A Variety of Cuisine. One Standard of Excellence.

Dutchess County has the unique privilege to be the home of The Culinary Institute of America—a college dedicated to educating culinarians of the highest caliber. And, while you can find CIA-trained chefs in the finest restaurants in the world, you can find a concentration of them right here in Dutchess County. Discover the high standard of the CIA in a variety of different locations throughout the County, where their graduates are creating an incredible range of delectable dishes. Sign-up for the CIA Chef Finder, a digital passport that helps you find Culinary Institute of America chefs who create world-class cuisine in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley.

The Culinary Institute of America has been setting the standard for excellence in professional culinary education since its founding in 1946. Its main campus in Hyde Park is renowned for its exceptional alumni and stunning surroundings. In fact, Condé Nast Traveler recently recognized Hyde Park's CIA as one of the 50 most beautiful college campuses in America. This setting has proved an inspiration to a multitude of groundbreaking culinary artists—many of whom, fortunately, have decided to practice their craft close to home in Dutchess County.

Trail Rewards

Check in and claim offers at participating locations to earn points that can be redeemed for prizes at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park.

1,000 pts

Free CIA Experience Tour for two on date of choice (Note: only runs on Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays)

2,000 pts

$15 gift certificate for use at the
Apple Pie Bakery Café

5,000 pts

Entered into a drawing for one free single-day cooking class at the Hyde Park campus

Step 1 - Get Your Pass

This mobile exclusive passport is a collection of curated restaurants, bakeries, and more offering deals and discounts to redeem during your visit.

Step 2 - Receive Text

Your passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email and is ready to use immediately! There is no app to download. Your pass can be saved to your phone’s home screen for easy one-tap access.

Step 3 - Redeem

When visiting a participating business, simply present your phone to the attendant or staff member to redeem available discounts. To check-in and count towards your prize, simply ensure your location services is turned on to check-in via GPS.