Your Guide to Buying a Home in Peekskill, NY

Buying a Home in Peekskill, New York

Peekskill is located in Westchester County

Located on the Hudson River approximately 40 miles north of New York City, Peekskill is known as the “Gateway to the Hudson Highlands.” Peekskill’s riverfront has spectacular views and its Riverfront Green Park is a popular site for events throughout the year.

Peekskill is a small city with an area of approximately 4 1/2 square miles and a population of around 22,000 residents. The Dutch trader Jan Peeck settled the area in 1654 with the establishment of a successful trading post. The community he established eventually became known as Peekskill.

Although relatively small in size, Peekskill’s history is full of notable events and historical figures. Before West Point was constructed just a few miles north, Peekskill was a strategic center for General George Washington as he planned the movements of the Continental Army. In fact, Peekskill was the focus of two British attacks during the Revolutionary War. President Abraham Lincoln chose Peekskill as one of only a few stops in New York on his way to his inauguration in 1861. Peekskill also played an important role in the Underground Railroad that helped bring thousands of African Americans to freedom. Peekskill has a history of notable residents elected to statewide and federal posts and is the hometown of the present Governor of New York, George E. Pataki.

There is always something to do in Peekskill. If you happen to be here in early August during our “Peekskill Celebration” weekend you will be treated to a wide range of activities from musical entertainment, crafts, and food to an outstanding fireworks display. Peekskill is also the home of the Paramount Center for the Arts, a restored 1930’s theatre that schedules a wide variety of world-class performances and films throughout the year. Peekskill’s recent resurgence has been sparked by a growing artist district, which has added a new dimension to the community.