Destinations are Open!
Most MAP Pass destinations are open with modified COVID-19 requirements. Some destinations require Timed-Entry Reservations, made outside of the Library’s reservation system, in addition to using Library’s Pass. Always check Destination’s website before visiting for hours, changes, and COVID policies.
MAP Passes to Museums, Attractions & Parks
MAP Passes, offer free or reduced admission to 50 cool places, and are available to Poughkeepsie Public Library District residents* who are 18 or older, with an email address and no fines. *Passes to FDR Presidential Library & Museum are available to all Mid-Hudson Library System patrons.
Book up to two (2) passes for the same day to combine visits to nearby venues. These may be local places or destinations on getaway trips to the Adirondacks, Albany, Berkshires, Boston, CT coastline, Danbury or Hartford, NYC, Springfield, and Vermont.
Always confirm hours and visiting information on destination’s website.
Failure to cancel a pass you do not use may result in suspension of pass privileges.
Pass Types: Printable passes, called Print on Demand. Physical passes, called Pick up/Return.
Print on Demand pass: Reserve for day of visit and marked “Closed” when Destination is closed. Print pass when reserving at home or contact the Library to print it for you after reserving pass. Take the printed pass to entrance on specific date printed on the pass.
Pick Up/Return pass: Reserve for day of pick up and marked “Closed” when Library is closed. On holidays venue may be open, but Library closed, so reserve a day early. Check out pass (inside pouch) for three (3) days including pick-up date, day to use pass, and day to return.
• Library card barcode must match reservation at check-out.
• Return to library branch where checked out, and you may use Book Drop to return.
• A $5.00 per day fine if returned after due date (okay to use drop box after closing time).
• If not returned within one week, pass is considered lost, and a replacement cost fined.
When Reserving: Under destinations, click on “Request Pass” to open into reservation system. Reserve up to 60 days in advance. Under the date, find destination and request. You’ll need library card’s barcode. Follow the prompts. You’ll receive confirmation email and a reminder email 2 days before a reservation. You may add a Text reminder. For Print on Demand passes, select “Print Pass” to print from home and bring to destination on date printed on pass.
Cancelling a Pass Reservation: Use “My Passes” button on the TixKeeper Reservation page by logging in with your library card barcode, and clicking on the pass to cancel, or call the Library. If reservation is in 24 hours or less, “My Passes” directs you to call the Library to cancel for you. Failure to cancel a pass, so that others may use it, may result in a suspension of reservation privileges.
Questions? Call the Reference Desk at (845) 485-3445 x 3702.
Check out other FREE or reduced admission destinations within the Hudson Valley and beyond that do not require a MAP Pass!
Jump to Pass By Destination Name:
Print on Demand – Open Late May – Columbus Day
Explore Online: collections, exhibitions, and
Half Price Admission – Two Options to Select: 50% off for 2 adults and all children 17 and under; OR 50% off for up to 4 adults. Age 5 and under are always free. 50% prices: ages: 0-5 free, age 6-17 $6; students w/ID $6, age 18-64 $10; 65+ $9. Library Pass users do not need to make Timed Reservation Tickets online. Please show either the ADX MAP Pass on your mobile phone (from emailed reservation “Pass Info”) or the printed MAP Pass at the Visitor Center. If possible, they would like you to show your PPLD Library Card, too. As Internet access is spotty in the Adirondacks, you may wish to make your MAP pass reservation in advance, and print out. Hours are 10 AM – 4 PM.
Two Adirondack MAP Pass Destinations: The Wild Center & Adirondack Experience passes may be reserved for the same day, weekend or week. 32 miles apart.
Accessibility & Animals: Wheelchairs, wheeled walkers, and strollers are available on a first come. first serve basis. Service animals are welcome. Dogs or emotional support animals are not permitted.
Address: 9097 State Route 30, Route 28N & 30, Blue Mountain Lake, NY (193 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-352-7311
Albany Institute of History & Art
Print On Demand – Open All Year
Admits: 2 adults and 2 children (under age 18). Library Pass users do not need to register for timed advance tickets. All visitors, whether vaccinated or not, must wear facial masks and social distance. Safety Guidelines may change, so check their website, here. The Museum Cafe is temporarily closed. Check their website for current exhibitions, events calendar, and exploring the Museum from Home.
Guides & Maps: Museum Map and Gallery Guide (Hudson River School exhibition). Family Guides are available. Learn about the collections and current exhibitions.
Museum from Home: Includes art activities, exploring virtual exhibitions like their 3D tour of Hudson River School paintings, Galleries Plus, scavenger hunt, online resources, and the museum’s YouTube channel.
Accessibility: Galleries and public spaces are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for use at the admissions desk.
Parking: Free parking is available on a limited basis in their parking lot at the corner of Dove and Elk Street. On the weekend, there is plenty of free parking available on the adjacent streets.
Hours: Open Wed. – Sat. 10 am – 5 pm and Sun.12–5 PM.
Closed: Mon. & Tues. and holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.
Address: 125 Washington Ave., Albany NY 12210 (80 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-463-4478
Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
Print on Demand – Open All Year
Admits: The pass-holder and four family members, for a total of five guests (plus children 12 and under free) per library pass with required Timed-Entry.
Reservation made in advance on their website under “Visit.” Click on either “Purchase Tickets” or “Timed-entry tickets or reservations required.” Select Date, Ticket Type “Member/**Free/Child” for free admission, Time Slot, and enter Quantity and click the “Buy it Now” button. Next, enter your contact information, and click on the “Continue to Payment” button at No Charge, and then click on “Complete Order” to finalize your ticket reservation. Follow their “Visitor Code of Conduct and Safety Precautions” and “Tips for Visiting,” under “Visit.“ There is a 15% discount museum store with the member Library Pass. Free parking, elevator, strollers permitted, no café, and coat check is closed. Before visiting, please check website, or call (203) 438-4519.
Restrictions: The Library Pass is not eligible for special events exceeding general admission cost (requires non-members to pay a fee) or for members-only events.
Hours: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM every day but Tuesdays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Holidays Open: Open these holidays, so Print on Demand passes from Home and go – Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Columbus Day.
Closed: Tuesdays and New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Address: 258 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877 (56 Miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 203-438-4519
Print on Demand – Open Daily All Year 10 AM – 4 PM
Covid-19 Policies & FAQ: Everyone over age 2 must wear a facial mask, unless you have a medical condition. If you do not have a mask, one will be given to you. Policies & FAQ list all the safety and cleaning protocols, visitor requirements, and information to plan your visit. A stylus pen is given to each visitor for touch screen exhibits and visitors are asked to follow the one-way directions in the galleries. If capacity reaches a limit in an exhibit, staff will ask you to wait before entering.
Admits: Four (4) people for free admissions (any age) when you present the Library Pass at the Box Office. Additional tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or online at the regular price: Adults (ages 16-64) $28; Seniors (ages 65+) $23; Youth (ages 5-15) $19; Children (under age 5) are free.
Library Pass Holders do not need a timed-entry reservation as they will accommodate if capacity is limited due to Covid. Pass is valid for 10% off any photo purchase at “HOOPSHOTS” Photo Center. Pass is not valid for special events. Check their calendar to avoid or plan around any closing of exhibits due to special events held on the day of your visit.
To Shoot on Center Court: If you wish to participate in shooting on Center Court, please wear appropriate footwear (subject to change, so check website or call). No games of any kind, and no half court shots for everyone’s safety at this time. Staff will provide a sanitized clean basketball to be used by your group, if you wish to shoot hoops.
Restrictions: Backpacks and large bags not allowed in the museum unless needed for a medical reason. Food or beverages may only be consumed on the public concourse or any of the on-site restaurants, but are not allowed in the museum’s exhibits.
Dining & Restaurants On-site: There are restaurants in the Naismith Hall for Fame for dining on-site, and also nearby Springfield Riverfront. Some offer pre-ordered Box Lunches by contacting Hall of Fame for sales at (413) 231-5513. For Lodging and Dining information on their website, click here.
Hours: Open daily all year, 10 AM – 4 PM, except for holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Always check website to see if they modify hours open due to Covid. Check this calendar for early closings of the museum or a particular exhibit for any special events.
Address: 1000 Hall of Fame Ave., Springfield, MA 01105 (124 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 1-877-446-6752
Print on Demand Grounds May 1 – Oct. 31 Daily + All Yr. Galleries & Special Events
Note: Leonhardt Galleries’ Winter Hours Tues – Sun. 11 am – 3 pm; Many Special Events held all year.
Admits: Four (4) Adults for free, with children under the age of 12 free, from May 1 – Oct 7 for the date of your Library Pass reservation. Grounds are free Tuesdays and Oct. 10-31. Present the Library Pass at the Garden Shop when you arrive, and stay as long as you want. Admission includes 24 acres of gardens, art in the galleries and grounds, self-guided audio tour, a free group tour at 11:00 AM each day June 1st – Sept. 1st (departs Visitor Center), and use of buildings and bathrooms. Masks required inside buildings. Picnics are allowed.
Maps & Garden Shop: Garden shop has snacks, beverages and gifts. See a Map of the Garden. View a Garden album.
Restrictions: No Smoking on grounds. Special events may require admission fees or tickets, and not accept library passes, such as the annual Harvest Festival, Oct. 8 & 9. Picnics are permitted. Only dogs that are registered service animals are permitted.
Accessibility: The Garden’s 20 acres are generally wheelchair-friendly. Many paths are accessible. Terrain varies and some gardens are only accessible by stone steps, with viewing areas. Reserve a wheelchair by calling (413) 320 – 4794. Garden seating available.
Tours: Two types of tours included with admission. A self-guided audio highlights 21 places in the garden. A free group tour is at 11:00 AM each day June 1st – Sept. 1st, and will depart from the Visitor Center.
Open: Open May 1 – Oct. 31, from 9 AM – 5 PM daily, plus open for special events year around (see left sidebar), such as annual events, workshops, Winter Lecture, Spring Bulb Show, and some are free and some require admission. Free Tuesdays, and Oct. 10-31. Library pass May 1 – Oct. 7. Oct. 8 & 9 requires tickets for the annual Harvest Festival.
Closed: Nov. 1 – April 30, except for workshops, Holiday Market, February Winter Lecture, Spring Bulb Show three weeks in March — these and any events noted on the BBG website. Some special events are free, and others may require admission or tickets purchased online.
