Bask in the Beauty of the Back Roads
Within the quiet farmland of Central Washington County, New York lies untold adventure for shoppers & explorers alike. With its historic Main Streets, quaint shops, and stunning scenery, the area between Argyle and Hartford is the perfect place to spend a day.
We’ll start with the charming town of Argyle, where you’ll find a variety of unique shops and farm stands. Then, we’ll head to the village of Hartford, home to the iconic Stella Rose Bed and Breakfast. Along the way, we’ll cover some of this region’s most interesting adventures, from hiking trails to wineries and beyond!
So whether you’re looking for a place to find unique gifts or just want to enjoy some beautiful scenery, Central Washington County is the ideal destination.
Let’s explore Central Washington County near Argyle and Hartford, New York!
Roll down the windows & let the wind in as you cruise the back-roads of Washington County! The gorgeous stretch along NY Rt. 40 from Argyle to Hartford highlights the true beating heart of Washington County: agriculture.
While traveling this scenic route, you’ll see lots of farmland, used & maintained for many generations. Take note of the wide variety of crops & animals, as well as the historic barns and farmhouses. All of which add to the incredible views!
Of course, there’s much more to life here than you can see from the road! If you’d like to experience farm life first-hand, book your next getaway at one of our local farm stays! Or, live like they did back then in one of our numerous historic rentals.
Argyle, NY
Nestled in the forests of the Adirondacks, Argyle has a character all of its own! Peaceful & pretty with a convenient location, this area is home to many of our most popular lodging options. And some of our coolest attractions are just a short detour from the main road!
As you come into town, turn onto County Rt. 49 to make your way to Stu-berry Acres. This seasonal u-pick berry farm offers pickers a variety to choose from, including several varietals of blueberries as well as black, red and purple raspberries. Plus, take home the taste of the farm with jam, pickles, honey & more!
If you continued on Rt. 49 you’d enter the area covered in our Eastern Washington County post, offering a grand adventure for another day!
More Things To Do in Central Washington County, NY
The Argyle area has grown into a fertile region with many great shopping opportunities and interesting things to check out! This includes nearby Richview Farms‘ farm stand selling seasonal produce such as pumpkins and blueberries as well as flowers & farm-raised meat.
Also close by, Pleasant Valley Farm‘s organic produce can be found at many local farmers’ markets, as well as online for local pick-up! And, while you’re at the market, look for Crazy Legs Farm‘s organic veggies & purebred Romney sheep fleece, yarns and fiber products.
Nearby, Butternut Ridge Farm grows tons of beautiful flowers & delicious produce. They offer their bounty at their farm stand and local farmers markets. For a fun outing with your friends, follow their page to sign up for the next Sip and Make-Your-Own-Arrangement!
Just up the road lies Locust Grove Smokehouse, serving this area since 1973! Stop in to check out their retail country store and pick up delicious fresh meat, straight from their in-house slaughterhouse & smokehouse. For more farm-fresh Angus beef options, visit Mack Brook Farm!
Find more produce at Butternut Ridge Farm’s farm stand on Route 40, or find them at a local farmer’s market. In the mood for potatoes? Take a detour toward Goose Island Potatoes, where in early fall you can pick your own potatoes!
Argyle was a “dry” town until 2019 – but is now home to Scotlander Brewing Company! Their tasting room holds many events throughout the year featuring talented musicians & cuisine from local restaurants.
Discover more of our local craft beverage producers.
As you come into the center of Argyle, the Ransom Stiles House‘s commanding presence is hard to miss. A fabulous example of Federal style architecture, this brick home was also part of the Underground Railroad. It’s still cared for and used today by area residents as a community center, offering classes and events throughout the year.
In fact, there are many local residents who are experts in their field & eager to pass on their knowledge.
Learn new hobbies & skills that will last a lifetime
Here are just a few of the interesting activities in this area that stick with you, long after you’ve gone home!
- Horseback riding at 4J Farmm, from trail riding to lessons in barrel racing & beyond
- Expert advice & equipment for every level of archer at Hilltop Archery
- Tree-cutting in the wintertime at Highland Ridge Farm, 2005 Coach Rd., Argyle NY
- All-season fishing charter tours on Lake George with Austin Charters
You know, it’s not just the outdoorsy types who thrive here. Washington County’s inspiring vistas have also attracted many craftspeople who display & sell their creations online (and often take custom orders!)
Check out these artisans based in Central Washington County
- For custom ornamental ironwork and metal decor, dive into M.A.D. Custom Ironworks’ portfolio.
- Hand-crafted cabinetry, carefully designed for the people who will use them by Steinberger Woodworks
- Beeswax & goat milk soap products from Sperry Family Farm‘s Nigerian goats
- Jen’s She Shed Creations, the origin of a variety one-of-a-kind wearable art and home decor
- LM Creations, focusing on custom, handmade, and affordable signs for the home
- Majken’s Mercantile, the studio of an award-winning master quilter who creates custom-made quilts
- A lifestyle brand with high-quality goods inspired by lake life: Lakestyle
- Wood furniture given another life through restoration and refurbishment at The Restore Barn
- Custom picture framing and fine art by Robert Whiting and Susan Bayard Whiting at Whiting Studio Art & Frame
And that’s just to name a few, not including the delicious edible things produced here!
Of course, who doesn’t love delicious, locally-made cheese? Moxie Ridge Farm, just north of Argyle, is a small terroir-based goat farm & creamery focused on using pre-industrial practices to create incredibly rich flavor.
Or, stop by Schneible Maple‘s farm store to stock up on 100% pure maple syrup, made in a wood-fired sugarhouse!
Whichever way you’re headed, the area around Argyle, New York in Central Washington County offers breath-taking views and untold adventure.
Hartford, NY
Continuing on, Route 40 soon reveals the charming hamlet of Hartford, New York. And right in the center of that lies the blush-pink and utterly incredible Stella Rose Bed & Breakfast. A blend of modern amenities and historic elegance, you can read more about it on our list of historic stays in Washington County!
Just down the road, you’ll discover one of the most unique boutiques around! As Time Goes By features a wide selection of women’s apparel & accessories. Find the missing piece to your wardrobe!
Want some local historical context? Visit the Hartford Museum & Civil War Enlistment Center, two buildings housing the stories of this area’s history! In fact, this is the only Civil War enlistment center remaining in New York State! Learn more about the many museums throughout this area, including in Central Washington County.
Alternatively, why not go golfing? Just out of town to guarantee a great view, the Hartford Greens Country Club is a popular 18-hold golf course that welcomes golfers of all levels. It’s a great place to spend a few hours on the green, featuring a permanent food truck for when you work up an appetite: the Grazin’ Grill!
Hartford’s own local maple producer is Holley Hill Farms. They sell maple syrup and maple products, as well as many fiber & fine wool products. Visit their Facebook for veggie stand hours!
Want More of Central Washington County?
We’ve barely scratched the surface of all the incredible things to see, taste, and explore within Washington County, New York!
Looking for places to grab a bite to eat? Explore local dining options. Or, check out the other cool things to do in this area!
