13 unique Airbnb escapes in New York's Hudson Valley, no car required

This Hudson Airbnb is immaculate. The living room is Pinterest-worthy, design touches like platform beds and a claw foot tub feel super retro, and the deck and backyard are lit by twinkle lights. With two bedrooms, the price is quite affordable when split between two couples.

Writes one review, "Annabel's place was a dream. Beautiful, comfortable, convenient to everything and with lots of outdoor space to get fresh air. Oh, and that record player — lounging around listening to Nina Simone was everything. We'll be back."

Rating: 4.87

Just a 10-minute walk from the Hudson Amtrak station, this historic home blends antique statement pieces with a sense of understated luxury. Many original details from 1860 remain, such as pre-tin plaster moldings, mahogany stairwells, and etched glass, with newer renovations paying homage to the past. And can we talk about the kitchen? The vintage fridge, stove and radio will transport you to another era, while the tiled mosaic floor deserves a firm place on your Instagram feed. There's no outdoor space, but the plush sleigh bed looks especially homey.

Rating: 4.95

With three bedrooms and an airy loft layout, this is a great option for groups. A former converted industrial building, the fully renovated unit is centrally located to Hudson's main commercial district. There's also an outdoor courtyard shared with another unit for added fresh air. One review notes, "This loft is chic and stylish. It has a very open feeling and is located at the top of Warren street in Hudson. The location is perfect for exploring town and going out to restaurants. We were very, very pleased with the location and the loft. It could not have been better!"

Rating: 4.85

Rhinebeck is another Hudson Valley darling, reachable by train in under two hours. I'm a fan of this luxe loft with its distinctive features, such as the low profile, upholstered king size bed; mid century furniture, and subway-tiled bathroom. There's also a complimentary mini bar, reading nook, and plenty of space to stretch out. One weekend review raved, "Wonderful and thoughtful hosts! Better than a five star hotel ... beautifully decorated, so many special touches, snack and stocked fridge, unbelievably comfortable bed, and so close to town. Would book here again and again!"

Rating: 5.0

Small groups looking to explore Rhinebeck should check out this whimsical guest house. Decor is colorful and eclectic, with a four-poster canopy bed, plus an additional queen, double, and two twins spread throughout two bedrooms and a sleeping loft. It's only a few minutes' walk to the village center, though there's plenty onsite to warrant so many five star reviews, such as the deck, fire pit, and bocci ball court outside, plus a fireplace inside for chilly nights.

Rating: 5.0

Here's another historic carriage house, this time in Kingston, New York, just across the Hudson River from Rhinebeck. You can take Amtrak to Rhinebeck or Poughkeepsie and cab over, or take the convenient Adirondack Trailways bus direct from New York City. Much like surroundings, this Airbnb is steeped in 19th-century character — it was built in 1870 for Rondout shipping tycoon, Thomas Cornell, whose mansion stood across the street. Recommends one Airbnb user, "Jamie's place is spacious and impeccable, like you've walked into a designer showroom. It's in an amazing building and walking distance to downtown."

Rating: 5.0

For Hudson Valley appeal coupled with sweeping views, consider this renovated farm house with three bedrooms. Light and bright, it sits on a hill overlooking Kingston and the full Hudson River Valley. Admire one-of-a-kind style choices like periodic table pillows, decorative paddles, and period rugs. Throw a log into the wood-burning stove and savor a slower pace.

Rating: 5.0

There's something especially cozy about a barn, especially in Upstate New York. New Paltz is fast emerging as a Hudson Valley favorite and this former barn easily gives away why. Large globe lanterns hang from open, vaulted ceilings, and simple furnishings are accented by bright pops of yellow. There's a propane fireplace inside, plus a grill to dine alfresco under the stars.

Rating: 4.90

The New York Trailways bus zips straight up to New Paltz from the city in 95 minutes, and will drop you off just five minutes from this adorable Tudor. In fact, the attentive host includes everything you need to know about arriving by bus in his listing, likely one of the many reasons his property has earned so many rave reviews. One shares, "This is a very cute apartment right in the village. Very comfortable bed. A brand new and stylish bathroom, but everything else is charming with older appeal. You can park on the street comfortably and then walk to most of where you'd want to go in the village."

Rating: 4.70

Full disclosure: I'm obsessed with Beacon and go every year to hike Mt. Beacon, dine on Main Street, and listen to live jazz at Denning's Point Distillery (available most Saturdays). So I have a lot of opinions on where you should stay, in addition to what you should do. At the same time, I'm not alone in my adoration of Beacon, and high demand often inflates most rental prices to rival that of a five-star luxury hotel. As such, this Airbnb seems rare with its fair pricing, modest yet tasteful design, and prime location just steps from Main Street.

Rating: 5.0

When Beacon is overbooked, but you still want to easy access to the art of Dia Beacon, consider staying across the river in Newburgh. From the outside, this Airbnb looks like a trendy gallery, but it's really a mid-century marvel of an apartment with a private garden. You'll be walking distance to restaurants and shops in the village, and the ferry to Beacon.

One reviewer notes, "Our stay was truly 10/10 in every possible way thanks to Cynthia's helpful communication and attention to detail, and also her beautiful, spacious apartment! The neighborhood is as quiet as can be if you're looking for a great night's sleep. With so much to see, do, and eat all within easy walking and driving distance, I wouldn't hesitate to book Cynthia's place again!"

Rating: 4.93

Fancy hotel or Airbnb? It's hard to tell thanks to a well-curated designer look. This striking studio is part of a larger home, but rest assured it's totally private with a separate entrance. Though the shared amenities are worth using: two ponds and a garden, fire pit, swings, and an orchard. Better still, it's close to West Point and Storm King, and only minutes from the Garrison Metro North train station, which is only an hour from New York City.

Rating: 4.82