Wappingers Falls: Your Next Weekend Getaway Destination 2024

Explore the enchanting allure of Wappingers Falls in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Our in-depth guide reveals its scenic wonders, historical significance, and hidden treasures. Plan your visit today!

Table of Contents

Toggle

Introduction to Wappingers Falls

Nestled in the Hudson Valley

Wappingers Falls is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, a region known for its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and rich history. Situated on the banks of Wappinger Creek, the village is just a short drive from major cities like New York City and Albany, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

Wappingers Falls is named for the cascade in Wappinger Creek that flows through the village. The falls are a popular spot for visitors to take in the scenic views and enjoy a picnic lunch. The village is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Mesier Homestead Museum, the Grinnell Library, and the Wappinger Falls Village Green.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Wappingers Falls is also known for its vibrant dining and shopping scene. The village’s Main Street is lined with a variety of unique shops and restaurants, offering something for everyone. Wappingers Falls is also home to a number of annual events, including the Wappingers Falls Village Fair, the Wappingers Falls Arts Festival, and the Wappingers Falls Winterfest.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a place to call home, Wappingers Falls is a great option. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and rich history, Wappingers Falls has something to offer everyone.

Why visit Wappingers Falls?

Stunning scenery: Wappingers Falls is nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, a region known for its breathtaking scenery. The village is home to a variety of natural attractions, including the Wappinger Falls, the Wappinger Creek Greenway Trail, and the Wappinger Falls Village Green.
Vibrant culture: Wappingers Falls has a vibrant culture, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The village is also home to a number of annual events, such as the Wappingers Falls Village Fair, the Wappingers Falls Arts Festival, and the Wappingers Falls Winterfest.
Rich history: Wappingers Falls has a rich history, dating back to the early 1700s. The village is home to a number of historic buildings and sites, including the Mesier Homestead Museum and the Grinnell Library.
Convenient location: Wappingers Falls is conveniently located in the Hudson Valley, just a short drive from major cities like New York City and Albany. This makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

Wappingers Falls History

Tracing Back to the 17th Century

The history of Wappingers Falls can be traced back to the 17th century, when the land was inhabited by the Wappinger tribe of Native Americans. The Wappingers were a peaceful people who lived off the land, hunting, fishing, and farming.

In the early 1600s, Dutch settlers began to arrive in the area. The settlers purchased land from the Wappingers and established farms. One of the first settlers was Pieter Mesier, who built a homestead in 1694. The Mesier Homestead Museum is still standing today and is one of the oldest buildings in Wappingers Falls.

In the early 1800s, Wappingers Falls began to grow as a manufacturing center. The village was home to a variety of mills, including sawmills, gristmills, and textile mills. The mills were powered by the Wappinger Creek, which flows through the village.

In 1839, the Wappingers Falls Railroad was built. The railroad connected Wappingers Falls to New York City and Albany, making it easier for goods and people to be transported. The railroad also helped to boost the economy of Wappingers Falls.

In the late 1800s, Wappingers Falls became a popular summer destination for wealthy New Yorkers. The village was home to a number of hotels and boarding houses. Visitors to Wappingers Falls enjoyed the village’s scenery, the cool summer breezes, and the variety of recreational activities available, such as fishing, swimming, and boating.

The population of Wappingers Falls began to decline in the early 1900s, as many of the mills closed down. However, the village began to experience a resurgence in the 1950s and 1960s, as people from New York City and Albany began to move to the village in search of a more affordable and relaxed place to live.

Today, Wappingers Falls is a thriving village with a population of over 4,000 people. The village is home to a variety of businesses, including shops, restaurants, and professional offices. Wappingers Falls is also home to a number of schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

Notable Events in Wappingers Falls History

1694: Pieter Mesier builds a homestead in Wappingers Falls.
1839: The Wappingers Falls Railroad is built.
1877: The Wappingers Falls Village Green is dedicated.
1909: The Grinnell Library opens.
1960: The Mesier Homestead Museum is established.
1980: The Wappingers Falls Arts Festival is held for the first time.
1990: The Wappingers Falls Village Fair is held for the first time.
2000: The Wappingers Falls Winterfest is held for the first time.

Wappingers Falls Today

The village is a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike. Residents enjoy the village’s small-town atmosphere, its proximity to major cities, and its variety of amenities. Visitors enjoy the village’s scenic beauty, its vibrant culture, and its rich history.

