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The City of Poughkeepsie is found just 75 miles from New York City, so it tends to remain obscured in the shadow of its world-renowned neighbor. It's also just a 1-hour road trip from Albany. However, this destination has its own claim to fame — the colleges. A 17th-century college town, Poughkeepsie is home to roughly 9 colleges, the most popular being Vassar College and Marist College. Vassar is the oldest; it was founded in 1861. The ancient architecture reveals the college's century-and-a-half age, a reason why Vassar is always on tourists' radar. Still, Poughkeepsie has more stories to tell, tales of the telegraph inventor, Samuel Morse, who called this town home. In fact, his home is a historic site that's open to visitors.
Clearly, this destination has a lot to offer visitors. This article is the ultimate Poughkeepsie travel guide that will help visitors figure out the best things to do, where to eat, and where to stay in this destination. The guide also has helpful tips to help tourists make the most of their Poughkeepsie trip. Keep reading to learn all these and more.
Best Ways To Get Around Poughkeepsie
By Car
Getting around Poughkeepsie by car is the best way of exploring the city. With several car rental companies found here, visitors have enough options if they choose to drive themselves.
Granted, renting a car is costly, especially for those on an extended trip, but it allows travelers to tour on their own schedule.
Public Transport
Poughkeepsie is about 90 miles from New York City, roughly a 2-hour drive or train ride from Manhattan. Buses are the main means of public transport for those who want to explore Poughkeepsie on a budget.
There's also a train service, but this only operates during the peak hours from around 5 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 9 pm from Monday to Friday.
The bus service operates on 13 routes, with buses running every day on some routes. However, on most routes, there's no bus service on Sunday.
This makes moving around at the weekend difficult for visitors who opt for public transport.
Bike
Poughkeepsie isn't a large city and so it's easy to explore by bike. In fact, the City of Poughkeepsie has designated bicycle routes around the city, allowing cyclists to safely get around.
This option is a hybrid between car rentals and public transport, offering the convenience of self-driving and the affordability of buses. Conveniently, there are bike rental companies around the city.
Rideshares & Taxis
Rideshares like Lyft and Uber are available throughout the day, and they offer the convenience of getting a vehicle on demand. However, there are times when drivers may be unavailable, especially during odd hours.
Therefore, visitors are advised to book their rides in advance if they'll be staying out late or visiting remote areas.
On Foot
Getting around on foot is the cheapest and most convenient way of touring a city. Budget-minded tourists love to incorporate a lot of walking into their trips to spend as little as possible money on transport. This is possible in Poughkeepsie as the city is considered highly walkable.
Best Time To Visit Poughkeepsie
The summer months have the most visitors to Poughkeepsie with July as the busiest month because of the warm weather. A lot of visitors also visit in October because of the good weather without the heat of mid-summer.
Sadly, these months are the most expensive to travel in Poughkeepsie owing to the high demand for hotel rooms.
Winter comes with the cheapest prices since few tourists visit during this time. Those looking for a bargain may consider visiting in December, however, most outdoor activities are unavailable at this time.
The best time to visit Poughkeepsie is in May, at the end of Spring and just before summer. During this time, visitors get good weather but few crowds, so costs are still reasonable.
Where To Eat In Poughkeepsie
Breakfast: The Palace Diner
The Palace Diner is open all day, every day, but its main draw is the breakfast menu. The restaurant is famous for its omelet dishes, with options like Palladium Omelette, Lox & Onion Omelette, and Windsor Omelette, among others.
All these are served with fries and toast. Palace Diner also has a selection of pastries, from English Muffins to Bagels, as well as classic breakfast foods like waffles.
The Palace Diner certainly gives some of the best breakfast spots in NYC a run for their money.
- Address: 194 Washington Street Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
- Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
- Average price: $8.50
Lunch: Mill House Brewing Company
Mill House Brewing Company has a vibe similar to the old-town diners in New York. The drinks are enough reason for any tourist to drop by. However, their lunch menu is one everyone visiting Poughkeepsie ought to try out.
