When it came to picking a local staycation in the Hudson Valley, we opted for Hyde Park, New York in Dutchess County. This town offers a seamless blend of presidential history, elegant estates, culinary craft, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or curious foodie, Hyde Park offers a refreshingly rich escape just a few hours from New York City. For us in Orange County, NY it was only a 1 hour drive.
Noting here that many food spots here were in Poughkeepsie, NY which was about 10-15 minutes away from Hyde Park.
Let’s first dive into our 2 and a half day itinerary:
Day 1:
Check-In at Inn at Bellefield, Hyde Park
Grabbed coffee and pastries at Anna et Pierre, a cafe down by the Poughkeepsie Waterfront overlooking the Walkway Over the Hudson.
Visited the FDR Museum and Library - (Hyde Park, NY)
Grabbed lunch at Rossi & Sons - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Grabbed a drink the the hotel’s restaurant and bar: The Storyteller
Day 2:
Breakfast the the hotel
Grabbed more coffee at Ready Coffee - (Hyde Park, NY)
Walkway Over the Hudson - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Lunch at Lola’s Cafe - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Tour of Dassai Sake & Sake Tasting - (Hyde Park, NY)
Visit Fika & Hygee - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Pizza at Herbs & Dough - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Day 3:
Breakfast the the hotel & Check-Out of Hotel
Grabbed more coffee at Kelly’s Bakery - (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Tour of Vanderbilt Mansion - (Hyde Park, NY)
Lunch To-Go at Eveready Diner - (Hyde Park, NY)
On the Road to next stop on our roadtrip
Diving deeper into some of the top attractions that make Hyde Park a must-visit in the Hudson Valley:
Hotel: Stay at the Inn at Bellefield
📍25 Old Vineyard Place, Hyde Park, NY
For an hotel experience that matches the region's warmth and elegance, the Inn at Bellefield Hyde Park offers contemporary comfort in a beautiful setting. Located near all major attractions - and directly across the street from the Culinary Institute of America, the Inn features spacious suites.
Including key amenities:
Full size kitchens (pantry, stovetop, dishwasher, fridge)
Complimentary breakfast daily: Pastries, fruits, eggs, bacon/sausage, hot coffee/tea
The Storyteller lounge & bar on-site: Local wines, craft beers, spirits, cozy indoor ambiance and an outdoor fire pit. All with thoughtful design touches inspired by the area’s heritage.
24-hour fitness center with Peloton bikes, TechnoGym equipment, free weights, ellipticals, treadmills.
Other on-property perks: free Wi‑Fi, complimentary parking, EV charging, laundry/dry cleaning, convenience store, digital check‑in & mobile key.
The Inn at Bellefield is also close by to not only the Culinary Institute of America, but also Marist College, Vassar College, and Bard Colleges.
One thing I would have liked here is a pool, but they have some really exciting expansion plans in the work that would include a property with a pool and spa. Really looking forward to seeing it soon!
Attractions & Museums:
🏛 Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library & Museum
Step into the legacy of one of America's most influential leaders. The FDR Library and Museum is not only the first presidential library in the U.S., but also a captivating look into the life, leadership, and lasting impact of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Walk through interactive exhibits, tour the Roosevelt family home, and explore beautiful grounds that once hosted world leaders.
🌉 Walkway Over the Hudson
Spanning over 1.2 miles, this scenic pedestrian bridge is the longest elevated walkway in the world. Once a former railway bridge, it's now a spectacular spot to walk, jog, or bike while soaking in panoramic views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley. The Walkway connects Highland and Poughkeepsie and is especially stunning at sunset or peak fall foliage.
Did you know they also have a free tram and for the kiddos offered my son a free sticker!
🍶 Dassai Blue Sake Brewery
A fresh addition to Hyde Park's culinary scene, Dassai Blue is the brand's first U.S. sake brewery and tasting room. Visitors can enjoy premium sake flights in a modern, serene setting, and even tour the facility to see how Japan's iconic beverage is crafted right here in the Hudson Valley. Pair it with seasonal sushi bites or attend one of their sake-and-food pairing events.
🏰 Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
Transport yourself to America's Gilded Age at this stunning Beaux-Arts estate overlooking the Hudson. The Vanderbilt Mansion offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of one of America’s wealthiest families. With expansive gardens, centuries-old trees, and striking river views, the estate is as much a natural retreat as it is a historical site.
🍕 Local Flavor: Eateries Worth Visiting
Rossi & Sons Deli
📍45 S Clover St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
An authentic Italian rosticceria since 1979. Think hearty paninis, hot Italian classics like chicken parmigiana, and imported pantry staples. Lauded for its “highest Italian culinary standards in Hudson Valley”. If you’ve never been, get their signature “Number 4” sandwich. Pictured here is the Muffaletta.
Herbs & Dough
📍11 Marist Drive, Poughkeepsie, NY
They offer inspired pizza and pasta dishes, that turn ordinary Italian fare into everyday extraordinary. The pizza and dough was light and airy with an incredible crust, definitely recommend.
Lola’s Café
📍131 Washington St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
A beloved community spot offering hearty breakfasts, lunch fare, and catering services. Serving fresh wraps (we got the Thai Chicken Wrap - so good!), salads, and panini for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. Known for home‑cooked flavor and warm hospitality.
Fika & Hygge
📍21 Raymond Ave Suite B, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
A charming Scandinavian café in nearby Poughkeepsie, blending coffee, Swedish candy, and the cozy Swedish concept of “fika.” Enjoy a cardamom bun (from Kelly’s Bakery) and latte in a bright, hygge‑inspired setting.
Anna et Pierre
📍10 Dutchess Landing Rd #2A, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
A refined French bakery and café offering artisan breads, pastries, and light fare—perfect for breakfast or afternoon indulgences. Perfect view of the Walkway Over the Hudson bridge.
Kelly’s Bakery
📍110 Delafield St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
A local bakery known for fresh breads, pies, and seasonal treats—great for grabbing a sweet pick‑me‑up or stocking up on baked goods.
Eveready Diner
📍4184 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, NY 12538
A classic retro diner on Route 9 in Hyde Park. The go‑to for bottomless coffee, fluffy pancakes, and traditional diner comfort food in a nostalgic atmosphere. We got the Club Sandwich which was very good!
Overall, I had such an amazing stay in Hyde Park and Poughkeepsie. This region is the perfect blend of rich history, scenic beauty, and local charm. From walking in the footsteps of FDR to tasting world-class sake and enjoying riverside views from the Walkway Over the Hudson, there’s no shortage of meaningful experiences here. The food scene is a delicious mix of cozy cafés, local bakeries, and standout spots like Rossi’s and Lola’s that truly showcase the flavors of the Hudson Valley.
What stood out most was how welcoming and family-friendly everything felt. Whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or solo, Hyde Park and its neighboring towns offer something for everyone—educational attractions, relaxing green spaces, and spots that feel just like home. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already thinking about when I can return.