What to do in the area around June Farms
There’s no shortage of fun things to do at June Farms.
Our guests have the run of the place: from getting their zen on at goat yoga
to ripping through the woods on ATVs, knocking back cocktails in The Pony Barn, and/or simply luxuriating in one of our five-star accommodations.
But we’re all subject to a little cabin fever every once in a while – even if that cabin happens to be The Lodge.
So if you’re looking for an off-site activity right in the vicinity of June Farms, then you’re in luck.
Whether you’re after fine dining, the great outdoors, historic landmarks, or another scene entirely, there’s something for everyone nearby our home here at the intersection of New York’s Capital District and the Hudson Valley.
Read on to learn our top tips for off-site activities during your next stay at June Farms.
1. Hiking trails & nature
June Farms is home to 120 acres of wild woodland trails and manicured paths along which you can view our resident farm animals.
But if you’re also hoping to explore some nature off premises, consider checking out these spots:
Sand Lake Walking Trail
Fancy some light hiking and an easy way to see local flora and fauna? This is your spot.
Less than 10 minutes from June Farms by car, the Sand Lake Walking Trail is host to several short, well-marked trails that anyone can tackle.
Barberville Falls Nature Preserve
Three separate hiking trails will take you to these iconic falls that are only 12 minutes driving from June Farms. Hike through a quintessential hemlock-northern hardwood forest and take in dramatic views at the terminus.
Catskill Mountains hiking trails
Farther afield – about an hour’s drive from the farm – are the Catskill Mountains trailheads.
This region is home to Kaaterskill Falls, New York State’s second largest waterfall after Niagara Falls, as well as some of the highest peaks in the northeast.
If you’re game for a half-day trip (at least) and some seriously challenging hikes, set your GPS for the Catskills.
2. Swimming
Cool off during the summer months by taking a plunge at either of these two beaches located within state parks right nearby June Farms:
Grafton Lakes State Park Beaches
An ideal reprieve from the heat, Grafton Lakes State Park beaches offer swimming areas and boat rentals. There are also hiking trails and picnicking areas around the lakes.
The beaches at Grafton Lakes State Park are usually open between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 10 AM until 6 PM.
Cherry Plain State Park
Equally close-by is Cherry Plain State Park where there’s a lake with a large swimming area.
The beach at this state park is open all summer and less than a 30-minute car ride from the farm.
3. Skiing
Make the most of winter in the northeast by hitting the slopes: June Farms is a short drive from some of the top ski resorts in the region.
Here are two for you to consider:
Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area
At Pineridge, you’ll find hundreds of acres of exciting cross country skiing terrain through lush evergreen forests. This area is also known to be a den for many of the region’s endemic fauna, like deer, beavers, otters, and foxes.
Pineridge is no more than 20 minutes driving from June Farms.
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
The premier mountain of The Berkshires, Jiminy Peak, is only 33 minutes by car from our farm.
From its peak elevation of 2,380 feet, Jiminy has some of the most challenging trails around. But it’s also home to a bevy of beginner runs that are perfect for children and young families.
The mountain’s 45 trails, 21 of which are lit for night skiing, are primed and ready for fun all winter long.
4. Watering holes
Who’s thirsty?
Check out the dynamic bar and pub scenes happening in Albany and Troy – two cities from which June Farms is about equidistant.
Troy is a formerly industrial city roughly half the size of Albany, the capital of New York. What Troy lacks in size it compensates for in charm. Two staples of nightlife here are Ryan’s Wake, a classic Irish pub located on the riverfront, and The Ruck, an old-time, wood-paneled bar with an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails.
In Albany, you can throw a stone in any direction and hit a bar. But here are three spots that really stand out:
Wolff’s Biergarten
Whenever a soccer game is on, expect to find hundreds of passionate fans slurping down beer steins and bratwurst at this firehouse-turned-German Beer Hall located in Albany’s thriving Warehouse District.
Wolff’s Biergarten has been affectionately called “the wurst place in town” since opening its doors in 2009.
McGeary’s
McGeary’s is an old school Irish pub in Albany’s downtown area. It’s where locals and visitors alike go to congregate. McGeary’s is a no-frills, good time kind of place with a huge draft beer selection.
ALB Distillery
You’ll likely see ALB vodka on the shelves of bars all over the Capital District. And for good reason. This newcomer distilling company is giving the vodka establishment a run for its money.
For some drinks and an experience, take a tour of the Albany Distilling Company.