The dishes include classics like barbeque wings, and Buffalo wings, as well as a variety of burgers. There are also different salad options, pizzas, and entrées that have earned rave reviews from past visitors.
- Address: 289 Mill St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, United States
- Opening hours: Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu: 11 am - 9 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 10 pm (closed on Tue)
- Average price: $30
Dinner & Drinks: Schatzi's Pub and Bier Garden
Schatzi's has a laid-back and unassuming setup that's ideal for a fun evening in Poughkeepsie. The establishment is made up of both indoor and outdoor seating with a homely vibe.
The outdoor seating offers the best experience and is recommended in warmer months.
Comfort food like Schatzi's mac and cheese is popular, but regulars also love their schnitzel and ribeye. These can be downed with a choice of draft beer, cocktail, or wine.
- Address: 202 Main St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
- Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu: 3 pm - 12 am; Fri: 3 pm - 1 am; Sat: 12 pm - 1 am; Sun: 12 pm - 11 pm (closed on Tue)
- Average price: $15
Top Things To Do In Poughkeepsie
Tour Vassar College
Vassar is Poughkeepsie's oldest college, with architecture throughout the campus that reveals its rich history. Tourists are allowed to explore the college to admire the buildings and landscape.
The Maria Mitchell Observatory is worth visiting as it's a National Historic Landmark. Sunset Lake and the Shakespeare Garden are also two notable attractions on the college grounds.
Have a Picnic at College Hill Park
This serene park has a long history, having been established in the late 1800s. Since then, the park, which is found on the highest point in Poughkeepsie, has been a popular picnic spot among locals and visitors alike.
Its focal point is a Greek-style pavilion with a neoclassical design.
There are also walking trails that cut through the park, as well as a fishing lake on the northern end. Granted, these trails aren't as serene as other Eastern Coast trails, but they don't disappoint visitors.
Stroll along the Walkway over the Hudson
From the Walkway over the Hudson, you'll get a breathtaking view of the Hudson River, which is an undisputed vantage point. The bridge sits at an elevation of 212 feet (65 meters) above the Hudson River, which makes it an Insta-worthy bridge in the US.
This walkway is just 1.28 miles (2 km) long, but visitors are kept mesmerized for hours.
Spend an afternoon at Locust Grove Estate
Locust Grove Estate may be known for the Italian-style mansion that was the home of the telegraph's inventor, Samuel Morse. However, this location boasts a lot more: hiking trails on the 200-acre (80-hectare) property, art exhibitions at the visitor center, and gardens.
Of course, guests can also tour the villa, which acts as a museum with old paintings and furniture.
Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site
Another notable figure to have called Poughkeepsie home was Franklin D Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the US. His home is now a National Historic Site, sitting on more than 1000 acres (400 hectares).
Visitors not only get to experience tours of Franklin Roosevelt's home, but they also can visit FDR's burial site, and explore the nature trails and gardens on the property.
Popular Neighborhoods In Poughkeepsie
Noxon
Noxon is one of Poughkeepsie's safest neighborhoods and is a wonderful place for families. This suburban neighborhood is near Harriet Tubman Park, and Eastman Park is less than a mile away.
The area has a rustic appeal, with old wooden buildings and brick houses.
Freedom Plains
This is an upmarket neighborhood found to the east of Poughkeepsie's town center. It's a quiet suburb, about 5 miles (8 km) from the central business district, with James Baird State Park within its boundaries.
Freedom Plains' proximity to Poughkeepsie's attractions, like the Hudson River, makes it a great place to stay.
Spackenkill
This little hamlet is one of Poughkeepsie's safest neighborhoods, located about a 10-minute drive from the heart of Poughkeepsie. It's also just 5 minutes away from Locust Grove Estate, and only 2 miles (3.2 km) from Spratt Park.
Poughkeepsie South
The neighborhood of Poughkeepsie South is very close to the town center, so property prices are higher here than in the other neighborhoods above.
However, this location places residents close to the Hudson River, Locust Grove, as well as Vassar College. Travelers who want to reach these attractions on foot should consider staying in this neighborhood.
Crown Heights
This neighborhood sits right next to the Hudson River to the south of Poughkeepsie's town center.
