The backdrop of natural beauty in the Rural Intelligence region has been luring brides and grooms to say their “I Do’s” here for years. But really, why shouldn’t any event — birthdays, anniversaries, corporate gatherings — get to enjoy the fabulous venues (and yes, frequently the views) that make a special gathering so memorable? After exploring some great locations in Northwest Connecticut, and Columbia and Berkshire counties, we move on to northern Dutchess County. By Elizabeth Hartley
The Rhinecliff, Rhinecliff This historic railway hotel, built in 1854 and on the national Register, underwent a multi-year renovation and upgrade completed in 2008. Today it mixes the best of the old and new, and is still only 2 minutes to the Rhinecliff Amtrak station, with beautifully updated rooms, each with a river view, and a variety of menu options for wedding and other events. Wedding ceremonies can be held on the hotel lawn, and dinner and dancing on The Riverview Room with an adjacent wraparound porch where you can watch sundown and passing trains. Capacity: 120In-house catering: Yes, a variety of menu options What makes it special: An unparalleled view of classic Hudson Valley: the river, the trains, the sunsets.
Bykenhulle House, Hopewell Junction Manicured lawns, surrounded by abundant flower gardens and charming stone walls and paths, ensure your pictures will be stunning while the charming historic house, which can accommodate 14 overnight guests, is luxurious enough to please the most finicky guests. A variety of wedding packages make planning and budgeting easy, too. Capacity: 125 on the lawn; 65 seated in the ballroom In-House catering: No; choose from the venue’s short list of exclusive caterers What makes it special: An exceptionally sophisticated and romantic setting with an Eden-like quality.
Le Chambord Inn & Conference Center, Hopewell Junction As its name implies, there’s a French flair evident here that softens the stately character of the Georgian colonial mansion built in 1863. The inn has 25 guest rooms and its ballroom accommodates 300 while doing the near-impossible — retaining a small-scale, even intimate, atmosphere. Capacity: 300 indoor, year-round In-house catering: Yes, exceptional food What makes it special: A lovely setting offering a number of inspiring wedding packages to make planning easier.
The Grandview, Poughkeepsie/Beacon A wedding palace that’s earned its good name, The Grandview is set high above the Hudson. Its mesmerizing views of the mid-Hudson Bridge alone make it a winner, but add its remarkable event staff, among the most battled-tested ever, and you can’t go wrong holding any sort of event here. The staff has seen and solved every problem, while brides report they always feel special. Capacity: 600 for dinner; 1,000 for cocktails, year-round. In-house catering: Yes What makes it special: The outdoor ballroom is truly heavenly.
Locust Grove Historic Estate, Poughkeepsie This 40-room Italianate mansion with Hudson River views boasts five miles of carriage roads and hiking trails on its 180-acre site. Its rich history has wide appeal, and because events are limited to one per evening, the special day feels both private and unique. Capacity: 150 indoors/outdoors, April to November only In-house catering: No What makes it special: Exceptional beauty and adaptability, plus high ratings on Wedding Wire.