Address: Routes 102 & 183, Stockbridge, MA 01262 (68 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 413-298-3926
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults, 2 children (under age of 18), and children 3 and under free, with a Timed Entry Reservation made by calling the Berkshire Museum’s front desk at (413) 443-7171, ext. 360 to arrange a “Library Pass Reservation” on the date you’d like to visit, and reserve an available time. Timed visits include 20 minutes in the aquarium, and 25 minutes for the current special exhibition. Please follow their Face Covering Policy, which includes facial masks for everyone 2 and over, and social distancing. Museum does not provide facial masks. Note that when open they close to clean mid-day: 1 hour (1:00 – 2:00 PM) on M, Th, F, Sat. and on Sun. 30 min, 2:00 – 2:30 PM.
Explore from Home: Explore the museum’s digital collections, virtual exhibitions, and virtual events from your home. In addition, also explore Objects & Their Stories, WeeMuse Programs, and Resources & Tools for educators. To start exploring, click here.
Highlights: Due to the museum’s founder, Zenas Crane, the Museum has a broad and varied collection of over 40,000 objects from virtually every continent, including important fine art and sculpture to natural science specimens and ancient artifacts. There are Hudson River School paintings, an aquarium, and a “wide cross-section of the world’s wonders” and artifacts from American history. For more “About” the museum, click here.
Hours: Open year around on Mon., Thurs., Fri., Sat.: 10 AM – 5 PM, with 1 hour closure to clean 1:00 – 2:00 PM; and Sundays: Noon – 5:00 PM with 30 minute closure to clean 2:00 – 2:30 PM.
Closed: Tues. & Wed., and Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day.
Address: 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA 01201 (75 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Parking: Free and paid public parking near the museum.Learn more.
Phone: 413-443-7171
Print on Demand – Open now through December – includes Mansion
Admits: One adult plus three guests of any age for free (under age 4 is free). This pass includes access to the grounds and seasonal exhibitions, plus a tour of the Historic House Museum as available. A Timed-Entry Reservation for the Guided House Tour or Guided Grounds Tour must be made in advance. Tours fill up quickly (4 tours a day limited to six people) and can be reserved before 5 pm the day before the Tour.
Reserve your Library Pass then go to Boscobel’s Events page on their website. Scroll down to the Tours section, and select guided tour type: “Guided House Tour” or “Guided Grounds Tour”. Click the “Read More and Buy Tickets” button under the Tour you want to go on. Using the same date you reserved the Library Pass for, select tour time (10, 12, 12:30, 2:30). Enter the code for Library Pass Members (on ticket instructions) as MEMLIB21. House Tours require vaccination and masks.
Gardens & Grounds: 68 acres of gardens and grounds, including an apple orchard, formal garden and herb garden. Picnics are carry-in, carry-out. From their Great Lawn, enjoy Boscobel’s unparalleled view of the Hudson River, Constitution Marsh, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The Frances Stevens Reese Woodland Trail of Discovery offers hikers a tranquil mile through the forest, with river views. Restrooms are at the Visitor Center.
Open: Friday – Monday, 9 AM to dusk, except for special events held Tues – Thurs, such as Artist Days for visual artists to register for free on Artist Days.
Closed: Tuesday – Thursday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and January – mid-April.
Address: 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY, 10524 (22 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-265-3638
Bronck Museum | Bronck Family Farmstead, Houses, and Barns
Pick Up and Return at Adriance – Late May – Mid. Oct. Tours; Events All Year
Admits: 2 Adults and 2 Children (children under 5 are free). For a guided tour, reserve the MAP pass, make a required Tour Reservation on the Bronck Museum website for the same date, and then check out the reserved Bronck MAP Pass from the Adriance Reference Desk. The 1 hour guided tours take place Wed.- Fri. (12 PM, 1:30 PM, and 3 PM); Sat (10:30 AM, 12 PM, 1:30 PM, 3 PM) and most Sundays (1 PM and 2:30 PM). At the Reservation calendar, fill in the “Quantity” for your group, click on the same date of reserved MAP Pass to select a tour time for your group size, and complete the reservation. A picnic area and restrooms are available. Masks and social distancing are required.
Bronck Family & Farmstead: The farm land was purchased in 1663 from the native Mohicans. For 276 years, and seven generations, Pieter Bronck’s, and his wife, Hilletje Jans’s descendants passed the farm directly from father to child, until 1939 when it was willed to become the Bronck Museum. To learn more about the Bronck Family & Farmstead.
Bronck Houses & Barns: This site contains the oldest surviving home in update New York, and the oldest multi-sided barn, with 13 sides. The Bronck Museum complex consists of the 1663 and 1738 dwellings, a kitchen dependency, a Northern European side-aisle barn, a thirteen-sided hay barn and several Victorian agricultural buildings. Learn more about the dwellings and barns at Bronck Houses & Barns.
Events, Newsletter & Restrictions: While many lectures are free, the Library Pass is not valid for special ticketed events which require a ticket purchase. Lectures and Special Events are held all year, see website for details, sign up to receive their emailed newsletter and event updates.
Open: Wednesdays – Sundays, seasonally from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day (may extend beyond), except for holidays.
Closed: Mondays, Tuesdays, Memorial Day, July 4th, Columbus Day, Labor Day, and usually Columbus Day to Memorial Day weekend when new season reopens.
Address: 90 County Route 42, Coxsackie, NY 12051 (50 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-731-6490
Print on Demand
Admits: Four people for free admission and unlimited rides on The Bushnell Park Carousel (Hartford, CT) and to the New England Carousel Museum (unlimited carousel rides) and Museum of Fire History (Bristol, CT) about 30 minutes away.
Highlight: The 1914 vintage carousel, with 48 hand carved wooden horses and two chariots that swirl around a booming Wurlitzer band organ, is housed in a 24 sided pavilion in Bushnell Park in downtown, Hartford, CT.
Hours: Bushnell Park Carousel only: January: Sat. & Sun, 11 – 5 PM; February & March closed; April – June: Sat. & Sun, 11 – 5 PM; July – August: Wed – Sun, 11 – 5 PM; Sept – Nov: Sat. & Sun, 11 – 5 PM; Dec.: Wed – Sun 11 – 5 PM.
See Hours for New England Carousel Museum and Museum of Fire History here.
Closed: Bushnell Park Carousel only: January, M-F. All February & March. April – June, M-F. July-August, Monday & Tuesday. Sept – Nov, M-F, and Dec. Monday & Tuesday. Christmas Day & New Year’s Day. Closed during severe weather.
Address: 1 Jewel St., Hartford, CT 06103 (98 miles from Poughkeepsie).
Address for New England Carousel Museum and Museum of Fire History is 95 Riverside Avenue, Route 72, Bristol CT 06010.
Phone: 860-585-5411
Chesterwood | Home & Studio of sculptor Daniel Chester French
Print on Demand Thurs. May 5 – Mon. Oct. 24, 2022
Admits: Two (2) Admissions, plus children ages 12 and under are always free with a recommended Timed-Entry Tour Reservation Booking on their website for the date of the library pass, then selecting Guided or Self Guided Studio Tour or Grounds Pass, Tour Time Slot, and entering the Promo Code in all caps: POUGHPASS at checkout for each of the two passes that pop up below at no charge (free may be applied to adult, youth, senior or military tickets). Enter children (under 13 free) or additional ticket purchases. Arrive 20-30 minutes early to park, check-in, use restrooms and walk to Studio by tour time. Show admissions staff your library card, library pass reservation (either printed or displayed on a mobile device), and your online timed-entry reservation. Walk-ins reservations depend on availability. Download maps and guides from your emailed confirmation. Masks are optional. Plan your visit to book a tour.
About Chesterwood: Situated on 122 acres, Chesterwood is the country home, studio and gardens of America’s foremost sculptor of public monuments, Daniel Chester French (1850-1931), creator of the Minute Man and Abraham Lincoln for the Lincoln Memorial. Non-service dogs are not allowed on property. Download the property map.
Watch & Listen: View videos about Chesterwood, Daniel Chester French, or his daughter, sculptor Margaret French Cresson, and more. See sidebar links to articles, the studio, residence, collection, resources and more.
The Studio: Built in 1897, Daniel Chester French’s studio boasts a 28-foot-high ceiling with a reception room, casting room, workspace and unique railroad track system to view works in natural light. Today, it is filled with hundreds of French’s plaster models and tools, including the original 10′ model for the famous Lincoln Memorial statue. Includes virtual highlights of the studio to view, and more information under
The Residence: Visit web page for more details regarding the nine-bedroom residence, which was designed by Henry Bacon, and completed in 1901. In 2022, the historic residence is currently closed for touring due to renovations.
Grounds Only Pass: Explore the landscape and enjoy the stunning Berkshire mountain views, stroll through the formal gardens, venture onto the Woodland Walk, veer off to climb the Ledges Trail, and end with a picnic on the tables in the former apple orchard. Starting July 1, 2022, the annual outdoor contemporary show will be on view on the grounds. Note Restrictions that the Grounds Only ticket does not allow entry into the Studio or the permanent collections at the Barn Gallery.
Restrictions: No food or beverages sold, but you may bring a picnic. The PPLD Library Pass does not apply to special events. See their calendar for many special events and exhibitions.
Hours: Open Thursdays – Sundays, 10 AM – 5 PM, from Thurs. May 5 to Mon. Oct. 24, 2022. Chesterwood will be closed until it reopens in early May, 2023.
Physical Address: 4 Williamsville Rd, Stockbridge, MA (70 miles from Poughkeepsie.) It is just off Route 183 in the Glendale section of Stockbridge, MA.
GPS Address: Follow these directions as Chesterwood advises that Google maps and some GPS systems’ directions are incorrect and will lead you to single-lane dirt roads.
Phone: 413-298-3579
Children’s Museum of Science and Technology – Temporarily Closed due to Pandemic. Will Re-Open.
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults and all dependent children under the age of 18.
Restrictions: Does not apply to discounts on birthday parties.
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day.
Address: 250 Jordan Road, Troy, NY 12180 (85 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-235-2120
Print on Demand – Open Weekends Starting July 3rd & 4th, 2021 from 10am – 4pm. Grand Reopening Weekend Only — Free Entry & Train Rides for Everyone July 3rd & 4th!
Admits: Free general admission for 6 people. Children under 3 are free. Facial masks or face coverings are required in the museum, and aboard the trains, even if you are fully vaccinated. See all COVID-19 Protocols on their website, here. Open Sat. & Sun. only, 10 AM – 4 PM, which may change later. No timed entry reservations. Some areas have capacity limits. Not valid for free admission if special events, then $1 off per person in group. See website for special events & price. Trains are not wheelchair accessible due to age. Train rides, if available, are an additional charge. Water fountains and interactive exhibits are closed. Model train layouts now have foot pedal controls, and not push button controls.
Restrictions: Not valid for free admission on days there are special events at a special price. On special event days, the pass holder will receive $1 off Event Admission for each member in their party. Water fountains and interactive exhibits are closed.
