Val-Kill, 56 Valkill Park Rd, Hyde Park, NY 12538, US

The Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, New York was constructed from the burned remains of an old railroad bridge. Spanning over 1.28 miles long, it is the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge. The Walkway plays host to a variety of activities for everyone from the early morning jogger to the Sunday stroller.Parking and public transportation at the Walkway Over the HudsonVisitors can take the Metro North Hudson line to the last stop in Poughkeepsie. A free shuttle provided by the River Station restaurant, and a taxi stand at the Poughkeepsie Train Station are both good options. Parking and entrances are found at several locations. At 61 Parker Avenue there is an official parking lot which can accommodate up to 80 cars. Limited free parking is available at Pulaski Park on Washington Street and there is always ample street parking.Best and worst time to visit the Walkway Over the HudsonThe best time to visit the Walkway is during the week. Saturdays and Sundays tend to be very popular visiting days and the Walkway can get very crowded and difficult to navigate. The park is open from 7 a.m. and closes at sunset. It is also closed throughout the year due to snow, ice or high winds.Admission to the Walkway Over the HudsonIt is free to use the Walkway except during special themed events during which there may be a ticket fee. Visitors must pay to park in the official lot on Parker Avenue, but there is plenty of free parking in the surrounding area. The Walkway's Elevator, located at Upper Landing Park, is free to use.Must see/do at the Walkway Over the HudsonThe Walkway allows for a variety of activities depending on the season. The newly built elevator is an exciting addition. Visitors can ascend in comfort and enjoy the incredible river views. The Walkway provides visitors with ample room to bike, jog, walk their dogs, and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.Other places to visit near the Walkway Over the HudsonUnderneath the Walkway on Washington Street there are several fine restaurants, including Crave Restaurant and Lounge. The Bardavon Theater, located a few blocks away on Market Street, hosts many cultural events. There are plenty of dining options on Main Street, including Brassiere 52, a French-style dining establishment, and Schatzi's Pub, a friendly German bar and restaurant.Insider tip for visitors to the Walkway:Avoid paying the parking fee in the official lot, there are plenty of free parking spots in the vicinity of the Walkway's entrance and the official lot is not much closer to the main entrance than anywhere else. Those wishing to use handicapped parking can simply use the free lot located next to the elevator.Krista Miller has lived in the Poughkeepsie area for 26 years. She works with a local history museum and has written newspaper articles for local publications.