Natural Beauty

Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventures

Wappingers Falls is known for its stunning natural beauty. The village is home to a variety of scenic spots, including:

Wappinger Falls: The Wappinger Falls are a series of waterfalls that cascade over a rocky cliff into Wappinger Creek. The falls are a popular spot for visitors to take in the scenic views and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Wappinger Creek Greenway Trail: The Wappinger Creek Greenway Trail is a 10-mile paved trail that follows the course of Wappinger Creek. The trail is a popular spot for walking, running, biking, and horseback riding.
Bowdoin Park: Bowdoin Park is a 200-acre park that offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The park is also home to a number of historical buildings, including the Bowdoin Mansion and the Bowdoin Mill.
Veterans Memorial Park: Veterans Memorial Park is a 10-acre park that offers visitors a variety of recreational activities, including a playground, a basketball court, and a skate park. The park is also home to a number of memorials to veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

In addition to its scenic spots, Wappingers Falls is also a great place to enjoy outdoor adventures. The village is home to a variety of hiking trails, including the Breakneck Ridge Trail, the Mohonk Mountain Preserve, and the Shawangunk Ridge State Forest. The village is also a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Wappingers Falls:

Hiking: Wappingers Falls is home to a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the area include the Breakneck Ridge Trail, the Mohonk Mountain Preserve, and the Shawangunk Ridge State Forest.
Fishing: Wappingers Falls is a great place to fish for a variety of species, including trout, bass, and catfish. Popular fishing spots in the area include the Wappinger Creek, the Hudson River, and the Moodna Creek.
Kayaking and canoeing: Wappingers Falls is a great place to kayak and canoe on the Wappinger Creek and the Hudson River. There are a number of rental companies in the area that offer kayaks and canoes for rent.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic place to take a walk, a challenging hiking trail to explore, or a great spot to fish, kayak, or canoe, Wappingers Falls has something to offer everyone.

Must-Visit Attractions

Unveiling Local Gems

Mesier Park and Falls

Mesier Park and Falls is a must-visit attraction in Wappingers Falls. The park is home to a beautiful waterfall, a historic homestead, and a variety of other amenities.

The waterfall is the main attraction at Mesier Park. The falls cascade over a rocky cliff into Wappinger Creek. There is a viewing platform at the top of the falls where visitors can take in the scenic views.

The Mesier Homestead is a historic Dutch farmhouse that was built in the late 17th century. The homestead is now a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Wappingers Falls and see how people lived in the 1700s.

Mesier Park also offers a variety of other amenities, including a playground, a picnic area, and a walking trail. The park is a popular spot for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.

Here are some of the things you can do at Mesier Park and Falls:

Visit the Mesier Homestead Museum to learn about the history of Wappingers Falls.
Take a walk on the Mesier Park Trail to enjoy the scenic views of the waterfall and Wappinger Creek.
Have a picnic in the park with your family or friends.
Let the kids play on the playground.
Take in the scenic views of the waterfall from the viewing platform.
Take a swim in the Wappinger Creek (at your own risk).

Mesier Park and Falls is a great place to spend a day enjoying the natural beauty of Wappingers Falls.

Dining and Culinary Delights

Savoring Local Flavors

Top Restaurants in Wappingers Falls

Wappingers Falls has a vibrant dining scene, with a variety of restaurants to choose from, offering everything from casual American fare to fine dining. Here are a few of the top restaurants in Wappingers Falls:

Double O Grill is a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers a variety of American dishes, including burgers, steaks, and seafood. Double O Grill also has a full bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Cafe Maya is a Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Cafe Maya also has a full bar with a wide selection of tequila, margaritas, and other Mexican drinks.
County Fare is an American restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, steaks, and seafood. County Fare also has a full bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Restaurant Six is a fine dining restaurant that offers a variety of American dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Restaurant Six also has a full bar with a wide selection of wine and cocktails.
Antonella’s Pizzeria & Restaurant is an Italian restaurant that offers a variety of authentic Italian dishes, such as pizza, pasta, and seafood. Antonella’s also has a full bar with a wide selection of Italian wines and cocktails.

These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Wappingers Falls. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find a restaurant in Wappingers Falls that you’ll love.

Events and Festivals

Immerse in Local Culture

Annual Wappingers Falls Heritage Festival

The Annual Wappingers Falls Heritage Festival is a popular event that celebrates the history and culture of Wappingers Falls. The festival is held every year in September at the Mesier Park and Falls.

The festival features a variety of activities, including:

Historical demonstrations: Visitors can learn about the history of Wappingers Falls through a variety of historical demonstrations, such as blacksmithing, candle making, and quilting.
Live music: The festival features a variety of live music performances by local musicians.
Food and craft vendors: Visitors can enjoy a variety of food and craft vendors at the festival.
Children’s activities: The festival features a variety of children’s activities, such as face painting, games, and crafts.

