I spent the day up at the Muddy Cup Coffee House in New Paltz, NY today while working on a business strategy document for work.  The goal of the day was to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to somewhere inspirational so I can concentrate on writing.  It was perfect.

I chose New Paltz because it’s about 60 miles north of our home in Westchester and it’s surrounded by rolling hills and mountains covered in foliage this time of year.  The reds, yellows and greens of the leaves were gorgeous.

Each time I’ve gone to Mohonk Mountain House or eaten in downtown New Paltz after playing golf at Apple Greens, I always notice the quaint coffee shops lining Main Street.  Muddy Cup is potentially the largest and it’s one of a few Muddy Cup locations around the North East.  Just up the street roughly 300 feet away is a Starbucks, but I figured to spend time in the Muddy Cup instead due to it being unique.

It is gorgeous.  If you like places stuck in the 70s with plush couches and loft like atmosphere with stained glass, then this place is for you.  I managed to find a comfy arm chair with a power outlet right next to it perched on a raised platform so I was overlooking most of the Coffee House.  The atmosphere was upbeat and cozy with the Dobby Brothers and other artists being played over the radio in the front of the store.  The Coffee House served all types of fair trade coffee and drinks along with pastries and bagels.  Wifi access was free and signal was very strong.  The coffee was great and the pastries were tasty.  The folks behind the counter were extremely courteous as well.

All in all, the Muddy Cup Coffee House was a perfect getaway and if I was to have a group meeting and want to get away from Manhattan, it’s a perfect place to go.  The pictures in this posting were taken from my iPhone today.