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Ulster County Program Ideas
Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson is compiling a list of program ideas throughout Ulster County to make your Girl Scout year planning as easy as possible.
These activities can be done with your troop, as a Service Unit, or as an individual trip.
If you have an idea that you want to see on this list, send it to membercare@girlscoutshh.org with the subject line: Activity List - Ulster.
Arm-of-the-Sea Theater 
Arm-of-the-Sea Theater
61 East bridge Street
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-246-7873
https://www.armofthesea.org/
Arm-of-the-Sea is an arts ensemble that fuses visual storytelling with live music in large-scale works of mask and puppet theater. Founded in 1982 by Marlena Marallo and Patrick Wadden, the company’s hybrid performance style channels the evocative power of the arts as a force for joy, insight, and community uplift. Their low-tech devices of theatrical enchantment illuminate relations between humans and the life-support networks of this blue-ocean planet.
Under the direction of Marallo & Wadden, the 2024 creative team includes musicians Maclain Maier and Helen Houghton, and performers Kerry Bergin, Trey Daniels, Kira deCoudres, Joanna Grabiarz, Douglas Keller, Dee Dee Maucher, Nick Panken, Rakel Stammer, Soyal Smalls and MJ Smythe.
Arm-of-the-Sea tours to cultural centers, festivals, and community venues throughout New York and adjacent states. The organization is transforming the ruins of a 19th century papermill into a waterfront cultural park - The Tidewater Center - in Saugerties, NY.
Atlantic Kayak Tours
Atlantic Kayak Tours
Norrie State Park
Staatsburg, NY 12580
845-246-2187
https://atlantickayaktours.com/
AKT’s mission is to promote the safe enjoyment of paddlesports.
We do this by sharing our experience and our knowledge, which we continuously seek to improve.
AKT is changing and we are looking for someone interested in taking it over. This is an amazing opportunity to run/own a kayak touring business with over 30 years of experience. Email us to talk about this opportunity.
Barry Knight Interpretive Walks
Barry Knight Interpretive Walks
1451 Route 28A West
Hurley, NY 12491
845-331-1214
A five-minute easy hike from parking lot to campsite and obseration tower. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains, Ashokan Reservoir, Mohonk Mountain House and more. Pets allowed, but call first. Child and group friendly. Open year-round, daily, by appointment. No fee; donations are given to St. Jude Children's Research hospital.
BC New Paltz Climbing Gym
BC New Paltz Climbing Gym
234 Main Street
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-255-7625
https://bcclimbinggym.com/
BC's Climbing Gym is a boutique bouldering space with an emphasis on climbing movement. It's what we obsess over as we set and re-set the gym walls. Our philosophy here is that carefully curated routes teach movement and body positions that translate to outdoor climbing.
When many people picture bouldering, they imagine a power-fest of dynoing from crimp to crimp. We seek to challenge that notion by offering thoughtful, technical, and "flowy" boulders to fit all body sizes, while still offering difficult boulders for the power-and-strength climber.
If you enjoy the challenge of moving over stone, we think you will enjoy the movement offered here. If you've tried bouldering in other gyms and haven't connected with it, we highly recommend giving us a look.
Belleayre Mountain
Belleayre Mountain
181 Galli Curci Road
Highmount, NY 12441
845-254-5600
https://www.belleayre.com/
Discover the Central Catskill Mountains, where you can enjoy skiing & snowboard, the great outdoors, eat the best cuisine, and find plenty of adventures all in one place. New discoveries are waiting for you around every corner and you will find plenty of possibilities in the surrounding villages and hamlets. When you are finished skiing and riding for the day, make sure to explore what the Belleayre Region has to offer. With a 2.5 hour ride and a tank of gas, Belleayre is easily accessible from New York City and from most other major East Coast cities.
Braden Brook Stables
Braden Brook Stables
19 Mountaindale Road
Greenfield Park, NY 12435
845-647-7556
https://bradenbrookstables.com/
| Enjoy a scenic trail ride through the spectacular Hudson Valley. Follow our shaded bridle paths through the rolling hills of the beautiful Catskill mountains before entering into the surrounding countryside -- an area rich in local history, as well as natural splendor. Explore our wooded mountain trails, ride through a rushing stream...even see a "wild" turkey or a family of deer. | ||
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We will instruct you in the basics of horsemanship before you start out, and you will be accompanied by a courteous and experienced trail guide. Beginning riders can enjoy a relaxing and scenic ride, while those with more experience can go at a livelier pace. |
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Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Catskill Animal Sanctuary
316 Old Stage Road
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-336-8447
casanctuary.org
Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a 150-acre refuge in New York’s Hudson Valley for 10 species of farmed animals rescued from cruelty, neglect and abandonment. Over the years, thousands have come to this place of profound peace. They continue to come — sometimes one needy soul, sometimes a flock of 100 or more at a time. It is our privilege to help each and every rescued animal understand what love feels like.
