Don't let any one know, but someone writing on this blog has a love affair with the written word, specifically vintage books, old hardbound editions, many made a century or more ago. I've never met a used bookstore I didn't like, can spend hours walking its small aisles browsing through books with leather bound covers, and gilded page edges. When combined with another favorite passion, a day trip, its a beautiful thing. For those looking to get out of New York for a day, one such trip worth taking is a ride on the Metro North up to Peekskill, New York where you will find a favorite haunt of mine, "The Bruised Apple Bookstore". 923 Central Avenue (914) 734-7006If I were looking for a bookshop to film a classic movie in, this would be on my own top five list. It has a wonderfully magical, aged patina about it (think Harry Potter), the well worn wood floors speaking of times long ago gone, the musty old frangrance of the books beckoning you deeper within to explore the mystery of words written long ago. The patrons of this establishment seem almost whimsical behind the counter just inside the door, ready and waiting with a warm smile and a friendly hello, and they poccess a wealth of information about the small river town of Peekskill and its surrounding area nestled in and hugging the Hudson.
If you are having a bad case of cabin fever, are looking for a Saturday adventure, this could be just what the doctor ordered. Find your way to Grand Central Station, another fabulous place to be, and purchase a round trip ticket on Metro North ($18 round trip non-peak) to Peekskill. If you are not faint of heart, you can walk from the train station up the LONG HILL into downtown Peekskill, but it is recommended you opt for a taxi ride. With tip, the five dollar ride beats the brisk 20-25 minute walk, but to each their own.
No day trip is complete without a good lunch, browsing over your finds from the Bruised Apple over some fabulous food, and there are several choices for the discerning pallet in Peekskill, all within easy walking distance from the shop. However, sticking with the theme of the day, I highly recommend Kathleen's Tea Room (wonderful, charming lunches)which is just around the corner.
Just for the record, when you look at the tasteful use of antiques in both these shops, realize they are taking others throw aways and recirculating them into the market place, it is obvious they are role models for a sustainable society wherein we capitalize the longevity of every product produced by man.
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