Peekksill, New York is a charming city located in the Hudson Valley region along the Hudson River. With its scenic views and diverse attractions, Peekskill has something to offer for everyone.
A Glimpse into Peekskill’s History
Located in northwestern Westchester County, Peekskill is a mere 35 miles from the bustling metropolis of New York City. Established in the early 1700s, Peekskill played a crucial role as a manufacturing center during the American Revolution.
The city’s name traces back to Dutch trader Jan Peek, who founded a trading post where a creek met the Hudson River in 1654. Unfortunately, Peekskill faced significant damage during a British attack in the Revolutionary War.
Incorporated as a village in 1816 and later as a city in 1940, Peekskill flourished as an industrial hub, with a focus on iron production for plows and stoves. Another notable industrial achievement was Joseph Binney’s founding of the Peekskill Chemical Company in 1864, which later evolved into Crayola LLC, known worldwide for its Crayola products.
Peekskill’s residents showcased their courage and empathy during the Civil War by actively participating in the Underground Railroad, assisting escaped slaves in their pursuit of freedom. The city’s historical narrative includes famous residents such as Peter Cooper, Henry Ward Beecher, and Frank L. Baum, the latter attending the Peekskill Military Academy for a brief period.
Since the early 1990s, Peekskill has embraced the arts, cultivating a vibrant scene complete with galleries and performance venues. The city’s unique combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and industrial heritage continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike.
Peekskill’s Population and Demographics
As of 2020, the city of Peekskill, New York, boasted a population of 24,111 individuals with a median age of 39.6 years. The median household income stood at $66,067. A significant 85% of residents are U.S. citizens.
| Race/Ethnicity | Percentage |
| White (Non-Hispanic) | 29.1% |
| Other (Hispanic) | 26.1% |
| Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) | 22.2% |
| White (Hispanic) | 10.2% |
| Two+ (Hispanic) | 6.56% |
Transportation
Peekskill boasts a range of transportation options, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The Metro-North Railroad’s Hudson Line offers convenient commuter service to New York City, while the Bee-Line Bus System serves the city through routes 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 31.
Road connectivity is also well-established in Peekskill, as it is linked to the Bear Mountain Bridge, granting access to popular destinations such as Bear Mountain State Park, the Palisades Interstate Parkway, and the United States Military Academy at West Point via US 6 and US 202. With an average commute time of 38.8 minutes, the majority of Peekskill’s workforce opts to drive solo to their workplaces.
Education
Managed by the Peekskill City School District, the city’s education system offers various educational programs and activities for its students. Notable schools include Woodside Elementary School, which has an after-school Mandarin enrichment program, and Peekskill High School, with a Law Enforcement program at the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center at PNW BOCES. A total of 83.6% of Peekskill residents aged 25 years and older have a high school diploma or higher.
Health Services
The healthcare system in Peekskill is primarily served by New York Presbyterian – Hudson Valley Hospital, which offers various patient care services. Peekskill also has an emergency medical service staffed by EMTs and paramedics from the city’s fire department and volunteer ambulance corps. The Peekskill Health Center, operated by HRHCare, provides medical and dental services, pediatrics, and women’s health services.
Popular Landmarks and Attractions in Peekskill
Peekskill, New York, offers various historical landmarks and popular tourist attractions. Some of these include:
Historical Landmarks and Attractions
- Charles Point: A picturesque peninsula offering stunning Hudson River views and an event venue called Factoria at Charles Point.
- Downtown Peekskill: The city’s historic center with unique shops, restaurants, and a walkable, charming atmosphere.
- Peekskill Museum: A local history museum featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents showcasing the city’s past.
- National Register of Historic Places: Peekskill is home to several properties listed on the register, such as the Peekskill Presbyterian Church and the Standard House.
Cultural Attractions
- Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art: An art center presenting contemporary art exhibitions and interactive installations for art enthusiasts.
- Lincoln Depot Museum: A museum dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln’s history and influence on Peekskill, with educational exhibits and interactive displays.
Outdoor Recreational Opportunities
- Depew Park: A public park featuring hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming pool.
- Blue Mountain Reservation: A 161-acre park with mountain biking trails, hiking paths, fishing spots, and scenic Hudson River vistas.
- Riverfront Green Park: A riverside park offering picnicking, fishing, and beautiful river views.
Annual Events and Festivals
- Peekskill Open Studios: An annual event organized by the Peekskill Arts Alliance, where visitors can explore local artists’ workspaces and view their creations.
- Peekskill Film Festival: A film festival showcasing a selection of short and feature-length films.
- Riverfront Summer Concert Series: A series of live music performances held at Riverfront Green Park during the summer months.
- Peekskill Farmers’ Market: A seasonal market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts from June to November.
Dining and Craft Breweries
- Diverse Restaurants: Peekskill offers a wide range of eateries, from farm-to-table establishments to international cuisine.
- Peekskill Brewery: A local craft brewery producing a variety of unique and flavorful beers.
- River Outpost Brewing Co.: Another popular craft brewery in Peekskill, offering a selection of locally brewed beers for enthusiasts to sample.
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