Accessible Travel Series: Easter in Dutchess

Date Published: March 8, 2024

Easter is a fun and exciting time for kids and adults alike, and here in Dutchess County, there are all sorts of fantastic events and attractions to celebrate the occasion. Easter egg hunts, visits with the Easter Bunny, and special brunch and dinner events at various restaurants — Dutchess has something for everyone this Easter season.

In fact, some of those attractions offer specific features to help those with mobility or sensory challenges get in on the fun. Here is a list of some accessible Easter events in Dutchess County.

Have fun and take lots of photos! Share them here and tag @DutchessTourism on social media.

Sensory-Friendly Visit with the Easter Bunny

Sunday, March 17, 9:30 a.m. at the Poughkeepsie Galleria

Meet the Easter Bunny and pose for photos in a sensory-friendly environment at the Poughkeepsie Galleria’s Lower Level Center Court. Upon arrival, one of the bunny’s helpers will provide you with a number so that your family does not have to stand in line until the Easter Bunny is ready for you. Book your appointment online in advance and receive a basket of virtual activities, including printable activity sheets and coloring pages. Click here to reserve your spot for the sensory-friendly experience.

ThinkDIFFERENTLY Sensory-Sensitive Movie Event

Saturday, March 23, 10:30 a.m. at the Roosevelt Cinemas, Hyde Park

Dutchess County’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative aims to create a welcoming environment for those of all abilities, and events such as this free, sensory-sensitive screening of the new film “Kung Fu Panda 4” help to support that mission. The staff at Roosevelt Cinemas will adjust both the lighting and sound in the theater to make the experience more enjoyable for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities or who experience sensory sensitivities; the screening will also include closed captioning. Individuals, families and support agencies are all invited to this event. Concessions will be available to purchase. Click here to complete the required registration.

Easter Egg Hunt at Tymor Park, Union Vale

Easter Egg Hunts for All

Saturday, March 30, 10:30 a.m. at Tymor Park, Union Vale

All are invited to scenic Tymor Park for this fantastic free event, which is designed to ensure that everyone, of all abilities, can experience the joy of an Easter egg hunt. The Visually Impaired Egg Hunt will use “eggs that beep” for the participants to find. The Sensory-Friendly Egg Hunt will feature a smaller crowd and a quiet environment so those who are sensitive to loud noises and large crowds can focus on the experience instead of the rush. In the Wheelchair Accessible Egg Hunt, there will be different ways to collect eggs for participants of all mobility levels. There will also be traditional egg hunts for ages 6 and younger and for ages 7 – 10. Be sure to bring your own basket. Registration is required for all the egg hunts. Click here for details.

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