Updated January 25, 2022

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from NYC, consider the lovely town of New Paltz! Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for socially distanced fun—from hiking the Mohonk Reserve to exploring the Shawangunk Wine Trail. Locals in New Paltz helped us put together this list of 10 things to do in their hometown. 

#1: Choose your adventure in the Mohonk Preserve

Staying socially distant isn’t a problem at the Mohonk Preserve! With thousands of acres to explore, the Preserve encourages visitors to “choose your own adventure.” You can hike, bike, climb, run, or even ride horses. Exploring nature is one of the top things to do upstate, and Mohonk is a local favorite. 

Locals tell us that the Sky Top hike is especially magical. You’re rewarded with an incredible view! Plus, you can choose your difficulty. Novice hikers can the Sky Top Path (it’s only about a 20-minute ascent). Or, if you’re looking for a challenge, take on the Labyrinth rock scramble. Just be warned—it’s tough!

#2: Wander the past at Historic Huguenot Street

Escape the present day for a few hours by visiting Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz. Dating back to 1677, this well-preserved Huguenot settlement (Huguenots were French protestants escaping persecution) offers an exciting, hands-on history lesson. Locals tell us it will appeal to more than just history buffs—although history lovers will adore the extensive archives on site. 

#3: Raise a glass at a local vineyard

Eighty miles of wine? We’re sold! The 80-mile Shawangunk Wine Trail includes 15 local vineyards, which means plenty of chances to enjoy some local concoctions. 

The wineries range in size and specialty. Some have activities for kids, and many are dog friendly.

Locals tell us that the Robibero Family Vineyard is a great start. One of New York’s newest wineries, Robibero is a family-run, boutique winery. That means you can’t get their vintage anywhere else. 

#4: Bike along a converted railway line

Cycling is a fun form of NYC transportation—but you’ll have fewer cabs and speed walkers to watch out for upstate. Locals tell us there are some fantastic biking trails near New Paltz, and one local favorite is the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.

This former railroad track stretches about twenty-two miles through the towns of Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale, and Ulster. It’s a great place to hike or bike.

#5: Take your pick (of apples, fresh produce, and more)

Picking apples is a classic thing to do in upstate New York—and New Paltz has several great orchards nearby! 

Locals tell us that Twin Star Orchard is known for its great cider selection and live music. They even offer yoga in the summer. And Jenkins-Lueken is a great choice if you’re looking to enjoy more than just apples. This orchard also grows vegetables, peaches, cherries, and more. 

#6: Class it up with some local art 

Visiting art galleries is a great thing to do in NYC, but locals tell us you’ll find some fantastic art spots upstate as well. In New Paltz, they recommend starting at DM Weil Art Gallery. DM Weil’s mission statement is “Why Can’t Fine Art Be Fun?” It’s certainly a joy to explore the expansive space, which is packed with colorful paintings.

Locals upstate note that you’ll find more art to explore in New Paltz. The Unison Art Center has a beautiful (and free!) sculpture garden. And Mark Gruber Gallery features some gorgeous pieces inspired by the Hudson Valley.

#7: Search for treasure at the Antique Barn

Locals tell us that New Paltz’s “Antique Barn” is exactly what it sounds like: a farm-style building packed with antique treasures. So if you’re looking for a unique souvenir—or something to spice up your apartment—then the Antique Barn is an excellent place to search.  

Located within the Water Street Market, you’ll find everything from antique dressers to boxes full of old keys. The Antique Barn boasts that it contains treasures that date from the 1800s to the 1970s. 

#8: Go wild at the Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary

Escape the concrete jungle of NYC for the wildlife of New Paltz! The Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary seeks to preserve the “forever wild” of the Hudson Valley. 

The 56 acres of the Sanctuary include 1,300 feet along the beautiful Wallkill River. Here, you’ll find tons of twisting trails and 100+ different kinds of birds. (So, basically a birder’s paradise.) Locals tell us that it’s so peaceful here that it’s easy to forget that you’re close to the town. 

#9: Enjoy a lovely meal Main Street Bistro

There’s nothing like starting the day with comfort food. Especially now! Main Street Bistro offers breakfast and lunch with an emphasis on American and vegetarian food. 

The servings are big, the service is prompt, and you’ll find that most tables are occupied by hungry locals. 

#10: Imbibe on local brews 

Cheers! Enjoying local craft brews that you can’t find in the city is definitely one of the best things to do upstate. Locals tell us you’ll have tons of choices in New Paltz.

Like...a lot of choices. Bacchus Brewery is a local favorite. New Paltz Brewing Co. (Pfälzerbräu) is also well-loved. Different places have different safety policies at the moment—Some places have patios; others offer only curbside pick-up. (Perfect for a picnic!)