Include Dutchess in Your 2024 Goals

Date Published: November 15, 2023

The closing out of one year and the beginning of another is a great opportunity to set goals for the coming months. We know these past few years have been challenging. Take a moment to reflect on 2023. Did you accomplish the things you wanted? Whether you’ve been trying to get healthier, conquer a fear, or just tackle something new, it’s never too late. We’ve compiled a list of goals for 2024 that may help inspire yours!

Travel

There’s nothing quite like traveling. It’s an opportunity to experience somewhere new, with each country, city, or small, charming town having something different to offer. From outdoor recreation and history, to local cuisine and culture, there’s a unique component to every destination. Here in Dutchess, we have a bit of it all! We encourage you to come visit and find out what makes us unique. Below are a few things you can only do here in Dutchess. We can’t wait for you to come experience for yourself.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library & Museum – First Presidential Library in the United States.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site (Val-Kill Cottage) – Only National Historic Site dedicated to a First Lady.
Walkway Over the Hudson – The world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge.
Dia Beacon – One of the largest exhibition spaces in the country for modern and contemporary art.
Trevor Zoo – Only accredited zoo in the United States located on a high school campus.

Learn to Cook

Some people just have a natural talent for cooking, and others have to work at it. If you’re one of those people who doesn’t even know where to begin, try taking a cooking class this year to improve your skills. Dutchess is home to the world’s top culinary school, The Culinary Institute of America. Offering cooking, baking and wine classes for beginners, you can learn from some of the most talented chefs in the region.

Conquer Your Fears

Often times we can find personal growth by stepping out of our comfort zone. Let us help you conquer one of your biggest fears this year – heights. The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a living museum located in Rhinebeck with an impressive collection of old aircrafts from the Pioneer Era, World War I and Golden Age of Aviation – many of which still fly today. It’s a remarkable place, whether you’re interested in aviation or not! You’ll have some time to build up the courage as it’s not open through the winter. Biplane rides are available from May 1 through October 31. This sound a little too extreme for you?

Incorporate Healthy Habits

This resolution may be common, but it’s important! Feeling like your best self is crucial for not only physical health, but mental and emotional health too. Eating healthy and moving your body is proven to help relieve stress and increase endorphins. Luckily, Dutchess is known for its outdoor recreation. From running trails and bike paths, to kayaking and tennis courts, there’s plenty of options for staying active. Check out the outdoor recreation page on our website for trail recommendations, bike routes and more. Pair some physical activity with a healthy meal and you'll be feeling great in no time! Browse these Top 10 Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free Friendly Eateries.

Carve Out More ‘Me Time’

We live in a world that doesn’t stop. Everyone is constantly go go go and always connected by technology. Make an effort to unplug more this year and set some time aside for yourself. Whether that means a day at the spa, a relaxing yoga class or a dreamy sojourn through nature, there are a number of ways to reset and enjoy some zen.

Looking to really commit to a better self? Register for a workshop or retreat at Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck. From in-person and online courses, to multi-day rest and rejuvenation retreats, it's the perfect place to awaken your full potential.

We hope we’ve given you some inspiration for setting goals to make 2024 the best year yet. We’d love to hear from you and help you plan your visit to Dutchess County. Happy New Year!