Page 22 - Dutchess Tourism 2023

20
DUTCHESS COUNTY DESTINATION GUIDE
SOUTHERN DUTCHESS
See & Do
Settled by the Dutch in 1714, Fishkill was home to one of the largest colonial military encampments during the Revolutionary War. Today, the walkable Main Street of its central village is dotted with bars, restaurants and shops. Family fun is also found in Fishkill at SplashDown Beach water park, whose wet ’n’ wild rides are ready to keep the kids cool and content on hot summer days.
Nearby Wappingers Falls has exciting new restaurants as well, along with a selection of unique and interesting shops and other businesses. Live concerts and the annual holiday tree lighting happen at Mesier Park. Experience a show at County Players at the Falls Theatre, celebrating 66 years of community theater.
Southern Dutchess has been a magnet for artists and creatives of all kinds. Anchoring Beacon’s reputation as a thriving center of the arts is Dia Beacon, one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums. Main Street has several art galleries, like the Marion Royael Gallery, the BAU Gallery and the Clutter Gallery. At Hudson Beach Glass,
beautiful artisan glassware is made and sold in a renovated historic-firehouse-turned-shop. Check the Howland Cultural Center’s calendar for a slew of special events in music, theater, dance, poetry, fine arts and more. From blues, folk and jazz to rock and bluegrass musicians, there’s no telling who’ll take the stage at the legendary Towne Crier Café.
Mesier Homestead and Museum, Wappingers Falls
© @KRISTENLOWE_ART
Bannerman Castle, Beacon