From sensory-sensitive performances to sporting events, Dutchess County provides many opportunities for individuals of all abilities to enjoy the Hudson Valley's arts and culture, outdoor and historic attractions.
• The America the Beautiful - National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass allows U.S. citizens or permanent residents with long-term disabilities a free lifetime pass to see national sites including the Vanderbilt Mansion and Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. For New York State (NYS) residents with disabilities, The Access Pass gives free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites and recreational facilities operated by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
• The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck and the Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie feature an array of programming that makes it accessible and inclusive for theatergoers of all ages and abilities.
• The Hudson Valley Renegades minor-league baseball team offer their Sensory Safe Suite for all 66 of their home games (April–Sept.) at Heritage Financial Park (formerly Dutchess Stadium) in Wappingers Falls.
• Skinner Recital Hall at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie is equipped with a LOOP Hearing System. The loop will offer improved clarity for persons with hearing loss who wear telecoil — or T-coil — equipped hearing aids. Click here to see Vassar's full lineup of concerts in the fall of 2025.
• April 26, 2025: Hudson Valley Walk for Autism at James Baird Park, Pleasant Valley: Resources, entertainment, vendors, food trucks and more at the annual walk to raise awareness for Autism.
• Read about accessible Easter events in Dutchess, including a sensory-friendly visit with the Easter bunny and Easter egg hunts for all abilities: Accessible Travel Series: Easter in Dutchess
• June 14, 2025: Get Outdoors and Get Together Day is held each year on the second Saturday of June and celebrates the accessible recreational opportunities available at New York State parks and outdoor sites that people with and without disabilities can enjoy together. This day is in partnership with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Department of Veterans' Services. Check back for details on the 2025 locations. 2024 Dutchess County Locations: Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center; Norrie Point Environmental Education Center.
• Aug. 16, 2025: D3: Disability Dream & Do Baseball Camp (Hudson Valley D3Day) at Heritage Financial Park, Wappingers Falls. At the home of the Hudson Valley Renegades, the camp provides individuals with functional limitations the opportunity to practice baseball with minor-league athletes.
• Aug. 19-24, 2025: Dutchess County Fair at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck. ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday at the fair returns on Aug. 21. For a look at accessible features at the fair, click here. This day includes sensory-sensitive hours, an early opening in advance of crowds with no flashing lights or loud music on the midway so people can enjoy activities and animals. The fair also provides accessible parking, wheelchair rentals, and additional mobility transportation within the fair. For more accessible features, click here.
• Sept. 21, 2025: Looking at Nature: A Master Naturalist's Walk for Varied Mobility Levels at Innisfree Garden, Millbrook. Enjoy a slower-paced nature walk designed for participants of all mobility levels, from those who need no assistance to wheelchair dependent individuals. A local master naturalist will show and discuss plants, birds, fungi and more, as well as discuss the importance of supporting a healthy ecosystem in today's ever-challenging world.
• Read about Halloween 2024 events and activities, including sensory-friendly shows and movies here.
• TBA: Sensory Sensitive Performance of "The Nutcracker" at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House (Poughkeepsie). Details to be announced. Free event but reservations are required.
• Stay tuned for details about more 2025 holiday events. Click here for 2024 highlights.
Please check the event organizer's website and social media accounts for the latest updates. Click here to see a complete list of events happening throughout Dutchess and feel free to call (845) 463-4000 if you have questions.
