Oriole 9
Located in the heart of  the town of Woodstock (a one-hour drive south of Albany), this is the go-to spot for a casual breakfast or lunch. Always bustling and with friendly service, the menu features healthful fare including vegetarian options like French lentil soup, Tempeh TLT, red quinoa salad and curried coconut tofu hash. Carnivores can indulge in the house-made brisket.     
On-the-scene: We stopped in for bowls of soup on a chilly fall afternoon during the Woodstock Film Festival.
Address: 17 Tinker Street
Website: oriole9.com
Good to know: Breakfast served all day.

The Golden Notebook
A hub of the community, this independent bookstore has been selling since 1978. Sponsoring readings and events, including a holiday-time poetry scavenger hunt, the Golden Notebook goes beyond just selling. Doris Lessing would have been proud.
On-the-scene: I’ve been visiting since I was in high school and love that it feels the same, even after the ownership changed.
Address: 29 Tinker Street
Website: goldennotebook.com
Good to know: Perfect for uninterrupted browsing.

Ecosystem
Perched over a small waterfall (pictured above) this boutique offers clothing made from all-natural fibers (designed by the co-owner) and a carefully curated selection of jewelry, home goods and bags.
On-the-scene: I made two trips in one day on my last visit.
Address: 8 Tanery Brook Road
Website: ecosytemshop.com
Good to know: Locations also in Soho and Hudson.