Peekskill Becomes A Music Destination

PEEKSKILL-CORTLANDT, NY—Peekskill has many charms, with sights that include prime Victorian architecture, stunning river views, and monthly tours of artist's studios, but lately visitors have sought out the city for its sounds. Peekskill is becoming a destination for music lovers.

The most famous and venerable of Peekskill's music venues is the Paramount Theater. The Westchester county landmark was built as a movie palace in 1930 and continues to bring stars to Peekskill, although the big screen has been eclipsed by performers and comedians on stage. The fall lineup features Boz Scaggs, Bruce Hornsby, Arlo Guthrie, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Dukes, Delbert McClinton and a Beatles tribute.

The theater is no longer the only venue offering music.

The BeanRunnerCafe has developed a reputation for hosting talented and up-and-coming musicians, such as singer-songwriter Grace Vanderwaal, who won season 11 of America's Got Talent. the Urban coffeehouse on South Division Street hosts live jazz, blues, reggae, soca, and singer/songwriters from across the country, while serving up paninis, wraps and Caribbean fare.

Several restaurants in the area offer live music, including The Hudson Room on South Division Street, Peekskill Lounge on North Division Street, Birdsall House on Main Street, and Gleason's on South Street. Between them these eateries host everything from classical music to heavy metal, so before deciding where to eat in Peekskill check out their listed musical events.

The Peekskill Coffee House on South Division Street also offers musical entertainment, with as many as three different performers on a weekend.

During warmer weather, visitors to Peekskill can enjoy music outside thanks to the Summer Music Series. Every Saturday and Sunday, North Division Street is closed off to traffic so diners can enjoy their food and some music under the stars.

For music lovers the city now strikes just the right note.