Arden is a small village located in the northern tip of Orange county, one hour from New York City. Situated in the foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains and along the banks of the Wallkill River, Arden offers its visitors a small town charm and breath-taking scenery. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, while still being close enough to take advantage of all the activities offered by the Big Apple.
1. Arden parks and places for a walk on a first date
If you and your date are looking for a casual and relaxed setting to get to know each other, Arden has a few lovely outdoor spots to enjoy some fresh air, good conversation and beautiful scenery. A great option for a walk is Minnewaska State Park, located about ten minutes from Arden. The park offers a variety of trails, lakes, and waterfalls, perfect for a peaceful stroll. A walk around the lake or to Mary’s Glen, an area of the park with breathtaking views, is sure to help start conversation and set the tone for the rest of your date. Another option is the Wallkill Valley Rail Trails, a scenic 26-mile trail that runs along the Wallkill River. The trail is paved and runs parallel to the river, making it perfect for biking and taking in the sights.
2. Places for a coffee date in Arden
If you and your date prefer something low-key and relaxed, Arden has plenty of options for a coffee date. Stop into Crust Artisan Bakery for a cup of specialty coffee, as well as to try some of the delicious breads, pastries and other treats they offer. Another great option is the Arden Deli and Cafè, which offers an extensive list of espresso drinks and coffees, as well as a variety of sandwiches, soups and salads. For a more intimate setting, try Arden’s Gilded Giraffe Coffee House. This quaint café is the perfect spot to cozy up and talk over a cup of joe.
3. Arden galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you and your date are looking for a bit more intellectual stimulation, then Arden has a few great options for gallery visits and museum visits. The Karpeles Manuscript Library is a great place to visit, as it holds one of the world’s largest private collections of historic manuscripts. Another great option is the Hudson Valley Generator, an art gallery dedicated to showcasing local and international talent from the Hudson Valley region.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Arden
For a more lively date option, Arden has plenty of live music and entertainment to choose from. The nearby town of Middletown has a great selection of live music venues, such as The Orange Inn, Little Westwood Coffeehouse, and the Waterwheel Café, all of which offer live music performances. Middletown also has a variety of bars and pubs that have live music and entertainment on the weekends.
5. Arden pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you and your date are looking for a bit of food and drink, Arden has some great options to choose from. The Arden Hotel is a great place to go for a romantic dinner. The hotel has a great selection of craft beers, delicious food and a lively atmosphere. For a more casual option, there are several pubs and bars to choose from. The Arden Pub is a great place to enjoy a beer or two, while The Orange Inn offers an extensive menu of craft beers, as well as tasty pub grub.
6. Other date ideas to try in Arden
If you and your date are looking for something a bit more adventurous, Arden has some great date options for you. Go for a hike in the nearby Shawangunk Mountains, or try some paddling on the Wallkill River. For a more relaxed date, try visiting some of Arden’s nearby wineries, such as Brotherhood Winery, Fidelis Vineyards and Red Apple Farm. There are also several art galleries and craft stores in the area, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of exploring.
