Top 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Dutchess County

Maybe we're a little biased, but we believe Dutchess County has it all! From art and history, to food and outdoors, there’s so much beauty to be captured in this area. One of the reasons we love Instagram so much is because it’s a great way for people to snapshot their travels and experiences and share them with friends, family, and followers. Here are some of the most Instagrammable places in Dutchess County!
 

Dia:Beacon:

Located along the Hudson River, Dia:Beacon presents Dia Art Foundation's renowned collection, comprising art from the 1960s to the present. This 300,000 square-foot facility located on the Hudson River depicts interesting works from artists including Louise Bourgeois, Dan Flavin, Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt, Agnes Martin, and Richard Serra, providing the perfect place to snap photos.

 

Culinary Institute of America:

This beautiful campus sits along the Hudson River, showcasing breathtaking views. But let’s be honest, what people really visit the CIA for is the food! Dining at one of the CIA’s four restaurants is always a treat. Not only are the meals delicious, but they truly are a piece of art. We’d argue it’s some of the most Instagram-worthy food in the country.

 

Bard College:

This liberal arts college founded in 1860 sits on a 600-acre campus overlooking the Hudson River and is home to the Bard Conservatory of Music, the Richard B. Fisher Center of Performing Arts, and Montgomery Place – a 380-acre estate adjacent to the main campus and overlooking the Hudson River. Montgomery Place is a designated National Historic Landmark set amid rolling lawns, woodlands, and gardens, against the spectacular backdrop of the Catskill Mountains. It’s no wonder people love taking photos here!

 

Marist College:

Yet another Dutchess County college that nestles along the Hudson River. Located right on campus, Longview Park overlooks a scenic stretch of the Hudson River along the Marist waterfront.

 

Mt. Beacon:

A popular hike among locals and visitors alike, this is definitely one that will leave you breathless – both from the incline and the views! Sitting at over 1,500 feet above sea level, the summit provides gorgeous views of Beacon, the Hudson River and the Mid-Hudson Bridge. Many people even snap photos of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway ruins that can still be seen at the top of the mountain. And if you haven’t had enough, you can continue hiking another mile from the summit to the newly restored Mt. Beacon fire tower. They say on a clear day you can see from New York City to Albany!

 

Vassar College:

This thousand-acre campus includes renowned architecture, 200 species of trees, two lakes, Shakespeare Garden, ecological preserve, and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Dutchess County Fairgrounds:

Many people from near and far are familiar with the Dutchess County Fairgrounds because of the major events held there each year, which include the Dutchess County Fair, Country Living Fair, New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival, and more! Each event providing a unique experience for attendees.

 

Vanderbilt Mansion:

This National Historic Site located in Hyde Park is known as the Gilded Age home of Fredrick William Vanderbilt, and one of the largest in the area. The 54-room mansion sits on 211 acres of land overlooking the Hudson River. From its luxurious interior to its picturesque grounds, there’s no surprise this property made the list. When you visit, make sure you check out the iconic view from the overlook!

 

Walkway Over the Hudson:

At 1.25 miles long, and 212 feet high, this makes the Walkway the longest elevated pedestrian walkway in the world! Since it reopened in 2009, the Walkway has quickly become one of Dutchess County’s most popular attractions, providing magnificent birds’ eye views of the Hudson River, Catskill Mountains and adjacent landscapes. 

 

The Roundhouse:

Beacon has become a Dutchess County epicenter for art, food, and scenery, making it no surprise that The Roundhouse has become one of the most popular places to stay in the area. Whether it’s at weddings, enjoying Chef Brennan’s amazing menu, or admiring the beautiful Beacon Falls, there are countless photo opportunities at The Roundhouse.