If we’ve learned anything from them, it’s the life-altering truth that, in the ways that matter, we are all the same. Animals are as individual as us, want their lives as much as we want ours, and experience the same emotions as we do. Pain, suffering and fear feel no different to a pig than they do a human being.
This belief in our shared “sameness” is the first driver of all that we do. The second is our choice to believe in humanity’s goodness. Each year, thousands of visitors come to meet the animals and learn about the impact of their diet on animals, their health, and our ailing planet.
We watch as profound shifts occur in the disarming moments shared by humans and animals. We offer support through customized Sanctuary tours, engaging educational programs for kids, vegan recipes and a sanctuary cookbook, and inspirational writing and speaking of our founder Kathy.
The fact that 94% of our non-vegan visitors say they intend to reduce or eliminate animal products from their diet is proof that what we’re doing — combining love and urgency, connecting people with animals, and supporting people in their vegan journey — is working.
Come share the love.
Catskill Mountain Railroad
Catskill Mountain Railroad
Westbrook Lake Station in the Kingston Plaza 55
845-332-4854
https://catskillmountainrailroad.com/
The Catskill Mountain Railroad (CMRR), is a heritage railroad based in Kingston, New York, that began operations in 1982. The CMRR leases the former New York Central Railroad Catskill Mountain branch from Kingston to Stony Hollow, New York from its landlord, Ulster County. The tracks were purchased by the County in 1979 from the estate of Penn Central and the County has leased track to the CMRR continuously since 1983.
The CMRR is employee-owned by 69 current and former employees and their families. The CMRR considers itself a community service organization dedicated to preserving the history of the former Ulster and Delaware Railroad. All the CMRR’s operating profits are reinvested back into the preservation of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad corridor and into building and maintaining our trains.
Chilly Willy's Ice Cream Trucks
Chilly Willy's Ice Cream Trucks
see site for specific address
845-454-6862
https://chillywillysicecream.com/
Our goal at Chilly Willy's is to serve you with the cleanest and most beautiful ice cream trucks you'll ever see. Throughout the years. we've all seen ice cream trucks that looked like they just rolled out of a junk yard. Our garage- kept trucks are the nicest looking trucks on the streets, and a big hit for just about any event you can dream of. Please be sure to click on the tabs below and see for yourself why we are New York's number one choice.
City of Kingston Kayak Tours
City of Kingston Kayak Tours
53 Deleware Avenue
Kingston, NY 12401
845-481-7336
https://kingston-ny.gov/content/8391/8409/default.aspx
The City of Kingston Parks and Recreation Department offers guided Kayaking tours between Memorial Day and Columbus Day.
These programs include a 1 hour and 45 minute guided educational tour of the Hudson River or Rondout Creek, use of kayaks and safety equipment, and basic instruction. These programs can be reserved by Kingston Parks and Recreation Department at 845-481-7336.To register check out kingstonparksandrec.org
For a full list of our 2024 programs and dates click here
Clove Valley Community Farm
Clove Valley Community Farm
81 Clolve Valley Road
High Falls, NY 12440
https://www.clovevalleycommunityfarm.com/
Coach House Players
Coach House Players
12 Augusta Street
Kingston, NY 12401
845-331-2476
https://coachhouseplayers.org/
2024 Season
You Know I Can’t Hear You When the Water’s Running
April 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
July 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14
Hamlet: The Clown Prince
August 23, 24, 25
Sunset Boulevard
November 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17
D.R.A.W.
D.R.A.W.
20 Cedar Street
Kingston, NY 12401
https://www.drawkingston.org/
A welcoming space for everyone to create
Our studio is a safe, inclusive environment built on the shared value of work and the creative process of making and learning. Respect for the work of others and an acknowledgement of the process of making and learning, along with constructive communication and encouragement, are both the model and the expectation in D.R.A.W.’s studio environment.
Dubois Farms
Dubois Farms
209 Perkinsville Road
Highland, NY 12528
845-795-4037
https://duboisfarms.com/
WE ARE TWO of the few first-generation farmers in the Hudson Valley. Twenty years ago, in an attempt to keep the small farming industry alive, we purchased a 54-acre farm, which was destined to be sold entirely for development. By replanting orchards and vineyards, revitalizing neglected fruit trees into a healthy and vigorous condition in order to produce some of the older, more sought after varieties of fruit, and constructing outbuildings and animal areas reminiscent of colonial times, we have created an idyllic setting, bringing a piece of Olde New England to the Hudson Valley. We have recently expanded the farm by 15 acres, and have planted many more fruit trees and strawberries, as well as Christmas trees. We hope to be open through December in the very near future, and look forward to sharing the holiday season with you! We are so pleased to offer the quality, quantity, and variety of fruit that is sure to satisfy and delight our customers. We welcome you and your family to visit ours for apple picking and more at DuBois Farms Pick-Your-Own!
