I love my home in Putnam County, New York. Although my friends from Long Island claim that I live "upstate," Putnam County is only nearly 50 miles north of New York City. I always say that there is nothing to do where I live because I basically live in the woods. However, there are so many unique places to visit in Putnam County. Here are eight of my favorite sites in Putnam...

1. Chuang Yen Monastery

Located in Kent, NY, Chuang Yen Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery that is situated on 225 acres. Inside the temple, there is the largest indoor statue of Buddha in the Western Hemisphere. With beautiful lakes and Zen atmosphere, Chuang Yen Monastery is my favorite place to go to escape the fast-paced world.

2. Fahnestock State Park

Fahnestock is a family-friendly state park that has hiking trails, camping, fishing, and boating. It is an easy hike that has splendid views. I love to picnic there with family and friends on summer days.

3. Smalley's Inn & Restaurant

Smalley's Inn is not only a restaurant and tavern, but it is also known for its paranormal activity. Smalley's Inn was built around the mid-1800s. In the 19th century, there was a deadly fire that burnt down the building and also an execution that occurred there. The original owner, James J. Smalley, was the coroner, treasurer, and sheriff of Carmel, NY at one time. James Smalley's daughter, Elizabeth, died when she was only a toddler and her tombstone was found buried underneath the basement steps. Elizabeth's ghost is rumored to be seen peeking behind a pillar in the basement. Ghosts of a man, woman, and child have also been seen. One time, all of the cell phones in Smalley's Inn rang simultaneously with a call from a phone that was inside the building. The staff has their own personal stories of what they've seen and a local radio station investigates the paranormal activity during Halloween. Smalley's is my favorite restaurant and is rich in history!

4. Boscobel Museum & Gardens

Boscobel is a stunning 19th-century mansion located in Garrison, NY. It is a Federal-period house museum overlooking the Hudson River that was built by States Dyckman in the early 19th century. It is a popular tourist attraction and a beautiful wedding venue.

5. White Pond

White Pond is a beautiful lake located in Kent, NY. It is clean and offers the best amenities for swimming, fishing, and boating. There is also a hiking trail around the lake. My friends and I love to come here to kayak and paddle board on sunny summer days.

6. Florrie Kaye's Tea Room

Florrie Kaye's Tea Room is a quaint tea room located in the town of Carmel. It serves a variety of teas and British foods, ranging from scones to Bangers & Mash. I love tea and all things British, so when this opened one year ago, I was beyond thrilled. Florrie Kaye's is perfect for a girls day out on the town.

7. Breakneck Ridge

Breakneck Ridge is a mountain located on the Hudson River near Beacon and Cold Spring. This is a difficult hike that includes some rock climbing. However, the strenuous hike is worth the reward of seeing the spectacular views at the top of the mountain. This was my first hike ever and I (unknowingly) wore an old pair of sneakers. I would NOT recommend wearing worn-out sneakers! Hiking boots are recommended to climb this breathtaking mountain.

8. Stonecrop Gardens

Stonecrop Gardens is a garden display on over 15 acres of land. It includes a conservatory, display alpine house, and pit house. With acres of a variety of flowers and plants, it is the perfect destination for a serene walk and a picture-perfect atmosphere.