0 rating for cleanliness.
Rating: 5.0
Modern cabin with pool in Rhinebeck, $290
Book this modern cabin starting at $290 per night
This gorgeously designed spot has 360 glass views of the surrounding foliage and trees. The year-round heated outdoor pool makes this an especially great find. For even more immersion in nature, try out the outdoor shower. Or, for those who prefer to bathe indoors, there's a deep egg tub for soaking in the master bedroom. Ideal for families or groups, this listing can sleep up to six guests.
While no specific new cleaning guidelines are outlined on the listing, 15 recent guests said this place was "sparkling clean."
Rating: 4.95
Guest house in Rhinebeck, $300
Book this guest house starting at $300 per night
Small groups looking to explore Rhinebeck should check out this whimsical guest house. Decor is colorful and eclectic, with a four-poster canopy bed, plus an additional queen, double, and two twins spread throughout two bedrooms and a sleeping loft. It's only a few minutes walk to the village center, though there's plenty on site to warrant so many five star reviews, such as the deck, fire pit, and bocci ball court outside, plus a fireplace inside for chilly nights.
The hosts have a 4.9 out of out 5 for cleanliness, but have not stated any new cleaning policies.
Rating: 4.95
Cozy treehouse in Willow, $350
Book this treehouse starting at $350 per night
For a unique stay, try this cozy treehouse just 15 minutes from Woodstock. Nestled among the trees on 34 acres, it overlooks a small pond that guests can actually swim in. The interiors are cozy and chic with floor-to-ceiling windows offering scenic views. Ideal for couples or solo travelers, the bed is loft-style at the top of a ladder.
One recent reviewer rave, "Beautiful cozy treehouse, a killer record collection, perfect weather, a full moon and a much needed break from the world. Couldn't have picked a better place to unwind."
No specific cleaning policies are outlined, but the property has a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness.
Rating: 4.94