Sincerely,
David and Jolee DuBois
DuBois Farms Pick-Your-Own
Esopus Meadows Point Preserve
Esopus Meadows Point Preserve
269 River Road
Ulster Park, NY 12487
845-473-4440
https://www.scenichudson.org/explore-the-valley/scenic-hudson-parks/esopus-meadows-preserve/
ESOPUS, Ulster County (96 acres) — What’s a hike without a great picnic spot? Esopus Meadows Preserve has it covered. First, take your pick of trails — trek through a rolling forest landscape or hug the shoreline to a dramatic river lookout. Whichever route you choose, arrive at the preserve’s Hudson River Greenway Water Trail site in time for lunch beneath its pavilion. You’ll find the views equally delicious. But where are the meadows? They’re underwater. Farmers once brought their cattle here to feast on plants growing in the offshore tidal flats. Try hiking on the Phenology Trail and you can help scientists track our changing climate by studying eight plant species!
Free and open year-round, sunrise to sunset.
Forsyth Nature Center
Forsyth Nature Center
157 Lucas Avenue
Kingston, NY
845-481-7336
http://www.forsythnaturecenter.org/
Forsyth Nature Center is a handicapped accessible outdoor learning center located at 157 Lucas Avenue in uptown Kingston, New York. A facility of Kingston Parks and Recreation Department, the center offers more than two-dozen animal exhibits and beautiful gardens that foster a connection to the natural world for visitors of all ages. The center is open year-round and is free to the public.
Headless Horseman Escape Rooms
Headless Horseman Escape Rooms
778 Broadway, Route 9W
Ulster Park, NY 12487
845-339-2666
https://headlesshorsemanescaperooms.com/
The Headless Horseman Escape Rooms are fully interactive and immersive experiences unlike anything you have ever done before. No longer do you sit back and watch the show... now you are 100% part of it. Imagine you and your friends, family or colleagues are trapped in a themed, highly realistic series of rooms. With only 60 minutes to escape, you must work together as a team as you race against the clock to explore your surroundings using logic, instinct, and critical thinking to find secret passages, solve puzzles, crack codes, and uncover hidden mysteries that will ultimately lead to your escape.
Participants will enter a room, the question is whether they will make it out in the hour. Clues and riddles hidden throughout the rooms provide the tools to meet your objective. Every room is different and has different stories behind it. You can test your wit and your grace under pressure.
Hortus Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Hortus Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
76 Mill Road
Stone Ridge, NY 12484
https://hortusgardens.org/
Located in the Mid-Hudson Valley countryside of Stone Ridge, New York, Hortus Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a family-run arboreta and botanic garden whose mission is to sustain the native, unusual and historic plant life of our area and serve as a vital educational resource for the public. We are also focused on saving rare and endangered plants worldwide to ensure that species diversity lives on.
We welcome garden groups and individuals to come to visit Hortus Arboretum and Botanical Gardens! The gardens have been growing for over 20 years, with several specific collections such as the Nut grove, Chinese garden, and Japanese shade garden, in addition to a large collection of unusual edibles and hardy cacti. We have the most diverse selection of plants in Ulster County. Hortus Arboretum exists as a ‘Living Textbook’ of plants that can be grown in the Hudson Valley.
Hudson River Maritime Museum
Hudson River Maritime Museum
50 Rondout Landing
Kingston, NY 12401
845-338-0071
https://www.hrmm.org/
Mission & Vision
The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) was established in 1979 and preserves, interprets, and celebrates the maritime history, traditions, industries, and communities of the Hudson River and its tributaries.
HRMM connects people to the Hudson River and its watershed through education and preservation of the river’s maritime history and environment.
- HRMM seeks to empower the public to understand the value of their own stories, and how the connection between the past and present can ultimately shape the future.
- Using traditional education methods as well as hands-on learning, we will engage diverse audiences in programs that focus on our shared history and we will explore how science informs our everyday life.
- In partnership with the local and global community, HRMM will continue to grow as a cultural and tourism hub and serve as a thought leader in modeling a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive waterfront.
Hudson Sailing
Hudson Sailing
1 Broadway
Kingston, NY 12401
845-667-1394
http://hudsonsailing.com/
Hudson Sailing invites you to join us for a sunset sail or a daytime sailing charter aboard Cirrus, our fast, fun racing trimaran. You will experience multihull sailing at its finest while you enjoy the best of New York sightseeing and Hudson River sailing charters available. Adventure boating excursions aboard Cirrus take you on the fastest, safest and most comfortable sailing trip you can imagine.
