Michella Hand

06/26/2026

06/26/2026

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer spot to unwind, add the River Garden at The Stewart House in Athens to your list.

Nestled along the banks of the Hudson River beneath towering willow trees, this hidden gem is the kind of place where hours fly by. Grab a handcrafted cocktail, local craft beer, or a glass of wine, order something delicious from the River Garden menu or onsite food truck, and soak in the waterfront views.

Come by during the day for a relaxing escape, or stay into the evening when live music creates the perfect atmosphere for a summer night out with friends and family. Boating in? They even have a dock waiting for you.

Open Thursday–Sunday for the season—this is one summer experience you won’t want to miss.

06/24/2026

What if I told you one Downtown Albany spot combines incredible food, craft cocktails, and live music all under one roof?

Fun fact: I had my wedding rehearsal dinner at The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, so every visit feels a little extra special.

From their signature cocktails and spicy feta dip with grilled naan to the kale Caesar, Tennessee Hot Grilled Chicken Sandwich, riggies, and rotating bread pudding, every meal here is one to remember. Plus, with live music, craft beer, and a historic atmosphere, it’s so much more than just a restaurant.

Whether you’re grabbing dinner, meeting friends for drinks, or catching a show, The Hollow is always a good idea.

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06/23/2026

Brunch with a view? Say less. ☕🥐✨

If you’re looking for the perfect Saratoga morning, make a reservation at Three Daughters Kitchen & Cocktails inside the Saratoga Arms Hotel. From the charming front porch overlooking downtown to the farm-to-table breakfast dishes and delicious cold brews, this spot checks every box.

We loved the freshly baked banana chocolate chip bread, the flavorful Toga Bowl, and the classic Eggs Benedict. And if you’re visiting this summer, don’t miss their daily porch cocktail hour featuring cocktails, wine, and local craft beer.

Trust me—this is one Saratoga experience you’ll want to add to your list.

✨ Follow , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

06/22/2026

POV: You found the perfect weekend getaway in the 1000 Islands.

We recently stayed at the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton, and it checked every box for a relaxing family escape.

🏨 Spacious and comfortable waterfront accommodations
☕ Complimentary coffee each morning
🌊 Stunning views of the St. Lawrence River
🏊 Indoor pool and fitness center
🍽️ Incredible on-site dining (seriously, every meal was fantastic)
🚤 Boat docks for those arriving by water

One of my favorite moments was sipping coffee while taking in the river views each morning. Add in patio dinners, cocktails by the water, and the charm of Clayton, and it made for the perfect weekend away.

If you’re looking for a destination where you can truly relax and have everything you need right at your fingertips, add this one to your list.

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06/21/2026

Looking for a weekend getaway filled with incredible food, unique shopping, local experiences, and plenty of charm? Then you need to head to one of my favorite Upstate NY towns, Saratoga Springs. 🐎

Save this guide for your next trip to Saratoga ⬇️

🏨 Stay at the historic and iconic Saratoga Arms Hotel

🥐 Indulge in homemade breads, pastries, and delicious breakfast and lunch favorites at Saratoga Bread Basket Bakery

🍸 Treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner paired with craft cocktails at Standard Fare Restaurant

💪 Break a sweat in the most fun way at Glisten by Meghan

🥂 Enjoy brunch on an iconic downtown porch at threedaughterssaratoga or a cocktail during their cocktail hour

☕🌿 Shop for plants, home goods, and gifts while sipping coffee at Canopy: Home | Garden | Goods

🍺 Kick back with a craft beverage and great food at Artisanal Brew Works

🛍️ Artisanal Brew Workst Bobbles & Lace, Saratoga SBobbles & Lace, Saratoga Springs NY your local Michella Handmore small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

Sponsored by Thomas Pest Services ⁠wherThomas Pest Servicesthings like big things. 🐜

06/20/2026

Kinderhook Farm is the perfect local spot to visit one afternoon. Take a stroll down the farm lane, say hello to the chickens, sheep, cows, geese, and farm dogs, and enjoy a farmscape that’s always changing with the seasons. It was the perfect adventure for my little guy and such a great way to get out of the house.

Don’t forget to stop by the farm store before you leave to stock up on grass-fed & pasture-raised beef, lamb, pork, chicken, eggs, and other local products. And if you’re looking for a unique getaway, they now offer a two-bedroom farm stay right on the property!

📍 Kinderhook Farm
🛒 Farm store open 7 days a week
🏡 Farm stay now available

✨ Follow , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

06/18/2026

Night School in Athens is more than a restaurant—it’s the home of award-winning Deep Fried Beers, founded by Johnny Osborne, and one of the most unique spots you’ll find in the Hudson Valley.

From craft beer and creative cocktails to artisanal pizza by the slice, jumbo house-brined wings, and their famous Sleazer (a Caesar salad on a cheese slice 🤯), everything here is worth the trip.

The nostalgic school-themed atmosphere makes it even more fun, and after one visit, it’s easy to see why locals keep coming back.

✨ Follow , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

06/17/2026

WEEKEND GETAWAY IDEA ⬇️

Spend a relaxing weekend in the 1000 Islands in Clayton, NY:
🏨 Stay at the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel and immerse yourself with everything they offer.
☀️ Stroll and shop through Clayton. It’s stroller friendly and has cute shops and restaurants. I recommend 1000 Islands River Rat Cheese (for my cheese lovers) & Bella's Clayton (the BEST breakfast).
🏰 Take an Uncle Sam Boat Tours to Boldt Castle. It’s about 10 minutes away and totally worth the drive. Stroller friendly with amazing views.
🍹 Stop into claytondistillery for a taste and a cocktail. The owners are super friendly and the drinks are tasty.

Clayton, NY is about 3 or so hours from the Capital Region and totally worth the trip. You’ll thank me later after you save this itinerary and book your trip! ✨

06/16/2026

A summer evening, outdoor dining, margaritas, and one of the best meals I’ve had in Hudson? Say less.

I recently visited Quinnie’s for dinner with my family and completely understand why people keep recommending this spot. From the pickled eggs and seasonal veggies to the chicken schnitzel and steak frites, everything was fresh, flavorful, and made with care.

What I loved most? The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a drink outside on a warm evening, Quinnies is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Have you been to Quinnies yet? Let me know your favorite menu item below! 👇