How To Plan A Day Weekend Or Week Of Things To Do In Dutchess County:
I know that making plans and itineraries can be tough and overwhelming, especially with so many things to do in Dutchess County.
Itineraries are the best way to plan your day anywhere. It doesnt have to be anything fancy. Some people prefer making lists behind envelopes or scraps of paper. Some people, like me, like to plan things out online.
I believe so much in itineraries that I created a product to make it easier for you to see more and do more in parts of the Hudson Valley. Its called, Quick & Easy Itineraries for Hudson Valley Explorer and Ive literally made 10 Done For You Itineraries that are a great starting point.
Above is a quick little preview of the itineraries that youll get. Get the Quick & Easy Itineraries Here.
Take A Hike In Ferncliff Forest Or Burger Hill
With impressive views of the Hudson River Valley, a climb to the top of the Ferncliff Forest Fire Tower is a must for anyone who is not afraid of heights. The forest is open year-round for walking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and more. This is one of the best outdoor things to do in Rhinebeck NY.
The panoramic views at the top of Burger Hill cant be beat. If climbing the fire tower at Ferncliff Forest is not your cup of tea, then a trip to Burger Hill may be a better choice. The views at the summit are outstanding and Ive heard that Burger Hill is an epic sledding area.
Franklin D Roosevelt Presidential Library
Celebrate the 32nd President of the United States and his remarkable First Lady at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Library and Museum, located in Hyde Park in Dutchess County. Trace the stories of Franklin and Eleanor through interactive displays spanning their youth, marriage, the Great Depression, and WWII.
Highlights at the museum include Roosevelt’s Pearl Harbor speech, a fireside chats microphone, and the apparatus he used for mobility. The crowning jewel is his Oval Office desk, displaying mementos from his final term.
Don’t miss a tour of his birthplace and home, Springwood, then stroll through a serene rose garden to the final resting place of these 20th-century giants.
Address: 4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, New York
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Dutchess County Golf Courses
Beekman Country Club – Highland/Taconic/Valley Course
This club offers three 9-hole golf courses that are played in three 18-hole combinations. Located out in the country, the courses are very scenic. The Highland and Valley Courses were built on rolling terrain and feature open fairways and medium-sized greens. The course also offers a pro shop, a unique lunch menu, and golf cart rentals.
Casperkill Country Club
This course was built on rolling hills, so expect many uneven lies. Water hazards come into play on seven holes, including the first, a 478-yard, par 5, featuring a stream that crosses the fairway in front of the well-bunkered green. The fairways are narrow and sand bunkers protect almost every hole.
Island Green Country Club
Island Green Golf Center offers something for every golfer, from the experienced player to the novice just starting out, including: 76 All Weather Tees, 38 Heated Stalls, Miniature Golf, Full Service Golf Retail Shop, Short Game Practice Area, Premier Club Fitting/Club Repair and much more!
James Baird State Park Golf Course
The Links at Union Vale
McCann & College Hill Golf Courses
McCann Golf Course was rated 4 Stars in “Places to Play” by Golf Digest and it was awarded “Best Golf Course Hudson Valley 2006” by Hudson Valley Magazine. Enjoy 18 holes, a driving range and more. College Hill Golf Course is 9 holes offering rental carts & clubs plus lessons and more.
Vassar Golf Course
Things To Do In Rhinebeck Ny In Winter And Colder Months
If your looking for things to do in Rhinebeck during a typical warm weather day, then you will not be disappointed.
Here are some of the best places to visit during this time of the year:
- Enjoy one of the many wonderful restaurants and/or coffee shops
- Shop in the historic downtown district
- Visit and walk on the grounds of Wilderstein
- Take photos of all the locations in and around Rhinebeck NY
- Hike the surrounding area
- Go antique shopping at the Antique Market
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Tips For A Successful Day At Any Dutchess County Location
- Many things to do in Dutchess County requires a reservation.
- Confirm all information with the locations before making definite plans.
- Weather conditions may change drastically, so confirm the weather before making your plans. I use the AccuWeather App everyday before I head out the door.
- Many locations are open seasonally. Confirm each locations days/times of operation.
Bonus: A Cup Of The Valley
Now, this might be a long shot, but if you happen to be in town during A Cup of the Valley, you should check it out. In 2019, this coffee and tea festival happened at the end of April, taking place at the Culinary Institute of America. Youll find locally made products, local coffee roasters and tea blenders, and lots of other delicious food and drink. I loved sampling coffee, tea, and kombucha while I was there.
We spent most of our time at the Greenwood Lake Roasters craft coffee booth. As we waited for the coffee to brew, the owner was a wealth of knowledge relating to all things coffee. It was quite fascinating to listen to him speak about the roasting processes for my favorite beverage.
