Visit the City of Poughkeepsie, New York
The City of Poughkeepsie is positioned in the historic Hudson River Valley region of New York State, midway between New York City and Albany. Settled in the 17th century, it has since undergone numerous transformations, from a river transportation hub, a whaling station, and a center of industry, commerce, and education. As with many riverfront cities around the country, the decline in commercial river and rail activity anchored decades of economic decay, of which the City of Poughkeepsie is now rising above.
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Today Poughkeepsie has the longest Hudson River waterfront park winding under the Walkway Over the Hudson, connecting to the biking and hiking trails of Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley. We are home to noted educational institutions, including Vassar College, Marist College, and Dutchess Community College, with the Culinary Institute of America and Bard College nearby. More importantly, Poughkeepsie is a diverse community with much to offer in arts, entertainment, culture, dining, and we are the surrounded by history ready to explore.
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Getting to the City of Poughkeepsie
By Car
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Poughkeepsie is a short 80 mile drive north from New York City, via I-87 or the Taconic State Parkway, or from points east or west of Poughkeepsie via I-84 and I-90. If you have time there are many interesting historic locations and vistas of the Hudson River Valley on your drive to Poughkeepsie.
By Train
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Poughkeepsie is served by Metro-North Railroad, the last stop on the Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal, and by Amtrak from all points north, south, and west. For MTA information visit www.mta.info, and for Amtrak visit www.amtrak.com/stations/pou.
By Bicycle
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The Dutchess Rail Trail is a 13 mile former railroad line from Hopewell Junction to the Walkway Over the Hudson, which then continues westward through Ulster County. For more information visit https://www.dutchesstourism.com. Bicycles are accommodated on the Metro North Railroad Hudson Valley line and on most Dutchess County buses.
By Boat
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A municipal boat dock and launch is available in the City of Poughkeepsie at Waryas Park, with additional locations nearby at Quiet Cove Riverfront Park and Shadows on the Hudson.