Hudson Valley HorsePlay
Hudson Valley HorsePlay
98 Sherman Road
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
845-616-3608
Hudson Valley HorsePlay partners people with horses for a variety of benefits:
Stress Reduction & Anxiety Relief
Increased Confidence
Improved Social Skills
Enhanced Leadership
Better Personing,
Better Parenting
Better Partnering !
Hudson Valley Rail Trail
Hudson Valley Rail Trail
101 New Paltz Road
Highland, NY 12528
845-691-2066
https://www.hudsonvalleyrailtrails.org/
The Hudson Valley Rail Trail Association is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating, maintaining, promoting, and improving the Hudson Valley Rail Trail in Highland, New York.
The story of the HVRT starts with a mysterious fire and ends with a small town and group of founders who believed in the Rail Trail concept and the value it would bring to the community. In the 1970s, the railroad bridge to Poughkeepsie burned and led to a redirection of rail traffic.
The railroad tracks and the old bridge fell into disrepair. Over the years, there were hopes of making it a vital link in the Hudson Valley Trail system and ultimately the bridge becoming Walkway Over the Hudson.
Hurds Family Farm
Hurds Family Farm
2187 State Route 32
Modena, NY 12548
845-883-7825
https://www.hurdsfamilyfarm.com/
Plant the memories; harvest the fun!
Our 7th-generation family farm is a 120-acre apple orchard minutes from the New York State Thruway and about 1.5 hours north of New York City. Fall is our most popular time of year to pick your own apples and pumpkins. Make sure you come eat our freshly made apple cider donuts. Plenty of activities all year round to keep the family having fun together. Outdoor rides, bounce pillow, hayride, corn maze, games, obstacle course, water cannon, and off-road tours for all ages. Feed the farm animals and fish in the pond seasonally. Hike or take a golf cart adventure tour through our pollinator fields and other forest trails full of wildlife.
Hurley Recreation Association
Hurley Recreation Association
50 Dewitt Mills Road
Hurley, NY 12443
845-338-9407
https://hurleyrec.org/
John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary
John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary
Burroughs Drive off Floyd Ackert Road
West Park, NY
845-384-6320
https://www.scenichudson.org/explore-the-valley/outdoor-adventures/adventure/john-burroughs-nature-sanctuary/
Why we love it
The open ridgelines, secluded forests, wetlands and fascinating rock formations that make this a must-visit destination for hikers today also proved indispensable to nature writer John Burroughs (1837-1921), who sought inspiration among these habitats for his essays that influenced America’s early environmental movement. Any hike should include a stop at Slabsides, the cabin Burroughs built to write and entertain friends such as Walt Whitman and Theodore Roosevelt. Few can walk through this rugged landscape without gaining a greater appreciation of Burroughs’ legacy and a stronger commitment to carrying forward his conservation ethic.
John R. Kirk Planetarium
John R. Kirk Planetarium
1 Hawk Drive
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-257-3818
https://www.newpaltz.edu/planetarium/
The Planetarium is used for the education of SUNY students, as well as shows for the public, and private groups such as school trips and scouting organizations.
The Planetarium is open to the public for "Astronomy Night" on the first and third Thursday of each month that the university is in session. See our Planetarium Shows page for more details.
Keider's Farm
Kelder's Farm
5755 US Route 209
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
845-626-7137
https://keldersfarm.com/
Kelder’s Farm is a 200 year old family farm located in the Hudson Valley in Kerhonkson, NY.
This bicentennial family farm is a popular agricultural destination where families are able to take a step away from the hustle and bustle of life, unplug from technology, and reconnect with their families and their roots.
Today, the Kelder family has opened their farm to the community by offering pick-your-own fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, apples, and many vegetables including sweet corn, tomatoes, pumpkins and more. In addition, the farm has fun activities that are exciting for family members of all ages! This family farm started as a small idea and grew into one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique experiences with over 100 acres of seasonal produce, a CSA, farm market, and multiple educational programs for numerous school children to participate in every year. Since 1779, the Kelder family has farmed chickens, pigs and dairy cattle, and their farm has become a popular agri-tourism destination.
Kelder’s Farm, is an award winning sustainable farm in the Hudson Valley, and hosts friendly farm animals, Homegrown Mini-Golf, a massive, kid-pleasing jumping pillow, and a famous, record-setting giant garden gnome. You can visit one of the world’s Largest Garden Gnomes here at the farm – (Guinness Book of World Records 2009). On this small farm just 90 miles north of New York City, Chris and Jackie Kelder had the vision to turn their beautiful farmland into something everyone could enjoy and appreciate fresh produce from. Their son John Kelder has since joined the family business to help carry on the family tradition. What started out as a dairy farm and a few rows of strawberries with an old homemade sign, has transformed into a seasonal attraction that families from miles around visit year after year. We invite you to be a part of growing the best farm memories!
