Springside
Once home to wealthy philanthropist Matthew Vassar, Springside is now a National Historic Landmark with 20 acres to explore. After years of neglect, the estate is now being restored by Springside Landscape Restoration, a non-profit organization created specifically for that purpose. Explore on your own and walk through the gently rolling hills, where carriages once traveled, or take one of two guided tours. Tour brochures are available at the visitor's kiosk in the parking area. Guided tours can be arranged by contacting the organization. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
Springside
PO Box 4915
Poughkeepsie, NY 12602
(845) 454-2060
springsidelandmark.org
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson boasts the Walkway Loop Trail, which consists of 3.6 miles of unparalleled views of the Hudson River. This trail was transformed from the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge, built in the late 19th century, and turned into a pedestrian path that is now the world's longest elevated park. Walkers, joggers, bikers, and rollerbladers may use the paths. Pets on leashes are welcome. Bathrooms can be found at either end of the bridge. Park hours are 7 a.m. to dusk.
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
61 Parker Avenue
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 834-2867
walkway.org
Segway of the Hudson Valley Tours
See the Hudson Valley and historic Poughkeepsie in one of the most distinctive ways available by taking a Segway tour. Tour guides make sure that all participants are comfortable on the two-wheeled vehicles by conducting a 30-minute orientation and training session prior to the tour. Whiz by Waryas Park, Poughkeepsie Bridge, Washington Street and other points of interest, as you learn the history of the area. Minimum age for tour participation is 14 and child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Make sure to wear secure, comfortable shoes. Helmets are required and you can either bring your own or use one provided by Segway of the Hudson Valley for no extra charge.
Segway of the Hudson Valley Tours
35 Main Street, Suite 322
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 485-SEGWAY (7349)
segwayofthehudsonvalley.com
Barvadon Opera House
After a day of hiking at one of the local parks, choose to relax by taking in a performance at New York's oldest continuously operating theater, the Barvadon Opera House. Many well-known artists, such as John Philip Sousa, Frank Sinatra, and Dizzy Gillespie, have performed in this historic theater in years past. Now home to the Hudson Valley Philharmonic, a variety of performance events, including film, dance, music, and drama occur on a weekly basis. Tickets can be purchased at the Barvadon Box Office or through Ticketmaster.
Barvadon Opera House
35 Market Street
Poughkeepsie, NY12601
(845) 473-2072
bardavon.org/