The Annual Wappingers Falls Heritage Festival is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Wappingers Falls and to have a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Other notable events and festivals in Wappingers Falls include:

Wappingers Falls Village Fair (June)
Wappingers Falls Arts Festival (July)
Wappingers Falls Winterfest (December)

No matter what time of year you visit Wappingers Falls, you’re sure to find an event or festival that you’ll enjoy.

Arts and Culture

Preserving the Town’s Heritage

Wappingers Falls Historical Society

The Wappingers Falls Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Wappingers Falls and its surrounding area. The society was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in the Mesier Homestead, a historic Dutch farmhouse built in the late 17th century.

The Wappingers Falls Historical Society offers a variety of programs and services to the public, including:

Museum tours: The society offers tours of the Mesier Homestead Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of Wappingers Falls and see how people lived in the 1700s.
Educational programs: The society offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults, including workshops, lectures, and field trips.
Research assistance: The society’s archives are open to the public and researchers can use the society’s resources to learn more about the history of Wappingers Falls and its surrounding area.
Publications: The society publishes a variety of publications, including a newsletter, a quarterly journal, and books about the history of Wappingers Falls and its surrounding area.

The Wappingers Falls Historical Society is a valuable resource for the community and its work is essential to preserving the town’s heritage.

Other Arts and Cultural Attractions in Wappingers Falls

Grinnell Library: The Grinnell Library is a public library that offers a variety of programs and services to the community, including book clubs, author talks, and children’s activities.
Wappingers Falls Arts Center: The Wappingers Falls Arts Center is a non-profit organization that offers a variety of arts programs and classes to the community. The center also hosts a variety of art exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Wappingers Falls RiverStage: The Wappingers Falls RiverStage is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.

Wappingers Falls is a vibrant arts and cultural community with a variety of attractions to offer visitors and residents alike.

Accommodations

Where to Stay in Wappingers Falls

Charming Bed and Breakfasts

Brinckerhoff Inn is a charming bed and breakfast located in a historic farmhouse built in 1705. The inn offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms and suites. All of the rooms are decorated in a country-chic style and feature modern amenities. The inn also offers a full breakfast each morning, which is included in the room rate.

Danskammer House Bed & Breakfast is another charming bed and breakfast located in a historic home built in 1870. The inn offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms and suites. All of the rooms are decorated in a Victorian style and feature modern amenities. The inn also offers a full breakfast each morning, which is included in the room rate.

Chrystie House Bed and Breakfast is a luxurious bed and breakfast located in a Queen Anne Victorian mansion built in 1892. The inn offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms and suites. All of the rooms are decorated in a period style and feature modern amenities. The inn also offers a gourmet breakfast each morning, which is included in the room rate.

These are just a few of the many charming bed and breakfasts in Wappingers Falls. No matter what your budget or style, you’re sure to find a bed and breakfast in Wappingers Falls that you’ll love.

Other notable accommodations in Wappingers Falls include:

The Roundhouse Hotel
Beacon Bed and Breakfast
Riverhill Bed and Breakfast

Wappingers Falls offers a variety of accommodations to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your visit.

Planning Your Visit

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Getting Here and Around

Wappingers Falls is conveniently located in the Hudson Valley, just a short drive from major cities like New York City and Albany.

By car:

From New York City, take the Henry Hudson Parkway north to Exit 15. Follow Route 9 north to Wappingers Falls.
From Albany, take the New York State Thruway south to Exit 19. Follow Route 9 south to Wappingers Falls.

By train:

The Metro-North Railroad offers service to Wappingers Falls from Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

By bus:

The Trailways bus service offers bus service to Wappingers Falls from New York City and Albany. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Once you arrive in Wappingers Falls, you can get around by car, foot, or bicycle. The village is small and walkable, and there is also a bike path that runs through the village.

Here are some additional travel tips and recommendations for planning your visit to Wappingers Falls:

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Wappingers Falls is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the village is a beautiful place to visit year-round.
Things to do: There are a variety of things to do in Wappingers Falls, including visiting the Mesier Park and Falls, exploring the Wappinger Creek Greenway Trail, shopping at the unique shops on Main Street, and dining at the delicious restaurants.
Food and drink: Wappingers Falls has a vibrant dining scene, with a variety of restaurants to choose from, offering everything from casual American fare to fine dining. The village also has a number of bars and pubs, where you can enjoy a drink and relax.
Accommodation: Wappingers Falls offers a variety of accommodations to choose from, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.
Events and festivals: Wappingers Falls hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Wappingers Falls Village Fair, the Wappingers Falls Arts Festival, and the Wappingers Falls Winterfest.

With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and rich history, Wappingers Falls is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Conclusion

Experience Wappingers Falls

Plan Your Memorable Getaway Today