A proud US institution
Around 50 miles up from Manhattan, the venerable US Military Academy of West Point enjoys a commanding vantage point on a leafy hillside overlooking the Hudson River. With a proud military and strategic history, surrounded by beautiful broadleaf forest and craggy peaks, the region draws visitors for its outdoor activities and sports as much for its military history, museum, historic sites and monuments. Choose a West Point vacation rental to immerse yourself in history dating back to the birth of the nation and enjoy the wonderful hiking, biking and skiing trails that crisscross the neighboring hillsides.
A rich heritage in West Point
The West Point Museum is the oldest military museum in the USA, and one of the finest. History buffs will be in heaven visiting significant sites such as the remains of Fort Clinton, Fort Putnam and the site of Sherburne's Redoubt. This is a region rich in military history, with Washington's Headquarters in Newburgh just a 30-minute drive away from West Point vacation rentals. Then, once you've had your fill of historical sites, driving the Shawangunk Wine Trail is a delicious way to make a scenic driving tour of this beautiful region while enjoying the vintages of up to 15 local wineries.
Exploring West Point
It would be remiss to visit West Point without making a tour of the US Military Academy, but there is more to see here besides USMA. Downtown can be explored happily on foot, there are many historic buildings and beautiful parks to discover as well as local shops to browse and a wide range of dining options – from impressive fine dining to atmospheric farm-to-table restaurants. The Storm King Art Center, just 15 minutes from town, is one of the world's leading sculpture parks. It's open seasonally, allowing you to explore its 500 acres of woodland, fields and wildflowers to enjoy more than 100 sculptures by leading artists.
West Point through the seasons
Some major landmarks and sites have seasonal access, so the summer months offer the greatest sightseeing opportunities. With warm summer temperatures reaching into the 80s, it's also a great time of year to explore the local golf courses, trails and parks. The rugged mountains of nearby Bear Mountain State Park offer shaded picnic groves, lake and river fishing access, and a swimming pool – perfect for sunny summer days. In winter, as the temperatures drop and snow falls, the park's hiking, biking trails can be enjoyed by cross-country skiers and its outdoor ice-skating rink opens.
Exploring the natural landscape of West Point
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to appreciate the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in West Point. These are some of the area's most eye-catching features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Hudson Highlands State Park (3.4 mi / 5.5 km)
- Bear Mountain State Park (6.5 mi / 10.5 km)
- Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park (10.3 mi / 16.6 km)
- Algonquin Park (10.5 mi / 16.9 km)
- Lake Mahopac (11.2 mi / 18 km)
- Lake Welch Beach (12.4 mi / 20 km)
Transportation to and around West Point
The nearest airport is in Westchester County Airport (HPN), located 25.9 mi (41.6 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into Stewart Intl. Airport (SWF), which is 10.1 mi (16.2 km) away.
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