Let’s jump on the Poughkeepsie bandwagon here, shall we? NY Times just featured an article on the Dutchess county city. Here’s my take on it.

PROS

Past downturn and recent gentrification aside, Poughkeepsie will always have something major going for it. It’s a college town. Home to Vassar, Marist and Suny Dutchess, there has to be some kind of life for all of the students.

Restaurants are plentiful and inexpensive. One can choose from Vietnamese, Middle Eastern, Indian, Mexican, etc, etc.

Culture: not too shabby. The Bardavon Opera House, an 1869 theater, presents jazz and pop concerts, dance, film, comedy and The Hudson Valley Philharmonic. There are many art galleries popping up on and around Main Street.

Poughkeepsie offers ample nightlife for the youngsters. Since I’m an old fot who falls asleep before 10pm, I have no idea what I’m talking about. I have been to The Chance, which did remind me of the clubs of my youth: The Ritz, CBGBs, Danceteria.

Wonderful selection of Victorians at bargain basement prices.

Metro North, although a schlepp to Manhattan, is pretty convenient to have around.

A great area for weekend fun. There’s plenty of antiquing, hiking and river access.

CONS

Poughkeepsie is very spread out. There are nice areas and sketchy ones. Unfortunately, some of the best housing bargains are….guess where?

Cool city. Beware the suburban areas. Cul de Sacs, Raised Ranches, Big SUVs, W Bumperstickers. A city dweller’s nightmare.

The commute is a good hour, forty. Bring a book or take a nap.

City of Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie Chamber of Commerce
Poughkeesie Journal
Art Along the Hudson
Exiled Hipster