Poughkeepsie is located on the Hudson River in Dutchess
County, in Downstate New York's scenic Hudson River Valley and was chartered in
1854. Due to the area's natural beauty, it soon became a weekend playground for
New York’s elite, including the Astors and Vanderbilts, during the twentieth
century. Today, Poughkeepsie has a diverse economy supporting its 75,000
residents.
The locale is a paradise for outdoor recreation, home to the
Culinary Institute of America and Vassar College. Some events and attractions
including the Waterfront Market, Street Fairs, Music Festivals, Outdoor Concert
Series and Art Festivals. Poughkeepsie boasts several notable institutions for
arts and entertainment.