CAMPUS ITINERARY: MARIST COLLEGE

DUTCHESS COUNTY is home to several renowned institutions that offer top-tier educations, but that’s the tip of the iceberg. Hidden on these scenic campuses are breathtaking works of art, panoramic views of the Hudson and must-see events. 

Before stepping onto the gorgeous campus at Marist College, fuel up for the day with an artisanal breakfast. Kelly's Bakery in Poughkeepsie serves up delicious breakfast sandwiches, elegant tartines and creative pastries. Kelly's is helmed by an alumn of The Culinary Institute of America. Looking for a classic diner breakfast? Eveready Diner in Hyde Park is just a short drive from Marist and provides the perfect retro Americana setting for a satisfying meal.

For one of the prettiest walks along the Hudson River, visit Longview Park at the edge of Marist College’s beautiful campus. It is open to the public and an amazing amenity for Marist students. The path leads down to a pair of charming boathouses that serve the college's rowing team. Did you know? The Poughkeepsie Regatta was held off the shore of Marist College from 1895 to 1949 and was a pivotal win for the men’s eight team that won gold for the United States in the 1936 Summer Olympic Games in Berlin (recently depicted in George Clooney’s 2023 film The Boys in the Boat).

Alternatively, just off-campus find Quiet Cove Riverfront Park. This Dutchess County park similarly grants visitors with unparalleled access to the Hudson River. Picnic tables invite al fresco dining while patio decks jut out over the water. Play a rousing game of pickleball at their ADA-accessible courts.

No visit is complete without a souvenir, or several. Shop at Mporium, a boutique run entirely by Marist fashion merchandising students. Browse curated collections of items featuring top trends in the marketplace and one-of-a-kind designs. 

For lunch, Lola's is a Marist College classic. With a little something for everyone, Lola's bowls, salads, paninis and wraps are great for dine-in or a grab-and-go picnic. For those craving pizza, their sister restaurant Lolita's specializes in Italian dishes with creative flair. (Note, Lolita's is only a lunch option on weekends as it opens at 4 p.m. during the week). There's even a menu item named after the college at Lola's. It also sits a few steps away from the entrance to the Walkway Over the Hudson, making this spot well-worth the short trip off campus. The Walkway is the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge and grants a bird's-eye view of the Poughkeepsie waterfront.

If you're visiting in the summer, best to coordinate your trip with the New York Stage and Film Festival - held right on campus. This has been a showcase for emerging and established artists since 1985, including the 2023 world premiere of the theatrical work Like They Do in the Movies, written and performed by Laurence Fishburne. Catch future Broadway smashes or experimental off-Broadway fare as it's being developed. Many workshops have led to major productions starring significant actors. 

Craft beverage aficionados are in luck, Marist is conveniently located within reach of several spots for sips. Mill House Brewing Company is a fan-favorite, offering a wide variety of styles from kolschs and cucumber cream ales to stouts and saisons. There are fewer spots more picturesque for a pint than the rooftop at Zeus Brewing Company. Saturdays only, taste different takes on mead at Slate Point Meadery. Or, book a tour and tasting at Dassai Blue Sake Brewery for the highest-grade premium sake made in America.