The end of a school year is always hard, especially for college students. One of the top complaints from college students returning to their hometowns is that there's “nothing to do” leaving these students bored and unfulfilled. Take advice from our college summer intern, who told us about her favorite activities in Putnam County when she's home from school.

1. The Putnam Trailway

A part of the Empire State Trail, this portion of the trail runs throughout the entire county, starting as south as Mahopac and as north as Patterson. Whether you’re alone or with a friend, there are endless ways to use this trail like walking, running, biking, roller blading or skateboarding- the possibilities are endless.

2. Stonecrop Gardens

A beautiful public garden located in Cold Spring that offers a wide range of plant collections and unique garden designs. Admission is $10 dollars for a self-guided tour and $15 for a group guided tour with an advanced reservation. STONECROP GARDENS – 81 Stonecrop Lane – Cold Spring New York 10516

3. Ninham Mountain Fire Tower

Located in Kent, this tower offers its visitors not just a scenic view but also a rich history as this was built almost 100 years ago and once served as a lookout for forest fires. Other than this, the view at the top of the tower makes the entire hike worth it. If you go on a really nice day and look closely, you can even see the Manhattan skyline from the top box. Nimham Mountain Multiple Use Area - NYSDEC

Side note: While you’re hiking in the tower, if you’re interested in exploring local historical and mysterious sites, the stone chambers are a perfect side expedition to visit while you’re in the area.

4. Water Fun

With the many lakes that reside in Putnam County, water activities like boating are a fun way to get out of the house while catching a tan. If you're seeking an adventurous activity with a lower cost, try a kayak or paddleboard tour on the Hudson River or Constitution Marsh through Hudson River Expeditions. Cold Spring Schedule and Booking - Hudson River Expeditions If you're looking for a more relaxed boating experience, renting a pontoon on Lake Mahopac is the way to go. While this activity is on the more expensive side of the spectrum, the boat is bigger and can fit at most 8 people at once. Pontoons for Rent | Mahopac, NY | Mahopac Marina

5. Putnam County Veterans Parks

Located in Kent, this park features numerous amenities like a beach area for relaxing, tanning, and just laying out in the sun, a lake for swimming and fishing, a basketball court, a playground for kids, areas for picnics and barbequing and tributes celebrating our veterans, every corner you turn shows a new activity for you and your friends.  Veterans Memorial Park | Putnam County, New York

6. Coffee and Fun drinks

While outdoor activities are always a fun way to stay active, especially with friends. Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate with these activities, or you just want to opt for a more relaxed and comforting setting like getting a coffee or a fun beverage.  

• For Coffee:
  • Cold Spring Coffeehouse Cold Spring Coffeehouse and Bakeshop | My Site
  • Brooklyn Organic Kitchen in Mahopac Brooklyn Organic Kitchen)
  • Cozy Corner Cafe (Cold Spring)
• For Boba/Tea:
  • Thai Golden (Carmel) Thai Golden | Thai food | Bubble Tea | Open Mic Night | Take-out | Menu | Putam County| Trivia Night | Carmel Hamlet, NY,
  • Rowseelee (Mahopac and Cold Spring) Fine Teas, Boba, & Treats,
  • Pho on 6 (Mahopac) Pho 6｜Online Order｜Mahopac｜NY
  • Florie Kays (Carmel) Tearoom | Bakery | Caterer | Giftshop
• Smoothies/ Acai
  • Sweet Harvest in Cold Spring Salads | Sweet Harvest Superfood Cafe | Cold Spring
    
    

7. Bowling- Spins bowling in Carmel.

Bowling is a fun activity many don’t regularly do. It doesn’t matter if you’re good or bad, as long as you're having a good time with your friends. Located in Carmel, Spins bowing offers way more than lanes and pins. Theres an arcade and even axe throwing outside for those late summer nights.  Spins Bowl Carmel, NY - Bowling, Axe Throwing, Arcade, and Parties

8. Ice cream

Ice cream is a delicious treat beloved by all ages- especially on a hot summer night. Whether it’s in a cup, cone, with toppings or by itself. Theres a flavor for everyone!

• Scoops n More (Carmel)Ice Cream Parlor | Scoops N More | United States
• Carmel Creamery (Carmel) Carmel Creamery | Ice Cream Shop | 105 Towners Road, Carmel Hamlet, NY, USA
• Moo Moos Creamery (Cold Spring) Moo Moo’s Creamery - The World’s Best Ice Cream Shop
• Red Rooster (Brewster) (which has mini gold- another fun activity to do) Red Rooster Drive-In & Mini Golf | Route 22 | Brewster, NY