The summer's not over yet: hidden gems to explore in Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY — The Hudson Valley has long been a popular summer destination, but there are several little known spots that most visitors are overlooking. These hidden gems of Orange County are not as widely promoted but offer spectacular views and experiences just off the beaten path.
“These are some local favorites that residents return to over and over again,” said Orange County Tourism Director Susan Hawvermale. “Each of them offers an inside look at our culture of the Hudson Valley.”
Top hidden gems, according to Orange County Tourism, include:
Elks-Brox Park: Route 97, Port JervisMagnificent view of the Neversink Valley and the Delaware River. The mountain top overlooks historic Port Jervis, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Eleven miles of groomed hiking trails, picnic and barbecue areas. Open dawn to dusk. Call 845-858-4000, or visit portjervisny.org/about/attractions.
Pacem in Terris: 96 Covered Bridge Road, WarwickA garden place with sculptures by internationally known artist Frederick Franck. Chamber music series. Open May to October, Saturdays and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting. Visit frederickfranck.org.
Seligmann Center for the Arts: 23 White Oak Drive, Sugar LoafLocated on the estate of the famous surrealist painter and sculptor Kurt Seligmann. An intimate collection of modern sculptures set into the landscape. Call 845-469-9459, or visit occitizensfoundation.org.
Gomez Mill House: 11 Mill House Road, MarlboroThe oldest manor house in Orange County and the earliest extant Jewish residence in America. 1714 Mill House, ice house, restored mill and dam. It was a fur trading post and home to merchants, patriots, farmers, craftsmen and statesmen. National Register of Historic Places. Call 845-236-3126, or visit Gomez.org.
Visit Orange County Tourism’s website www.orangetourism.org for more information.