National Register Historic Districts
Peekskill is home to two National Register Historic Districts: The commercial downtown area and the residential Fort Hill neighborhood just north of Main Street. Both districts have many intact 19th century buildings with various architectural styles that can be viewed on a walk through the neighborhoods.
Hudson River Kayaking
Atlantic Kayak Tours, the largest sea-kayaking company in the tri-state area, paddles along the Hudson River from New York City to Albany, with several launches that are accessible by train from the Peekskill area. The staff is talented and friendly and the equipment is first rate. There is nothing like the experience of actually paddling on the Hudson River.
Birdsall House Plaque
Although a group of activists wanted to preserve the Birsdsall House because of its use as a headquarters by General Washington during the War of Independence, it was razed in 1853 because it was an obstruction on Main (or North) Street. The tablet was installed in 1931 by the Friendly Town Association, on the south side of Main Street, near the corner of Division Street.
Lincoln Depot Museum
Address: 10 South Water Street
Phone: (914) 402-4318
The Lincoln Depot Museum is a restored 3,000-square foot 19th Century freight and passenger rail depot where President-elect Abraham Lincoln stopped to greet Westchester residents on February 19, 1861 during his inaugural train ride between Springfield, IL and Washington, DC. The museum’s theme, “New York and Abraham Lincoln: The Indispensable Relationship,” shows the impact of Lincoln to Peekskill and the Hudson Valley region and especially to New York as a whole. Through an outstanding collection of period artifacts, the museum details the importance of New York to Lincoln’s success and New York’s contribution to the Civil War. It is the only such museum in the entire State of New York and has gained national attention and interest.
Trinity Cruises on the "Evening Star"
Address: 12 Riverfront Green
Phone: (914) 589-7773
Whether you are interested in art, wine tasting, seeing the sunset or having a private party the "Evening Star" will take you through the Hudson Highlands to do so. The boat departs from Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill, Wednesday through Sunday. For more information on special tours, hours and fares contact Trinity Cruise Company at.
National Maritime Historical Society
Address: 5 John Walsh Boulevard
Phone: (914) 737-7878
The National Maritime Historical Society holds seminars throughout the year on topics related to American maritime history.
Paramount Hudson Valley
Address: 1008 Brown Street
Phone: (914) 739-2333
Built in 1930 as a movie palace, the Paramount is a performing arts center that hosts top-quality live entertainment, movies, gallery showings and educational programs. The façade, marquee, entrance doors and interior finishes have recently been restored thanks to the fund-raising efforts of committed volunteers.
Hudson Valley Center For Contemporary Art (HVCCA)
Address: 1701 Main Street
Phone: (914) 788-7166
The Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art is a non-for-profit 501(c)(3) arts and educational organization dedicated to the development and presentation of new works, exhibits and interdisciplinary programs that enrich understanding of contemporary art and its contexts and relationships to societal issues. Open Saturday and Sunday from 1am to 6pm or by appointment.
Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce
Address: 1 South Division Street
Phone: (914) 737-3600
Conveniently located in the heart of the business district, the Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce provides up-to-date tourism information with brochures, newspapers and information on an electronic "kiosk." Staff members cheerfully answer questions.
The Peekskill Business Improvement District (BID)
The Peekskill Business Improvement District (BID) was established in 1996 to develop, organize and sponsor programs and promote Peekskill's vibrant commercial business district. The BID holds various events throughout the year.
Peekskill Museum
Address: 124 Union Avenue
Phone: (914) 736-0473
Housed in the Herrick House, designed by William R. Mead of the famous architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, the museum displays tools and products from local foundries; items from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars; furnishings; clothing and more. On the lawn outside is the cannon used to fire on the British ship "Vulture" and thwart the British spy Major John André on his return to New York City with the plans of West Point. Open Saturdays, 2 - 4 p.m. from June - October, and by appointment.
Tours of the Artists' District
Held annually during the Open Studios event on the first weekend in June.
Farmers’ Market
Address: Bank Street between Main and Park Streets
Held every Saturday from June to October, 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Antique and Treasures Market - Held every Sunday from May through November.
