Okay, let me just start by saying this: if you love beer, dogs, killer views, or just sitting in a chair and doing nothing while sipping on something delicious—Lasting Joy Brewery is going to be your new best friend. It’s like the ultimate hangout spot where beer meets chill vibes, and yes, your dog is totally invited.
Let’s dive into why this spot needs to be on your Hudson Valley radar.
The Vibe
Imagine driving through the gorgeous Hudson Valley, surrounded by farmland and rolling hills, and then boom—you pull up to Lasting Joy Brewery, a sleek, modern barn-looking beauty sitting on 31 acres of pure scenic bliss. It’s one of those places that immediately makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special (because you have).
When you walk in, the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning design. We’re talking floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Catskills, wood vaulted ceilings, and a super cool hexagon-shaped floating bar that seats 60 people. Yes, floating bar. The space is just as beautiful as the beer is tasty, so whether you’re inside or posted up in an Adirondack chair outside, you’re going to feel pretty dang good about life.
The Beer
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the beer. Alex Wenner, one-half of the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind the brewery, has been brewing since college, so this guy knows his way around hops. With over two decades of brewing experience, Alex, along with his wife Emily, has crafted a lineup of beers that will make any beer lover’s heart sing.
What makes Lasting Joy extra special is that it’s a New York State Farm Brewery, meaning 90% of their ingredients come from right here in the Empire State. You’ve got a little bit of everything on tap—whether you like hoppy IPAs, malty lagers, or something more adventurous like a stout brewed with beets (yep, beets), there’s something for everyone.
Some crowd favorites include:
- Clouds Over Clermont Hazy IPA: Citrus, pine, and all-around deliciousness. You can’t go wrong.
- ILOVIT Lager: A light and crispy Vienna-style lager named after the town itself (that’s Tivoli spelled backward, in case you were wondering).
- Heartbeet of the Hudson: An English stout brewed with—you guessed it—local beets. It’s earthy, bittersweet, and perfect for a cozy day.
- Sophomore Slump Sour Ale: Aged for a whole year with peach purée, this tangy sour is what dreams are made of.
Plus, they rotate seasonal beers like their Pick-Your-Own Berry Brut IPA, which is basically the summer in a glass, made with fresh fruit from local farms.
The Owners
Alex and Emily’s story is as sweet as the beer they brew. High school sweethearts who met while building an Inuit umiak boat (yep, that’s real), the two got married, moved to Brooklyn, and eventually found their way to the Hudson Valley in 2018. They wanted to create a space that brought joy—not just to them, but to their community—and let’s just say they nailed it.
The name Lasting Joy? It came from their desire to build a place where people can gather, connect, and, well, experience joy that lasts. Alex’s brewing expertise combined with Emily’s hospitality magic has created a spot that feels like home, no matter where you’re from.
Insider Tips from Locals
According to Yelp (and a few very enthusiastic beer lovers), here’s what you need to know before you go:
- Get there early to snag a spot by the windows. Those views? Unbeatable.
- Check their Instagram for the latest food truck lineup. From gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizzas, the rotating food options are just as good as the beer.
- Bring your dog! The outdoor space is perfect for hanging with your four-legged friend. Bonus: they often host live music events, so your pup can enjoy some tunes while you sip.
Events and Extras
Beyond the beer, Lasting Joy is known for throwing some pretty epic events. From live music under the stars to wild beer release parties, there’s always something going on. It feels like a mini-festival every weekend, which is exactly the energy we all need sometimes.
Oh, and did I mention the food trucks? On any given weekend, you can expect a lineup of local trucks serving everything from BBQ to tacos, perfectly paired with whatever’s on tap.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Hudson Valley, Lasting Joy Brewery is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. The views are gorgeous, the beer is top-notch, and the vibe is totally laid-back. It’s the perfect spot to escape the city, spend some quality time with friends, and just enjoy the moment.
And with Alex and Emily at the helm, you know you’re in good hands. They’ve created something special—something that feels authentic, welcoming, and, of course, full of joy.
Larie’s Ending Thoughts:
Alright, friends—here’s the deal: if you haven’t been to Lasting Joy Brewery yet, what are you even doing? Between the insane views, the super creative beers, and the dog-friendly vibe, it’s one of those spots that instantly makes your weekend better. And can we talk about that floating bar?! It’s like they knew I needed a place to sip and be fancy at the same time.
So, grab your friends (or your dog, or both), make the drive, and get ready for a seriously joyful time. And trust me, you’ll want to bring a six-pack home because you’re going to miss it the second you leave.
