Town of Rhinebeck   Distance to NYC: 108 miles Area: 36 square miles   The Town of Rhinebeck covers 36 square miles of meadowland, small streams and wooded hills with lovely mountain vistas. The two principal centers are the Village of Rhinebeck and the Hamlet of Rhinecliff where the Sepasco Indian Trail meets the Hudson River. Formed as a town in 1788, it has been settled since 1686 when a crown patent was issued to 5 Dutchmen from Ulster County who negotiated the sale from 6 East Bank Indians. Illustrious descendants of the early Dutch and English patentees; Beekman's, Livingston's, Astor's, Montgomery's and Schuyler's have changed world history. It was however, Beekman tenants, Palatine refugees from Europe's religious wars, who named the town it is said, for their former home in Germany's Rhine Valley.   Visitors can enjoy the 1888 Queen Anne Mansion, named Wilderstein, with 40 acres of grounds and views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains. The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is famous worldwide for its daredevil sky show and vintage World War I planes and museum.   The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck hosts many stage performances and festivals.   Northern Dutchess Hospital is located in Rhinebeck.   Rhinebeck is only about 2 hours from New York City and is easily accessible from the Taconic State Parkway, the NY State Thruway and AMTRAK.   Educational Facilities The Rhinebeck Central School District consists of three schools: Chancellor Livingston Elementary School, Rhinebeck High School and Bulkeley Middle School. Bard College, The Culinary Institute of America and Marist College are close by.   Recreational Facilities The Town Recreation Park is adjacent to the Starr Library and offers swimming, tennis, ball fields, a playground and picnic tables. The Lion’s Club mini-park has a stream for fishing and a playground. The Landsmenkill Trail Association maintains miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. The Hudson River has breathtaking views and excellent boating. Burger Hill Park was opened by Scenic Hudson and offers commanding views of the Hudson River. Ferncliff Forest has 200 acres of woods, a pond, shelters and marked hiking/nature trails. The Dutchess County Fairgrounds is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy seasonal events, crafts and antique sales,car shows, and the popular Dutchess County Fair.   Houses of Worship Include Roman Catholic,Episcopal,Methodist,Dutch Reformed, Lutheran and Baptist. There is also easy access to most all denominations.