For a charming, laid-back alternative to New York City, head to Poughkeepsie. This lesser-explored town is located right on the banks of the Hudson River. Despite its small size, Poughkeepsie is a vibrant town, partly due to the large population of college students. Spend a few days and check out the museums, art centers, and cute independent shops. You can even catch a performance at the local opera house! For a truly unique experience, take a cruise along the Hudson River to see the town from an entirely different point of view.
