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Newly Opened Destinations Hudson Valley Kids are Loving 

1. Happy Valley Arcade – Beacon

Happy Valley offers retro arcade games, food, and drinks. Want to dust off your Dance Dance Revolution skills? Your kids, I promise, will be so impressed!

Why It's Trendy: Kids who love gaming will have a blast at this venue, which also hosts special events like all-ages game tournaments. 
Age Range: 5+
Insider Tip: While kids are gaming, parents can enjoy craft beers and cocktails. 

2. Innisfree Garden – Millbrook

Innisfree Garden in Millbrook offers a peaceful respite and lovely walks. Check out the website for events like tai chi classes, sound baths, and more.

Why It's Trendy: A hidden gem and local favorite, Innisfree is especially beautiful in the fall.
Age Range: 3+ with some uneven terrain but largely walkable paths.
Insider Tip: Reservations are recommended (but not required) given the small parking lot.

3. Shalimar Alpaca Farm – Warwick

Open by appointment only, Warwick's own Shalimar Alpaca Farm is home to a herd of lovable and friendly animals. Come for pets and a picnic, and head home with one-of-a-kind knit alpaca wool clothing.

Why It's Trendy: Open by appointment also means that you can be alpaca royalty and have the place to yourselves.
Age Range: 5+
Insider Tip: If you are a knitter or have one in your life, Shalimar Alpaca farm sells yarn for a unique and special gift.

4. Tig & Me – Rye and Pelham

For little tykes, check out Tig & Me's indoor play spaces. Kids will love the selection of Instagram-worthy toys and climbables.

Why It's Trendy: Tig & Me is a refuge that allows kids exploratory playtime, and you can snap some cute pics!
Age Range: 9 months to 6 years
Insider Tip: As well as drop-in open play hours, Tig & Me also offers parties and classes.

5. Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo – Millbrook

Millbrook High is in the unique position of being a school with an accredited zoo, right in the heart of Duchess County. Created by a biology teacher, the zoo boasts over 170 animals that represent 70 species.

Why It's Trendy: Its unique history, privacy, and IYKYK status make for an excellent alternative to more crowded zoos.
Age Range: Any
Insider Tip: The zoo is open by reservation only, so plan ahead and enjoy the private experience!

Trendy Kid-Friendly Dining Experiences 

6. Supreme Soft Serve – Claverack

Artisanal soft serve food truck? Local? Homemade? Check, check, and check. Find Supreme Soft Serve Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Cooper's Daughter Spirits in Claverack. 

Why It's Trendy: Supreme Soft Serve is so popular for weddings that it is booked two years in advance for private events.
Age Range: Whenever is too young for ice cream. On the other hand, you're never too old for ice cream!
Insider Tip: Owner Megan Kitsock sources local produce for her creative flavors and toppings. Grown-ups can enjoy a cocktail at Cooper's Daughter as well.

7. Doggology – Montrose

Recently opened in Montrose, Doggology is a fast casual hot dog joint with creative toppings like Mac and Cheese and Bacon, Egg, and Cheese.

Why It's Trendy: Hot dogs are good. Hot dogs with bacon, egg, and cheese on them are better.
Age Range: Any
Insider Tip: Buns are toasted with butter, because everything is better with butter. That's science.

8. HIBINO Day by Day – Various Locations

Find authentic Japanese takeout at this Hudson Valley pop-up. Located alternatively in Garrison, Cold Spring, Beacon, and Newburgh, HIBINO offers gorgeous onigiri (rice balls) and more.

Why It's Trendy: When I first tried HIBINO's onigiri at my local farmer's market, there was a line before the booth even opened.
Age Range: Adventurous kids of any age
Insider Tip: The ramen eggs are absolute heaven.

9. Rail Trail Cafe – New Paltz

Located in New Paltz by the Empire State Trail, the Rail Trail Cafe cooks up wood-fired pizzas, breakfast sandwiches, and more. Its peaceful location and delicious pizzas go hand in hand.

Why It's Trendy: Rail Trail cafe is a cute, intimate space that will make you feel like a Hobbit in the best way.
Age Range: Any
Insider Tip: Check the calendar to make sure that you visit at the same time as a live music or arts event.

10. Wonder – Various Locations 

A food hall featuring dishes from iconic chefs and famous restaurants, Wonder has opened four dine-in or takeout fast-casual spots in Westchester. Find them in Larchmont, Pleasantville, West Harrison, and Scarsdale.

Why It's Trendy: With over 50 restaurants in 8 states and D.C., Wonder is no hidden gem, but it's an easy option for restaurant-quality food.
Age Range: Any
Insider Tip: The wait can be long, so order online on the way for a quicker turnaround.