The Heartwood at Vassar Opens

A new boutique hotel in New York’s Hudson Valley opened: The Heartwood at Vassar, on the edge of Vassar’s campus. Poughkeepsie sits about 90 minutes from New York City. The 50-room hotel is a celebration of and gathering place for different communities in the area, with local art, memorabilia from Vassar, a custom art installation with native flora and fauna, and more.

The hotel’s art was curated entirely by The Loeb, Vassar’s on-campus art museum. The lobby’s floor-to-ceiling glass-paneled windows allow for views of the campus; the lobby also houses an immersive art exhibit from Mark Dion that highlights historic memorabilia from the college. Snugs throughout the property offer cozy, communal nooks for guests and locals, and include art from Hudson Valley artists, like Julia Whitney Barnes’s hand-painted mural.

© The Heartwood at Vassar

Accommodation options range from double queen and king to suites. Bathrooms boast stone and marble accents alongside a rainfall shower and soaking tub. The two deluxe suites have a separate living and dining area and fully equipped kitchen. On-site amenities include a 24-hour gym; participation in Hotels for Trees (if guests skip linen service, the hotel plants a tree); access to Arlington Farmers Market (on property) every Thursday afternoon; and The Vassar Institute, launching in October as a convening space for scholars, thought leaders and members of the community.

The sustainable property was built for high levels of energy efficiency with natural materials, native landscaping, geothermal heating and cooling, and a zero fossil fuel operation.

© The Heartwood at Vassar

Executive Chef Zachary Lovenguth heads up The Salt Line Hudson Valley at The Heartwood, showcasing sustainability and local farmers and purveyors. At Night Owls, enjoy an intimate bar with classic cocktails and bar snacks, as well as a private dining room.