Looking for a quaint little town to visit this autumn in the Hudson Valley? Nestled between rolling hills and miles of prairies and farmland is the trendy bohemian town of New Paltz. New Paltz offers small town charm with a laidback atmosphere that calls for artists, historical fanatics, outdoor enthusiasts, and much more! Making a visit to this unique community is even more ideal in the autumn as the leaves begin to change and fall foliage emerges, making the perfect backdrop for phenomenal photographs and an array of colors.
THINGS TO DO:
Perhaps the town’s most famous historical attraction is Historic Huguenot Street, a former 18th century community of approximately seven stone houses that were constructed by the Huguenot settlers during the 1700s after they escaped religious persecution from the French monarchy. The settlers came to the New World in search of religious freedom and agricultural prosperity and settled in what is now called New Paltz today. You can even find one victorian home that was built later in the 1800s during the Victorian Era that leaves the last imprint of this small community before it became a protected site and has been celebrated as a National Historic Landmark to this day.
Interested in art & culture? Located at the SUNY New Paltz University campus, the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art offers various forms of artworks from notable artists around the Hudson Valley and beyond. This fine cultural institution exhibits paintings, sculptures, and intriguing contemporary masterpieces in this innovatative one-of-a-kind space that offers the viewer a glimpse into the artists imagination and creative conscious. For museum hours and general inquries please visit https://www.newpaltz.edu/museum/ for any info you may need prior to your visit here.
Opt for nature walks and hiking this beautiful region? Visit the Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary to experience the local flora and fauna of New Paltz. The sanctuary is protected land and is just a short walk from the main street and town center where one can wander about it’s various nature and hiking trails and taking in the breathtaking mountain views. Don’t forget your camera for excellent nature photography and landscape!
Around the corner from the sanctuary you can find the River to Ridge Trail, a vast hiking trail that begins in New Paltz and runs for a few miles west towards the Mohonk Mountains. You cross the iron bridge and begin your journey into the majestic unknown. This definitley lays the opportunity for some phenomenal fall foliage pictures!
A short drive from New Paltz lies the Mohonk Preserve Testimonial Gateway, a historic landmark that marks the entrance to the Lake Mohonk Nature Reserve of protected wildife and natuee surrounding the town of New Paltz. The structure was constructed from stone and mediterranean roof tiles that resembles a magical fairy tale appearance. You’ll find historic architecture, nature paths, and a dirt road leading up to this incredible landmark!
The nearby Mohonk Preserve offers miles upon miles of outdoor exploration just waiting to be discovered. Climbing up the rocky peaks gives spectacular views of New Paltz and the surrounding region, all the way to the Catskills on clear days. Peace, serenity, and adventure awaits! Be sure to dress appropriately according to season!
Looking for fresh pumpkins or fresh fall favorites? Head to Wallkill View Farm Market, a short distance away from Main Street where you can find great varieties of pumpkins, apples, savory apple pies, and more!
SHOPPING
Water Street Market, New Paltz’s premier shopping destination offers an open air marketplace full of quaint locally owned shops and boutiques selling handmade jewelry, accessories, shoes, and unique clothing. Get lost window shopping or purchase one-of-a-kind products local to New Paltz! For store and business hours please visit waterstreetmarket.com.
WHERE TO EAT & DINE:
Garvan’s Gastropub offers sophisticated dining and historic decor serving gourmet Irish cuisine in cozy quarters.
For hours and reservations visit garvans.com.
A Tavala Trattoria is a family-owned Italian restaurant serving up classic dishes in a rustic atmosphere.
For hours and reservations visit atavolany.com.
An excellent choice for breakfast and lunch at a great price is Main Street Bistro for classic breakfast dishes like buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedicts and sizzling cheesburgers in an artsy space.
For hours visit mainstreetbistro.com.
Karma Road is a health-conscious cafe that offers vegetarian and vegan delights in a rustic bohemian space.
For hours visit karmaroad.net.
For coffee lovers here are the best spots:
Head to Mudd Puddle Coffee Roasters for specialty blends and outdoor seatings in the center of Water Street Market.
Grines & Grains Inc. offers seasonal blends, fresh coffee, and other varieties in a casual contemporary local.
New Paltz offers a quaint small town with great shopping, dining, and lots of things to do that will make a memorable autumn experience! It’s a small town that offers the quintessential autumn charm and a great stop on your travels this season!