Train Rides: Train rides, when available, are an additional charge, except when advertised differently.
Hours: Open weekends, Sat. & Sun., 10 AM – 4 PM, starting July 3rd & 4th, 2021. Open July 4th holiday in 2021. Check their website or call to see if Train Rides are available weekends.
Closed: In 2021, Closed until July 2nd. Reopening July 3rd for weekends only until further notice. In past years, they were closed on these holidays — not sure for 2021: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Easter, July 4th, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day.
Address: 120 White Street, Danbury, CT 06810 (43 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 203-778-8337
Print On Demand
Admits: Two (2) Adult tickets at discounted price of $15.00 each with PPLD Library Card OR Two (2) $ 5.00 Student tickets for (must show PPLD Library Card and current Student ID) OR a combination of 1 Adult ($15.00) and 1 Student ticket ($5.00).
Instructions: Confirm show schedule prior to reserving through our MAP Pass system. From MAP Pass reservation system, select your date and process your MAP Pass reservation as normal, then call the Theatre Box Office to Reserve Your Tickets for Date and Time of Performance. Reservations for these discounted tickets must be made prior to arrival by calling the Box Office at: (845) 303-4136. Check in at Box Office at least 30 min. prior to performance (You will need to show your PPLD Library Card. n No printed tickets are required from the Theater). Seating is available 30 minutes prior to showtime. All seating is OPEN SEATING. Out of respect to audience, once the performance has begun, there is NO LATE SEATING.
Box Office Hours: Wednesday through Saturday: Noon – 5:00 PM and an hour prior to performances, Wed – Sat, open at 7:00 PM; Sundays, open Noon – 2:00 PM. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00 PM, Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM.
Information or questions: please call (845) 303-4136 or visit denizentheatre.com
Address: Located in back of the Water Street Market, 10 Main Street, Suite 501, in New Paltz, NY. (12 Miles from Poughkeepsie)
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Print on Demand – Open All Year!
Admits: 2 adults and 4 children (ages 1–18), and children under 1 year are free, with HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Reserved Admission Tickets that you select Date & Timed Arrival on the Museum website, here. Library Pass users select the date, select the 3 hour time block for entering the museum, and under Adult Member or Children Member, enter the number of each, and present tickets with the PPLD Library Pass at check-in. They may sell out in advance, so plan ahead. If unable to reserve online, call 413-559-6301. Due to limited capacity, advance tickets are strongly encouraged, but allow limited walk-ups. At the Admissions Desk, you may sign up for Art Studio time or an Art Activity Kit. Carle Cafe offers healthy food vending machine snacks, free coffee, and a place for eating food you bring in, but does not have a restaurant. Follow their current Visitor Guidelines for facial masks, social distancing, and other requirements, click here.
Exhibitions: The Carle hosts seven original shows a year, showcasing a variety of artists, themes and styles. To see what is on view currently in their three galleries, as well as upcoming exhibitions, several online exhibitions, and past or traveling exhibitions, click here.
Museum at Home: “If you can’t come to The Carle, let The Carle come to you.” They offer a variety of online events, programs, and resources from Home, click here.
Art Studio or Art Activity Kits: The Art Studio is open and takes one family or group at a time. Visitors sign up at the Admissions Desk. Art Activity Kits are “to go” for visitors who do not take an Art Studio spot. Request one at the Admissions Desk. You may take them home, or use them on-site at Bobbie’s Meadow, a picnic area.
Virtual Tour: Explore a virtual tour of The Carle – a beautiful 40,000 square foot contemporary building set in an old apple orchard in Amherst in Western Massachusetts, looking out on the Holyoke Mountain Range, click here.
About The Carle: The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art inspires a love of art and reading through picture books. The Carle collects and celebrates picture books and picture book illustrations from around the world, with more than 11,000 objects, including 7,300 permanent collection illustrations, three art galleries, an art studio, a theater, picture book and scholarly libraries, and educational programs for families, scholars, educators, and schoolchildren. In 2002, Eric Carle and his wife, Barbara, co-founded the museum. Eric Carle is the creator of brilliantly illustrated children’s picture books, including his most well known title, The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
Hours: Thurs-Fri, 10 AM – 4 PM, Sat. 10 AM – 5 PM, Sun. 12 – 5 PM. Hours may vary with seasons. Check their website to confirm hours.
Closed: Monday – Wednesday, and these holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Address: 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 (135 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 413-559-6300
FASNY Museum of Firefighting – World’s Largest Firefighting Museum
Pick up and Return to Adriance – Open Year Around
Admits: 2 adults and 2 children (age 3-17), children 2 and under are free. You may walk-in with the PPLD FASNY Pick Up/Return Pass you check out from Adriance Library. Additional tickets, if needed, are $10 adults, and $5 children. Note that no large bags over 24 inches, no food, and no beverages. Museum is handicapped accessible. Interactive equipment for all ages is now available. Guided tours are pre-arranged for groups of 10 or more, at least 3 weeks in advance, for a fee.
Covid policies: Masks are not required if vaccinated; Masks are required for all, except age 2 and under, if not vaccinated. Museum Policies and Covid policy, is available available here.
Policies: Please follow Museum Policies, available here. Everyone must watch a short presentation before entering on how to protect the collection. No large bags over 14 inches allowed. No food or beverages allowed inside the museum, and none sold. They sell masks. Masks are not required if vaccinated. Masks are required for all, except age 2 if you are not vaccinated. All children ages 3 – 11 must wear a mask, as they cannot be vaccinated.
FAQ: An FAQ is available here.
Description: The Museum’s collection of over 20,000 artifacts, including 60 vintage fire engines, tells the story of firefighting and firefighters, spanning more than 300 years of history and firefighting heroes. Visitor’s experience the evolution of firefighting as told through the world’s foremost treasury of vintage fire apparatus, firefighting gear, equipment and historical works of art. Explore collections online here, and selected exhibitions here.
Hours: Wednesday – Sundays, 10 AM – 4:30 PM, with Gift Shop open until 5:00 PM. Open on Labor Day, but closed most holidays listed below.
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays, and Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day. They are open on Labor Day.
Address: 117 Harry Howard Avenue, Hudson, NY 12534 (44 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-822-1875
FDR Presidential Library and Museum – Reopened July 2021. Library Passes are currently suspended at this time. Tickets are available to purchase online here.
Available to all Mid-Hudson Library System card holders (with no fines or overdue materials)
Print on Demand
Admits: 4 adults. Children 15 and under are free.
Restrictions: Pass does not provide access to the Presidential Library’s Archives or Research Room, nor does it provide access to the National Park Service sites (Springwood/FDR Home, Top Cottage, or Eleanor Roosevelt’s Valkill).
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Address: 4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538
Phone: 845-486-7770
Florence Griswold Museum | Home of American Impressionism
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults, 2 children (ages 12+), and children under 12 are free with Library Pass at check in with a REQUIRED Timed Entry Reservation Booked in Advance under Tickets on Museum Website. Select Library Pass, enter Poughkeepsie Public Library District, select date and time, group size, read Visitor Code, provide names, etc., for contact tracing, and follow all steps until receiving confirmation. Book reservation weeks or days in advance (must be at least 24 hours in advance) as may sell out due to reduced capacity. Timed entry slots are 10 AM – 2:30 PM (last entry). Buildings close 4 PM. Grounds close 5 PM. Additional fee for special exhibits, such as the Wee Faerie Village event in October. Café Flo is available by reservations only (860) 434-5542 x 126. Entry Tickets not sold on-site. Facial masks required indoors and outdoors. Go to their website and book Tickets under Visit, click here.
Virtual Exhibitions: The current exhibition, Fresh Fields: American Impressionistic Landscapes from the Florence Griswold Museum ends Nov. 1, 2020, and is available virtually, as well as other current and past exhibitions, here.
Visitor Guide to Download: Printed guides are not available, but this guide may be downloaded to be used during your visit, and includes a map. Click on the image of the guide below to download.
Fall Wee Faerie Village Annual Event: Held Oct. 3 – Nov. 1, 2020, and closed on Columbus Day. See website for more information. Note that an additional fee for this annual special exhibit is an event surcharge of $5 for everyone over age 12 (even w/ Library pass), whether see faerie houses or not. Children 12 and under admitted free, due to grant.
Hours: Closed Mondays, open Tuesdays – Sunday. Buildings close at 4 pm for cleaning in 2020. Grounds close 5 PM. First timed entry reservation is 10 AM and last is 2:30 PM. Hours may change with season.
Closed: Mondays, and holidays, such as New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Columbus Day (in 2020), Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. During exhibit preparation, some buildings may be closed, and they will be noted on the website.
Address: 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT 06371 (118 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 860-434-5542
Gomez Mill House
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults/seniors and 2 children to a guided tour (Wed. – Sun. at 10:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm) to view House and Mill.
Restrictions: To view the House and Mill, you must be on a guided tour.
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays. Closed for special event Sept. 14 and 15, 2019. Last day open is Nov. 10, 2019, until re-open in mid-April, 2020.
Address: 11 Mill House Rd., Marlboro, NY 12542 (12 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-236-3126
Print on Demand
Admits: Two (2) adults and two (2) youths (13-17 years) for free. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Special events may require additional fee, see website for details, and their FAQ on visiting, with requirements, like wearing a facial mask in all buildings, social distancing, one way traffic areas, etc. No timed entry reservations needed due to large outdoor grounds.
Note: Twenty historic buildings on 750 bucolic acres, including the iconic Round Stone Barn, Visitor Center, 22,000 objects, a working farm, Seeds Market Café, a store, and hiking trails. The Discovery Room has activities for children. Audio tours for rent, $2. Specialty tours for fee, require reservation. Orientation video included. FAQ available. Download the Walking Tour Map.
Restrictions: As this is a working farm, no pets are allowed on the grounds. Service dogs welcomed. No tripods in historic buildings. Commercial photography requires advance permission. Wheelchairs use free and reserve by calling 413-443-0188 x 100.
Hours: May vary by season. Mid-April to late-June; 10 AM – 4 PM. July – October, 10 AM – 4 PM. November – December; Saturday and Sundays only. Includes some holidays.
Holidays Open: Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Columbus Day
Closed: January 1 to Mid-April (check website for opening day), and Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Address: Route 20 & 41, Pittsfield, MA 01202 (Located just west of the junction of Routes 20 & 41). (73 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 413-443-0188 or 800-817-1137
Hildene | The Lincoln Family Home
Pick up/Return at Adriance Memorial Library – Open All Year
Admits: 2 adults and 4 children (age 6 – 16) and children under age 5 are free using the two Hildene Passes that are laminated together. Additional persons pay full admission – $23 adult, $6 age 6-16. Present the Hildene Pass at the Welcome Center for admission stickers. No reservations required.
