Explore Dutchess County, New York, as a family for your next summer trip! The Hudson Valley’s summer season offers many events and activities for travelers of all ages.
Breathtaking views await on hikes destined to make memories. Cross the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie—the world’s longest pedestrian bridge—for a stroll or bike ride above the mighty Hudson River. Cool off in a large natural cave during a hike to Dover Stone Church in Dover Plains or conquer the highest peak in Dutchess County at Brace Mountain in Millerton. Cross the Appalachian Trail off your bucket list in Pawling. Want the perfect family photo? How about a hike alongside adorable alpacas and llamas at Clover Brooke Farm and Lilymoore Farm.
Ready to watch a movie under the stars? Stay overnight at retro wonderland Four Brothers Drive-In in Amenia, which comes complete with two vintage airstream campers available for booking and a mini-golf course. Plus, “The Grand Shack” delivers food right to your vehicle. You can also catch a flick at Overlook Drive-In Theatre in Poughkeepsie, which boasts the largest screen in the tri-state area.
Spend an evening watching a New York Yankees farm team, the Hudson Valley Renegades. Kick the weekend off with a bang: Heritage Financial Park hosts fireworks (select nights), live music, a beer balcony featuring Juice Bomb and other Sloop Brewing Co. draught pours and games for the kids between innings.
Embark on the newest sweet tooth trail to hit the Hudson Valley with our FREE Dutchess Tourism Confection Finder mobile passport. Discover farm-fresh frozen treats at Zoe’s Ice Cream Barn in LaGrangeville and Kelly’s Creamery in Dover Plains, plus vegan donuts at Peaceful Provisions and beautiful bonbons at Håkan Chocolatier in Beacon. (Find more fun with 8 mobile passes here.)
Enjoy the golden sun on Gilded Age estate lawns: Vanderbilt Mansion and Staatsburgh State Historic Site offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of some of Hudson Valley history’s wealthiest residents. See free concerts at both sites June-August.
Cool off at America’s biggest little waterpark, SplashDown Beach. Plunge into adventure with slides and rides like the Humunga Half-pipe, Bullet Bowl and the new Pelican Bay Water Playground, or relax with young -kid-friendly lazy rivers, wave pools and pirate ships. The Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum on the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie is full of interactive exhibits for children, and a great option for rainy days.
Don’t miss the iconic Dutchess County Fair Aug. 20-25 for live music, rides, animal encounters and the famous Hudson Valley Fresh DC Agricultural Society’s milkshakes (among other fun “fair fare”). Drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, it’s the second-largest county fair in New York State and one of the oldest, celebrating 178 years in 2024. Stay for the Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival Aug. 30-Sept. 1, and watch hundreds of colorful balloons take flight over Tymor Park.
Long-lasting memories start with a simple plan. Visit dutchesstourism.com/summer to start creating your vacation itinerary.
