Ulster County is known for its historic towns and funky villages full of unique shops, exceptional bars and restaurants, vibrant arts, and beautiful views. Among these communities, New Paltz is a consistent draw for visitors seeking to experience the rich culture of the mid-Hudson Valley.
Home to SUNY New Paltz, this college town is bursting at the seams with fun, food, and adventure, and it’s the perfect home base for a weekend spent upstate. Here’s a primer for where to go and things to do in New Paltz.
Stroll the Shops of Main Street in Downtown New Paltz
New Paltz is scenic and largely walkable, and downtown is filled with quirky boutiques beckoning for your attention. A plethora of hip lifestyle stores and artisan gift shops dot Main Street, from skate and bike shops like Likwid and Bicycle Depot, record stores, and art supply centers such as Rhinebeck Artist’s Shop and Manny’s, to collectibles and artisan gift stores like Dragon Realm and Himalayan Arts, and metaphysical wellness centers such as Awareness Shop.
Rediscover old gems at antiquaries like Medusa Antiques and Jenkinstown Antiques, vintage clothing stores like Judy Go Vintage, and used bookstores like Barner Books and Inquiring Minds.
You can easily spend a whole afternoon just at the Water Street Market just off the Wallkill River, a quaint, European-inspired shopping village full of independently owned shops—like the two-story Antiques Barn, apparel stores such as Maglyn’s Dream, Salix Intimates, and The Men’s Shop at Eden, new-and-used vinyl mecca Rhino Records, and physical wellness centers Bodymind Massage Therapy, Mosaic Bodyworks, and Therese Sibon Acupuncture. There’s even a boutique pet store, Paws of Distinction, where you can find dog and cat clothing, accessories, and toys. After shopping, you can take in the local art at The Cronin Art Gallery.
Indulge in the Local Food Scene
Whether you’re a foodie, beer geek, wine connoisseur, or all-around bon vivant, there’s something delicious waiting for you in New Paltz.
At the bustling Water Street Market, there’s a handful of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a reprieve from your shopping afternoon. Grab a snack or quick bite from Mudd Puddle Café or Grazery, enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner at The Parish Restaurant, or unwind with a pint or glass of vino at the lively Jar’d Wine Bar.
Elsewhere in town, you can indulge and celebrate at upscale restaurants like Garvan’s Gastropub or Ciao Bella, enjoy local farm-to-table fare at Main Course Marketplace, or experience the best libations at cocktail bars and brewpubs such as Bacchus, Lemon Squeeze, and Huckleberry.
Enjoy a cold beer and authentic German fare at the Mountain Brauhaus, and make sure to stop into Robibero Family Vineyards and Brooklyn Cider at Twin Star Farms. Eat and drink with the locals at perennial favorites like Lola’s Café, and P & G’s. Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of friendly menus at spots like the Ipho Vietnamese, Karma Road, and Moonburger a fast-food spot with nothing but vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Explore the Many Art Galleries of New Paltz
New Paltz loves its art, and galleries abound. The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz showcases a mixture of well-known Hudson Valley artists and global collections. The Water Street Market gallery CronArtUSA features the work of New Paltz-based artist Ryan Cronin in a relaxed atmosphere, sometimes with live music. The stylish Rogal Art Gallery features work from contemporary artists from around the world while Unframed Artists Gallery provides a space for emerging artists. DM Weil Gallery aims to put the fun back in art and boasts 3,000 square feet of space, one of the largest—if not the largest—modern art galleries in the Hudson Valley.
Besides an array of visual arts galleries, DENIZEN Theatre presents exquisite arthouse cinema every weekend.
Relive Early American History
Ulster County is rich with landmarks of early American history. Historic Huguenot Street was founded in 1894 by Huguenot descendants to preserve their unique French and Dutch heritage.
Today, it’s recognized as a National Historic Landmark District and encompasses 30 buildings across 10 acres, including seven stone structures that date back to the early 1700s. Visitors can travel back in time through recurring historical reenactments or explore the museum, which houses artifacts and manuscripts and showcases the stories of Huguenot Street families.
Just up the road from New Paltz, Mohonk Mountain House is perhaps one of the most recognized historic landmarks in Ulster County. This mountain resort is a Victorian castle beside a mountain top lake and with award-winning dining in addition to numerous luxury amenities and outdoor pursuits. Named Conde Nast Traveler's number one Resort Spa in the USA, Mohonk has been operated by the same family for more than 150 years. year.
Plan Your Next Visit to New Paltz, NY
New Paltz encapsulates the essence of Ulster County's charm with its eclectic mix of shops, delightful dining options, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. This enchanting college town, at the base of the Catskills and nestled in the heart of the mid-Hudson Valley, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal weekend getaway destination.
Have you started packing? Plan your weekend trip to New Paltz today!