Kingston Ceramics Studio
Kingston Ceramics Studio
77 Cornell Street
Studio 309
Kingston, NY 12401
845-331-2078
https://www.kingstonceramicsstudio.com/
About Kingston Ceramics Studio
We are a welcoming community clay studio offering weekly group pottery classes for adults and kids, private ceramics lessons for pairs, parties for groups, and open studio time for students and artists. We host clay workshops to teach special topics with guest artists and provide firing services for local artists with home studios.
No matter your experience, skill level, or age, if you have an interest in clay you've found the right place! We have a bright, open, clean, organized, and well-stocked studio.
A team of wonderfully talented instructors and dedicated assistants keep our studio an exciting place to try a new hobby or deepen your knowledge and expand your practice.
We sell gift certificates so that you can share the studio experience, and we sell ceramic work made by our instructors, members and assistants so that you can give one-of-a-kind handmade gifts to those you love, including yourself.
We value connection with community, creativity, and clay, and look forward to sharing that with you.
Kingston Cyclery
Kingston Cyclery
612 Ulster Avenue
Kingston, NY 12401
845-383-1600
https://www.kingstoncyclery.com/
Kingston Cyclery is at the top of our industry standing out from the competition in more ways than one. We’ve come a long way since our opening back in 1973.
Kingston Cyclery provides so much more than your average Bicycle Repair Service. We are a team of qualified and experienced professionals. Everything we do is geared towards showing our customers how much we care about their needs, and delivering the results they want.
Kingston Lanes and Entertainment Center
Kingston Lanes and Entertainment Center
644 E. Chester St.
Kingston, NY 12401
845-338-1414
https://www.kingstonlanes.com/
Kingston Lanes and Entertainment Center is a great place to have a good time for all ages! Whether you are enjoying the back patio during volleyball season or inside bowling during the winter to celebrate a birthday—we promise it will be a blast!
Kingston Tea Room
Kingston Tea Room
131 Fair Street
Kingston, NY 12401
845-514-2365
https://kingstontearoom.com/
Enter the Kingston Tea Room in the Thomas L. Southwick House in historic Uptown Kingston NY, and be transported back to Colonial times. Our lovely bed and breakfast has been recently renovated, yet retains all of its 19th century charm. We are open for regular seatings Wednesday through Sunday afternoons, and specialize in private events for groups of 6 to 40 guests. We offer ample and free on-street parking.
Kingston Lanes and Entertainment Center is a great place to have a good time for all ages! Whether you are enjoying the back patio during volleyball season or inside bowling during the winter to celebrate a birthday—we promise it will be a blast!
Kiwanis Ice Arena
Kiwanis Ice Arena
6 Small World Drive
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-247-2590
https://www.kiwanisicearena.com/
Klyne Esopus Historical Society
Klynee Esopus Historical Society Museum
764 US-9W
Ulster Park, NY 12487
845-338-8109
https://www.esopushistorymuseum.org/
LifeForce Self Defense for Women
LifeForce Self Defense for Women
914-297-8878
lifeforceselfdefense@gmail.com
NY: Nyack, White Plains, Kingston, Suffern
Hi! I'm Tina
Hi, I’m Tina, lead female instructor and registered nurse with a deep passion for empowering women to feel more powerful and prepared in their everyday lives. My journey began 15 years ago after encountering some scary situations, and I fell in love with the transformative power of self-defense training. This practice goes far beyond physical protection—it builds self-confidence, enhances mental and physical resilience, fosters healthier relationships, improves fitness, sharpens intuition, and so much more.
It's important to know you don’t need to train for years, be super fit or athletic to reap the benefits and better protect yourself. With the right education and a little practice, you can significantly enhance your ability to stay safe. Teaching women and watching them discover their own strength is incredibly fulfilling. I believe this education should be the norm, not the exception, and I’m dedicated to help move things in that direction. Thank you!
Our Mission
Our mission at LifeForce is for practical self defense to become part of every woman's education.
Our Methodology
LifeForce is a sister company to Guided Chaos Adaptive Defense and the Perkins Self Defense System, renowned self-protection methodologies with a global presence since 1976.
Our team of certified instructors are all directly trained by John Perkins, internationally recognized self-defense expert and author of best-selling book "Attack Proof: The Ultimate Guide to Personal Protection". John was a Yonkers Detective, crime scene investigator, forensic expert, blood stain pattern analyst, ballistics expert, private detective, bodyguard, Grand Master of Ki Chuan Do/Guided Chaos (GC), and instructor of every aspect of personal protection for over 50 years. Before his untimely death in 2023, John was recognized as "the West's foremost expert of the dynamics of violence."
