Hudson Valley Parent is proud to present the winners of this year's Family Adventure Awards. Readers and staff chose the best places in the Hudson Valley and crowned them the best in family adventures.
Here are the best local shopping destinations for families:
Merritt Bookstore is a fantastic place to bring the whole family! We have a wide selection of books for everyone, including an extensive children’s section organized by age, and a carefully curated toy section! We also have games and puzzles for the whole family. You are sure to find something special when you visit our bookstore!

Rough Draft is a bar and bookstore dedicated to providing a fantastic selection of beer, cider and wine, Counter Culture coffee, DUB pies and local pastries, and a curated selection of books of all kinds. Come together to read, drink and have conversation.
3. Oblong Books & Music
6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck
26 Main St., Millerton
876-0500/518-789-3797
OblongBooks.com
With stores in Rhinebeck & Millerton, Oblong Books & Music is the Hudson Valley’s largest independent bookstore. Oblong Jr. is a large and dedicated section in both stores that offers a broad selection of books, toys, and games to suit all ages with expert staff on hand to make recommendations.
4. Sapling
6423 Montgomery St., Ste. 1, Rhinebeck
845-876-5952
SaplingShop.com

Sapling is a unique children’s and maternity boutique that is deeply committed to supporting our community. We hand-pick the safest and healthiest, top quality essentials (clothing, toys, shoes, nursing bras, baby carriers and more) and offer many professionally taught classes (music, art, dance, prenatal yoga, baby and me yoga, birth classes and more) for children and adults.
We have been serving the community with passion for over 50 years! We have a great selection of apparel, educational toys, books, stuffed animals and more for children of all ages! We also have a beautiful selection of jewelry, candles, home décor and handbags for mom! Unique gifts for everyone on your list!
Come to Poughkeepsie’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Start at the movie theater and adventure throughout the mall to find popular stores, boutique shops, family entertainment and delicious treats along the way. The mall features family-friendly events throughout the year.
The Galleria at Crystal Run is more than a mall. It’s a destination! With options for entertainment, dining, fitness, and of course, shopping, there’s something for every member of your family, no matter what their age!
The Poughkeepsie Plaza is a must see for families because we offer a unique mix of national stores and specialty shops as well as restaurants, a café and bakery! We have a store for everyone in your family! We also hold free children’s events inside the plaza throughout the year!
Find a treasure on every shelf at this book store that features a combination of new, used and rare books, plus other fascinating collectables and curiosities. The shop proudly features local authors from Orange County and the Hudson Valley and frequently hosts book signing events for their latest creations.
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