Community

Vassar has been connected to the Poughkeepsie community since its founding. Area residents are welcome at many sports and cultural events or just to stroll our lovely campus. Vassar’s community benefits report lists the many ways Vassar interacts with the community.

Go to our sign-up page if you would like to be added to our Vassar Events e-mail list.

Things To Do On Campus

Explore Our Region

Vassar is located in the Hudson Valley area of New York State approximately 2 hours by train from New York City. Vassar’s location includes the diversity of proximity to New York City, its location in the smaller City/Town of Poughkeepsie, and access to outdoor spaces and farms literally minutes from campus.

Arlington

The neighborhood directly surrounding Vassar is a village within the Town of Poughkeepsie called Arlington. It’s a vibrant, walkable town center and commercial district just steps from campus with many places to eat. Each Thursday from late Spring to early Fall, Arlington and Vassar College host a farmers’ market where customers buy local vegetables and other goods.

Discover Arlington

The Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley extends from New York City to Albany and is designated as a National Heritage area, filled with history, natural beauty, and active farm and food communities. This area offers endless outdoor recreation and travel opportunities for our community. 

The Vassar community enjoys trips on the Hudson, rock climbing in the Shawangunk Mountains, running on the trails of the Mohonk Preserve or exploring the unique communities of Rhinebeck, Woodstock, or Cold Spring.

Discover the Hudson Valley

Poughkeepsie

Vassar College is located in the City/Town of Poughkeepsie, part of  the Hudson Valley approximately 2 hours north of New York City. The City and Town have a combined population of 74,000 people. The City is on the Hudson and the location of the famous Walkway over the Hudson used by over 600,000 people annually for walking, running, and biking. The City’s rich history is seen in its buildings, houses, and parks and is a place of racial, ethnic, and economic diversity.

Poughkeepsie, NY
City of Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is a lively city filled with history and culture.

Explore
Bardavon 1869 Opera House
Arts

There is no shortage of creativity with art galleries, venues, and organizations just minutes away.

Experience
a plate of food and wine glasses
Let’s Eat

Poughkeepsie is a wonderfully diverse city with authentic cuisines on every corner.

Enjoy

What We Love About Poughkeepsie