Best attractions and places to see around Marist College are situated on the scenic banks of the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York. The campus features a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Hudson Valley. Visitors can explore various landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites within the college grounds and the surrounding area. The region offers opportunities to experience both historical significance and natural beauty.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Marist College.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Walkway Over the Hudson, also known as the Poughkeepsie Bridge, is a steel cantilever bridge spanning the Hudson River between Poughkeepsie and Highland. Originally it was built as a railroad bridge in 1889, then closed in 1974 due to fire damage and later reopened as a pedestrian walkway in 2009. It connects the Hudson Valley Rail Trail with the Dutchess Rail Trail and is part of the Empire State Trail. Stretching 6,768 feet, it was the world’s longest pedestrian footbridge until 2016. The bridge is free to access and welcomes cyclists as well as foot traffic.
0
0
The Dutchess Rail Trail is a 13 mile traffic free path. It is built on an abandoned railway line. The trail runs from Hopewell Junction to the Walkway Over the Hudson in the City of Poughkeepsie
0
0
The John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary is best known for being home to John Burroughs' sladsides access to the Black Creek Waterfall within Black Creek State Forest. The trails are dirt singletrack trails within a dense forest setting. There are a number of trails that can all be combined to form a 4.5-mile route.
0
0
The HVRT is in very good condition. There is a Rotary Club Pavilion with a caboose, bathrooms, water, and shelter from the rain.
0
0
It's a dirt trail that branches off the HVRT. It gives you a different perspective than riding on the HVRT.
0
0
The Marist College campus is situated directly on the Hudson River, offering beautiful waterfront views. You can visit Fern Tor, a 13-acre nature preserve on the northern end of campus, or enjoy the serene setting of Longview Park, also along the river, which is open to the public.
Yes, the most prominent scenic viewpoint is the Walkway Over the Hudson, which offers fantastic panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. On campus, Fern Tor and Longview Park provide beautiful river vistas, and the Hancock Center is also noted for its sunset views.
You can enjoy several popular trails, including the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, a car-free path through wooded areas, and the Dutchess Rail Trail, a 13-mile traffic-free path built on an abandoned railway line that connects to the Walkway Over the Hudson. For a different experience, the 1889 Rail Bed Trail offers a dirt trail experience branching off the Hudson Valley Rail Trail.
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes. You can find options like the Mid-Hudson Bridge & Walkway Over the Hudson loop or the White, Yellow, and Blue Trail Loop. For more details and routes, explore the Easy hikes around Marist College guide.
The John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary is an excellent choice. It's known for its dirt singletrack trails within a dense forest setting and provides access to the Black Creek Waterfall within Black Creek State Forest.
Marist College features several historic buildings, including Greystone, the James A. Cannavino Library, St. Peter's, and the Kieran Gatehouse. These 1860s-era buildings are made of fieldstone and are listed on the New York State and National Register of Historic Places. The historic Boathouses on the Hudson River also offer a glimpse into the college's past.
Beyond historic buildings, Marist College offers several cultural sites. The Steel Plant Studios houses MPorium, a student-run boutique, and features revolving art and fashion exhibitions. The Lowell Thomas Communications Center has professional television studios, and the Student Center includes the Nelly Galleti Theater for student productions.
Yes, the Dutchess Rail Trail is a family-friendly option, offering a traffic-free path suitable for all ages. The Walkway Over the Hudson is also a great family outing, providing wide paths for walking and cycling with stunning views.
Absolutely. Both the Walkway Over the Hudson and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail are wheelchair-accessible, offering smooth surfaces and wide paths for an enjoyable experience.
The area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, including easy and moderate options, or go road cycling on routes like the Dutchess Rail Trail. For detailed routes and guides, check out Hiking around Marist College and Road Cycling Routes around Marist College.
Visitors particularly appreciate the fantastic views from the Walkway Over the Hudson, noting its width for both riders and walkers. The car-free nature and smooth progress on the Hudson Valley Rail Trail are also highly valued, especially the sections that pass through wooded areas.
Yes, the first floor of the James A. Cannavino Library is designated as a quiet study area. Additionally, the Community Garden is considered a hidden gem on campus, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: