The Benton House at Troutbeck bathed in golden hour light, set among green summer grasses. Photo: Nicole Franzen
EB’s Top 5 in Amenia:
• Dinner & A Movie at Four Brothers Drive-In: Be sure to arrive early enough to grab dinner at The Grand Shack. Opt for the Connecticut lobster roll (which is made with salty butter and comes with chips and coleslaw) and a side of truffle parmesan fries for an elevated snack shack dinner.
• Hiking the Stissing Mountain Trail: The Stissing Mountain Trail is well worth the challenge, as it ends with a climb up a historic fire tower that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.
• Lunch at The Lantern Inn: The Lantern Inn’s classic wood-fired pizza is a must-try when in Amenia. Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will love the Dazed & Confused, which is loaded with oyster and cremini mushrooms, mozzarella, garlic-rosemary oil, and chives. Pair with a Miller High Life for the perfect high-low moment.
• Free Tours at Tenmile Distillery: Those interested in learning about the spirit-making process can take a tour of Tenmile Distillery at zero cost. Afterward, enjoy a tasting comprised of vodka, new make, barrel-aged whiskey, and gin.
• Pastries from Vitsky Bakery: This small-batch bakery has an ever-changing inventory of pastries made using locally-sourced, in-season ingredients. For a savory breakfast, be sure to grab a piece of whatever focaccia is available.
Set along the edge of Dutchess County and flanked by rolling hills, the quaint town of Amenia offers a rural escape with a thoughtful edge, where scenic trails, historic fire towers, and wood-fired pizza all sit within easy reach of one another. Just under 100 miles from NYC, this corner of the Hudson Valley blends quiet countryside with a growing creative and culinary presence.
Anchored by nearby hikes, artful shops, and retro theaters, Amenia and its neighboring hamlets reward the unhurried traveler. It’s a place where mornings start with mountain views, afternoons unfold over craft spirits or garden strolls, and evenings wind down in a vintage Airstream or a historic inn.
Whether you’re tasting locally-made spirits, enjoying a drive-in movie, or climbing to the top of a fire tower, Amenia makes space for both adventure and ease, with enough variety to fill a weekend, and enough quiet to feel like a true getaway. Read on for our full Amenia guide.
What to Do in Amenia, NY: Hiking & Movie-Watching
High atop Stissing Mountain, the Stissing Mountain Fire Tower offers exceptional views of the surrounding Hudson Valley landscape. Photo: Denny Brownell
Begin the day with a hike on the Stissing Mountain Trail, a short but steep loop that leads to a historic fire tower and sweeping views of the Hudson Valley. After the hike, head to nearby Wassaic and stop into Vitsky Bakery to fuel up with coffee and a fresh pastry. While there, browse its selection of provisions, pantry goods, and handmade gifts.
Later in the day, explore the Dover Stone Church Preserve, where a short trail leads to a dramatic cave formation and small waterfall tucked into the forest. For a more meditative walk, plan a visit to Innisfree Garden in Millbrook. This 185-acre public garden is built around a glacial lake and inspired by Chinese landscape design, with winding paths that offer quiet views at every turn. Afterward, book a tasting or tour at Tenmile Distillery to sample small-batch vodka, gin, and whiskey made from New York-grown ingredients.
In the evening, catch a movie under the stars at Four Brothers Drive-In. Open weekends from spring through late fall, the drive-in offers more than films, with yard games, mini golf, and an elevated snack bar open all season long. Guests can also book an overnight stay in a vintage Airstream. For those looking for indoor seating, The Moviehouse in Millerton screens independent and mainstream films year-round in a restored historic theater.
Where to Eat + Drink: The Best Bars and Restaurants in Amenia, NY
Amenia and its neighboring towns are home to a handful of standout restaurants. For a refined meal in a historic setting, Troutbeck’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu in a warmly restored estate, with dishes that highlight local ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
For something more low-key, The Lantern Inn in Wassaic serves Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas alongside microbrews and natural wines in a casual, welcoming space. Further west in Millbrook, Canoe Hill offers a cozy dinner setting with a rotating menu, creative cocktails, and the feel of a classic countryside restaurant.