Our comprehensive programs provide you with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to effectively safeguard yourself and others. Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of real violence, we emphasize swift and decisive action through adaptations of specific close-quarters combat techniques.
Using neuromuscular conditioning, we instill responses that become reflexive, allowing you to adapt and make split-second decisions in chaotic situations. These responses become second nature through training in diverse and unchoreographed scenarios. Our goal is to empower you to carry these essential skills with you wherever life may lead.
We cover a diverse array of topics in our classes, events & workshops, prioritizing the prevention of violence through increased awareness, mindset training, recognizing warning signs, and trusting your instincts. Additionally, we address how to handle 'common attacks' and self-defense situations, understand the use of self-defense weapons, debunk prevalent myths & misconceptions, and much more.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
5281 Route 44-55
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
845-255-0752
Located in Ulster County, NY Minnewaska State Park Preserve is situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. The park features numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, incising sheer cliffs and ledges opening to beautiful views, clear streams cut into valleys, 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike and simply enjoy. And, all this within an hour and a half drive from New York City.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, picnicking, scuba-diving, rock-climbing, bouldering, boating and marveling at the scenery. Horseback riding and cross-country ski trails are available as well. Technical Rock Climbing permitted.
New Paltz Kayaking
New Paltz Kayaking
31 Plains Rd
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-594-6353
https://npkayaking.com/
If you’re eager to get out on the water and explore the Wallkill River, you’re going to need a kayak or canoe. Look no further than New Paltz Kayaking Rentals as your trusted source for kayak rentals in New Paltz. But, we don’t stop there. We also offer kayaking tours, and bike, and fishing equipment rentals. If you’re ready for adventure in New Paltz, NY, we’ve got you covered.
Kayak or canoe along the Wallkill River with our New Paltz Kayaking rentals. Experience a 2 hour guided tour of the Chodikee Lake/Black Creek Nature Preserve on our Friday Sunset paddle. Whether you’ve never been in a kayak before or you’re a seasoned pro, we’ve got a kayak or canoe for you. If you’re adventuring alone, with your family, or with a big group, our team will get your crew outfitted and ready for a safe and fun journey.
We provide the best kayak rentals in the area. Relax and enjoy the fresh air of the river and let us handle the heavy lifting when you choose us for your kayak rentals in New Paltz.
Our rates are affordable and our reviews are remarkable. Book an experience you’ll never forget with New Paltz Kayaking Rentals today!
Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary
Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary
Huguenot Street
New Paltz, NY
https://www.nyquistfdtn.org/nyquist-harcourt-wildlife
The sanctuary exists to ensure that current and future generations in New Paltz and the wider community of the Mid-Hudson Valley have a place where they can enjoy nature in a “forever wild” setting.
Located on Huguenot Street in the town and village of New Paltz, the 56 acres of property comprising the Sanctuary has relatively open areas dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants. These provide rich and varied habitat opportunities for a wide range of plants and animals. The Sanctuary includes an “oxbow,” a complex of ponds and wetlands remaining from a tightly-curved meander cut off when the Wallkill River straightened its course hundreds of years ago.
The Sanctuary has over 1,300 feet of frontage on the Wallkill River and adjoins the Jewett and Khosla properties, two historic Huguenot farms totaling more than 180 acres. The Sanctuary also adjoins land owned by the Village of New Paltz containing the Gardens for Nutrition, a community-supported public gardening area. Nearby is Historic Huguenot Street featuring seven stone houses dating to 1705, a burying ground, and a reconstructed 1717 stone church — all in their original village setting. Historic Huguenot Street offers six acres of landscaped green space and public programming to the local community and visitors from around the world.
Opus 40
Opus 40
356 George Sickle Road
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-246-3400
https://opus40.org/
Created by pioneering artist and Bard professor Harvey Fite, and founded as a nonprofit by his wife in 1978, Opus 40 is a world-famous artistic environment 63 acres of meadows, forested paths, and bluestone quarries — centering on 6.5 acres of remarkable earthwork sculpture and a handmade artist’s studio and home, also created by Fite — in the heart of the Hudson Valley in Saugerties, NY.
Fite hand-sculpted our central iconic sculpture entirely from bluestone harvested on site, fusing the legacy of local quarrying and ancient Mayan and Aztec stonework learned through his travels. He framed his stonework sculpture with the surrounding woods and mountains, ensuring the local ecosystem would always be central to his work.
Today, the nonprofit stewards Fite’s work and the property under our care with sustainable practices, while also welcoming 35, 000 people for visits, guided tours, live events, and educational programs. We welcome guests five days a week from April through November, and are available for educational field trips, guided tours and weddings all year long. Our event season, from May—November includes art workshops, and a popular live performance series — all with the majestic Catskill Mountains as the backdrop.
