
Learn. Explore. Connect.
Walkway Connections is a free, interactive education series that brings the Hudson Valley’s stories to life right on Walkway Over the Hudson. Led by local historians, scientists, artists, naturalists, and culture-bearers, these programs connect people of all ages to the region’s rich history, ecology, and communities through hands-on, place-based learning.
In 2026, Friends of the Walkway is proud to offer two distinct Walkway Connections series, designed to engage adults, youth, and families.
No RSVP required. Just show up curious.
Walkway Kids Connections
Designed for children and families, this series invites young explorers to learn by doing. Programs feature interactive activities, storytelling, art, and science that help kids connect to the Walkway and the region in fun, meaningful ways.
These events are often scheduled before Walkway at Night, making them a perfect way to turn an ordinary evening into a shared adventure.
Ideal for families with elementary-aged children.
Walkway Connections
This Sunday afternoon series offers engaging, informal learning experiences rooted in the Hudson Valley’s past, present, and future. Led by regional historians, scientists, artists, and community leaders, programs explore history, environmental issues, art, and culture—always grounded in the unique setting of the Walkway.
Come for the learning. Stay for the conversation.
2026 Schedule
- July 19 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm at East Gate Plaza (Poughkeepsie)
Walkway Connections: FDR and the Presidential Train from Washington to Hyde Park
- July 25 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Ulster Welcome Center
Walkway Connections (For Kids!): River Clay Pottery
- August 16 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm at Ulster Welcome Center
Walkway Connections: The First Known African Residents of New Paltz
- August 21 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm at East Gate Plaza (Poughkeepsie)
Walkway Connections (For Kids!): Connecting Forests and Boatbuilding
- September 20 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm at Ulster Welcome Center
Walkway Connections: Three Centuries, Three Cultures on Historic Huguenot Street
- September 25 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm at Ulster Welcome Center
Walkway Connections (For Kids!): The Owls of the Hudson Valley
- October 18 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm at East Gate Plaza (Poughkeepsie)
Walkway Connections: Ice Yachting in Poughkeepsie
- October 24 @ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm at East Gate Plaza (Poughkeepsie)
Walkway Connections (For Kids!): Gliders and Paper Planes
Walkway Connections Supported By

Past Programs (Formerly Walkway Talks)
Walkway Connections is the evolution of our long-running Walkway Talks series. Explore past programs on YouTube to see the wide range of topics and speakers we’ve hosted over the years.
Thank you to Walkway Ambassador Chris Rohrbach for documenting and preserving this series.

