Peekskill, Industrial heritage city in Westchester County, United States.
Peekskill is a city in Westchester County on the eastern bank of the Hudson River, roughly 35 miles (56 kilometers) north of New York City at an elevation of 39 meters. The town spreads along the riverfront with a mix of developed streets near the water and wooded hills inland, crossed by several creeks flowing down to the Hudson.
The Continental Army used the location as a supply center during the American Revolution because of its position near several water-powered mills. The town grew through the 19th and 20th centuries with iron foundries and chemical plants lining the waterfront streets, drawing workers from surrounding regions.
The name comes from the Peekskill Creek that runs through the area, carrying the Dutch word kill for stream or channel. Today, visitors see a mix of restored brick storefronts along main streets and neat residential blocks climbing the hillsides above the river, showing the shift from factory work to a smaller commuter community.
The Metro North Station connects the town to New York City through regular train service, while US Route 9 runs parallel to the waterfront. Several parks along the water offer access to the Hudson and have walkways suitable for strolling by the river.
The Peekskill Chemical Company, founded in 1864, later evolved into Binney & Smith, the firm that became known as Crayola LLC. The connection between this riverside community and one of the most recognized crayon brands surprises many visitors walking through the old industrial neighborhoods.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
