THE CLASSIC CAR SCENE

Dutchess County, New York is home to two of the largest car shows in the Northeast, each of which attracts enthusiasts and collectors from coast to coast. The Hudson River Valley Antique Auto Association’s Annual Car Show & Swap Meet in May and the Good Guys Classic Rods Auto Show in September are the big-draw events, but there are numerous other shows that are attended by regional and out-of-state visitors.

What is it about Dutchess County that makes it so popular with the car hobbyist?

Part of the reason is the area’s terrific display venues. The Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, DutchessFair.com, is spacious and meticulously maintained, and provides parking and other amenities to make participants and spectators comfortable. In addition, the New York State Thruway, Interstate 84, the Taconic State Parkway and a collection of beautiful scenic byways and back roads make getting to the shows easy and enjoyable. Classic cars are of interest to people of all ages, making it a fun family activity. America has always had a love affair with automobiles.

More than 25,000 people travel to Rhinebeck Car Show and Swap Meet, RhinebeckCarShow.com , on the first weekend in May. Held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, the opening day features 1,000 hot rods, street rods and customized vehicles from the 1920s through the 1970s. On the second day, it showcases 1,200 antique classic and foreign cars. In addition, there is a large automotive flea market, indoor crafts show, swap meet and food court. The Hudson River Valley Antique Auto Association, a group of six Hudson Valley car clubs that raises money for local charities, sponsors the show.

A new addition to events at the Dutchess Fairgrounds is the Antique Machinery, Truck, and Motorcycle Show, during the third weekend in May. The Century Museum Village and Collectors Association of Dutchess County are sponsoring the event, which will feature antique engines and attachments performing the farm and home chores of yesteryear, old-fashioned tractor pulls, an antique truck show and an antique motorcycle swap. This show has something for everyone!

On the third weekend in September a large crowd of auto enthusiasts turns out at the fairgrounds for the Good Guys Rod and Custom East Coast Nationals, Good-Guys.com. Spectators view 1,000 hot rods and street rods dating from the 1920’s. Fans of the muscle car era will see these later model vehicles (up to 1972 vintage) displayed. Live bands and entertainment, including strolling doo-wop bands, are scheduled for the entire weekend. Don’t miss the huge swap meet, ladies’ marketplace, Cool Poker Run, and the many children’s activities, all at the beautifully landscaped fairgrounds. The crisp fall weather makes it a perfect time to visit the Hudson Valley.

The Staatsburgh State Historic Site, a 65-room beaux-arts estate on the Hudson River, is the site of an October car and “Car Capers” costume show, The Gathering of Old Cars. The Catskill Mountains across the river are displaying their splendid fall foliage and mansion tours are also available.

For some historic motoring, whether traveling in an antique car or a more recent model, Dutchess County’s seven driving tours are a can’t-miss proposition. Whether seeking autumn’s brilliant foliage or opportunities to travel back in time to turning points in American history, Dutchess County offers countless riches that have for centuries inspired artists and writers. Nearly all of the area’s 800 square miles have been mapped and outlined in a user-friendly, self-guided drive tour brochure that offers something for everyone. The Scenic and Historic Drive Tour Guide is available on this website or by calling 800/445-3131.