If you’re trying to save money and still get out of the house, Orange County, N.Y. is one of the easiest places to do it! The county is packed with trails, waterfronts, artsy enclaves, holiday markets and places to explore that feel like little discoveries. A lot of them cost nothing at all. The ones that do usually cost less than a typical coffee order!
And here’s a perk for the season: Orange Transit is running fare-free rides on its Newburgh and Middletown routes through December 31. So you can explore more and spend less just getting around!
Here are some easy, affordable ideas for getting out and making a day of it!
🎨 Arts and Culture
Storm King Art Center, New Windsor
If you’ve never been to Storm King, this is your sign! Grab a library pass and go wander one of the most impressive outdoor art spaces in the country for free. You’ll walk rolling fields, wooded paths and enormous sculptures that somehow make the landscape feel even bigger.
(Open daily except Tuesdays through Nov. 30.)
Sugar Loaf Art & Craft Village, Sugar Loaf
Sugar Loaf is one of those places you stumble into and immediately wonder why you haven’t been going for years. More than 20 artist-run shops line the walkable village, and depending on the season you might catch a craft demo, holiday lights or a quirky event you didn’t know you needed!
🌲 Parks, Trails and Outdoor Escapes
Heritage Trail, Middletown to Harriman
Nearly 20-miles of paved, car-free trail stretch through quiet countryside and small towns. It’s an easy win for a walk, a bike ride or, once the snow hits, some cross-country skiing. Bring a coffee, pick a starting point and see where you end up!
Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain
If you’re looking for a classic Hudson Valley outing that doesn’t cost much, Bear Mountain is a great pick. Your ten-dollar entry gets you mountain views, lakeside walks, and a visit to one of the region’s most charming historic lodges.
Storm King State Park, Cornwall
Storm King State Park delivers quiet trails and wide-open views without any cost or crowds. The terrain is a bit rougher, so good shoes go a long way.
Orange County Parks, Various Locations
More than 3,400 acres of county parkland means you can fish, hike, picnic or just wander without spending anything! A seasonal favorite is Holiday Lights in Bloom at the Orange County Arboretum, glowing Friday through Sunday from Nov. 28 to Dec. 28.
Newburgh Waterfront, Newburgh
A mile-long riverfront trail with breezy views and plenty of spots nearby for a relaxed lunch or warm drink. Simple, easy and surprisingly scenic.
🕰️ History and Family-Friendly Outings
Christkindlmarkt, Port Jervis
Free to enter, free to park and full of more than 100 vendors. It’s one of the county’s most cheerful holiday events, complete with horse-and-wagon rides!
(Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.A)
Washington’s Headquarters, Newburgh
One of the most important historic sites in the country, and you can visit it for the price of a sandwich. Explore the museum and climb the Tower of Victory for a wide view of the river.
(Winter hours: Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
West Point Museum, West Point
Free admission and a surprisingly huge collection of military artifacts, including pieces from the Revolution and a World War I tank.
(Open Tuesday through Sunday.)
National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, New Windsor
Free and deeply meaningful. Learn the stories behind the Purple Heart and explore the interactive Roll of Honor.
(Open Tuesday through Saturday, and Sunday afternoons.)
🍿 Local Deals and Everyday Savings
AMC Crystal Run 16, Middletown
Sign up for the free Stubs Insider program and snag half-price movie tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Easy win for date night or family night!
Flagship Premium Cinemas, Monroe and Chester
Super Tuesday tickets are only $7.75. Popcorn suddenly feels a lot more justifiable.
Local Libraries, Multiple Towns
Movie nights, yoga, crafts, story hours, open mic nights and all either free or very low-cost! Some libraries double as mini landmarks, like Middletown Thrall Library in a former train station or the Victorian-era Moffat Library in Washingtonville.
Find Your Next Easy Day Trip 🗺️
Orange County is full of places that don’t require a big budget to enjoy. A walk on a trail, a stop at a historic site, a wander through a local village or a visit to a seasonal event can easily turn into a great day out. If you’re looking for simple ways to get outside, explore something new or just switch up your routine, the county has plenty of options waiting for you.
Sleep in an architecturally significant B&B, or book a room at a nationally known hotel. Casual travelers as well as visitors looking for luxury will find a wide range of properties to consider. There are lodging options for everyone – Try our user-friendly lodging search below and come stay with us in Orange County, NY.