Phillies Bridge Farm
Phillies Bridge Farm
45 Phillies Bridge Road
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-256-9108
https://philliesbridge.org/
Located on 65 scenic acres in the Hudson Valley of New York State, Phillies Bridge Farm Project is a not-for-profit working farm with a mission to promote local sustainable agriculture, to provide CSA shareholders with abundant organically grown vegetables and herbs, to share part of the harvest with people in need, and to educate people of all ages about the sources of healthy food and the study of nature.
Phillies Bridge Farm includes six acres of vegetable fields, an herb garden, a delightful children’s Discovery Garden, 45 acres of woodlands and wetlands, rolling pastures, and views of the Shawangunk Ridge. A Nature Trail extends in a 1½ mile loop from the big barn through woods and wetlands around to a view of the farm and the house from the top of the hill called “Sheep’s Nose.” Come learn, grow, and share with us!
Phoenicia Soap Makers Space
Phoenicia Soap Makers Space
5371 Route28
Mt. Tremper, NY 12457
845-688-8900
https://www.phoeniciasoap.com/pages/phoenicia-soap-makers-space
Everyone in my family dealt with extremely sensitive skin. Even our dog Moses did. I’ve nurtured a wide range of skin complications—from Cally's and Phil's allergies, to my son (Killian Mansfield), whose cancer treatments damaged and sensitized his skin. I couldn't find a soap that both smelled great and was pure, gentle and moisturizing enough for my family—so I made it.
Phoenicia Soap Co. is located in the heart of the Catskills. People often come here to further their harmony with nature. The silhouettes on my soap labels symbolize things that make visiting the Catskills fun.
Phoenicia Soap products are plant based, using oils infused with botanicals wild-crafted or sustainably grown in the Catskills. We forego colorants and ingredients that harm people, water, and land. We minimize packaging too.
RAH's Playland & Parlor
RAH's Playland & Parlor
180 Sawkill Road
Kingston, NY 12401
845-331-2545
https://rahsplaylandandparlor.com/
When did you last close your eyes and imagine you are up to bat, bottom of the 9th, 7th game of the World Series, bases loaded and you are the winning run! When is the last time you spent the entire day with your family, nothing to worry about, nothing distracting you? Just you and your family having FUN.
River-to-Ridge Trails
River to Ridge Trails
41 Springtown Road
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-224-3744
https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/places/river-to-ridge-trail
OSI’s River-to-Ridge Trail showcases how protected land not only safeguards our natural resources and provides terrific recreational opportunities, but how it can also strengthen communities and support local economies.
The trail, a scenic and recreational off-road loop, was created by the Open Space Institute in partnership with Mohonk Preserve, and with support from the Butler Conservation Fund. It meanders through farm fields and over gently rolling hills, connecting New Paltz directly to the Shawangunk Ridge and 90 miles of recreational carriage roads and trails at the Mohonk Preserve and the Minnewaska State Park Preserve; the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail; and the Empire State Trail.
Rocking Horse Ranch
Rocking Horse Ranch
600 State Route 44/55
Highland, NY 12528
800-647-2624
https://www.rockinghorseranch.com/
We have activities for Scouts of all ages!
One No-Fuss Rate provides everything you need
Your stay includes TripAdvisor Award-Winning accommodations, three delicious meals daily prepared by our Chefs, all activities and nightly entertainment. Plus, enjoy your stay in a friendly, safety-conscious environment.
Rockland Farm Alliance
Rockland Farm Alliance
220 South Little Tor Road
New City, NY 10956
845-634-3167
The Rockland Farm Alliance (RFA) advocates for preservation and revival of farmland, sustainable agriculture, and educating our community on the importance of local food production and environmental stewardship.
Rondout Ice Rink
Rondout Ice Rink
100 Rondout Landing
Kingston, NY 10956
845-634-3167
The Rondout Ice Rink at Ole Savannah is now one of the Hudson Valley’s quintessential winter activities. Skate while enjoying beautiful views of the Rondout, and bring your family and friends, or plan your next private party and corporate event at the rink.
Tickets are available at Ole Savannah upon entry. There is a limited number of people allowed on the rink at a time, so tickets are timed for winter fun.
The Rondout Ice Rink at Ole Savannah is refrigerated, so YES, we are open during all weather conditions, including unseasonably warm temperatures!
Seed Song Farm
Seed Song Farm
160 Esopus Avenue
Kingston, NY 12401
845-383-1528
https://www.seedsongfarm.org/
Seed Song Farm produces sustainably-grown vegetables, herbs, berries, flowers, and forest products, available through CSA shares (weekly pickup of fresh produce at the farm), local farmers' markets, and on-site farmstand, and charitable donations. The Farm's commitment to health and sustainability goes far beyond the exclusion of harmful chemicals. We use indigenous plants both for production, consumption, public activities, and habitat for beneficial plants and insects, including pollinators and natural insect predators.