Visiting Information: includes Covid-19 policy, and currently masks are optional, but subject to change. See Accessibility Guide and Hildene’s Map.
Overview: The 412 acres includes Robert and Mary’s House and Gardens (self-guided tour; in summer/fall may offer guided tours again for an extra charge, may call to reserve), 1903 Pullman Palace Car Sunbeam, Hildene Farm Goat Dairy and Cheese Making Facility, Dene Farm with 1832 Hollow School and greenhouse, Animal Barn with variety of animals, 12 miles of trails, the Batternkill wetlands with a 600-foot floating boardwalk.
Picnics & Animals: Picnics on the grounds are allowed in designated picnic areas. The Museum Store also sells Hildene made cheese, and snacks. Sanitize your hands before petting the farm animals, and no hands in the animals mouths. Pets are not allowed.
Hours Vary as they may change with the season. Currently, Thurs. – Mon., 10 am – 4:30 pm (gates close), and this may change with the season.
Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving Day, December 24, 25, and 26. Temporary hours of operation may have Tuesdays and Wednesdays closed, so check their Hours.
Address: 1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, VT 05254 (135 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 800-578-1788
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum & Grasshopper Grove
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults and their children to both locations with REQUIRED Timed-Entry Reservation for Grasshopper Grove Nature Play Area at Outdoor Discovery Center, with full instructions for calling M-F (10-3 PM) to reserve at (845) 534-5506 Ext 201 (Rob Lipkin) for your timed entry for 45 minutes on Friday (4-8 PM), Saturday (10-2 PM), Sunday (10-2 PM), click here. The Wildlife Education Center (with Nature Museum, live animals and birds), is closed. Trails are open dawn to dusk – and are free. No pets on preserve. No bathrooms Grasshopper Grove. See Rules and Guidelines, such as wearing facial masks when interacting with staff and keeping social distance of 6 ft.
Grasshopper Grove – Nature Play Area: Information on making REQUIRED Timed Entry Reservations and FAQ, click here. Video description of the Grasshopper Grove, click here. Check out Grasshopper Home, a series of Nature Play activity videos inspired by Grasshopper Grove you can do at home.
EDventures!: Nature education videos on HHNM’s Facebook page, TikTok, and YouTube channel. If subscribe to YouTube channel, you never miss a video.
Trails: Free and open from dawn to dusk every day. For information, click here.
Wildlife Education Center (WEC): Info click here. Currently closed, and the Meet Animals & Birds at the WEC in person (Sat. & Sun) are not available. To see photos, click here.
Programs: See their website for when begin weekend events and if additional fees would be required.
Locations:
The Wildlife Education Center
25 Boulevard, Cornwall on Hudson, NY 12520
845-534-7781
The Outdoor Discovery Center
120 Muser Drive, Cornwall, NY 12518 (Entrance across from 174 Angola Road, Cornwall, NY)
845-534-5506
Hudson River Museum | Art, Science, History
Pick up and Return at both Library Branches – Open All Year
The Library MAP Pass Admits:
- 2 Adults and up to 6 children for free (to the Museum, Planetarium, and Glenview Home Tour). Present the Library’s MAP Pass at the museum entrance.
- 15% discount in the Museum Shop.
Covid Policy: All visitors 5+ must show proof of vaccination, or negative PCR test within 72 hours, and 18+ must also show a Photo ID. Visitors under 5 must be accompanied by an adult with proof of vaccination or negative PCR test, and Photo ID. Face masks are still required indoors for visitors older than two years old and for all staff members. Masks are optional in the HRM Courtyard.
Museum Highlights: Explore the Hudson River Museum’s current exhibitions, free performances outdoors in their Summer Amphitheater Series, and attend virtual and in-person programs posted to their Event Calendar.
By Train or Car: Visiting information, includes directions on “Getting There” by train on Metro North’s Hudson Line to either the local train Glenwood stop OR Yonkers express train stop. An FAQ, states there is a large free parking lot, wheelchairs are available for free, and baby strollers are allowed.
Hours: Thursday – Sunday, 12:00 – 5:00 pm with additional hours during free summer hours Friday & Saturdays, 5:00 – 7:00 PM for selected weeks, check their website.
Closed: Monday – Wednesday, and any holidays noted on their website, such as June 19, and July 4.
Phone: 914-963-4550
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Print on Demand – Open All Year with new Vaccination Policy
Admits: 2 adults & 2 children (free) plus half-price ticket cost for added adults ($18) or added children ($13) to Intrepid Museum, Submarine Growler, and Space Shuttle Pavilion with REQUIRED Timed Entry Tickets that you reserve free and any you purchase half-price for the same date & time you reserve the PPLD Intrepid Pass and bring your REQUIRED PPLD Library Card to show at entry. You will need to use the unique PPLD Member Link below to receive free tickets and half-price purchased tickets for other people in your group.
Steps To Arrange Required Tickets:
- First, reserve the PPLD Intrepid Pass for the date to visit.
- Next, use this unique PPLD Membership Link to reserve your free timed tickets for the same day as Intrepid MAP Pass.
- Read announcements for changes/closures, and any rules and policies.
- Select date of visit.
- Under “Who is Attending?” enter Library Members for free.(2 adults and 2 children free, with option purchase half-price Adult ($18) and half price Children ($13) nonrefundable tickets. Check out will show the discount.)
- Select arrival time:10 am-3:30 pm, last entry 4:00 pm, and they close at 5:00 pm. Stay as long as you want, no time limit. See Ticket Information for Added Enhancements below for other ticketed experiences not part of the Library Pass that you need to purchase in advance on their website separately.
- Review your ticket reservation and check out.
- Your tickets will be emailed, and you print them OR display on your mobile device with their REQUIREMENT that you show your PPLD Library Card.
- Bring facial masks for Intrepid Museum and Pier 86, and use the Express Members Line at entrance, and bring your PPLD Library Card to show with your tickets (printed or displayed on mobile device).
Follow their “Onboard with Safety” and “Visitor’s Pledge” which includes everyone must wear facial masks (exception for age 2 and under) at Museum & Pier 86 and more.
See Visitor Tips & Guidelines: Includes bag inspection, no coat or belongings checked, strollers in galleries, accessibility information, food service, photography guidelines, pets, and more.
Note: Some experiences will be temporarily closed during the initial reopening phase, but the vast majority of the 365K sq. ft. Museum is open
Growler Submarine & Exhibition: This line may close early.
Ticket Information for Added Enhancements: Purchase tickets for Concorde Experience, 4 Flight Simulator rides, Audio Tours (7 languages & variety of age levels), and 3-D Film (these are not included as part of the Library Pass admission).
Restrictions: Not eligible for Member events, programs or simulator rides. Guests under the age of 16 unaccompanied by an adult will not be permitted to enter the Museum.
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Last entry 4 PM) including Holidays, with exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas. Check Intrepid’s “Plan Your Visit” web page for notice of dates with early closure due to a special event or closure of exhibitions.
Address: Pier 86, West 46th St & 12th Ave., New York, NY 10036 (80 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: (212) 245-0072
Print on Demand – Mansion Tours with Pass (May 1- Oct. 31) & Gardens & Grounds Open Daily without Pass (April – Dec.)
Admits: 2 adults and up to 4 children, 18 years and under, to Guided Mansion Tours. Display your printed PPLD Locust Grove Pass at the Museum Gift Shop in the Visitor Center. If your family is larger than what the pass admits, admission is $15 per person. The Pass is not good for special events, or fundraising events, which require the purchase of tickets. Masks must be worn inside the Visitor Center, Mansion, and in all buildings, and when you cannot socially distance outdoors.
Locust Grove Mansion Tours: Tours are offered first come, first served, May 1 – Oct. 31 on the weekend. Tour group size may be limited depending on Covid-19. Tour times are Sat. & Sun., May – Oct, at 10:15 am, 11:30 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:15 pm. The Holiday Mansion Tours in December are not included with the Library Pass, as they are special events and have a ticket price.
Visitor Center, Museum Shop, Gardens, and Grounds: Open April – Dec., 10 AM – 5 PM, daily for free, donations are greatly appreciated to assist maintaining the grounds. You do not need the Library Pass to visit the grounds and gardens. Check in and out at the Museum Shop in the Visitor Center.
Accessibility: The Mansion does not have wheelchair access, but the gravel path to the Mansion is level. Stairs on Tour include: 7 steps to front door, 17 to second floor, and 10 to ground floor. Handicapped parking is available, and the Visitor center has an accessible restroom. Level gravel path to Visitor Center (100 ft), and to Mansion (300 ft.), and throughout the gardens and grounds.
Hiking Trails Map: Five miles of 19th century carriage roads and trails wind through forests and meadows. River beautiful views along Sawmill Trail, Cascade Trail or Shady Lane Loop.
Policies & Restrictions: All guests must check in and out at the Museum Shop in Visitor’s Center; Keep pets leashed and remove waste; Do not collect plants, flowers, wildlife, or artifacts; Picnic in designated areas only and remove all trash; No alcoholic beverages; No motorized vehicles or bicycles; No hunting or shooting; No sunbathing; No sports; No fires or barbecues; Purchase of a photography permit for any family, wedding or event photography is required.
Closed: Visitor Center, Grounds, and Mansion closed January – March, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Easter.
Address: 2683 South Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Phone: 845-454-4500
During Covid-19, No Discount Passes are Available
Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Pick up and Return at Both Library Branches
Reduced admission pass for 6 people at $2 per person discount off Regular Admission which includes both the Aquarium and one daytime standard IMAX movie on six-story screen. (Four daily movie selections, approx. 40 minutes).
Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas
Address: 10 N Water St., Norwalk, CT 06854 (62 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 203-852-0700
Print on Demand Open Daily July 1, 2021 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Admits: 1 adult OR 2 children admissions (age 5 & under always free) for free to guided Mark Twain House Tour with your purchase of 1 paid adult admission that library patrons arrange by calling the Museum at (860) 247-0998 (press 5) or Grace Belanger (860)280-3130 to arrange required Timed Entry Reservation Tickets for the same day you reserve the Library Pass. The Mark Twain House Tour (1 hour) with added time after for viewing the Museum exhibits, Ken Burn’s film, and gallery. The Ghost, Holiday, or Living History tours are not included with the Library Pass. Parking is free. Tickets are non-refundable. Tours limited to 9 people. Tours are 10:20, 11:20, 12:20, 1:20, 2:20 and 3:20. See Guide to Visiting, which includes wearing a facial mask whether you are vaccinated or not, no exceptions, and social distancing. If you don’t have a mask, they will provide one. For Visiting information, click here.
