Guide by floral artist Ariel Dearie on the Hudson Valley region's flower arrangement techniques

Nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley, Rhinebeck has a rich history and a vibrant present. Known for its stunning landscapes and easy access to nature, the town is less than two hours from Penn Station, making it an ideal weekend escape.

In the early 20th century, Rhinebeck was famously known as the violet capital, supplying a quarter of the world's demand for the delicate blooms. Today, the town continues to bloom, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the town's historical gems is the Clermont State Historic Site, located at 1 Clermont Ave, Germantown, NY 12526. The site, home to the American Revolutionary War hero General Philip Schuyler, offers a glimpse into colonial life. Another historical site is Montgomery Place, located at 26 Gardener Way, River Rd, Red Hook, NY 12571. This 18th-century estate, with its stunning gardens and architectural charm, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

For those with a sweet tooth, a trip to Rhinebeck wouldn't be complete without a visit to Fortunes Ice Cream. Although the shop is located in Tivoli, 15 minutes north of Rhinebeck, the delicious ice cream is worth the short journey. Fortunes Ice Cream has a website at fortunesicecream.com for those who want to learn more.

Artists Brice and Helen Marden, who started venturing upstate around 2015, purchased the boutique Hotel Tivoli in 2013. However, it's important to note that there is no publicly available information indicating that Brice Marden was the purchaser of the hotel. Hotel Tivoli, with its elegant rooms and charming ambiance, has a website at hoteltivoli.org for those interested in booking a stay.

The Mardens, after a few years and two children, moved to Rhinebeck. Since then, they have become active members of the community, supporting local businesses such as the Wayside Stand. This local market, operating along the main road for over a hundred years, has a website at montgomery-place-orchards.com for those who want to explore its offerings.

Rhinebeck is also home to the Omega Institute, a non-profit educational retreat center that has been in the town for more than 40 years. The Omega Institute, located at eomega.org, offers a variety of workshops and programmes for personal growth and well-being.

Another historical site in Rhinebeck is Blithewood Manor, located at 30 Campus Rd, Annandale-On-Hudson, NY 12504. This beautiful manor, built in 1848, is a testament to the town's rich architectural history.

In recent times, the speaker has been experimenting with electroplating, a metalworking practice. This artistic exploration adds to the creative energy that permeates Rhinebeck.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, Rhinebeck offers something for everyone. With its charming businesses, historical sites, and beautiful surroundings, it's no wonder that Rhinebeck continues to attract visitors and new residents alike. For more information about the town and its offerings, visit the websites of its various businesses and attractions.

Guide by floral artist Ariel Dearie on the Hudson Valley region's flower arrangement techniques