Beginning Saturday, April 5, Friends of the Walkway—the nonprofit partner of New York State Parks—will officially reopen its seasonal amenities at Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. This includes the return of the merchandise and information pavilions and operation of its 11-passenger ADA-accessible electric tram. The Walkway’s 21-story glass enclosed elevator at Upper Landing Park in Poughkeepsie will also resume operation, weather permitting.

PAVILIONS RE-OPEN; VOLUNTEERS RETURN TO THE BRIDGE

Located at the East Gate Plaza in Poughkeepsie and just outside the west gate in Highland, the Walkway’s merchandise and information pavilions give visitors the opportunity to shop for branded merchandise, learn about membership, and receive helpful information about the park and surrounding area. Each pavilion is staffed by red-vested Walkway Ambassadors—specially trained volunteers who serve as greeters, tour guides, and safety stewards, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Ambassadors also assist with events, share the history of the bridge, and offer recommendations on local dining, lodging, and attractions. Since the bridge opened in 2009, Ambassadors have played a vital role in welcoming more than seven million visitors and supporting both Walkway’s New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation team and community nonprofit events held in the park throughout the year.

Pavilions are open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. through May 31, with expanded hours beginning Memorial Day weekend.

To learn more about becoming a Walkway Ambassador, visit walkway.org/volunteer.

ELECTRIC TRAM IS ON THE MOVE

Assisting seniors and passengers with limited mobility, Friends of the Walkway’s 11-passenger wheelchair-accessible electric tram will return to service on Saturday, April 5. The tram operates on Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and runs on a continuous loop across the bridge, with a complete one-way trip taking approximately 30 minutes. Reservations are not required. The tram is supported by Rutberg Breslow Personal Injury Law.

For the complete tram schedule and operating information, visit walkway.org/tram.

ELEVATOR RETURNS TO OPERATION

Walkway’s 21-story glass enclosed elevator at Upper Landing Park in Poughkeepsie will also resume operation on Saturday, April 5, weather permitting.  Open Saturday and Sunday through Memorial Day and seven days per week thereafter from 9 a.m. until 90 minutes prior to the park’s closing time, the elevator connects Walkway Over the Hudson with the Hudson River waterfront in Poughkeepsie. The elevator may close for inclement weather, high winds, and maintenance.  To confirm its status before your visit, call 845-834-3641.

SIGNATURE EVENT DATES ANNOUNCED

Each year, Friends of the Walkway host and support a calendar of signature events that attract thousands of people to the park and its surrounding areas, engage the local community, and connect the region.

Saturday, May 3 : I Love My Park Day (in partnership with New York State Parks)
Sunday, May 4: Hudson Valley Marathon at Walkway Over the Hudson (in partnership with AlphaWin Racing)
Saturday, May 17: Pride In The Sky (in partnership with Big Gay Hudson Valley)
Saturday, May 24 – Monday, May 26: Mayfest Farmers & Makers Market*
Sunday, May 25: Memorial Day Sunset Flag Changing Ceremony (in partnership with American Legion Post 739)
Friday, July 4: July 4^th Fireworks Spectacular
Saturday, September 20: Salute2Vets (in partnership with veterans organizations from Dutchess and Ulster Counties)
Friday, October 3: Starry Starry Night
Sunday, November 30: Holiday Celebration with Santa

For complete information about Walkway events, including start times, ticket information, supporters, and more, visit walkway.org/calendar.

*To create an improved guest experience, Mayfest will be held at a new location – Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie. The Walktoberfest Farmers and Makers Market typically held in October will not occur in 2025.

STROLL UNDER THE STARS DURING WALKWAY AT NIGHT

On seven dates this year, enjoy amazing Hudson Valley views after dark from 212 feet above the Hudson River at Walkway at Night. With the moon hanging high in the sky and Poughkeepsie and Highland twinkling in the distance, there is nothing like a twilight evening on the World’s Longest Elevated Pedestrian Bridge.

Friday, April 11 – 7:30-9:00 p.m.

Friday, May 9 – 7:00-9:30 p.m. – Lights Across The Hudson (in partnership with Hudson Valley Hospice). This Walkway at Night is free for all to attend.

Friday, June 13 – 8:30-10:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 26 – 8:30-10:00 p.m.

Friday, August 8 – 8:00-9:30 p.m.

Friday, September 5 – 7:30-9:00 p.m.

Friday, October 10 – 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Weather permitting, representatives from the Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association will be on-bridge with telescopes to view the night sky.

Walkway members are welcome to attend Walkway at Night events at no cost. Non-members can purchase a ticket for $5 in advance or at the gate. Children 12 and under are free. For complete information, visit walkway.org/walkwayatnight. 

MAKE NEW WALKWAY CONNECTIONS

New for 2025, this fun, informative, interactive series of events – Walkway Connections – brings the Hudson Valley, its history, and its most interesting stories directly to you on 12 dates between April and October.  Led by local experts, these free events hosted by Friends of the Walkway are open to all. No RSVP required.

Evening events (typically hosted prior to Walkway At Night) are geared towards children and family togetherness and feature hands-on activities, while Sunday afternoon events are more educational in content. To see the complete schedule and list of topics, visit walkway.org/walkwayconnections.

Friends of the Walkway’s events, pavilions, tram, Ambassadors, and more are made possible through the generosity of donors, members, and corporate partners. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to experience the bridge in a new way, the 2025 season promises unforgettable views, inspiring events, and meaningful community connections. To support the mission of Friends of the Walkway, visit walkway.org/donate. To explore membership, visit join.walkway.org.