Tucked above the scenic western bank of the Hudson River just north of the Tappan Zee Bridge (above) lies the quaint, leisurely paced village of Nyack, NY. Settled by the Dutch in the late 1600’s, this once thriving river port offers a relaxing escape for the cultured day-tripper and weekender alike.

The Pickwick Book Shop, a village staple at 8 South Broadway, has been in continuous operation for over 35 years. That’s where you will find proprietor Jack Dunningan (left) buying and selling his books, usually in the company of Miss Agatha, his cat of 21 years, and Fisher, his formidable gentle giant of a Labrador retriever (below).

This proudly “old school” new and used bookstore offers any seasoned book traveler the rare opportunity to find some prized gems among the prodigiously stuffed shelves, although you may have to do some digging.

The Pickwick Book Shop is centrally located within the 6-block business district anchored by the intersection of Main St. and Broadway. From there you can easily meander the ample stores, coffee houses and purveyors of stronger drink, or take a stroll along tree-lined South Broadway past many of Nyack’s most beautiful homes.

Nyack boasts scenic riverside parks, a charming selection of restaurants and a surprisingly vibrant cultural arts scene centered around Riverspace (the former Helen Hayes Theater). Most surprising of all is the fact that this serene riverside respite is just a half hour north of Manhattan.

An easy 2-1/2 hour drive up the turnpike from Philadelphia, Nyack is a convenient gateway to the stunning attractions of the lower Hudson Valley. You can cross the river to Tarrytown and tour Sunnyside, the enchanting riverside home of Washington Irving (above), or head “upriver” to Bear Mountain State Park, West Point Army Academy, or Hyde Park, home of the FDR family estate and Presidential Library. Up for the weekend? Don’t miss the terrific Sunday brunch at the historic Hudson House restaurant.

Bear Mountain Lodge Bear Mountain State Park, NY	FDR Home & Presidential Library Hyde Park, Ny

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Next Stop for The Book Traveler: Chesterton, MD