Whether you’re a lover of books, colonial history or charming rural communities, you’ll find the ideal literary travel destination in Washington County, NY.

As you explore the nearby places that inspired great authors and find hidden gems in our local bookstores, you’ll uncover a countryside haven for bibliophiles, landscape lovers and history buffs alike. And all just a short drive from Lake George, Saratoga Springs and Albany!

So, let’s explore the can’t-miss literary travel locations within this scenic region of the Upper Hudson Valley!

Naturally, one of the best places to start planning any literary travel tour is with those who know it best: local libraries and bookstores! Whether you’re looking for unique finds, literary discussions or insight into nearby locations, you’ll find it at these hubs.

Battenkill Books in Cambridge, NY

Whether you’re looking for new releases or local topics, Battenkill Books is a great place to go! Over time, this charmingly hip independent bookstore has grown into a vital part of the community, hosting a range of events throughout the year. In part, their community support is one of the reasons this shop was named one of Publisher Weekly’s finalists for Bookstore of the Year 2025! Additionally, Battenkill Books sells a number of unique gifts as well as cards, journals, kids’ toys and more.

This welcoming destination is open daily year-round, though closed for major holidays and weather events. Parking is available both on Main Street as well as behind the historic Hubbard Hall building, which has hosted many great orators and performers since it was built in 1878. (Amongst these were Susan B. Anthony,  Mary Scott-Siddons, Vida Goldstein and Go-Wan-Go Mohawk.)

Be sure to check out Canteen Coffee Co. and the other great shops in Cambridge while you’re there!

Owl Pen Books in Greenwich, NY

Looking for another great bookstore to check out? Visit the truly hidden gem that is Owl Pen Books, located down a dirt road in Washington County’s beautifully rural countryside. Yet, this special place is far from a secret. In fact, over its 60+ year existence, it’s been featured in the Washington Post, Philadelphia Inquirer, Times Union, Adirondack Life and more!

Spanning two historic buildings, this bookstore-in-a-barn is filled to the brim with nearly 100,000 books, many of them used or rare. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours browsing for your next read.

If you’re planning a visit, keep an eye out for the red and white signs to guide your way to their large parking area. Typically, Owl Pen is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, from late April to early November.

The Village Booksmith in Hudson Falls, NY

In the heart of Hudson Falls you’ll find The Village Booksmith, a community staple established in 1976. Specializing in used books, this shop boasts over 100,000 titles, ranging in topic from cookbooks and crafts to fiction, military history and yoga. With so many options, you never know what you’ll find as you browse the shelves, which span two floors. In fact, many locals and travelers rave about the Booksmith as one of the largest and best-stocked collections of antiquarian books in this area of Upstate NY!

This shop is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Luckily, even when they’re closed, much of their collection is available to order online! Check out The Village Booksmith on AbeBooks.

Wilson Homestead Old Books & Antiques in Hebron, NY

Step back in time onto a 1786-era farm, where you’ll find Wilson Homestead Books and Antiques. Home to far more than just books, this renovated barn has become a must-visit ‘detour destination’ for many bibliophiles! Once you step inside, you’ll be transported into a book lovers’ paradise, with shelves packed from floor to ceiling with vintage books of all genres and topics. See some great photos & learn more about this delightful bookstore in the Life As I See It blog.

Want to plan a visit? Wilson Homestead is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sundays from May to October, or by appointment year-round.

Local Libraries Throughout Washington County, NY

Of course, our local libraries also provide valuable resources for any literary traveler. Beyond the books, these locations also host many fun events, ranging from summer concerts and community get-togethers to scientific seminars, local history lessons and more!

One unique library you won’t want to miss? The Pember Museum and Library in Granville, NY. This intriguing destination is over 100 years old, home to a library on the first floor and the Museum of Natural History on the second. Between the library and its nearby Pember Nature Preserve, many children and adults alike are able to enjoy unique lectures, guided hikes, environmental studies and more!

Across the county, you’ll find another unique public library: The Old Stone House Library in Fort Ann, NY. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this building was built around 1825, and its 20-inch walls have remained strong ever since. Beyond its modern use as a library, this building was also part of the Underground Railroad, its attic used to hide freedom seekers as they traveled north to Canada.

Unsurprisingly, the beautiful scenery throughout Washington County, NY has served as inspiration for many artists of all kinds throughout the years. Which includes a number of famous writers!

One of the most famous works set in this region? The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper, set right here in the Upper Hudson Valley. In the book, two women are escorted from Fort Edward, NY to Fort William Henry, trekking through treacherous Adirondack wilderness and encountering a variety of new friends and foes along the way.

Additionally, 12 Years a Slave by Solomon Northup is a memoir written by a free-born Black man after he was rescued from slavery in 1853. Solomon Northup had originally been born and raised in Washington County (specifically the Fort Edward area), until his family moved across the river to Saratoga, where the tragic events began to unfold.

Want to learn more about the rich history of Washington County, New York? Check out the Washington County Historical Society’s online bookstore! There, you’ll find over 50 insightful books focused on this special area.

Of course, beautiful locations and rich history aren’t all that’s involved in inspiring a great book – there’s creativity, too! Read up on some of these incredible fiction and non-fiction authors with connections to Washington County, NY:

• Jon Katz – A journalist, author and photographer who often wrote about his dogs and adventures in farming in Washington County, NY
• David Starbuck – An archaeologist, historian and professor who performed many digs at Rogers Island in Fort Edward, NY
• William Bronk – A poet, veteran and businessman who published many celebrated books of poetry.
• Stephen D. Butz – An educator, historian and citizen scientist who’s published several books combining local history and science.
• David Gates – Writer, editor and musician who lives in Granville, NY and has published several award-winning novels and a collection of short stories.

Of course, the literary travel bug doesn’t end there! If you loved ‘Where the Wild Things Are’, you may be delighted to learn that the picturesque private retreat of Maurice Sendak is now available to rent as an Airbnb! (Property pictured above.)

Truly, this is a great opportunity to step into this author’s shoes and view the world from his perspective. Want to learn more about Maurice Sendak and his Scotch Hill Farm? Read up on this article from the Agricultural Stewardship Association, who mentions Sendak’s close friendship with our local Monks of New Skete.

Looking for more great rentals and places to stay? Discover some of our more unique options, including historic lodging, farm stays, camping & glamping, traditional bed & breakfasts and more.

As you can see, Washington County, NY is a beautiful & welcoming destination for all ages and interests! With its miles upon miles of trails, one-of-a-kind shops, award-winning restaurants, local theaters and lively craft beverage community, our county has everything you need for your most memorable trip yet.

So, come on down and explore all that Washington County has to offer! And while you’re here, check out one of our many interesting local events, unique places to stay, unforgettable experiences and more.