Things To Do
in New Paltz
New Paltz is a charming town located in upstate New York, known for its picturesque views of the Shawangunk Mountains. The town is home to the State University of New York at New Paltz, giving it a lively and vibrant atmosphere with plenty of cultural and educational opportunities. Visitors can explore the historic Huguenot Street, lined with well-preserved stone houses dating back to the 18th century.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking in the surrounding natural areas.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the Mohonk Preserve to enjoy breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Ridge. The crisp morning air will refresh you as you explore the lush trails.
Grab lunch at a local café in New Paltz before heading to Minnewaska State Park. Spend your afternoon swimming in the lake or relaxing by the waterfalls.
As the sun sets, indulge in a farm-to-table dinner at one of the local restaurants. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and seasonal dishes while reflecting on your day.
Visit the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art to appreciate regional artworks and exhibitions. Morning hours are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience.
After lunch, explore the shops and galleries along Main Street. Discover local crafts, art, and unique gifts.
Attend a live music event or theater performance in town. Immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying great entertainment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery including the Shawangunk Mountains and nearby hiking trails.
- Vibrant arts and cultural scene with local galleries, theaters, and music festivals.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Close proximity to both New York City and the Catskills for outdoor activities.
- Home to SUNY New Paltz, providing educational opportunities and a youthful atmosphere.
- Cost of living can be relatively high compared to other areas in New York State.
- Limited job opportunities outside of education, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
- Winter weather can be harsh, with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Traffic congestion can occur, especially with tourists during peak seasons.
- Growing population may lead to increased housing demand and limited availability.
Best Activities in New Paltz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore over 8,000 acres of beautiful hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse ecosystems at Mohonk Preserve, perfect for nature lovers.
Experience world-class rock climbing at the Gunks, offering a variety of routes for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Enjoy a scenic ride on this flat, well-maintained trail that follows the historic Wallkill Valley Railroad, perfect for cyclists of all levels.
Paddle through calm waters of the Wallkill River and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the Hudson Valley.
Experience camping surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
Take a tour of local wineries and enjoy outdoor tastings while soaking in the picturesque views of the vineyards and surrounding landscape.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in the Rondout Creek, which is known for its diverse fish species and peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Paltz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Paltz
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning nature reserve offering breathtaking views of the Shawangunk Ridge, with numerous hiking trails leading to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes.
A historic resort with beautifully manicured grounds, hiking trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The iconic Sky Top Tower offers a 360-degree view of the area.
Renowned for its climbing and hiking, the Gunks features cliffs and rock faces that present majestic panoramic views, especially during sunset.
Offering a picturesque view of the Wallkill River and the surrounding landscape, this bridge is a wonderful spot for photography, particularly during autumn.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers a fantastic view of the Hudson Valley, particularly stunning at sunrise and during fall foliage.
Great for capturing photos of the scenic creek with the backdrop of the lush vegetation and rolling hills, especially during spring and summer.
Food in New Paltz
New Paltz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These delectable treats are a must-try, especially when freshly made at local orchards like Dressel Farms and Jenkins-Lueken Orchards.
Must-Try!
Savor a slice of classic New York-style pizza at local favorites like P&G's, or visit The Pizza Shop for creative and gourmet toppings.
Experience the region's artisanal cheeses with a cheese plate featuring selections from the Cheese Plate, a local shop known for its extensive range of regional and international cheeses.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Paltz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Operating on Sundays, the market offers an array of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats such as gourmet tamales and organic ice cream.
Explore the diverse culinary offerings at the food trucks lining Main Street, where you can find everything from Korean BBQ to wood-fired pizza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
New Paltz is known for its diverse community. Engaging with individuals from different backgrounds and showing openness and respect towards various cultures will be appreciated.
Local residents value sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Being mindful of waste, recycling, and using sustainable products aligns with community norms.
Participation in local events and community service is encouraged. Showing willingness to engage or volunteer can help build connections and foster respect within the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Paltz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Paltz
Ensure a smooth experience
In New Paltz, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in various service industries. A common practice is to tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Other services, such as taxi drivers, baristas, and hairdressers, also typically receive tips ranging from 10-20% depending on the level of service provided.
Payment methods in New Paltz are diverse and include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are growing in popularity. It is common for establishments to have an electronic payment system that allows for easy transactions, especially in local restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is an ideal time to visit New Paltz as the weather starts to warm up and nature comes to life. Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Shawangunk Mountains. Annual events like the New Paltz Spring Fest also take place during this season.
Summer (June to August) is vibrant in New Paltz, with warm temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and exploring local parks. This is also the peak season for tourism, so expect a lively atmosphere, festivals, and local farmers' markets. Just be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall (September to November) is arguably the most picturesque time to visit with stunning foliage as the leaves change color. Cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking, apple picking, and enjoying local harvest festivals. The New Paltz Apple Fest in October is a highlight that showcases local produce and crafts.
Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and snow, making it a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. The holiday season adds charm to the town with festive decorations and events. However, be prepared for frigid temperatures and potential snowstorms.
New Paltz at Night
Hiking in New Paltz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park with endless hiking trails, clifftop views, waterfalls, and beautiful glacial lakes.
Features over 70 miles of hiking trails with breathtaking views, rock formations, and diverse ecosystems.
A pedestrian bridge that offers stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding areas, with access to trails on either side.
A beautiful trail that wraps around the lake at Mohonk, offering views of the mountains and surrounding forest.
A rugged mountain park with a variety of trails, offering panoramic views and diverse wildlife.
A large park with trails leading to the summit of Bear Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands.
Offers a network of trails through varied terrain including forests, streams, and open fields.
Aiports
How to reach New Paltz by plane.
Located approximately 60 miles southeast of New Paltz, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York metropolitan area.
Located about 70 miles southeast of New Paltz, JFK is a major international airport in New York City.
Approximately 75 miles southeast of New Paltz, LGA primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international services.
Located about 85 miles northeast of New Paltz, ALB serves as a regional hub with some international flights.
About 110 miles southwest of New Paltz, PHL is a major international airport that serves as a hub for several airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in New Paltz, consisting of individuals who identify as Caucasian.
A significant demographic group that includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin.
A demographic group comprising individuals with African ancestry.
A group representing individuals with origins in the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial groups.
A small demographic group including individuals who do not fit into the standard racial categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played widely in schools and recreational leagues in New Paltz.
Played in local schools and community centers, basketball has a strong following in New Paltz.
An informal yet competitive sport that enjoys popularity among college students and the local community.
Many local parks feature tennis courts, making it a favored individual and doubles sport.
With various trails and parks, running is a common activity for both casual and competitive athletes.
The surrounding areas offer great terrain for mountain biking enthusiasts in and around New Paltz.
Given its proximity to the Shawangunk Mountains, rock climbing is a popular sport for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Paltz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in New Paltz cater to vegetarians and vegans, with offerings ranging from plant-based burgers at Karma Road to vegan sushi at Gomen-Kudasai.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can delight in gluten-free pizza crust at The Pizza Shop and gluten-free baked goods at Mudd Puddle Coffee Roasters.