Peekskill New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Peekskill, New York.
1. Paramount Hudson Valley Theater
HISTORIC LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Paramount Hudson Valley Theater stands as a beautifully restored 1930s venue hosting concerts, plays, and film screenings in downtown Peekskill. Audiences enjoy an eclectic lineup from major national acts to regional performances in an ornate, atmospheric setting. The theater anchors the city's arts scene, drawing visitors to its vibrant historic district.
2. Hudson Valley MOCA
CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM
Hudson Valley MOCA is a dynamic museum dedicated to contemporary visual arts, featuring rotating exhibitions by established and emerging artists. The space offers thought-provoking installations and hosts community-engaging educational events and workshops. This museum is a cultural gem for art enthusiasts in Peekskill.
3. Peekskill Landing Park
SCENIC WATERFRONT PARK
Peekskill Landing Park provides sweeping views of the Hudson River with walking trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds. Visitors can watch boats glide by, fish from the piers, or take a leisurely riverside stroll. The park serves as a tranquil retreat within the downtown area.
4. Lincoln Depot Museum
CIVIL WAR RAILROAD HISTORY
The Lincoln Depot Museum commemorates Abraham Lincoln's 1861 train stop in Peekskill and explores the city's Civil War era legacy. Exhibits showcase artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations that bring history to life. The museum is located in a restored 19th-century train depot along the Hudson River.
5. Fort Hill Park Historic District
HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD TRAILS
Fort Hill Park Historic District features leafy walking paths winding past preserved 19th-century homes and Civil War-era fortifications. This residential neighborhood north of Main Street showcases diverse architecture and seasonal blooms. It's an ideal location for a heritage walk and local history exploration.
6. Blue Mountain Reservation
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HAVEN
Blue Mountain Reservation offers more than 1,500 acres of wooded terrain ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and nature observation. With multiple trail loops of varying difficulty and scenic overlooks, it's a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park also features picnic areas and a sportsman center.
7. Peekskill Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE EXHIBITS
Peekskill Museum preserves the city's rich history through engaging exhibits on industry, local culture, and notable residents. Housed in the historic Herrick House, the museum offers guided tours and educational programs year-round. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the story of Peekskill.
8. Riverfront Green Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GREEN SPACE
Riverfront Green Park features wide lawns, paved walking paths, and an amphitheater with seasonal music events. Families enjoy playgrounds and riverside seating while bird watchers take in views of local wildlife. The park is a centerpiece for waterfront recreation in the city.
9. Bear Mountain State Park
HUDSON VALLEY LANDMARK
Bear Mountain State Park lies just a short drive from Peekskill and is famed for its scenic hiking trails, Perkins Memorial Tower, and panoramic river views. Visitors can enjoy a lake, picnic facilities, and a small zoo within the sprawling parklands. The park is especially popular in autumn for leaf-peeping and year-round for outdoor adventures.
10. National Register Historic Districts
ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOURS
Peekskill's National Register Historic Districts include both the vibrant commercial downtown and the elegant Fort Hill residential neighborhood. Guided or self-guided walks reveal beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, quaint shops, and historical markers. These districts are perfect for those seeking architectural beauty and Peekskill's storied past.
11. Shopping
DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES & MARKETS
Shopping in Peekskill centers around the walkable downtown area, featuring specialty boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. Notable stops include Bruised Apple Books & Music for rare finds, Peekskill Coffee House for gifts and treats, and the Peekskill Farmers Market for local produce and crafts. Visitors enjoy discovering unique goods and meeting friendly shop owners along Main and Division Streets.
12. Dining
CULINARY HOTSPOTS & CAFES
Dining options in Peekskill range from chef-driven restaurants to cozy cafes, offering global flavors and local favorites. Highlights include Birdsall House for craft beer and gastropub fare, The Hudson Room for sushi and live music, and Ramenesque for inventive noodle dishes. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse menus and vibrant culinary scene throughout the city.
13. Hiking
TRAILS AND SCENIC VIEWS
Hiking in Peekskill is highlighted by Blue Mountain Reservation, with its extensive network of trails suitable for all skill levels. Nearby, hikers can also access the Appalachian Trail and Bear Mountain's Perkins Memorial Tower for breathtaking vistas. Local favorites like Depew Park and Anthony's Nose trail offer additional opportunities for nature walks and Hudson River overlooks.
14. Fishing
HUDSON RIVER ANGLING
Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line at the Peekskill Landing Park, Riverfront Green Park, and along the Hudson River waterfront. These locations offer access to bass, catfish, and migratory shad, making them popular with both casual and experienced anglers. Local shops provide bait and tackle, ensuring a convenient and rewarding day by the water.
15. Camping
NATURE GETAWAYS NEARBY
Camping options near Peekskill include Blue Mountain Reservation with rustic sites and group camping, as well as the nearby Croton Point Park offering tent and RV accommodations by the river. Bear Mountain State Park provides additional overnight possibilities for those seeking a wilder forest experience. These campgrounds are ideal for relaxed weekends immersed in nature just minutes from the city.