Virtual House Tour: A 3D virtual house tour is available, and also a guided tour, click here.
About the House: National Geographic named as one of the best top 10 historic homes in the world. First floor is wheelchair accessible. No elevator. There are 41 steps to top, and 40 down. Mark Twain wrote his four best known books over the 17 years in residence with his wife and three daughters. An historical interpreter will take you through the house while sharing stories about the family’s life and times. The house has been featured on the Syfy Channel’s Ghost Hunters and the Biography Channel’s My Ghost Story.
Hours: Open seven days a week, starting July 1, 2021, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (except for 8 Tuesdays in Winter and 6 Holidays). First Tour is 10:20 AM and last tour is 3:20 PM. No refunds if late. Tours sell out days in advance.
Closed: Tuesdays in January and February, and New Year’s Day, Easter, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Library Pass is not accepted the day after Thanksgiving and Dec. 26 (marked “None” available).
Address: 351 Farmington Avenue, Hartford CT 06105 (Set GPS for 385 Farmington Avenue for parking lot or 65 Forest Street for wheelchair entrance). (94 miles from Poughkeepsie).
Phone: 860-247-0998
MASS MoCA – Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art
Print on Demand – Open All Year with new Vaccination Policy
“MASS MoCA is one of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA is able to embrace all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification.” See why it is called a perfect art museum for kids and adults.
COVID Policy: Must show full proof of vaccination for age 12 and up, plus photo ID for 18 and up, and wear masks age 2 and up, see Policy FAQ for details and vaccination exemptions.
Admits: 2 adults and 2 children (ages 6 – 16) for museum admission only, and children under 6 are free. Present the printed Library Pass at the Box Office on the date of pass reservation. No timed-entry reservation is required for Library Pass Holders to enter the museum but some installations require a free separate timed-entry reservation you must book on their website in advance as they fill up quickly (see below). For questions, call the Box Office at (413) 662-2111 ext. 1.
The James Turrell: Into the Light exhibit (on view through 2025) requires a free timed-entry reservation. Make a reservation here. Please note kids must be 6 and older to enter James Turrell’s Perfectly Clear and Hind Sight. For Perfectly Clear, kids 6-12 need to hold the hand of an adult while inside the installation.
MassMoCA’s YouTube Channel: view videos of exhibits, performances.
Area Information: View list of hotels, dining options, and area parking map.
Hours and days vary seasonally: June to late-Sept. open seven days a week, 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Tuesdays starting late Sept.-May, and open Wed – Mon., 10 am – 5 pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Usually open Dec. 26 through New Year’s Day.
Address: 1040 MASS MoCA WAY, North Adams, MA 01247 (98 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 413-662-2111
Mohonk Preserve
Pick Up and Return at both Library Branches
Admits: One adult and children age 12 and under for free with an adult. Teens, age 13-17, may sign out an additional pass with a parent or guardian. Library pass holders pick up a day use wristband at Visitor Center or four Trailheads during 9 am-5 pm hours. The Visitor Center is open M-F 9 am-5 pm, and Sat. & Sun., 9 am-6 pm. Trailhead parking lots close and lock according to seasonal hours. Summer hours extended to 9 pm until Sept. 20. Autumn hours begin Sept. 21, check website. Read both sides of Mohonk Preserve Pass. Masks are required for all visitors at indoor facilities, including the Visitor Center.
Required: All pass holders must pick up a wristband in order to access the Preserve. To receive a day-use wristband, present the Library Pass at either Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center or any of the four Trailheads 9 am – 5 pm business hours. Read both sides of the pass, and Risk Waiver on back.
Hours: Preserve Lands are sunrise to one hour after sunset 365 days of the year and Visitor Center (9 am -5 pm) daily with exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve after 12 noon, and closed Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Parking: Please note that trailhead parking lots will be closed and locked promptly at 7 pm. Limited and on peak summer/fall weekends will fill up early. Car-pooling and use of long-term parking lots at Preserve’s Visitor Center and at West Trapps parking lot, located ½ mile and 1½ mile respectively from the intersection of Routes 299 and 44/55, are suggested. View this Map of Alternative Driving Routes for use during busy and peak weekends.
Note: While the pass does not provide admission to Mohonk Mountain House or Minnewaska State Park, you may hike on to either property approximately six miles from the Preserve’s trails, but you may not enter the hotel or use facilities.
Virtual Program Recordings: “Get into Nature – Online!” by viewing the playlist of their virtual program recordings virtual progam recordings that fall into these categories: Wildlife and Conservation, Recreation, Programs for Kids, and Mycology Webinars about mushrooms and fungi.
Visitor Center Address: 3197 State Route 55, Gardiner, NY 12525 (20 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-255-0919
Rules if Bring Your Dog: Allowed, but strict rules.
Motorcyclepedia Museum & Velocipede Museum
Pick up/Return at Both Libraries – Open All Year
Admits: 2 adults OR 2 people any age free and Children 6 and under are free. No timed entry reservations. If your group is larger than 2 people over age 6, admission rates are: Children 7-11 $5.00; Students $10; Senior, Veterans & Military $12; Adults $15. Museum is self-guided, handicapped accessible, with free parking. Mobility scooters are available. Please follow Covid-19 policies for facial masks, or social distancing.
Virtual Museum: Explore their online collection containing images of 600 motorcycles and more than 3,000 pieces of motorcycle memorabilia.
Note: Motorcyclepedia is the most extensive motorcycle museum in America, featuring 10 galleries in 85,000 square feet, with over 600 vintage motorcycles, from 1897 to today, with over 3,000 pieces of memorabilia, and three Motordromes, known as the Wall of Death. The Velocipede Museum is a showcase of velocipedes, boneshakers, bicycles and tricycles from the 1860’s to the 1960’s.
Restrictions: Large bags, back-packs and helmets must be stored in the Museum Lobby. Service animals are allowed. Food and drink not available for purchase.
Hours for Motorcyclepedia: Thursday evening, 5-8 PM, Friday – Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Open some holidays, check their website or call. Open all year.
Hours for Velocipede: Fridays, 10 AM to 3 PM, but check hours on website as they may change due to staffing.
Closed: Motorcyclepedia: Mon. – Wed. Velocipede: Sat. – Thurs. Check website hours to confirm, and for holiday closures.
Address: Motorcyclepedia is at 250 Lake Street, Newburgh, NY 12250 and Velocipede is at 109 Liberty Street, Newburgh, NY 12550. (18.5 miles from Poughkeepsie.)
Phone: 845-569-9065
Museum at Bethel Woods – Site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival
Print on Demand
Open daily April 3-Dec. 31
Admits: 4 persons to museum and special exhibits. Children 2 and under are free. If your group size is larger, additional tickets may be purchased onsite or online. No additional timed-entry reservation is needed. COVID-19 policies include facial masks and social distancing. The café is open 10:30 am – 2:30 PM; current menu on website. Please read Health and Safety policy and visiting information here.
Main Exhibit: The Story of Woodstock and the ’60s
Special Exhibits: Lights, Color, Fashion: Psychedelic Posters and Patterns of 1960s San Francisco
Outdoor Exhibits: The grounds, monument, and outdoor exhibits Bindy Bazaar Trails and Earth in Focus will open to the public daily.
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: Located 90 miles from NYC at the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival in Bethel, NY, the lush 800 acre campus includes a Pavilion Stage amphitheater with seating for 15,000, and intimate 440 seat indoor Event Gallery, the Museum at Bethel Woods, and Conservatory for arts education programming.
Open: Open daily 10 AM – 5 PM, April 3 – Dec. 31, 2021. Open holidays, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Closed: Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day but open all other holidays, such as Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veteran’s Day. Closed for the winter season, January – early April.
Address: 200 Hurd Rd., Bethel, NY 12720 (75 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-583-2061
During Covid-19, No Discount Passes are Available
Mystic Aquarium
Pick Up and Return at both Library Branches
Reduced admission pass: Admits 4 visitors at $4 off the general admission price, plus children 2 and under are free. Visit two free additional days when entrance tickets are validated before you leave, and used to return for the next two consecutive days. Online ticket purchases also at a discounted price. The seven passes, at each library branch, are courtesy of Mystic Aquarium.
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas
Address: 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355 (140 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 860-572-5955
National Museum of Dance – Temporarily Closed due to Pandemic. Will Re-Open.
Print on Demand
Admits: 2 adults and children (17 and under).
Closed: Monday
Address: 99 S Broadway. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (114 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-584-2225
New England Carousel Museum & Museum of Fire History
Print on Demand
Admits: 4 people for free admission & Venetian Carousel rides at New England Carousel Museum & Museum of Fire History (in same building in Bristol, CT) and admission for 4 to the (temporarily closed) Bushnell Park Carousel (downtown Hartford, CT) with unlimited carousel rides, about 30 minutes away. Please follow Covid-19 procedures, on their website, which include wearing a facial covering over nose and mouth and social distancing. Masks sold for $1. NECM offers guided tours Wed. – Sun., at Noon and 2:00 PM.
Accessibility: Museum has wheelchair accessible restrooms, an elevator, and a low vision tour.
Highlights: View over 100 years of carousel art and history throughout this 33,000 square foot building, including an operating Venetian indoor carousel. In the same building, the Museum of Fire History has firefighting and fire house equipment and memorabilia, with alarms to sound, levers to pull and uniforms to try on.
Virtual Tours: The museum offers a variety of virtual tours through Zoom. For more information, click here.
Bushnell Park Carousel: Temporarily closed with plans to reopen. This historic and spectacular carousel, created in 1914 by Solomon Stein and Harry Goldstein has 48 horses, 2 chariots and a wonderful Wurlitzer Band Organ. The Carousel turned 100 years old in 2014. NECM runs the carousel as part of its mission, “to preserve and protect antique wooden carousels and carousel pieces.”
NECM Hours: From Jan – Dec.: Wed. – Sat, 10 AM – 5 PM; and Sun., Noon – 5 PM. Monday & Tuesday by calling for an appointment (860) 585-5411.
Holidays Open: Open local school holidays, call to confirm.
Closed: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
NECM Address: 95 Riverside Avenue, Route 72, Bristol, CT 06010 (71 miles from Poughkeepsie).
Address for Bushnell Park Carousel is 1 Jewell Street, Hartford CT 06103, located inside the Pavilion in Bushnell Park.
