Until 1818 Cold Spring was a small settlement nestled on the shores of the Hudson River at its narrowest point. Folk lore says that the area was christened by General George Washington when, around 1780, he took a sip of water from the spring and announced, "Cold Spring."

Today, Main Street has grown into a classic destination, with more than enough to do for several weekends.

Visitors are treated with respect by a cooperative effort to make the scene attractive. There are welcoming benches for tourist-watching or enjoying a cold drink and flowers everywhere. Glimpses into the tiny side-street gardens with their array of annuals and perennials are rewarding.

Accommodations and dining, including al fresco restaurants, are excellent.

The area also appeals to culture and nature lovers with opportunities to "make a perfect weekend of it."

A little planning ahead could include a canoe trip on Constitution Marsh or a walk to the sanctuary of the National Audubon Society, just south of Cold Spring at the end of Indian Brook Trail.

Try a visit back in time to nearby Boscobel with its authentic early-1800's period furnishings and landscaping, a picnic overlooking the incomparable view of the Hudson and then tickets to the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival on the grounds.

It doesn't take long to begin to distinguish the Colonial and Victorian architectural styles in the well-preserved 19th-century village and a few minutes of searching will lead you to discover the numerous plaques signifying National Historic Landmarks.