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.