Fall in Love with Dutchess County, NY

Walkway Over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie

Now part of the Empire State Trail, experience the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park in Poughkeepsie. This historic former railroad bridge is the longest elevated pedestrian walkway in the world and provides panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains, majestic Hudson River and vibrant colors of the fall foliage. Enjoy the 1.28 mile journey across by bicycle, on foot, or on the new wheelchair accessible electric tram, as the Walkway welcomes people of all ages and abilities, as well as pets.

https://walkway.org/

Stissing Mountain, Pine Plains

If you’re looking for a steep hike with a big payoff, this is it! And even after you’ve made it to the top, bolster up the courage to climb your way up the Fire Tower for gorgeous autumn views. Fun fact: most of the region’s towers top off around 60 feet, but the Stissing Mountain Fire Tower reaches 90 feet, high above the treetops. The extra height makes for some amazing views of Thompson Pond, surrounding fields, and distant mountains.

http://stissingfiretower.org/

Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck

A visit to Dutchess wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the county fairgrounds for one of the many signature fall events.

· Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest (Sep 11-12): Taste the bounty of New York from wines, distilled spirits and craft brews to gourmet specialty foods.

· Handcrafted Octoberfest at Rhinebeck (Oct 2-3): Bring home the Hudson Valley’s best handcrafted, artisanal, and agricultural goods from wearable fine craft and laudable fine art to the region’s best brew, wine, specialty foods and apothecary goods.

· Barn Star's Fall Antiques at Rhinebeck (Oct 9-10): Seek out vintage gems of fine art, antique jewelry and more.

· NYS Sheep & Wool Festival (Oct 16-17): Celebrate the Northeast’s thriving sheep industry with crafts, demos and workshops. Fiber fanatics looks forward to the annual fleece sale.

Fishkill Farms, Fishkill

Cultivate lasting memories picking your own seasonal produce at local farms. Fishkill Farms has been in the Morgenthau family for over 100 years. Their homegrown organic vegetables and eco-certified fruit are grown on 270-acres with a seasonal pick-your-own operation, featuring sustainably grown apples in the fall. A true tree-to-bottle operation, Treasury Cider is made at Fishkill Farms using 80 varieties of apples grown on 50 acres. A unique taste made by the Hudson Valley climate and soil, these ciders are drier and less sweet but maintain bold apple flavors and aromas. The farm hosts Fall Harvest Festivals each weekend through September with live music and fall activities including a corn maze and hay rides.