Northern Dutchess County has become a popular home-away-from-home for many families and professionals who have moved from surrounding urban areas. Many homeowners are second-home buyers; they enjoy the small-town atmosphere without leaving the benefits of big-city life behind. Small towns such as Pine Plains, Stanford, Clinton and Milan dot the natural landscape, drawing new residents every year.
Rhinebeck, home to the county fairgrounds, is a popular community with its picturesque village, upscale stores and many diverse restaurants. Rhinebeck residents can take a Sunday drive through rolling farmlands or shop the day away at trendy shops in the Village. Even as new residents and businesses arrive, Rhinebeck, which is just minutes from the Hudson River, continues to honor its history and culture.
The Beekman Arms, America’s oldest continuously-operated hotel, is one of Northern Dutchess County’s primary landmarks. Its 59 rooms and suites are uniquely decorated in the Colonial style. Residents may also catch a glimpse of a World War I-era plane flying overhead. The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, which houses a large collection of antique aircraft, has air shows on most weekends from June to October. The museum also has tours and biplane rides.
The feeling of nostalgia extends into the charming village of Red Hook. The “Historic” Village Diner, located in Red Hook along Route 9, maintains its original design as a railroad dining car, and many residents and travelers stop in to enjoy the food and hospitality. Red Hook is also the home of Bard College, a well-established liberal arts college.
Many residents commute to Kingston across the Hudson River, which is easily accessible from Northern Dutchess County. Northern Dutchess County also has outstanding school districts that provide students with a quality education focused on providing individual attention and a nurturing environment.
Between one hamlet and the next in Northern Dutchess County, you can find miles of scenic farmland and country homes, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, Christmas tree farms, glacier-formed swimming lakes, fishing streams, glimpses of yesterday and glimmers of tomorrow.
Did you know?
The Beekman Arms in Rhinebeck is considered the oldest inn in America.
The streamside path called “Poets Walk” located in the 120-acre Poets Walk Park in Annandale-on-Hudson was named to honor Washington Irving and other literary figures who could be seen strolling there.
The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a “living history” museum featuring one of the country’s largest collections of early aircraft.
The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts on the Bard College campus is a modern design by Frank Gehry. Built in 2003, it is clad in stainless steel so that it appears to glow in the sunlight and on cloudy days blends into the sky.
The Dutchess County Fairgrounds is located in Rhinebeck.