This medium-sized city in Ulster County is set on the west bank of the Hudson River. The third oldest city and largest surviving early Dutch settlement in New York State, it is famed for its wonderful architecture and historical heritage. A popular family destination, Kingston offers apple picking and hiking among its scenic countryside.
The historic downtown area has many old buildings that tell of the city’s well-known clothing and cigar production. The delicately restored City Hall dominates the city center and is a prime example of the value of preserving historical buildings. The original street plan of the walled village, designed in 1658, still remains today.
The lively Rondout Waterfront Area buzzes with events and is a good spot to kick off your visit. Have a meal in one of the waterfront restaurants or pay a visit to the Visitors’ Centre. On Saturdays, the local Farmer’s Market lets you sample some of the areas finest fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, bakery items and jams.
Highlights
Kingston Urban Cultural Park: was built in 1837 in the Federal style and features rotating exhibits, while also housing an information centre.
Volunteer Firemen’s Hall and Museum: has old prints, books and documents chronicling the earliest firefighters in the US, and antique firefighting equipment.
Old Dutch Church and Cemetery: dates back to 1659 and is the final resting place for George Clinton, the state’s first governor.
Trolley Museum: offers trolley rides along the historic Kingston waterfront on original rails to Kingston Point Park on the Hudson River.
Statue of Governor Pieter Stuyvesant: is located on the site where the one-legged governor negotiated a peace accord with local Indian tribes in 1664.