Poughkeepsie is located in Dutchess County, nestled between Albany and New York City in New York State. The city bears a Native American term for its title that translates roughly as "a reed covered hut near the little-water place." While the city struggled severely during the 1980s and 1990s, there have been ongoing efforts toward revitalization throughout the area, particularly for drawing tourists. As a result, you'll find many enjoyable attractions for the whole family.
The Walkway Over the Hudson is pedestrian bridge linking the town of Lloyd to Poughkeepsie. Originally a 19th century railway bridge, the Walkway received nearly $40 million in refurbishments and reopened as a state park in 2009. It's a picturesque location for taking snapshots. The Walkway is open from 7 a.m. until sunset throughout the year.
Walkway Over the Hudson Parking
61 Parker Ave.
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
walkway.org
The Mid-Hudson Children's Museum is a playful destination for families with young children. It is a hands-on educational resource center where children can explore and discover all types of things ranging from water tables and trains to farming, rock climbing and virtual reality. The museum sits on the waterfront, and is convenient to many restaurants and other services.
Mid-Hudson Children's Museum
75 North Water St.
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-471-0589
mhcm.org
The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center features over 17,000 works of art. Founded in 1864 under the name of Vassar College Art Gallery, the center grew into a 36,000 square foot facility thanks to its main donor, Frances Lehman Loeb. The center offers a multiplicity of artistic media including drawings, sculpture, prints and textile. In 2010 the facility closed temporarily for renovations with a reopening date of January 2011.
Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center
124 Raymond Ave.
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY 12604
845-437-7745
fllac.vassar.edu
The Locust Grove Estate covers over 100 acres of land owned by Samuel F. B. Morse in 1847. You'll enjoy gardens, carriage rides, galleries, hiking trails and historic buildings on site. The visitor center operates from April 1 to December 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The estate itself is open year round.
Locust Grove Estate
Route 9
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-454-4500
lgny.org
For a night on the town that tickles your funny bone, stop into Bananas Comedy Club, a frequent destination for up and coming comedians and well known names like Jeff Dunham. The club opened in 1986 and offers shows on Friday at 9:00 p.m. and Saturday at 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Dinner packages and overnight packages are available.
Bananas Comedy Club
70 Route 9
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-462-3333
bananascomedyclub.com
