Remember Bugaboo Creek Steak House in Poughkeepsie? Here’s Why We Still Miss It

If you lived in the Hudson Valley during the heyday of Bugaboo Creek Steak House, chances are you have fond memories of this Canadian-themed dining adventure.

The rustic lodge décor, complete with animatronic animals that talked, sang, and even cracked jokes, was more than just a gimmick—it was a part of the experience.

Chilling along Route 9 in Poughkeepsie, Bugaboo Creek was the go-to spot for family dinners, birthdays, or a fun night out.

And speaking of birthdays, who else remembers the “kissing the moose” tradition? That mounted moose head was more than a quirky decoration; it was the unofficial mascot of countless celebrations.

“As a kid I loved the place. As an adult I'm confused by it. They were a Canadian-themed, American cuisine restaurant based out of Rhode Island. How did that ever become a thing? Maybe the animatronics?”

For others, it wasn’t just about the atmosphere but the food itself. Who could forget staples like Whitewater Shrimp and Snowbird Chicken? As one local put it:

“Whitewater Shrimp as the appetizer and then bring on that Snowbird Chicken!! I’m not sure, but I don’t think I ever got anything but that every time I went there…”

The restaurant also had a cozy appeal, especially during winter months:

“I miss it. Something about it in the winter was comforting to me. It felt so cozy. I loved going there during the winter days when it was snowing. I miss it.”

Despite its charm, Bugaboo Creek couldn’t escape the fate of many family-style chains. Financial troubles and shifting dining trends led to its closure around 2016.

 Check Out This Former Employees Audio Grab From The Animatronic 

Since then, its former Poughkeepsie location has become infamous for frequent turnover. It has hosted several other restaurants but never regained the same magic.

Here’s a video diving deeper into the rise and fall of Bugaboo Creek Steak House:

A quick scroll through Reddit shows how many locals still talk about Bugaboo Creek like it was a beloved childhood friend. From the talking moose head to the log cabin vibes, it wasn’t just a meal—it was an event.

Could a restaurant like Bugaboo Creek succeed today? Maybe.

Who wouldn’t want one more chance to kiss the moose?