Phone: 860-585-5411
New York State Parks Empire Pass
Pick Up and Return from all library locations
Admits: Valid for the pass holder and their occupants in one vehicle. The Empire Pass is valid at many New York State Parks. If pass unavailable, entrance fees vary between $6 and $10 per vehicle. Please see COVID-19 policies and access available to parks and activities, updated daily, on NY State Parks website. COVID-19 Update below, and check online if your destination is at capacity – as limited to 50% capacity, or have alternate plan ready if full when you arrive, visit: COVID-19 UPDATE
COVID-19 UPDATE: New York State Parks are currently open. If you intend to visit, please wear a face covering and maintain safe social distance. Park density limits are in effect, so have an alternate plan ready in case the park you are visiting reaches capacity, and check the website if capacity is reached. For information about the availability of restrooms (limited), parking rules, facilities, camping, swimming at 50% capacity at beaches, pool closures, road closures, and other activities, visit: COVID-19 UPDATE
For NYS Park Information, click here.
Phone: 518-474-0458
Norman Rockwell Museum l Home for American Illustration
Print on Demand – Open All Year
COVID Policy: Masks required over the nose and mouth for 2 and up. See their COVID-19 Update policy for updates.
Reduced Admission Pass: Admits 2 adults at a discounted rate of $10 each adult, and children 18 and under are free, with Library Pass either printed or displayed digitally on your mobile phone. Timed-Entry Tickets are recommended and can be reserved on the Museum website (see Ticketing Instructions below). Walk-ins are accepted. Your Ticket includes a 10% discount in the Museum Store. Runaway Café is open May-Oct., and has a covered outdoor patio with scenic views. Bringing your lunch for a picnic on the grounds is allowed.
Ticketing Instructions & PPLD’s Unique Promo Code:
- Click on “Buy Tickets” menu button.
- Next click on “General Admission Book” box, and select date and arrival time.
- Next, enter the number of Adults and Children.
- In the below box for each person’s ticket, see qualifying for a discount dropdown menu, and select “$10 – Library Pass Holder” and enter PPLD’s Library Membership Code: LIB112870.
- Next, enter LIB112870 for the other Adult Ticket box.
- Complete box(es) for Child ticket (18 and under free) with zip code.
- Complete form, entering lunch/café reservation, your zip code, and agree to health regulations.
- Click on “Add to Cart“ and now you can pay the discounted price for your tickets with a credit card.
Note: You may print the pass or display digitally on your phone from the email sent with PPLD’s Pass Reservation confirmation or text reminder, using the link, View Pass Info, to display.
Virtual Museum: Explore exhibitions, videos, and a variety of museum experiences.
Current & Upcoming Exhibitions: Check out the variety of on-site exhibitions.
Hours: Mon.-Tues, Thurs.-Fri.: 10 AM – 4 PM, and Sat. & Sun.: 10 AM – 5 PM. Closed Wednesdays.
Closed: Wednesdays, and Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day. May close the first week of January.
Address: 9 Glendale Road / Route 183, Stockbridge, MA 01262 (69 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 413-298-4100
Note: Nov. 1 – 25, 2021 the Main House at Olana is unavailable while the exhibition Cross Pollination is removed. The guided landscape tours and free access to the grounds is available.
Print on Demand – Open for House Tours & Outdoor Tours
Admits: 2 people (age 13 and up), and children under 12 free, for a 60 minute House Tour or 30/60 minute Outdoor Walking Tour. Library Pass holders must call (518) 751-0344 (Tues-Sun, 10 AM – 5 PM) to reserve a Tour Time and present PPLD Library Print Pass at Visitor Center.
Tours are 10 AM – 4:15 PM, Tues. – Sun., every 15 minutes (may change seasonally). Various Tours are described here. Pass is NOT valid for discount on Electronic Carriage Tours. Museum shop is 15% discount with Library Pass, credit card only.
Arrive to check in at Visitor Center 20 minutes before your Tour time. Reservations may be forfeited to a wait-list five minutes prior to Tour Time if you have not yet checked in.
COVID-19 Policies: Masks required for buildings and tours. Learn more about the policy here.
Maps, Videos & History: Maps, click here. Video landscape tours and history, click here.
Tour Changes & Weather: Olana reserves the right to cancel outdoor tours due to extreme weather. Reservations may be changed by calling (518) 751-0344 (Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 5:00 PM) or emailing tickets@olana.org.
About Olana: Olana was built in 1860 by Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900), a central figure in the Hudson River School of American landscape painters. He achieved international fame with paintings such as Niagara (1857) and The Heart of the Andes (1859). In 1966, David C. Huntington spearheaded a campaign to save Olana from imminent destruction, described in “Saving Frederic Church’s Olana.” To read, click here.
Grounds & Park: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset for free, with 5 miles of carriage roads and 250 acres. Self-guided audio tours of the landscape are available to download and play on smartphones and tablets, approx. 60 min. View Park Use Guidelines
Hours: Tours are Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 4:15 PM. Hours and days of the week change seasonally, so check their website. Museum Shop 10 AM – 5:00 PM.
Address: 5720 Route 9G, Hudson, NY 12534 (40 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phones: Ticketing and Information (518) 751 – 0344, and Main Office (518) 828-0135
Hudson River SkyWalk: Check out the Hudson River Skywalk, a pedestrian path connecting the historic homes and studios of Hudson River School artists Thomas Cole and Frederic Church. Both are MAP Pass destinations.
Print on Demand Open May1 – Oct. 31, with Air Shows Sat. & Sun., June 19 – Oct 17
Admits: 2 adults and 2 children (5 – 17), and children under 5 free with the printed Library Pass on the date of your Library Pass Reservation. Library Pass users do not need to call in advance or need advance tickets. If your group size is larger than the Pass covers, you will need to buy tickets for additional people. Follow safety guidelines or Covid-19 protocols on their website. Library Pass includes special events, and Sat. or Sun. Air Shows, when scheduled. Two different Air Shows every weekend from June 18 to Oct 17, 2:00 – 4:00 PM. The Saturday Air Show is History of Flight. The Sunday Air Show is WWI. A gift shop discount of 10% with Library Pass. Biplane Rides information and cost on website. Open daily May 1- Oct. 31, 10 AM – 5 PM.
About Museum: “Cole Palen founded the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in 1958 with a handful of airplanes and a dream. He built it into a world-renowned destination as America’s first flying museum of antique aircraft.” In 1993, it was established as a non-profit to continue Cole’s legacy. Their mission is preserving, restoring and flying the aircraft of the Pioneer, WWI, and Golden Ages of Aviation. For more information, click here.
Documentaries Online: There are two documentaries. To view “Destined to Fly” (2016 – 41 min.) on Cole Palen and Old Rhinebeck, click here. Also available, is the 1974 color documentary, “The Story of Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome WWI Planes “I Fly Them, I Fix Them, I Break Them” – click here.
Videos Online: YouTube has many videos and news stories, and about Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. To explore Old Rhinebeck’s own YouTube Channel, click here. For a fun video about their Air Shows, click here. CNN’s “You can Still See WWI Airplanes Flying” 100 years after WWI (2018 – 3 min.), click here.
Air Show Photos Online: 2021 Air Show photos are shared on the museum’s Facebook page, where this History of Flight show by Shawn Yost was shared, click here.
Collection Online: Use this link to explore the collection online. You may select the collection type and years for airplanes, including all types of Ground Vehicles, too. They are: Pioneer Era (1896 – 1913); WWI Era (1914-1918); Golden Age (1919 – 1940); and Ground Vehicles
Museum Collection in Four Buildings: The museum entertains, educates, and preserves 77 vintage aircraft, 33 classic antique automobiles and motorcycles, and related memorabilia in a classic small town airport with four museum buildings described below.
Pioneer Building: “It all begins in the Pioneer Building with the crude biplane hang gliders that inspired the Wright Brothers. Marvel at their historic “Flyers” and follow the decade of innovation with Bleriot, Curtiss and others. These men and their machines were “Magnificent.”
WWI Building: “Names like Fokker and Von Richthofen, SPAD and Rickenbacker, echo through the WWI Building. See how aircraft matured under the pressures of aerial combat. Aviation became an extension of knights in shining armor and the pilots the last of the single combat warriors.”
Golden Age Building: “Barnstormers spread flying across the country, Lucky Lindy flew the Atlantic, and little airplanes for private flyers became part of the roaring 20s and 30s. In the Golden Age Building you’ll find the WACOs, Aeroncas, Fairchilds, Taylors, and other great names of the era.”
History of Flight Building: “It all comes together in the History of Flight Building with our comprehensive exhibit of the aircraft, vehicles, engines, and memorabilia that make up our static display and compose a tribute to the glory of man’s conquest of the air.”
Saturday Air Show “History of Flight”: Highlights the Pioneer era before WWI, a WWI Show teaser, and the Golden Age of Aviation in the ’20s and ’30s. The stars are the historic airplanes including our 1909 Bleriot, the oldest regularly flying airplane in the Western Hemisphere; the Fokker DR-I Triplane, the most famous fighter of WWI; and a precise replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, which was the first aircraft to fly NY to Paris in 1927.
Sunday Air Show WWI Dog Fight Spectacular: There is a hero, a heroine (Cheer!), the villainous Black Baron of Rhinebeck (Boo!), scenery, pyrotechnics and a WWI tank. The supporting cast includes many antique automobiles.
Biplane Rides: They are not part of the Library Pass and have a fee. See their website for information on making reservations for 1929 Biplane Rides. They also offer Lighthouse and Lighthouse and Mansion Tours. Please call 845-752-3200 for details as the guidelines are subject to change.
Open: Daily from May 1 to Oct. 31, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Closed: November 1 to April 30.
Address: 9 Norton Road, Red Hook, NY 12571 (22 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-752-3200
OPUS 40 Sculpture Park and Museum
Print on Demand Open April – November
Admits: 2 adults and their dependent children to OPUS 40, with a Timed-Entry Reservation on their website’s “Plan A Visit.” Under Reserve Tickets, select date, 2 hour time slot, and under “Member” tickets enter up to 2 adults plus dependent children at no cost. If your group size is larger, purchase additional tickets. Upon arrival, show the Library’s Opus 40 Pass (printed or digital on phone) and your timed entry reservation. The two hour time slot is strict. Masks are required. Follow their COVID-19 Protocols and Policies. Picnics are welcome. Click here to view the map online. Printed maps are available. See their events on the website, which require reservations and full price ticketing, as member discounts to events do not include the Library’s pass.
Restrictions: No pets permitted, other than service dogs. No visits to start before or end past the timed-entry reservation time slot. At the very bottom of each web page is the “Covid Policy” link, below their address. Masks are required.
Note: Framed by a vista of the Catskill Mountains, OPUS 40 is a six-acre environmental bluestone sculpture built from an abandoned quarry by one man, artist Harvey Fite, over 37 years. Architectural Digest described it as “One of the largest and most beguiling works of art on the entire continent.” In addition, there are 55 acres of forest, meadow and former quarries dotted with pools, fountains, statutes and earth art; an outdoor performance space, a gallery and store.
Hours: Open mid-April through November (as weather permits), 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM and later for selected weekends and evening events during sunsets, with food, music or entertainment. April – May open Friday-Sunday, expanding to Thursday-Monday starting in June. Check the website for evening special events scheduled.
Holidays Open: Check their ticket calendar under Plan A Visit, to see open holidays this year. In past years, Opus 40 has been open on some holidays.
Closed: Usually from December to mid-April but may be open select days off season. Check their website.
Address: 356 George Sickle Road, Saugerties, NY 12477 (31 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-681-9352
Stepping Stones Museum for Children
Pick up/Return at Adriance
COVID Protocols: Masks will now be optional at Stepping Stones Museum for Children for all visitors.
Admits: One free admission with each purchase of one admission. A maximum of 3 free admissions. Price per person is $16 and seniors (62+) $12. Free for children under 1 year and active duty military personnel and their families within the same household. Special events may incur an additional fee. Check calendar for details. Parking is free.
Restrictions: May not combine pass with other discounts.
Hours: Monday Through Sunday from 9 AM – 5 PM. Check the website for changes or closings related to weather or other issues before visiting.
Closed: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Address: Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850 (61 miles from Poughkeepsie).
Phone: 203-899-0606
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms
Print on Demand
Admits: Two adults and all children up to age 18 in a household for free, guided outdoor Craftsman Farm Ground Tours with a REQUIRED Advance Reservation that can be booked on their website for the same date of the Library Pass. Select date, select tour time (12:45, 1:45, 2:45 PM), and enter number attending under “Members” for up to 2 Adults and all children under 18. Restrooms available in the Education Center, and masks required indoors. Indoor tours have been suspended. Museum Shop is available online only.
About the Craftsman Farms Grounds Tour: Outdoor Guided Tours are 40 minutes, held rain or shine. Please note the tour is on a paved surface, with steep grades at times and no seating is available. You’ll walk along the original Craftsman Farms entry road through the historic core of the property, for a tour of the landscape as well as the exterior of the Log House, cottages, and rehabilitated garage (now the Education Center). Exterior only. All buildings are closed to visitors at this time.
Covid19 Policy: Masks are not required if you are fully vaccinated and can stay six feet apart outdoors. If you are not vaccinated, they recommend you wear a face covering to protect yourself and those around you. Masks are required in buildings if you use the restroom in the Education Center.
Hours: Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for Outdoor Grounds Tours by Reservation Only at 12:45, 1:45, and 2:45 PM for 40 minutes. Restrooms available in the Education Center, with masks required indoors. Museum Shop is available online only. Hours will vary with season, and indoor tours will be added, so check the website for changes.
About Stickley’s Craftsman Farms: The only home Gustav Stickley designed and built for his own use. For information about Gustav Stickley’s life, as the creator of Craftsman Furniture, a visionary spokesman and proponent for the Arts and Crafts philosophy, and a major taste maker of his era.
Online Collections: Their online collections include images of objects, grouped collections for ceramics and glass, metalwork, furniture, textiles, and originals to Craftsman Farms, and it is also searchable. To explore the online collections, click here.
Virtual & Onsite Exhibitions: To explore the current virtual exhibition, onsite exhibitions, and upcoming and past exhibitions, click here.
Closed: Monday – Thursday. Closed on New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Address: For GPS use 5 Manor Lane, Morris Plains, NJ 07950. Street address is 2352 Route 10 West, Morris Plains, New Jersey 07950. (88 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 973-540-0311
Storm King Art Center – 500 Acre International Sculpture Park
Print On Demand – Open All Year & Varies with Season
Admits: Up to six family members in ONE vehicle, with children under 5 not counted. Show your MAP Pass on the date of visit at the vehicle entrance. Mask use is encouraged inside buildings, elevators, and restrooms. To learn more about visiting, see below and Plan Your Visit.
Map: A copy of this map will be given to you at the entrance.
Free Tram, Outdoor Cafe, Bike Rentals, Free Highlights Tour, and Free Audio Guide:
- Trams depart 10 minutes after the hour from the lower circle by the elevator below Museum Hill, and has six stops along the route each hour, with Map noting the hourly arrival time for each numbered stop.
- A free Highlights Tour is at 1:00 PM (Sat. & Sun.) for the first 25 people outside the Museum Building, (1 hour, no reservations).
- There is a free Audio Guide by texting STORM to 56512. The Map has a headset icon next to selected sculptures in the audio tour on the reverse side.
- There are food and beverage vending machines by the elevator by Museum Hill that also include face masks, bug spray, sunscreen, and during colder months scarves, hats and gloves.
- The Outdoor Café is open. Select from a locally sourced menu of sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks (including beer & wine). Credit cards only.
Beacon/Metro-North Shuttle to Storm King: A Shuttle Service from Beacon’s Metro North Station on Sat. & Sun. is available with TWO REQUIRED advance booking for both Shuttle ticket times (online purchase) & calling SKAC (845) 534-3115 (Press 0 Reception) to book timed reservation with Library Pass for free admission. For Shuttle only purchase, with PPLD Member Pass, select lower Round Trip Price for each Ticket purchased. See info and policies, click Schedule & Tickets.
About SKAC: Storm King Art Center is a 500-acre outdoor museum where visitors experience large-scale sculpture and site-specific commissions under an open sky, creating a dynamic place to explore art in nature. View collection here. See Storm King from a drone’s perspective here. Click About
Visitor Policies: The Map includes the list of visitor policies. A few important ones to note are:
- No smoking or vaping allowed on grounds.
- Face masks required in Museum Building, elevators, restrooms and Porta Johns, and social distancing.
- Picnic away from sculptures at the picnic tables provided by the Parking Lots, or use your blankets in those areas.
- Children must have adult supervision at all times.
- No sports, discs, skateboards, scooters, personal bikes, audible music, drones, climbing art, touching art, commercial photography, and pets.
- See website for service dog requirements.
Accessibility: Here are accessibility services available:
- Wheelchairs are available by request to staff, first come, first served.
- The Tram is in operation hourly, with a wider first row for more accessibility (must step up), with extra space for a fold up wheelchairs or strollers in first row priority seating, see map for Tram stops.
- Visitors who use wheelchairs may use the paved paths, indicated on the map, and staff may suggest routes to avoid steep terrain.
- For more information, see website’s Plan Your Visit, by clicking here and then click on the + sign under Grounds & Accessibility.
Winter Weekends: Winter Weekends are in Jan. – March, (Saturdays and Sundays), from 10 AM – 4:00 PM. The Tram runs, and paths are cleared.
Hours: Vary by season, and includes most holiday Mondays. Closed Tuesdays. 2022 season April 6 – early December. 2023 Winter Weekends Jan – March, before April opening. Check website for the most current hours.
Closed: Tuesdays, and other days or hours vary by season, so check website. Open many holiday Mondays. Storm King’s operating season is usually April – mid-December, and selected Winter Weekends in Jan. – March.
Address: 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, NY 12553 (25 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-534-3115
Thomas Cole National Historic Site
Print on Demand – Open April 30 – mid-December
Admits: Two Adults (age 16 and up), plus any children (age 15 and under) are free, with required Timed-Entry Tickets that you will book as “Members” in advance on their website. To ensure entry, arrive 15 minutes early to check in at the entrance. Masks are required inside buildings regardless of vaccination status, and keeping six feet apart from members not in your household. Ticketing available on the 15th for next month. Guided and Self Directed Tours vary with season. Last entry 4 pm, close 5 pm. Grounds free, dawn to dusk daily. See their FAQ.
- Indoor Guided Tours: April 30 – June 30, 2022. Fri, Sat., Sun. Guided Tours on the hour, Fri – Sun. 10 am – 5 pm. (8 per time slot, 45 min.)
- General Admission: Self-Directed Tours begin in July. Thurs. – Tues. 10 am – 5 pm. (24 per time slot, 1 hour)
- Outdoor Guided Tours: November after Exhibition closes, (12 per time slot, 30 min.)
- Indoor Guided Tours: More dates to be added. (8 per time slot, 45 min.)
Instructions for Timed-Entry Ticketing: On the Thomas Cole website, book a required Timed-Entry Ticket for same date as Library Pass, selecting the hour to arrive (10 am – 4 pm), enter up to 2 “Member” age 16+ tickets for free and enter any “Children” age 15 and under for free. If your group size is larger, purchase tickets. To ensure your ticketed tour, arrive 15 minutes early to the Visitor Center to check in with Library Pass (printed or digital display on mobile phone). Masks required indoors regardless of vaccination status. Ticketing questions: you may email tickets@thomascole.org
2022 Exhibition: Thomas Cole’s Studio: Memory and Inspiration: April 30 – October 30, 2022. Held in Thomas Cole’s New Studio. “The artwork that Thomas Cole left behind in his studio when he died suddenly at the age of 47 in 1848 shaped the course of American art. The exhibition…will for the first time reassemble many of those significant works and explore how Thomas Cole’s example so powerfully affected the evolution of art in America.” Curated by Franklin Kelly of the National Gallery of Art. Exhibition Overview has eight of the paintings on loan to view by scrolling down. Exhibition Catalog available, with 156 color illustrations.
360 Virtual Explore: Go inside Thomas Cole’s home and studio.
Visitor’s Guide: View or print the PDF of the “Thomas Cole Visitor’s Guide – Explore at Your Own Pace”.
Accessibility: The Main House’s first floor is wheelchair accessible using an elevator lift, and the second floor requires climbing a flight of stairs. The 1839 Old Studio, New Studio, Visitor Center and Gift Shop are all wheelchair accessible. The parking lot is asphalt and includes handicap parking spaces. The walking paths are loose gravel. See their accessibility web page for additional resources, or email info@thomascole.org.
Explore Thomas Cole’s Virtual Gallery: Scroll through his paintings and zoom in on details. Includes history, creative process, hidden meanings, and relevant passages from his poems, essays, and writings. Includes an Interactive Tour.
Video Library: View Sunday Salons, Curator Talk’s, Cole Site Originals programs and exhibitions, Beecher Lectures, Artist Interviews, Fellows’ Presentations, and videos about Thomas Cole, such as “Thomas Cole: Painting the American Landscape.”
Hours: Hours vary by month or season, see website for details. Season opens late April to mid-December, Fri. – Sun., or Thurs. – Tues., depending on the season. Open Monday holidays and July 4th. Closed for Thanksgiving and Friday after, and mid-Dec. to mid-April.
Hudson River Skywalk: a pedestrian path, approximately 3 miles one way or six miles roundtrip, that connects the historic homes and studios of Hudson River School artists Thomas Cole and Frederic Church’s Olana. Both are MAP Pass destinations. View Map and Travel information.
Address: 218 Spring Street, Catskill, NY 12414 (50 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: (518) 943-7465
Trevor Zoo at Millbrook School
Print on Demand Open Every Day All Year
Admits: 2 adults and 1-4 dependent children with printed Library Pass AND REQUIRED Timed Entry Reservation you make on the Trevor Zoo website. If your group size is larger, make a 2nd reservation if needed, in the same time slot, and pay for tickets when you arrive (adults $6, seniors 65+ $4, children age 4-13 $4, children under 3 free). Time slots are 10:00 – 4:00 PM, with 30 minutes to enter, 8 groups per time slot. Make your reservation on the Trevor Zoo’s website for the same date of Library Pass, and arrive in the 30 minute time slot to present the Library Pass as admission at the Visitor Center/Gift Shop entrance. Stay at the Zoo as long as you like. Masks are required in Zoo buildings to protect the animals, but are not required outdoors. Animals are more active during morning and late afternoon feeding times. Last entry is at the 4:00-4:30 PM time slot, and the Zoo closes at 5:00 PM. The zoo is wheelchair accessible. Picnic areas are available.
About Trevor Zoo & Map: Trevor Zoo has more than 180 exotic and indigenous animals, representing 80 species. Trevor Zoo Map has a Zoogeographic Species Directory of 180+ animals and their location on the Zoo Map – download map PDF here. Follow social media posts with Zoo news here.
Restrictions: Please do not feed or touch the animals, smoke, or bring pets. In the Zoo Buildings, everyone must wear a mask to protect the animals.
Location of Entrance: To get to the Gift Shop entrance from the zoo parking lot, walk over the bridge and path along the stream to Mills Visitor Center & Gift Shop to enter.
Zoo Webcams: The zoo has six live streaming cameras here. And also on their YouTube channel here.
Zoo Keeper Talks Moved to YouTube Channel: Zoo Keeper Talks and videos on animals (Pandas, Lemurs, Bobcats, Tamarins and more) and birds (Herons, Cranes and more) are frequently posted on the Trevor Zoo Millbrook YouTube channel here.
Hours: Open every day of the year, including all holidays, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 9:00 – 10:00 AM reserved for Members.
Address: 282 Millbrook School Road, Millbrook, NY 12545 (22.7 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 845-677-3704
USS Constitution Museum & USS Constitution Ship
Print on Demand
USS Constitution Museum Pass: Admits parties of 9 or fewer for free to Museum.
Museum & Store Hours: April. 1 – Oct. 31: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Nov. 1 – March 31: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Please note that the USS Constitution Museum and the Ship are run separately and do not have the same hours of operation.
Museum Closed: New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Closes early at 2 PM on Christmas Eve.
USS Constitution Ship: Admission is free and offers self-paced tours on a first come, first served basis, with access to the top three decks.
Ship Rules & Requirements: Before embarking on Ship (USS Constitution) all persons age 18 and older must present a valid federal or state-issued photo ID or passport and pass a security inspection. Learn more here (scroll down to Safety, Security, and Accessibility).
Ship Hours: These hours may change, so check website. May 1 – Oct. 8: Tues. Noon – 6 PM and Wed – Sun, 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Mon); Oct. 9 – Oct. 28: Tues – Sun, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mon.); Oct. 29 – May 1: Wed – Sun, 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed Mon & Tues) Fall & Winter hours at closing time may vary to allow for lowering the flag and firing of gun. The Ship (run by the U.S. Navy) does not have the same hours of operation as the Museum.
Ship Closed: All Mondays all year, and Tuesdays from Oct. 29 – May 1, and these holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Directions & Parking to Museum and Ship: Due to restricted vehicle access and limited parking availability inside Boston National Historical Park, visitors are NOT allowed to park directly next to USS CONSTITUTION. For GPS navigation, use the Nautica Parking Garage’s address: 88 Constitution Road, Boston, MA 02129. Learn more here.
Museum & Ship phone: 617-426-1812
USS Slater – The Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
Print on Demand – Closed for the Winter
Admits: 2 adults and 2 children a tour of the ship, which you may book a reservation by calling (518) 431 – 1943, or check on tour times. Reservations not required. Tours leave approximately every 30 minutes, and last 60 minutes, April through November, 10 am – 4 pm. The tours require climbing open stairways and walking through tight spaces and may be strenuous for some visitors. It is advised to wear low-heeled, non-slip walking shoes and casual dress; to use facilities on shore before tour as no restrooms on ship (there is a shore-side restroom); and to wear sunscreen. Recently restored in 2020, the ship is docked on the Hudson, in Albany, NY.
Ship Tours: Tours given rain or shine. Rain gear over umbrellas is recommended. All tours are guided and personalize your experience, transporting you back to July 1945. Tour guides lead you into the watch stations, battle stations, and living compartments of the sailors. Photos of the ship’s 2020 restoration are on website and Facebook. For more Tour details and guidelines, click here.
Virtual Ship Tour: To explore the restored USS Slater, click here.
Restrictions: Food, beverages, candy, gum or tobacco products are not permitted aboard ship. Water is the only refreshment provided at the museum. Large bags and strollers are not permitted on the ship. Tripods are not permitted. Pass is not valid for group tours.
Open: Wed. – Sun., and all Monday Holidays from Wed. April 7 – Sun. Nov. 28, 2021.
Closed: They are closed Mondays (except for Monday Holidays of Memorial Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day) and Tuesdays, and Nov. 29 – early April, 2022.
Address: Broadway and Quay, Albany, NY 12202 (79 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: (518) 431-1943
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
Print on Demand Open All Year Since 1844
Admits: 2 adults (18+), and ages 17 and under are free with a Library Wadsworth Pass at entrance for all exhibitions. Walk-ins accommodated. No timed entry required. Use the Main entrance or the handicapped accessible entrance/exit at Avery Memorial Library at 29 Atheneum Square North. Face masks are required, and social distancing is encouraged. Coat check and bag storage is available. Untitled Bistro cafe is temporarily closed. Library pass includes “buy one ticket/get one free” film admission. Wheelchairs are available. See website for visiting information and FAQ, click here.
Explore from Home: To view exhibitions, click here.
Restrictions: No food, and drink in the galleries. Library, food service, theater, and Austin House are temporarily closed. Pass not valid for Art After Dark or group tours. During two fundraising events, Fine Art & Flowers (late April) and Festival of Trees & Traditions (Dec.), there is a $3.00 fee per person for all, even if using the Library Pass.
Highlights: The Wadsworth
Hours: Hours may change seasonally, so check the website. Hours starting Oct 1, 2021 are Thursday – Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Closed: Monday – Wednesday, New Year’s Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Also, early 3:00 PM closing on the day before Thanksgiving, Dec. 24, and Dec. 31.
Address: 600 Main Street, Hartford, CT 06103 (99 miles from Poughkeepsie) This Main St. entrance is open, and the handicap accessible entrance is also open at 29 Atheneum Square North, for Avery Memorial Library.
Phone: 860-278-2670
White Memorial Conservation Center and Nature Museum
Print on Demand
Admits: Entry to Nature Museum for 2 adults and up to 4 children (6 – 12 yrs.) and children under 6 are free. No pass needed for free access grounds, forests, trails, river, wetlands, ponds, boat launch, swimming areas, and Bantam Lake’s shoreline.
Highlights: The 40 miles of trails are free, and have 24/7 access for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, biking, and horse riding. Property has forests, wetlands, three centuries old Catlin Woods, six miles of Bantam River, 10 ponds, and 60 miles shoreline on Bantam Lake, with boat launches. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, boating, and swimming areas on Bantam Lake. There is camping by permit and fishing with valid CT fishing license. See website for details, events, music, educational programs, and maps.
Restrictions: Dogs must be leashed, no longer than 7 feet. Carry in/carry out policy for picnic waste. Pass not valid for Nature Museum entry on Family Nature Day (Sat. Sept. 28).
Closed: Nature Museum is closed major holidays. However, grounds and trails are always open 24/7.
Address: 80 Whitehall Rd., Litchfield, CT 06759 (50 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 860-567-0857
Print on Demand
Admits: Four youth (ages 5 – 17) for free, plus children 4 and under for free, and two adults for discounted cost of $10 each with REQUIRED Timed Entry Reserved Tickets. Children do not have to be related to adult pass users.
First, reserve the Wild Center MAP Pass by clicking “Request Pass” button below, then reserve your Timed Entry Reservation from the Wild Center website for the same date you reserved the Library Pass. On the Wild Center reservation page use: Library Adult – CoPay Libraries, and pay $10 each for up to two adults. Enter up to four Youth (aged 5-17) for free under Library Youth Complimentary, and enter the number of children 4 And Under Free. Additional people in your group pay regular ticket rates.
At the Wild Center display your confirmation Reserved Tickets on your cell phone at entrance. If late, call or email, as no refunds, and later entry is depends on capacity.
See FAQ on Visiting, Covid-19 Policies, include a facial mask at all times and social distancing. Indoor exhibits opening in phases this year, some may be open, and others closed. Indoor restrooms open, and two compost restrooms at parking lot. The Waterside Cafe menu will be limited to grab-and-go snacks only. Guests are encouraged to bring food from home and picnic in designated areas. Any food or shop purchases onsite debit or credit card only, no cash.
Outdoor Activities Highlights: The award winning Wild Center features the Wild Walk, with its elevated trails across the treetops, a 54,000 square foot museum on 81 acres, guided Canoe Trips, Pine Tree Trail (music), The Pines Wild Play Area, live animals, hands-on exhibits, café, and daily special events. See highlights of Wild Walk here.
Wild Center Digital: For Virtual Visits, Lunchtime Live shows, Live Cams (for otters, turtles, marsh, animals), Digital Learning, Virtual Programs, and Zoom backgrounds, click here.
Accessibility: The Wild Center and Wild Walk are designed to accessible. Accessibility features include listening devices, captioned theater videos, free loans of wheelchairs, wagons and strollers, or call to reserve the motorized scooter. See details here.
Hours: Memorial Day to Columbus Day, 7 days a week, 10 AM – 5 PM. After Columbus Day to Memorial Day, open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM, with additional days: Dec. 26 -31, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, all week President’s Day week, 10 AM – 5 PM.
Closed: Day after Columbus Day through Memorial Day weekend, closed Monday to Thursday, Thanksgiving and Christmas (open Dec. 26-31). Closed New Year’s Day (open holidays Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and all week President’s Day week). Closed all April.
Address: 45 Museum Drive, Tupper Lake, NY 12986 (227 miles from Poughkeepsie)
Phone: 518-359-7800