Also, I made sure to pick up some coffee infused maple syrup and horseradish maple mustard from Soukup Farms. There were also some delicious vegan treats by Emy Desserts, which I didnt have the opportunity to try at the festival, but later sampled at Vegetalien. So good!
Even if you arent a fan of coffee or tea, theres plenty to sample and taste at A Cup of the Valley. I missed the latte competition and the Japanese tea ceremony though, which Id love to check out next time Im in the region.
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This Is What Happens When You Road Trip From Nyc To Dutchess County
A big thanks to Dutchess Tourism for helping to set up the activities!
Homemade ice cream on a tree-lined dock. A sky slowly transitioning from bright blue to a dreamy swathe of pinks and purples, streaks of bright yellow and holiday fireworks illuminating the skyline across the Hudson River. Beautiful church steeples soaring toward the sky, as a family of ducks swims by without hurry.
We certainly werent in NYC anymore.
In fact, my boyfriend Andy and I were exploring the many things to do in Dutchess County and its lovely Hudson Valley, known for its gorgeous scenery, outdoor adventure and hyper-local culinary culture. Honestly, there are some truly incredible hiking trails in the Hudson Valley.
We made a pretty sweet Spotify road trip playlist, too.
Youre welcome
Dutchess County Antique Shopping
Millbrook Antiques Mall
Centrally located in the Mid-Hudson Valley and picturesque Dutchess Hunt Country, Millbrook offers the finest antiques shopping in New York State with over 40 shops located under one roof. The mall has been established for over 20 years and specializes in 18th and 19th century European and American furniture, collectibles and decorating accessories.
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Shadows On The Hudson
Officially dubbed as the best brunch ever by my kids, Shadows on the Hudson offers an incredible spread, featuring a Breakfast and Lunch buffet.
We tried the mini waffles, pasta, bacon, fruit, eggs, assorted pastries and yummy dessert display. They also had sausages, omelets made-to-order, potatoes, salads, fresh fish and more. We loved the ambiance and vibe of the place that was packed for Sunday brunch. The restaurant also boosted an incredible view of the Hudson River that makes it an incredible spot for special occasions and celebrations, like their Mothers Day.
Mahoneys Irish Pub & Steakhouse
Before our visit to the Mid-Hudson Childrens Museum, we enjoyed lunch at Mahoneys Irish Pub & Steakhouse. Located at the Poughkeepsie train station, this traditional Irish pub features two floors for dining and special events, such as comedy nights, mystery theater, live music, and more.
During our visit, we enjoyed a hearty lunch where we sampled their Piggy Mac with Pulled Pork, Shepards Pie and the Salmon Salad. The kids enjoyed the kids hamburger and chicken fingers and fries. They also loved that their meal came with an ice cream sandwich! Stop by before your visit to the Mid-Hudson Childrens Museum to enjoy a filling and delicious lunch.
I was provided with some passes for our stay in Dutchess County. All opinions, as always, are my own.
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Popular Restaurants In Dutchess County
What To Do In Fishkill: A Day Trip Guide To The Dutchess County Town
Photograph of the entrance to the Village of Fishkill, New York, United States of America / Wikimedia Commons, Rolf Müller
The Hudson Valley locale invites exploration with historic sites, a thriving restaurant row, and activities that the whole family will love.
With a prime location between Dutchess County hotspots like Beacon and Poughkeepsie, Fishkill is worthy of a day trip of its own. The area contains both the Town of Fishkill and the Village of Fishkill within it, making it a hub for things to do. Plus, with main roads like Route 9 and Route 52 running through it, the town offers easy connections to other destinations nearby.
So, are you ready for a day trip in Fishkill? Take a peek at our itinerary, then be sure to tag us on Instagram if you visit any of these spots.
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Hudson Valley Bike Rides
Hudson Valley Bike Rides– Bike New York presents the annual Discover Hudson Valley Ride on Sunday, June 29th, beginning in Poughkeepsie. Participants can choose to ride through different routes of 15, 33, 50, 75, or 100 miles.
On the day of the ride, Metro-North Railroad will suspend its bike permit requirements and will allow up to 75 bikes per train! Room for bikes is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Best Things To Do In Dutchess County
In addition to its rich riverfront, Dutchess County is also home to some of the Hudson Valleys grandest country drives and rural havens such as Millbrook, Millerton and Pine Plains.
Growing up in New Jersey, just 40 minutes from New York City, I was well into my twenties before I took the time to explore and visit the urban destinations that millions of tourists visited. Until friends from Europe came to visit, I had not taken in the wondrous view from atop the Empire State Building, strolled through Central Park, or visited the Statue of Liberty.
I learned my lesson. Ive now lived in Dutchess County for nearly two decades, and have been trying to take advantage of all the area has to offer. And there is plenty. From the natural beauty of the Hudson River, numerous walking and cycling trails to top-notch restaurants and wineries, Dutchess boasts many offerings for visitors and residents alike.