5. Food scene
Here are some options for dining outside of June Farms:
Casual dining close-by
The Towne Tavern has good quality pub grub and a great beer menu. Lakeview Inn is perfect for casual family dining. Kay’s Pizza is a favorite of locals; it’s a seasonal family-owned restaurant open between April and October. AJ’s Pizza is open all year, and it delivers. Hanzo is a trendy Japanese Steakhouse that does way more than just sushi.
Farm-to-table
Chez Mike, located 15 minutes from June Farms in East Greenbush, has a seasonal menu featuring local farm-to-table cuisine. It’s open from 5 PM to 9 PM, Tuesdays through Saturdays year-round. Make a reservation on Resy or by calling (518) 479-4730.
Albany dining
677 Prime is an upscale steakhouse located in downtown Albany. It’s an ideal choice for celebratory dinners, such as anniversaries or birthdays. Similarly, DP American Brasserie is an elegant space serving steaks and seafood.
Albany has a lot to offer on the casual side too. The Olde English Pub, for example, which looks like a scene from a quaint British postcard, does not take reservations and has a seasonal menu serving lunch, brunch, and dinner. With a cute outdoor patio and, more often than not, some form of live music, The Olde English is a must-visit in downtown.
TanPopo Ramen is a cutting-edge ramen joint housed within a classic 1950s diner in the Warehouse District. It’s open everyday, and students get 10% off with a valid ID.
Café Capriccio is the spot for authentic Italian in Albany. Its “Little Italy” ambiance will make you feel like you’re back in the good old days.
Troy dining
Have you ever heard of a flower shop that moonlights as a cocktail bar and plant-based restaurant? Now you have. Troy Beer Garden is a chic spot that draws plant lovers from all over the Capital District.
Overlooking the Hudson, Dinosaur BBQ is world famous for its ribs, wings, and briskets.
Little Peck’s, Troy’s favorite all-day café, is perfect for a healthy bite.
Sea Smoke Waterfront Grill is a brand new, high-end seafood restaurant on Green Island. Call (518) 326-4164 to make a reservation.
6. Historic landmarks
One of the first settlements in Colonial America, modern Albany is a port city dotted with historic landmarks. Like its neighbor to the north, Saratoga, the capital of New York was a garrison for American patriots during the Revolutionary War. Since then, it’s remained an important political and commercial center.
Many spots of historic relevance that you should consider checking out are located in Downtown Albany’s Historic District.
The Schuyler Mansion, for example, an 18th century Georgian mansion, was home to Revolutionary War general Philip J. Schuyler. Beginning in May, it’s open daily through the summer months.
Nearby the Schuyler Mansion is the New York State Capitol Building, a magnificent Neo-Renaissance structure completed in 1899. You can marvel at its resplendent interiors by appointment all year round, Monday through Friday starting at either 10 AM or noon. Reservations are limited.
And just north of the city, America’s 21st president, Chester A. Arthur, is buried at the Albany Rural Cemetery.
7. Arts & culture
The Capital District and its surrounding area has a vibrant arts & culture scene.
For contemporary art, venture over the Massachusetts border, less than an hour’s drive from the farm, to visit MASS MoCA. Here you’ll find a haven for all forms of modern expression, including music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, and theater.
For history, the Irish American Heritage Museum tells the story of Irish immigrants in America, and particularly of those who settled locally in Upstate New York and the northeast.
For culture, Albany Institute of History & Art has a collection that features the whole gamut of art, sculpture, photography, and the like. The museum is particularly treasured for housing the best collections of paintings that showcase life in the Upper Hudson Valley from the late seventeenth century to the present day.
And to take in a concert, a game, or a show, make your way to the Palace Theatre or the Times Union Center.
8. Drive-Ins
With COVID still lingering, some folks prefer to stick to outdoor activities with limited exposure to other people. Cue drive-in theaters: the perfect COVID-safe outing.
During the summer months, you can catch a film at Hollywood Drive-In Theatre located 8 minutes by car from June Farms.
9. Groceries
Not the most interesting topic, but groceries are essential – especially if you’re planning a longer stay. June Farms is located within close proximity to the West Sand Lake Hannaford, ShopRite, and Honest Wait Food Co-op. There is also a Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s across the river in Albany.
10. Shopping
Finally, if you need some retail therapy then read on!
Fort Orange General Store in Downtown Albany has a huge inventory of cute handmade home goods. It’s a nice place to get Albany and Hudson Valley themed gifts.
Downtown Troy has an enchanting little business district.
And Crossgates Mall, west of Albany, has an exhaustive directory of big chain stores, including a Game Stop, Apple Store, and H&M.
Enjoy your stay!
Should you need any additional tips, don’t hesitate to contact Matt at (518) 444-3276.
