19 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kingston, NY
Are you from Kingston, New York, or are you just visiting and looking for fun things to do? Don’t look any further! You’re in the right spot.We’ll show you 19 of the best and most fun things to do in Kingston, NY, so you can get the most out of your time in this beautiful part of Ulster County.
Kingston, New York is a place with a lot of history and culture. It has a unique mix of city life and natural beauty.Kingston is known for being the first capital city of New York State.The Hudson River Maritime Museum and the Trolley Museum of New York are great places to learn about the past of the area.
Kingston is right on the Hudson River, so it has beautiful views and fun things to do by the water. The Catskill Mountains are a beautiful backdrop to the city and a great place to go on activities outside. The Catskill Mountain Railroad is a beautiful way to see the mountains.
19 Best And Fun Things To Do In Kingston, NY (2024)
1. Trolley Museum Of New York
The Kingston, NY-based Trolley Museum of New York is a non-profit that works to preserve the past of electric streetcars, also known as trolleys. The museum has been around since 1955 and is located on the historic Rondout Waterfront. It gives tourists a chance to go back in time and actually ride a trolley.
An old trolley car has been fixed up and can be driven along a 1.5-mile track with lovely views of the Hudson River.Check out a group of old trolleys from different times, some from as early as the 1900s.
Visitors will have a fun and educational experience that is good for people of all ages. More information about how trolleys changed American neighborhoods will be given to you. Don’t miss the chance to ride a restored trolley and learn about its past.
Address: 89 East Strand Street, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.
2. Forsyth Nature Center
The Forsyth Nature Center is a free outdoor learning space in Kingston, NY that is open to people with disabilities. It’s been a part of Kingston Parks and Recreation since 1936 and is a real part of the community.
People of all ages can enjoy a wide range of activities at the Nature Center. This place has more than twenty animal exhibits with local, exotic, and domestic animals. It also puts on events and educational programs that teach people about the earth.
The Nature Center is a great place for kids to learn about animals and the environment while having fun. It’s also a great place for families to go on vacation.
Address: 157 Lucas Avenue, Kingston, NY, United States.
3. Senate House State Historic Site
The Senate House State Historic Site in Kingston, NY, is a museum of an old house that is important to the history of New York State. This place lets you learn about how people lived their daily lives during the Revolutionary War.
It was built in 1676 as a Dutch stone house and was the site of New York’s first Senate meeting in 1777, soon after Kingston became the state’s capital. The site gives you a look into the time of the Revolutionary War and the early days of New York’s government.
When people go to the Senate House State Historic Site, they can step back in time and learn about how important Kingston was in the early history of New York.
Address: 296 Fair Street Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
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4. Rough Draft Bar & Books
Rough Draft Bar & Books is a one-of-a-kind business in Kingston, NY that combines a well-chosen bookstore with a friendly bar and café. It’s a great place for book lovers and beer lovers alike to relax, find new books to read, and enjoy a drink.
You can look through a carefully picked collection of new books in many different types.Enjoy a cup of Counter Culture coffee or one of the craft beers, ciders, or wines on tap. Enjoy the historic atmosphere, as you are in one of Kingston’s “historic four corners.”
Enjoy a unique setting that combines the pleasure of reading with the pleasure of good food and drinks. Find your next favorite book while sipping a cool drink.
.Address: 82 John Street, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
5. The Reher Center For Immigrant Culture And History
In Kingston’s Rondout-West Strand Historic District, the Reher Center for Immigrant Culture and History is a museum in a historic building that used to be a Jewish bakery. The Reher Family Bakery’s history is kept alive and explained at the Center. The Center also celebrates the larger story of immigration and how it changed Kingston and the Hudson Valley.
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You can look around the renovated storefront and the original oven room to learn about the life and work of the Reher family and how they ran the bakery for more than 80 years, which is a great way to learn about the immigrant experience.
You can also learn more about what it’s like to be an immigrant in Kingston and the Hudson Valley. Respect the past of the area and the things that immigrants have done for it. Check out a one-of-a-kind museum experience in a renovated old bakery.
Address: 101 Broadway Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
6. Forsyth Park Playground
The playground is tucked away in the big Forsyth Park and is a great place for kids of all ages to play and explore. It has a wooden playhouse with swings, slides, climbing structures, and other things that kids can use to use their imaginations and get some exercise.
To climb and explore, the Forsyth Park Playground has wooden play structures. There are also slides for exciting descents, swings for a joyous sense of weightlessness, and open space for playing games and running.
Forsyth Park Playground is a fun place for kids to get some exercise and improve their movement skills. Families can get together at this venue and make moments that will last a lifetime.
Address: 125 Lucas Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.
7. Volunteer Fireman’s Hall And Museum
You might not know about this gem in Kingston, NY: the Volunteer Fireman’s Hall and Museum. This museum is in the historic Wiltwyck Fire Station, which was built in 1857. It is run by dedicated volunteers who want to keep the past of firefighting in Kingston and Ulster County alive.
One free thing to do in Kingston, NY is to check out the Volunteer Fireman’s Hall and Museum.Firefighting gear, uniforms, and items from the 18th century to the present day are on display.
You can look at horse-drawn fire carriages, old photos, tools for preventing fires, and historical papers, among other fun things. There are knowledgeable workers who can tell interesting stories about Kingston’s history as a firefighting city.