Theres nothing like coming to the Hudson Valley, said Frank M. Castella Jr., president and CEO of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce . And there are hidden gems even our locals dont know about.
Accessible from New York City by car, bus and Metro-North Railroad, Dutchess natural treasures, historic sites, museums and great food make it a top destination for visitors from around the country and the world. What draws people to visit and live in the area? I think its convenience and beauty, Castella said.
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Visit The Antique Market
Set your sights on some treasure hunting at the Antique Market. This is an enchanting two-story barn, right behind the Beekman Arms. This location houses over 30 dealers and is known as an Antique Emporium and draws hundreds of people in who are looking for something beautiful and, possibly, rare to add to their collection.
Open daily from 11am 5pm, this is one of the most interesting things to do in Rhinebeck NY.
Hyde Park Brewery Company
After our day at the FDR Museum, we went across the street to the Hyde Park Brewery Company. Featuring an on-tap brewery and full menu, you can enjoy a selection of handcrafted beers and a diverse selection of seasonal and local food options .
We started out with the House-Made Buffalo Hummus Platter with main meal being the Edgie Veggie Burger (herb vegetable infused quinoa burger, tofu, hummus, guacamole, jalapeño basil aioli, Brewers chips). Every meal is suggested with a beer pairing where I opted for the Big Easy Blonde, a lighter brew. They also had a pretty extensive kids menu where the kids had grilled cheese, burgers, and pasta and lemonades. The bar area was also packed with patrons who were listening to live music .
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Walkway Over The Hudson
Within view of the Mid-Huson Childrens Museum is the Walkway Over the Hudson. After our afternoon of playing and discovery, we drove to the foot of the walkway for a self-guided walking tour of this scenic 1.28 mile linear park.
Rebuilt and re-opened in October 2009, the Walkway is a great way to experience some incredible views as you walk from Highland to Poughkeepsie as well as enjoy an active activity together. I love that kids can also ride bikes or scoot on the Walkway for a truly special experience. They also host tons of cool, free events over the summer, such as the National Knit In , Movies Under the Walkway.and more.
Get there: 87 Haviland Road Highland, NY 12528
Poughkeepsie entrance 61 Parker Avenue Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Upper Landing Park : 83 N. Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY
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Popular Attractions In Dutchess County
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Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue
Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue in Dover Plains is a sanctuary for abandoned, neglected, and abused horses. They save so many of these beautiful creatures, rehabilitate them, and provide them with a forever home. While the goal is to enable horses to trust people again, it works the other way around, too. The horses can help people overcome their own struggles, build trust, and work together.
These horses provide therapy for children and adults alike. All in all, the sanctuary aims to strengthen the relationship between people and animals for a compassionate and kind community. Their slogan is, People helping horses heal people. Visiting Lucky Orphans is one of the most rewarding things to do in Dutchess County.
Owner and founder, Deanna Mancuso, shared her story with us. She had a turbulent relationship with her grandfather who struggled from PTSD, alcoholism, substance abuse, and domestic abuse. Shortly before his death from pancreatic cancer, Deanna formed a wonderful relationship with him as he worked through many of his personal struggles.
Her grandfather bought her a horse before he passed away to remember him by he taught her that horses bring peace. Sadly, the horse was badly abused and he was not well behaved. When she almost gave up the horse, her father reinforced the message that we shouldnt give up on animals. This paved the way for Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, which Deanna founded in 2008.
Fun Things To Do In Dutchess County Ny: Unique And Uplifting Adventures
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Categories Blog, New York, Road Trips, Small Town Guides, Travel Guides, United States
Heres a weekend itinerary for eco-friendly, sustainable, and kind adventures in Dutchess County, New York. Looking to spend two days wandering around adorable towns, spending time in quiet nature, and sampling delicious food and drink? Youll want to run, not walk, straight to Dutchess County, New York.
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Its less than two hours from New York City and three hours from Boston. If youre a curious Canadian like myself and looking for a new place to explore, its about 4-5 hours from Montreal and Ottawa, and 7.5 hours from Toronto. Trust me, its worth the drive. There are so many fun things to do in Dutchess County.
I ventured off the well trodden tourist path to the lesser known gems of the region. Even though I was visiting on weekdays, there were so many occasions where there werent any other travelers in sight. So, if youre looking for a peaceful place away from the crowds, Im going to show you exactly where to go.
Whether youre visiting over the weekend or spending 2 days in Dutchess County NY, prepare to be charmed by this beautiful section of the state. Let me show you exactly all of the amazing things to do in Dutchess County: the activities that emphasize eco-friendly travel, vegan travel, and combat overtourism by visiting the lesser known spots.
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