Poughkeepsie Galleria, a major shopping mall in the area, is found just a short walk from Crown Heights. There are also hotels like Holiday Inn Poughkeepsie and Hampton Inn & Suites Poughkeepsie within the area.
Where To Stay In Poughkeepsie
The Loft At Lincoln
This is a 2-bedroom Airbnb vacation rental that can host up to 4 guests. It's a stylish loft apartment with a minimalist interior equipped with amenities like a full kitchen, a TV in each bedroom, and access to Netflix.
Just a short drive away are Marist and Vassar colleges, and the Hudson River is a walking distance from the apartment.
- Address: Poughkeepsie, New York, United States
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, free parking, full kitchen, queen bed, double bed
- Cost: From $233 per night
One-Bedroom Apartment
This is a pocket-friendly apartment that can host up to 4 guests, despite it having only one bedroom. The condo is part of a Victorian townhouse, and it's located in the heart of Poughkeepsie's downtown.
- Address: Poughkeepsie, New York, United States
- Amenities: Full kitchen, Wi-Fi, free parking, open living area, dining area
- Cost: From $166 per night
Hyatt Place Poughkeepsie
Hyatt Place Poughkeepsie is found in Crown Heights, a short distance from Milton Railroad Station. Also, a short drive from here is Locust Grove and Milton Landing Park, among other attractions.
The hotel boasts several room types, from studios to their deluxe queen suite. Irrespective of the room that guests pay for, they get free breakfast included.
- Address: 2165 South Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, United States
- Amenities: Swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, free parking, fitness center, business center
- Cost: From $107 per night
Homewood Suites By Hilton Poughkeepsie
This is a highly-rated hotel in Poughkeepsie, with guests mainly praising the comfort of the rooms. Indeed, each room is well-equipped, and they all include a private kitchen area for those who wish to do their own cooking.
Still, there's an onsite restaurant, and a continental breakfast is served to all who book a stay at no extra cost.
Homewood is close to attractions like Locust Grove and Milton Landing Park,.
- Address: 900 Thomas Watson Dr, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, United States
- Amenities: Private kitchens, free Wi-Fi, free parking, swimming pool, fitness center, shared lounge
- Cost: From $139 per night
Pocket-friendly Poughkeepsie Travel Tips
Consider visiting in May
The weather in May is slightly warmer than the previous months, yet the summer crowds still haven't arrived. This means that prices are lower and crowds are fewer.
Opt to explore on foot
Choose to stay in an area that's within walking distance of most of Poughkeepsie's attractions to avoid taking taxis or waiting for the bus. Areas like Crown Heights or the downtown area are good options.
Choose a vacation rental instead of a hotel
Vacation rentals are, generally, cheaper than hotels, allowing travelers to enjoy a homely experience.
Cook instead of eating out.
Instead of having all meals at restaurants, visitors can consider cooking some of the meals. This is cheaper, and it also gives travelers control over what is in their food.
How To Spend The Perfect Day In Poughkeepsie
Start the day with some breakfast at The Palace Diner and enjoy their omelets of waffles. After breakfast, head to the Walkway Over the Hudson for a morning stroll and a spectacular view of the river.
Afterward, stroll down to Locust Grove Estate to learn about the history of this site before enjoying a picnic lunch in Locust Grove's gardens and then a small hike on the trails.
Later in the afternoon, explore Vassar College before heading for dinner and drinks at Schatzi's Pub and Bier Garden.
FAQ
Q: What is Poughkeepsie known for?
Poughkeepsie is known for being a college town, the oldest one being Vassar College, which was established in 1861. The area is full of history, including nearby Albany, where the first Shaker village sprouted.
Q: Where can I hike in Poughkeepsie?
There are hiking trails at Locust Grove Estate, Vassar Farm, and Peach Hill Park. Visitors also love to hike the Walkway Over the Hudson.
Q: How far is Poughkeepsie from the city?
Poughkeepsie lies next to the Hudson River about 68 miles outside of New York City. It's close enough for a day trip but far enough to indulge in nature. It's definitely a city worth visiting outside of NYC.