Poughkeepsie & The Hudson Valley
A Beautiful Area, Rich in Culture and Activities
Our beautiful and private 65 acre campus is located on the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York – an integral part of the historic Hudson Valley region and only a 90-minute train ride from New York City’s Grand Central Station via the Hudson Line. The local area has a great balance of city and nature. There are plenty of things to do while remaining private and safe.
Many top-tier colleges, research facilities surround Oakwood, attracting many businesses and organizations. The surrounding towns of Beacon, Cold Spring, Hudson, Middletown, New Paltz, Newburgh, Nyack, Rhinebeck, and Tarrytown are filled with rich American History and beautiful state parks. There is a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing. With a short forty minute drive north, one could also be skiing and snowboarding on some of the best mountains the USA has to offer.
Peppered with vineyards and farms, the Hudson Valley is well-known for great wine and apples! It is no wonder the nickname for New York is the The Big Apple; New York is the second-largest apple producing state in the USA. Drive-in movie theatres are also a past time of the area. Locally we have two of the last 348 movie theatres that are left in the entire country.
There are plenty of great restaurants, shopping, and attractions just a short walk away from campus; including the Poughkeepsie Galleria Shopping Mall, equipped with a 24 theater cinema. In walking distance is Oakwood Commons which includes Starbucks, Tea Talk bubble tea, frozen yogurt, 5 Guys, pizza, Sushi, Chinese takeout, cafes, and much more. There are several super markets located a short distance from campus. Within easy walking/driving distance of the campus are several hotels for the convenience of visiting families. One exit south on I-87 from Oakwood, one can find Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley. With over 220 stores, it is one of the largest outdoor shopping center of designer outlets in the world. The area also hosts many highly-rated restaurants that have been founded by graduates of the world renowned Culinary Institute of America.
When stepping off the train at the Poughkeepsie station, take a moment to enjoy the newly renovated waterfront area, a five minute walk away. A great attraction at the waterfront is the Walkway Over The Hudson – an old railway bridge that has been converted into a pedestrian walkway.
Check out Dutchess County in 360 before you get here!
Notable One-Of-A-Kind Places
At The Bardavon Opera House in Poughkeepsie built in 1869 is a great place to see a magical performance. The historic opera house presents theater, concerts, famous singers and comedians, and dance performances.
The Dia:Beacon is an art museum on the Hudson River that receives great praise for its collection that spans the 1960s to the present. The Dia rivals the best modern art museums New York City has to offer.
The US Military Academy at West Point is the oldest military academy in the United States founded in 1802. Guests can walk the paths of generals while touring one of the oldest and most famous military academies in the USA. Highlights include the Cadet Chapel, Hudson River views at Trophy Point, a museum of military history and art, and major sporting events with their longtime rival the Naval Institute.
Mohonk Mountain House located across the Hudson River 30 minutes from campus is a landmark resort. Featuring a fairytale-esque 265-room Victorian castle, it was built in 1869 at the top of the Shawangunk Ridge. Surrounded by breathtaking views, forests and winding trails, the resort offers fine dining as well as activities like golf, swimming in Lake Mohonk, fishing, boating, hiking, and guided rock climbing.
Some Fun Major Annual Events
Dutchess County Fair
New York Renaissance Faire
Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival
NYS Sheep and Wool Festival
Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest
Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival at Boscobel Mansion
International Pickle Festival
Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
Sinterklaas Festival – an old Hudson Valley Tradition
Countless Street Fairs, music events, and Festivals for every season and every fruit throughout the year!
More info about Poughkeepsie / Hudson Valley tourism:
