Photograph of the entrance to the Village of Fishkill, New York, United States of America / Wikimedia Commons, Rolf Müller (User:Rolfmueller)
The Hudson Valley locale invites exploration with historic sites, a thriving restaurant row, and activities that the whole family will love.
With a prime location between Dutchess County hotspots like Beacon and Poughkeepsie, Fishkill is worthy of a day trip of its own. The area contains both the Town of Fishkill and the Village of Fishkill within it, making it a hub for things to do. Plus, with main roads like Route 9 and Route 52 running through it, the town offers easy connections to other destinations nearby.
So, are you ready for a day trip in Fishkill? Take a peek at our itinerary, then be sure to tag us @HudsonValleyMag on Instagram if you visit any of these spots.
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9:30 a.m. – Pick up a sweet treat at Bert’s Bread House
Tucked just off the main drag on Robinson Street, Bert’s is a must-visit during any day trip in Fishkill. The bakery team gets to work before the sun rises to prepare baked goods and loaves fresh each and every day. Literally everything is tempting, with offerings rotating regularly to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Start the day off strong with a moist muffin, cinnamon roll, or personal bread pudding if you’re feeling something sweet. On the savory side of the spectrum, you can’t go wrong with a classic egg sandwich on a housemade roll.
19 Robinson St, Fishkill
845.440.6972
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10:30 a.m. – Embark on a self-guided tour at the Van Wyck Homestead Museum
In the mood for a bit of Hudson Valley history? Head to the Van Wyck Homestead Museum for a blast back to the region’s colonial past. The home dates back to 1732 and was a key location during the Revolutionary War, when the Continental Army used it as officers’ quarters for the Fishkill Supply Depot, one of three major encampments in the region. Today, the Fishkill Historical Society oversees the homestead and opens the grounds for self-guided tours from dawn to dusk, as well as guided tours during select dates and times throughout the year. Head to the website for information about upcoming craft fairs and community events before planning a trip here.
504 Rte 9, Fishkill
845.896.9560
12:15 p.m. – Grab a comfort food-filled lunch at The Dutchess Biercafe
The winner of our Best of Hudson Valley Awards for Best Burger and Best Outdoor Dining (Non-Waterside), The Dutchess Biercafe is a fan-favorite among every type of foodie in the region. The restaurant embraces a Belgian-inspired vibe on its beer menu, which rotates often. Dining is available inside the restaurant and on the patio, with takeout and curbside pickup as well. As for the food, it’s nothing less than mouthwatering. The menu changes seasonally, but classic bites like decadent mac and cheese, bratwurst of all varieties, and Bavarian pretzels always make an appearance. The burgers and salads are top-notch, too.
1097 Main St, Fishkill
845.440.7747
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1:45 p.m. – Shop around town
With one of the cutest main streets to be found in the Hudson Valley, Fishkill is a delight for those who love to shop local. Stock up on a curated selection of ciders and wines at Boutique Wines, Spirits & Ciders in the Hudson Valley Towne Center. After that, pop into Alps Sweet Shop for candy and chocolates galore, then visit Knot Too Shabby for crafty bits and bobs.
On the other side of the intersection, Nature’s Pantry is a beloved alternative grocery store known for its produce and natural food selection, while Come To Your Scentses is the cutest succulent diffuser bar you ever did see.
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3 p.m. – Choose your own fun-filled adventure
No matter your age or interests, you’ll find just the right type of fun for you in Fishkill. For families with younger ones, Splashdown Beach is the way to go. Open seasonally, the Hudson Valley waterpark is a delight for thrill lovers, who won’t want to skip out on the mammoth Megalodon, and those looking for relaxation (find it on the Croc Creek Wavy Lazy River).
Is golf more your thing? If so, Fishkill Golf Course and Driving Range awaits. Expect a 12-hole, par 41 course that is beautifully cared for and conveniently located. Playing options are available for 12 and 24 holes, so you can choose how much time you want to spend on the greens.
If outdoor activities aren’t the right fit, head indoors for a luxurious wellness treatment at HEBE Medical Spa. As a boutique medical spa that integrates natural wellness with top-of-the-line treatments, HEBE is a go-to for everything from facials and microneedling to hair removal and acne treatments. Book a visit in advance, then prepare for an afternoon spa day.
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6 p.m. – Experience fine Italian dining at Il Figlio Enoteca
Led by the restaurateur behind the now-closed Il Barilotto Enoteca, Il Figlio Enoteca represents a new chapter for Italian dining in Fishkill. The restaurant sets the scene with an elegant interior that is matched perfectly by an authentic, upscale menu. Offerings are mouthwatering and seasonal, with dishes like paccheri pasta with slow-cooked short rib ragu and perfectly sauteed branzino to tempt the taste buds. Whatever you do, don’t skip out on the Italian-inspired cocktails, which are elegant riffs on classic drinks that you won’t soon forget.
992 Main St, Fishkill
845.836.3015
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8 p.m. – End the day on a sweet note at Fishkill Creamery
Ice cream lovers need look no further for a perfect scoop in Fishkill. Visitors can keep it simple with a classic chocolate or cherry dip soft-serve cone or sample a special hard-serve flavor like apple caramel spice or coconut almond joy. Milkshakes and sundaes are on the menu, too, as is vegan ice cream from Beacon-based The Vegan Stuff.
1042 Main St, Fishkill
845.244.6363
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9 p.m. – Spend the night at a local Airbnb
Not ready to say goodbye to the charm of Fishkill just yet? Book a night at one of the Airbnbs in town to keep the day trip experience going. If you’re looking for a place that you can have all to yourself, this Hudson Valley Hideout, which has its own pool, is ideal. If a guest suite sounds like the perfect fit, the Cherrywood BnB is a top pick (and affordable, too). Of course, if you’re hoping to stay right in the heart of it all, this peaceful apartment in the village will charm your socks off.
