Experience the beauty of Ulster County and its dedication to “Wild Access,” which offers exciting adaptive adventures for adults and children with mobility challenges, sensory processing disorders, and developmental disabilities. Support sustainable local businesses while enjoying sensory-friendly movie nights, outdoor activities like camping and hiking, scenic train rides, and visits to historic sites and museums. There’s something special for everyone to discover!
Day 1: Exploring Nature
Morning:
Start your journey at the Catskills Visitor Center in Mt. Tremper, where wheelchair-accessible trails and facilities allow you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Then visit the Ashokan Rail Trail, an ADA-compliant pathway that offers breathtaking views of the Ashokan Reservoir.
Afternoon:
Pack a picnic and venture to the Mohonk Preserve, renowned for its all-terrain wheelchair lending program and ASL interpretation for select programs that allow visitors to fully enjoy its scenic trails.
Evening:
Relish a fresh, upscale dinner at the cozy and accessible End Cut in West Park. Wrap up your day with stunning sunset vistas at the Walkway Over the Hudson, an accessible pedestrian bridge that offers unforgettable views.
Day 2: Culture and Community
Morning:
Dive into history at Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz with accessible tours of its historic stone houses. Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, where you can browse an extensive collection along with rotating seasonal exhibits.
Afternoon:
Head to Kingston for lunch at an accessible eatery, like Front Street Tavern or The Cornell Restaurant & Bar. Afterward, discover maritime history at the wheelchair-accessible Hudson River Maritime Museum. Visit the Rehr Center for Immigrant Culture and History, which showcases stories of immigrants who shaped Kingston and the Hudson Valley.
Evening:
Savor a locally-sourced seafood dinner at Mariner’s Harbor in Kingston, an accessible waterfront restaurant. End the evening with a live performance at the Ulster Performing Arts Center or a movie at NCG Cinema, designed for sensory-friendly enjoyment.
Day 3: Outdoor Recreation
Morning:
Gear up for adaptive outdoor activities at SOAR Experiences in Ellenville, which offers off-roading and other adventures tailored for individuals with disabilities. Afterward, enjoy lunch at nearby Gaby’s Cafe or Aroma Thyme Bistro (weekends only).
Afternoon:
Head to Kingston’s Stockade District and take a ride on the wheelchair-accessible Catskill Mountain Railroad, which blends old-world charm with sustainability by using biodiesel sourced from local farms.
Evening:
End your trip on an “Astronomy Night” at SUNY New Paltz’s John R. Kirk Planetarium and Smolen Observatory for a sensory-rich celestial experience. Dine at Ciao Bella or The Parish at Water Street Market in New Paltz, both offering accessible dining and fresh, locally sourced menus.
Accessible Stays in Ulster County
Make one of Ulster County’s accessible, eco-friendly hotels, such as the Courtyard Kingston or the Hampton Inn in Kingston or New Paltz, your home base. Each offers wheelchair-accessible rooms and amenities for a comfortable and inclusive stay.
For camping enthusiasts, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground in Mount Tremper and the Shandaken Wild Forest provide wheelchair-accessible campsites, ADA-compliant trails, fishing platforms, and portable toilets. Find more accessible campsites online on the state’s interactive map.
Get Ready for Your Accessible Adventure
Whether you're exploring scenic trails, diving into local history, or enjoying adaptive outdoor adventures, Ulster County offers a warm welcome and inclusive experiences for every traveler. With accessible lodging, dining, attractions, and events, your perfect getaway is just a plan away. Plan your accessible stay in Ulster County and discover a destination where adventure meets inclusivity.