Skate Time
Skate Time
5164 US-209
Accord, NY 12404
845-626-7971
https://skatetimeny.com/
A beloved Hudson Valley institution, SKATE TIME is a neon-adorned shrine to 80’s and 90’s nostalgia. Home to a ten-thousand square foot roller rink, SKATE TIME also houses a token-operated arcade filled with vintage favorites and a full offering of ticket redemption prizes, as well as a café serving beer, wine and creative spins on classic fare. Located in the southern foothills of the Catskills, between the towns of Accord and Kerhonkson on Route 209, SKATE TIME is a favorite hangout for locals and a destination for visitors to this dynamic and beautiful region. With a helpful staff ready to host private parties, events, camps and whole-rink rentals, it’s always a good time at SKATE TIME!
SUNY New Paltz Parker Theatre
SUNY New Paltz Parker Theatre
Southside Loop
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-257-3880
https://www.newpaltz.edu/fpa/theatre/productions/mainstage/
The Mainstage Productions are to provide performance, design, technical, stage management and dramaturgical experiences with a theatrical exploration of the human condition in live theatre production. The department is committed to a variety of genres which reflects global diversity as well as the full diversity of the SUNY New Paltz Community.
To that end, the student of theatre will experience dramatic literature and production which would encompass an examination of issues which will include cultural, socio-economic, gender, sexual identity, political, religious or ability diversity.
The Department of Theatre Arts is committed to casting that authentically reflects the ethnicity and diversity of the department as well as the New Paltz community at large.
The Perfect Blend
The Perfect Blend
50 Market Street
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-246-2876
https://www.yarnandteashop.com/
The Wayfinder Experience
The Wayfinder Experience
see site for specific address
845-481-0776
https://wayfinderexperience.com/
The Wayfinder Experience is a live-action role-playing company, based in Kingston, New York. We run summer camps, events, school programs and workshops for teens, children and adults. The centerpiece of our programs is the Adventure Game, a transformative experience that challenges players physically, mentally and emotionally, while immersing them in an exciting world of fantasy.
Unison Arts
Unison Arts
9 Paradise Lane
New Paltz, NY
845-255-1559
https://www.unisonarts.org/
Unison Arts offers opportunities to grow our creative community through innovative environmental, racial, and social justice-centered art practices, as well as exceptional exhibits and performances.
Utility Bicycle Works
Utility Bicycle Works
228 Wall Street
Kingston, NY 12401
845-481-0269
https://utilitybicycleworks.com/
Utility Bicycle Works is Uptown Kingston's full service bicycle shop, with an emphasis on classically appointed bicycles, along with support for those who ride for transportation. If you're looking to make your ride more comfortable and useful, we just may be your shop. Being a tiny space, we carry a small but carefully curated supply of quality bicycles, parts and accessories.
Our objective is simple: We strive to provide professional repair service, accessories & practical advice for riders who appreciate the joy & utility a bicycle can provide. By lending our time, sharing experiences, and offering an educational component to every interaction, we hope to help make your ride safer, easier, and as enjoyable as possible.
Walkway Over the Hudson
Walkway Over the Hudson
Ulster County entrance off Haviland Road
Highland, NY
845-454-9649
https://walkway.org/
Walkway Over the Hudson is the nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and improving Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. This linear park spans the Hudson River between the Town of Lloyd in Ulster County and the City of Poughkeepsie in Dutchess County.
Our members, donors, and corporate sponsors are the Walkway's lifeblood and our future. Your generous gifts make our programming, sustainability initiatives, capital projects and special events possible. Lend your support today and join us in improving this historic park, regional economic driver and scenic treasure.
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
40 Sunset Ridge Road
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-255-2761
https://wallkillvalleylt.org/wvrt/
The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a 22+ mile rail trail and linear park that winds along the former Wallkill Valley Railroad rail corridor in Ulster County, New York. It goes through the towns of Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale, and Ulster to the Kingston city line. Activities include walking, jogging, bike riding, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The Rail Trail is open from dawn to dusk, year-round.
Wayward Ranch Animal Sanctuary
Wayward Ranch Animal Sanctuary
30 Loosestrife Lane
Kerhonkson, NY
845-626-7645
https://www.waywardranch.org/
Wayward Ranch was founded by three friends who, after working for other rescues for a long time, realized there was something missing from the average rescue model. No animal is perfect, and in the typical shelter system any behavioral concerns an animal had coming in are just exacerbated the longer they are kenneled or caged waiting for a home.
Wood 'N Wheel Family Fun Center
Wood 'N Wheel Family Fun Center
365 Broadway
Ulster Park, NY 12487
845-331-9680
https://www.woodnwheel.com/
