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About
Curious about all there is to experience in the heart of New York's Hudson Valley? Bucolic farms, breathtaking hikes, immersive arts and cultural activities, world-class culinary, eclectic downtown shopping, innovative craft beverage and family-friendly fun are just a few things to expect when you visit.
With a storied history of empire builders, visionaries and artists, we’re the perfect place to discover America’s rich heritage—and the impact of diverse cultures. This is a county that is open to all people, and all are welcome to roam this eclectic region. We're one county for all stories.
The best resource to use when planning your trip is the Discover Dutchess Destination Guide. This comprehensive handbook spans all four regions of Dutchess County, highlighting can't-miss attractions and top draws. For additional guides, brochures and maps focused on specialized interests including our Craft Beverage Trail Map, click here.
Dutchess Tourism, Inc. is here to support your needs while planning your trip, during your vacation and after you leave to ensure a memorable experience. To speak with one of our knowledgeable CTA-certified staff members, call 800-445-3131 or visit one of our Tourism Information Centers.
Ready to escape New York City for a long winter weekend? Getting to Dutchess County is only about 90 minutes north, and accessible by train.
Metro-North stations along the Hudson line and the Harlem line place visitors directly in the heart of charming Hudson Valley cities and towns. Stops on the Hudson line include Beacon, New Hamburg and Poughkeepsie; while stations of the Harlem line include Pawling, Appalachian Trail, Harlem Valley-Wingdale, Dover Plains, Wassaic and Tenmile River. Additionally, Amtrak offers service from New York City and Albany to Poughkeepsie and Rhinecliff. From the more urban stops, walk directly off the platform into town. For additional resources and deals, visit MTA Away.
To rent a car and drive from your destination, click here. TIP: Dutchess County spans 800 square miles, and some destinations are a bit of a drive apart. To make the most of your trip, plan itineraries by region to keep travel times short and sweet! Use our Trip Planner tool to save your favorite destinations and create your own custom itinerary.
Can I explore Dutchess County without a car?
Poughkeepsie, Beacon and Pawling are walkable towns with a train station just a few steps away. If you're looking to visit a few of our other charming towns without renting a car, rideshare services like Uber and local taxis can help get you from point A to B.
Northern Dutchess | Central Dutchess | Eastern Dutchess | Southern Dutchess
For more trip inspiration, visit our Spotlights page.
Find your perfect ovenight stay in Dutchess! From sleek modern hotels to historic inns and B&B's, there is something for everyone. Notable figures ranging from George Washington to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Langston Hughes to Ralph Waldo Emerson have stayed as guests at these establishments. For a full list of amazing accommodations, click here.
TIP: Check out our top 10 boutique hotels for unique and stylish stays.
Dutchess County is home to The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, making it a premiere destination for foodies. Many chefs at local restaurants are CIA-grads, so menus at eateries pop with creative ideas, Hudson Valley ingredients and industry-leading innovation. Plus, diners can choose from a massive variety of styles, including but not limited to Italian, Indian, New America, Puerto Rican, Middle Eastern, Thai, Japanese, Korean, Irish, Mexican and Brazilian. To browse through our eclectic assortment of eateries, click here.
TIP: Monday and Tuesday tend to be off nights for restaurants, bars and other Dutchess County businesses. Check hours of operation for each place you plan to visit, and make reservations for guaranteed seating at our most popular dining hotspots.
Prettiest Places to Dine Outdoors
The Dutchess Tourism Trail Finder is a mobile passport program offering deals, discounts and specials at attractions, experiences and can’t-miss sights throughout the region. Four curated trails cater to specific interests of travelers:
Purchase a Taste Finder Craft Beverage passport to explore 13 of the Hudson Valley’s finest craft beverage makers, pouring world-class beers, wines, ciders, spirits and meads. Check-in with your 1-day, 3-day or 90-day pass to unlock free tastings, pints, flights and merch. The Connection Finder is your family’s free guide to find fun, fascinating activities (with plenty of deals). Download the free Zen Finder Outdoor Experience trail for 30+ hidden-gem hikes. TIP: Check-in at each trailhead to earn prizes, ranging from stickers and branded refillable water bottles to a YETI cooler! Discover top-tier art museums, performance spaces and theaters with the Inspiration Finder, another free mobile passport that earns discounts on tickets and freebies with check-ins.
The CIA Chef Finder is an insider’s guide to more than 35 cafes and restaurants run by Culinary Institute of America graduates creating world-class cuisine throughout Dutchess County. Earn prizes when you check-in at these eateries. The Farm Finder explores the county’s rich agricultural heritage and farms that welcome visitors for tours, events, animal meet and greets, pick-your-own and locally grown products. With Story Finder, wander the ruins of an island castle, Gilded Age mansions and winding carriage trails through blooming country estates. Satisfy your sugar cravings at dessert destinations with the Confection Finder delighting visitors with hand-crafted baked goods, ice cream, chocolates and more.
Dutchess County has many completely FREE activities that are excellent experiences for families. Hike Peach Hill Park in Poughkeepsie, discover classic art at Francis Lehman Loeb Art Museum and contemporary works at the Wassaic Project, stroll through our Great Estates and more! For the full top 10 list of free things to do in Dutchess, click here.
There are so many incredible destinations here in Dutchess that set us apart and are truly unique to our destination. Sometimes it’s hard to choose where to include on your itinerary, as there are just so many wonderful experiences to be had here, but we decided to help you narrow it down. Check out these ten 'Distinctly' Dutchess Destinations!
Plan your trip around a thrilling event by visiting our comprehensive digital calendar!
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