Things To Do
in Kingston
Kingston is a charming city located in eastern Tennessee, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the Clinch River. The city has a rich history dating back to the 1700s and is known for its historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Southwest Point Garrison and Fort Southwest Point. Kingston offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
With its small-town charm, friendly community, and convenient location near major cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga, Kingston is a wonderful place to visit or live in.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Historic Stockade District, where you can enjoy beautiful colonial architecture. Stroll down the quaint streets and take pictures of the historic buildings.
Head to the waterfront and have lunch at one of the local restaurants overlooking the Hudson River. After, explore the Hudson River Maritime Museum to learn about the area's maritime history.
Enjoy a sunset walk along the Kingston Rondout waterfront. Wind down your day at a cozy café or bistro with live music.
Kick off your day at the Kingston Point Beach for a tranquil morning by the water. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach or go for a bike ride on nearby trails.
Visit the Forsyth Park for a picnic lunch under the trees. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's beautiful landscape and playgrounds.
Head back to the waterfront for dinner at a seafood restaurant while enjoying views of the river. Join a local outdoor movie screening or music event if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural significance, being the first capital of New York.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Hudson River and nearby Catskill Mountains.
- Vibrant arts scene with galleries, theaters, and local events.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with various local festivals and farmer's markets.
- Higher cost of living compared to some nearby areas.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to potential economic challenges.
- Weather can be harsh in winter, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making a vehicle necessary.
- Some areas may face issues with crime rates and safety concerns.
Best Activities in Kingston
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and picturesque views at Minnewaska State Park Preserve. The park offers a variety of hiking options for all skill levels, including waterfalls, cliffs, and rugged terrain.
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic kayak trip along the Hudson River. There are several rental and tour companies in the area that can provide equipment and guided excursions for a memorable outdoor experience.
Embark on a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, which stretches through picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks. The trail offers a peaceful and car-free environment for cyclists of all levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kingston with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kingston
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views and photo opportunities, especially from the John Boyd Thacher State Park or from the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge.
Features scenic views of the Hudson River and surrounding scenery, great for photo opportunities.
Food in Kingston
Kingston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring marinated grilled chicken basted with a tangy sauce, often served with salt potatoes. Best enjoyed at family picnics, local fairs, and roadside BBQ joints.
Must-Try!
A unique dish consisting of layers of meat, such as hamburgers or hot dogs, over home fries and macaroni salad, topped with onions, mustard, and hot sauce. Popular in diners and casual eateries.
A beloved Friday tradition offering deep-fried fish fillets, often haddock or cod, served with French fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. Found at seafood shacks, taverns, and local restaurants.
Freshly made donuts, infused with local apple cider and dusted with cinnamon sugar, embodying the essence of autumn. Widely available at orchards, farmers' markets, and bakeries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kingston better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Visitors can sample local snacks, such as kettle corn, maple cotton candy, and gourmet food truck delicacies.
Throughout the year, the city hosts lively food festivals along the waterfront, showcasing an assortment of street food from tacos and barbecue to international cuisines. A paradise for food lovers.
An annual gathering of diverse food trucks, dishing out everything from gourmet burgers to fusion tacos, providing an opportunity to relish an array of street eats in one location.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kingston, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or invading their privacy.
Greetings such as 'hello' and 'good morning' are commonly used in Kingston to show respect and friendliness towards others.
Kingston is a diverse community, and it is important to show respect for different cultures, traditions, and backgrounds.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kingston with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kingston
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Kingston, United States. It is customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxis, and hotel staff.
Payment in Kingston, United States is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kingston.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kingston, United States. Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Summer in Kingston, United States brings warm weather, ideal for water activities on Lake Ontario and outdoor festivals. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect larger crowds.
Fall foliage in Kingston, United States is a sight to behold. The colorful leaves make for picturesque landscapes, and the crisp air is perfect for hiking and enjoying scenic views.
Winters in Kingston, United States can be cold and snowy, but it's a charming time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and cozy indoor activities. The city also hosts seasonal events and holiday festivities.
Kingston at Night
Hiking in Kingston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located approximately 18 miles from Kingston, Minnewaska features stunning views, waterfalls, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. It offers various levels of hiking difficulty.
About 12 miles from Kingston, Mohonk Preserve provides an extensive network of trails for hiking with beautiful rock formations, forests, and scenic views of the Shawangunk Ridge.
Located just 5 miles from Kingston, Barclay Park offers easy hiking trails that are great for families, along with picnic areas and views of the surrounding nature.
Approximately 15 miles from Kingston, the Ashokan Reservoir has a multi-use trail that is perfect for hiking, walking, and cycling, showcasing picturesque water views and local wildlife.
About 25 miles from Kingston, Catskill Park offers numerous hiking trails with varied terrains and access to stunning waterfalls, summits, and natural landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kingston through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kingston by plane.
Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Kingston, JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the United States, serving numerous international flights.
Situated around 75 miles southwest of Kingston, Newark Liberty is another major international airport serving the New York metropolitan area with extensive global connections.
Located about 65 miles southeast of Kingston, LaGuardia primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Approximately 35 miles northwest of Kingston, Albany International provides regional and limited international flights.
About 90 miles southeast of Kingston, Bradley International serves the Greater Hartford area with a variety of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly of European descent, making up the largest demographic group.
Significant population contributing to the cultural diversity of Kingston.
Includes individuals from various Latin American backgrounds.
Includes people with ancestral origins in Asia, contributing to the population.
Representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
Individuals identifying with more than one race, reflecting the growing diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A team sport where players try to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
A team sport played between two teams of eleven players with a spherical ball, popular for its fast pace and skillful play.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, known for its rich history and cultural significance in America.
A team sport involving high contact where teams attempt to advance the ball into the opponent's end zone.
A fast-paced team sport played on ice, where players use sticks to hit a puck into the opposing team's goal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kingston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kingston embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many establishments offering plant-based dishes creatively prepared to deliver an array of flavors, from hearty bowls to innovative plant-powered entrees.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a plethora of gluten-free choices at restaurants and bakeries throughout the city, ensuring they can indulge in local cuisine without sacrificing taste or variety.