Hollywood cast and crew swept through the Hudson Valley in 2022 to film a mystery-of-the-week show, Poker Face, created and directed by Rian Johnson (you may have seen Knives Out or its sequel, Glass Onion, also directed by Johnson). Natasha Lyonne stars as Charlie Cale, an expert at uncovering secrets. Still, the show couldn’t keep filming locations a mystery to us.
With the Hudson Valley filming locations unveiled, we’re here to tell you which spots are worth visiting—hopefully in your Plymouth Barracuda.
The Castle Fun Center
Chester
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You’ll recognize this local entertainment haven on the big screen as “Kamelot Karts,” but the Castle Fun Center is so much more than go-karts. Bring the little ones and camp out at the totally immersive “InflataPark.” Ten thousand square feet of bouncy castles, slides, balance beams, and obstacle courses will have the kids entertained for hours.
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If you don’t have kids, don’t worry—there is something for everyone. Grab a bite at the in-house restaurant, then blow off some steam at the axe throwing lanes. In the summer, feel like Charlie Cale at the outdoor Slick Track before beating your friends in a cut-throat game of mini-golf. Keep your eyes peeled for the opening of the newly renovated, 10,000-square-foot roller skating rink later in 2023.
The Brewery at Orange County Hops
Walden
This local brewery completely transformed into “Boyle’s Barbecue” in season one, episode three of Poker Face. You won’t find the smoked meats or Texan traditions you see on-screen, but there are still plenty of reasons to make the trip to The Brewery at Orange County Hops. The beer here is proudly brewed with 100-percent Hudson Valley-grown hops and grains. The brewery’s “Mr. Awesome IPA” is a must-try, but grab a flight if you can’t pick just one. Be sure to check the calendar for upcoming events like live music; it might just be better than barbecue.
The Chance Theater
Poughkeepsie
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Racks of ribs become rock and roll in season one, episode four, when Charlie Cale meets Doxxxology. Doxxxology may not be there, but you can get a glimpse of the action by heading to The Chance Theater, where Ruby Ruin—played by Chloe Sevigny—performed a set so good it was almost criminal.
The Chance Theater was built over 100 years ago and first became a music venue in 1926. It has welcomed legendary acts such as Bob Dylan, The Ramones, Pete Seeger, and David Bowie. Today, the calendar is still jam-packed with performances and special events. Check out the events page on the website and get ready to rock.
Cornwall’s Main Street
Cornwall
Poker Face filmed on Main Street in Cornwall across from The Canterbury Brook Inn. We’d like to think Natasha Lyonne took a break from filming to dine at the Orange County eatery.
In the winter months, enjoy Swiss cuisine as prepared by Chef Hans Baumann beside the fireplace in the dining room. In the warmer weather, soak in views of the Canterbury Brook on the patio. Be sure to try the specialty mixed grill “fondue”: medallions of pork tenderloin, coconut shrimp, roast chicken breast, and filet mignon served with a side of dipping sauces.
Of course, Cornwall’s main drag has more to offer than just restaurants. Walk downtown and you will be greeted with a plethora of cafes, shops, and more. If you enjoy the fiber arts, a trip into Cornwall Yarn Shop is a must. Nearby, The Cornwall Country Store delivers home goods, gifts, specialty foods, and more.
Happy Valley Arcade Bar
Beacon
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Get in touch with your inner child (and enjoy a beverage or two) at this arcade bar in Dutchess County. With classic games like Asteroids, Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, Dance Dance Revolution Extreme, and Space Invaders, it’s the perfect place to congregate for an evening of fun with friends. When Lyonne’s character visits in season one, episode seven, the scenes are made all the more cinematic thanks to murals by local artist Alyssa T. Follansbee.
North Plank Road Tavern
Newburgh
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This restaurant is nothing like the bright-light casino restaurant we see in the opening episode of Poker Face, but that didn’t stop producers from filming here. This old-time road house—as quaint as quaint can be—has been in operation since 1801. Start your meal with the decadent burrata served with grilled basil and garlic toast points. For your entrée, choose from classics such as red wine-braised angus short ribs or a pan-seared NY strip steak. No matter what you order, save room for the crème brûlée—it’s worth traveling to Newburgh for.
Orange County Fair Speedway
Middletown
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Dirt track racing was a highlight in the trailer for Poker Face, and it was filmed at this local track. Charlie Cale’s epic Plymouth Barracuda may not be there, but Orange County Fair Speedway is still worth visiting for thrilling motorsports.
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This local track was built in 1857 for horse racing and hosted its first automobile race in 1919. The Orange County Fair Speedway still operates on a weekly basis from April until September and boasts additional festivities such as the OCFS Motorsport show in March, fireworks in July, monster trucks competitions, and more.
Story Screen Theater
Beacon
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The exterior of Story Screen Theater became Seneca Lake Dinner Theater in season one, episode six. Only the exterior of Story Screen was captured on screen, but don’t let that keep you from going inside. This indie movie theater is a dream for film connoisseurs. Grab a beer or hard cider at the unconventional snack bar before settling in for whichever movie your heart desires. Story Screen shows contemporary underground films, vintage classics, and modern flicks, so there is sure to be something for everyone.
Tetta’s Market and Pizzeria
Olivebridge
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On the outside, Tetta’s looks like it belongs in a western mountain town, which is why it was the perfect filming location for Poker Face. While Tetta’s appears western, the pizza served here is most definitely classic New York. Try the specialty Nutella dessert pizza or go traditional with a margherita pie loaded with fior di latte. The shop even sells take-home dough for when, inevitably, you want more.
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That said, Tetta’s is much more than just pizza. If you visit, you can also fill your gas tank, shop for fresh produce, pick up some Bread Alone bakery items, and grab a specialty sandwich for the road. In other words, Tetta’s is the definition of a one-stop shop. (Charlie Cale should have camped out here for the whole season!)
The Towne Crier Café
Beacon
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In June of 2022, areas in Beacon were closed for the filming of Poker Face. Though there were celebrities on set, The Towne Crier Café may have been the real star of the show. This café and music venue celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, and it is just as groovy as it was in 1972. Originally opened as a hippie hangout, this venue boasts both an extensive food menu with Mediterranean flare and a jam-packed performance calendar. The lamb burger is a must-try, but be sure to save room for the rotating specialty dessert selection. Whether you stop by in the morning for weekend brunch or come in the evening for a show, you will not be disappointed.
Trevor Zoo
Millbrook
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Remember the Glen Falls Zoo from season one, episode five? That’s really the Trevor Zoo, an AZA-accredited facility affiliated with the Millbrook School. If you pay a visit, you won’t see actors Natasha Lyonne, Judith Light, and S. Epatha Merkerson as you do in the series, but you will see furry friends like red pandas, wolves, and llamas.
Woodland Pond at New Paltz
New Paltz
If you have a sharp eye, you may have noticed Charlie Cale and her Plymouth Barracuda drive by recognizable “Interstate 87” signs. This drive-by was shot on Route 299 in New Paltz as Cale made her way to Mossy Oaks, known locally as Woodland Pond. Though viewers cannot visit Woodland Pond, they may see some friends on-screen, as producers cast many Woodland Pond residents as extras on the show.
Related: Learn About Cornwall’s HGTV Makeover
