Five things to do in Dutchess County

America As You Like It • 20 February 2020

Dutchess County is nestled in the scenic Hudson River Valley, midway between New York City and the capital city of Albany. With its abundance of iconic historic estates, restaurants, festivals, and natural scenic beauty, Dutchess County is 800 square miles of fascinating sites, lively events, and breathtaking vistas.


Nestled in the scenic Hudson River Valley, midway between New York City and Albany, Dutchess County has an abundance of iconic historic estates, restaurants, festivals, and natural scenic beauty. Here's five suggestions of things to do when visiting.


Stroll

Take a stroll over the Walkway Over the Hudson , the world’s longest pedestrian bridge. The Walkway, which opened in 2009, soars 212 feet above the Hudson River and continues 130 feet below the river’s surface to compact gravel. Marvel at the stunning 360 degrees views of the Catskills and other highlights of the Hudson River Valley. Over 3.5 million people are said to have visited the Walkway since it opened.

Hike

Dutchess County has plenty of scenic routes and pathways to explore including Mount Beacon Park , a mile long loop through woods that connects to many more miles of trail in Fishkill Ridge and Hudson Highlands State park. For a more strenuous workout, head to Hudson Highlands State Park in Beacon to meander the twists and turns of the Breakneck Ridge Trail. Or if you want to stay close to the Hudson River, perhaps hike the 5 mile Norrie Point Trail.

Wild swimming

Cool off and take the plunge at one of the popular swimming holes. Head to Beacon River Pool or one of the lakes such as Wilcox Memorial Park Lake or Taconic State Park, Rudd Pond Area . As well as swimming, many of these places offer boat rentals and picnic areas.

Live music

The area’s premier live music club, The Chance Theater in Poughkeepsie, hosts classic and contemporary rock bands as well as international acts. For live music and a fun night out head to neighbourhood staple, Towne Crier Café in Beacon . This full service restaurant offers live fold, jazz, blues, Cajun, Zydeco, Celtic, world , bluegrass artists and even open-mic nights. Or for top notch food and amazing artists, head to Daryl’s House in Pawling, owned by Daryl Hall of the band Hall & Oates.

Gardens

Dutchess County has a fine array of gardens to suit all tastes. From Italianate gardens at the Vanderbilt Mansion where you can find a pool, pergola, loggia and reflecting pool amongst the roses. Find a flourish of seasonal flowers at the burial place of FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt in the Rose Garden at Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site or visit Innisfree Garden designed with Asian “cup” gardens and noted as one of the top ten gardens in the world.

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