Covering 800 square miles in the heart of New York State’s Hudson Valley Region, Dutchess County delivers an abundance of breathtaking natural beauty, world-renowned dining and farm-to-table culinary experiences. With a storied history of empire builders, visionaries and artists, we’re the perfect place to discover America’s rich heritage. Here in “New York’s Backyard,” you’ll find a year-round playground for outdoor adventurers and food enthusiasts, history buffs and culture vultures — there’s something for everyone.
Searching for something unique and heartfelt to give that special someone? Here in Dutchess County, we’ve got you covered! With handmade markets popping up all over the county this holiday season, you can shop for everyone on your list and find plenty of quality items made right here in New York's Hudson Valley. From soaps and baked goods to jewelry and artwork, there is something for everyone at these Dutchess craft fairs.
Gather your family and make the season merry with a trip to one of our breathtaking Dutchess County Christmas tree farms! Choose and cut the perfect centerpiece to your decorated home during the holidays. Enjoy a magical day in the great outdoors at these bucolic Hudson Valley farms.
The holiday season truly is “the most wonderful time of the year” in New York's Hudson Valley, and Dutchess County’s many Colonial homesteads and Gilded Age mansions are getting decked out in their most festive décor for the occasion. Warm your heart and set your holiday spirit aglow with a visit to any of these historic sites and great estates and learn about the people, events and cultures that have shaped the region’s rich history.
Antiquing is a wonderful way to explore the Hudson Valley’s charming cities and towns. In Dutchess County, stroll along Main Streets full of eclectic antique shops, thrift stores, record shops and more. Search for the perfect gifts for the holidays, or inject your home with a bit of vintage character—after all, every item found at one of these shopping destinations has a story of its own.
Getting lost in the aisles of a local bookstore is only one of the many charming things you can do in Dutchess. Explore the nooks and crannies of our Top 10 Bookstores.
Read on for perfect date night pairings: top-notch Hudson Valley cuisine and unique arts experiences.
'Tis the season for all things cozy and warm. One of our favorite accompaniments to a holiday movie or gift wrapping is hot cocoa. Create a cup from fresh, local Dutchess County ingredients for a treat that's so simple you won't go back to the powdered stuff!
Whether it's nature, culture or romance you're seeking, Dutchess has it all. Explore our Top 10 Boutique Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts for your perfect getaway.
There are many examples throughout history of people who heroically championed the causes of justice, equality and progress for African Americans here in Dutchess County, from the Abolitionist Movement through the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. These courageous figures helped alter America’s social trajectory and planted the seeds of change. Here is a list of some historically significant Dutchess County locations you can visit to learn more about these important people and their fearless endeavors.
Celebrate the rich, diverse and vibrant culture of Dutchess County's Black community by shopping and dining at these local, tourism-related Black-owned businesses.
The closing out of one year and the beginning of another is a great opportunity to set goals for the coming months. We know these past few years have been challenging. Take a moment to reflect on 2024. Did you accomplish the things you wanted? Whether you’ve been trying to get healthier, conquer a fear, or just tackle something new, it’s never too late. We’ve compiled a list of goals for 2025 that may help inspire yours!
With spirits soaring and holiday cheer all around, December truly is an enchanting time of year in New York’s Hudson Valley. Here in Dutchess County, there are plenty of attractions that will warm your heart and brighten your day. Here’s a look at some can’t-miss Dutchess experiences in December.
Let the countdown begin! New Year’s Eve is one of the most fun and festive nights of the year, and here in Dutchess County, we are ready to pop the cork, pour the Champagne and toast 2025 in grand fashion. Here is a list of 25 can’t-miss, alphabetically listed New Year’s Eve hot spots and uniquely Dutchess experiences (including a few that are kiddo-friendly). So, get out and celebrate!
When the clock strikes midnight on New Years Eve, raise your glass and cheers with one of these local pours. Dutchess County is home to some wonderful wineries, offering a variety of sparkling beverages perfect for the occasion.
The holiday shopping season is upon us, and Dutchess County is the perfect destination for unique gifts, artisanal food, specialty products and memorable experiences. Our staff is sharing their favorite places to purchase the perfect presents.
It's the most wonderful time of the year, and several of Dutchess County's most popular holiday attractions are hosting sensory-friendly events so that everyone can experience the magic of the season here in the heart of New York's Hudson Valley.
The popular annual Sinterklass Festival in Rhinebeck will not be held in its entirety in 2024, but there will be a handful of related events to help keep the tradition alive this holiday season.
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