Address: 265 Fair Street, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
8. Ulster Performing Arts Center
Check out the Ulster Performing Arts Center in Kingston, NY. It’s one of the most interesting places to see. It was built in 1927 as the Broadway Theatre and is the only theater in Kingston that hasn’t been changed since it was built. It’s a beautiful example of Classical Revival building.
It is now the biggest proscenium theater between Manhattan and Albany, and it puts on high-quality shows all year long. This venue has enough seats for 1,510 people, so everyone will be able to find a good spot.
See shows by famous artists that are out of this world in a historic and intimate space. Get involved in the performing arts, learn new skills, and have fun with friends or family while making memories that will last a lifetime.
Address: 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
9. Hutton Brickyards Riverfront Hotel + Venue
The Hutton Brickyards Riverfront Hotel + Venue is a fancy place to stay in Kingston, NY, right on the Hudson River. This 43-room hotel has a unique mix of modern comforts and historic charm. It has luxury riverfront cabins, a restored Second Empire house, and beautiful views of the water.
There are different types of rooms at Hutton Brickyards Riverfront Hotel + Venue, such as modern cabins, an old home, and a two-story cottage. Guests can enjoy two restaurants and bars that serve wonderful food during certain times of the year.
This is the best place for weddings, business retreats, and fun events that people will remember forever. This sport gives people in the surrounding Hudson Valley a chance to explore and have fun outside.
Address: 132 Lindsley Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.
10. Hudson River Cruises
Hudson River Cruises leaves from Kingston, NY, and offers historical and scenic boat trips on the Hudson River. They run a modern boat called the Rip Van Winkle II that can hold 300 people and is a nice, roomy place to see the sights.
This location offers sightseeing cruises with tours that are narrated and show off natural beauty and historic sites. There are also different types of cruises, such as lunch, dinner, and sunset cruises with live music.
You can also go on a tour on the water, which is a great way to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Enjoy tasty food and drinks while you’re on the cruise. A boat trip along the historic Hudson River is a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime.
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Address: 1 East Strand Street Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
11. A Day Away Kayak Rentals
You can rent a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or even an electric boat from A Day Away Kayak Rentals in Kingston, NY. The business is run by a family and lets people enjoy the beautiful Rondout Creek. They rent paddleboards by the hour or day, so it’s easy for riders of all skill levels to enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the water.
A Day Away Kayak Rentals has a lot of different kayaks for rent, such as single and pair kayaks, canoes, electric boats, and stand-up paddleboards, so you can find the right one for your trip. Life jackets, whistles, and free lessons are provided with all rentals.
Soak up the beauty of the Rondout Creek at your own pace, and enjoy a quiet break from the stress of everyday life. Along the creek, you can find hidden coves, sandbars, and places for animals to live.
Address: 1000 NY-213, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
12. Kingston Farmers Market
The Kingston Farmers Market is a lively place for people to get together and support mid-Hudson Valley farmers, makers, and artists. Since it opened in 2000, it has become a main place to get fresh, local, and seasonal food and goods.
There is a huge selection of fresh food at this market, including organic foods, meats and eggs grown in the area, baked goods, specialty prepared foods, and handmade goods. You can also buy plants, flowers, health goods, and drinks from local makers, such as wines, beers, and spirits. People love the market because it is friendly and cares about the earth and the economy.
By going to the Kingston farms Market, you can buy food directly from farms and producers, help your community’s economy, and make sure everyone has access to fresh, high-quality food.
Enjoy the taste of seasonal foods that were grown and raised with care, and look at a wide range of crafts, prepared foods, and other unique items that are made in the area.
Address: 285 Wall Street, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
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13. Santa Fe Uptown
Santa Fe Uptown is a restaurant that serves Mexican food with a lively twist. Along with hand-made cocktails, they serve a tasty mix of traditional and trendy Mexican food. The mood is warm and friendly, and the bar goes all the way around the room, making dining fun.
The menu at Santa Fe Uptown is based on using fresh, high-quality products. There are tacos, fajitas, appetizers, and other Mexican favorites to choose from. Santa Fe Uptown also has choices for people who are vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan.
The mood at Santa Fe Uptown is warm and friendly, making it a great place to eat.People can enjoy hand-crafted cocktails with their food, and the restaurant also offers catering for special events.
Address: 11 Main Street, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
14. Kingston Point Beach
There is a sandy beach called Kingston Point Beach in Kingston, NY. It is right next to the Hudson River. It has beautiful views of the river, the wild areas nearby, and the town of Rhinecliff, which is across the water. The beach is a favorite place for relaxing and fun things to do. It is part of Kingston Point Park.
There are lifeguards on the sandy beach at Kingston Point Beach, as well as a shelter, a picnic area, and a playground for kids. This place has a volleyball court and a boat launch for kayaks so that people can play volleyball or kayak.
While it’s hot outside, people can cool off in the Hudson River, which is open to swimming. A beautiful spot with views of the river where you can have picnics, fires, and enjoy the outdoors. and fun for the whole family with a volleyball court and playground.
Address: Delaware Avenue, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
15. Kingston Standard Brewing Co.
This small brewery in Kingston, NY makes crisp, easy-to-drink beers in small batches. You can get their beers on tap or in four-packs to go. This brewery is dedicated to making beers with only the best local malt and hops.
If you want to relax, this brew has a nice environment for pets and groups that is great for casual get-togethers. Along with their beers, Kingston Standard Brewing Co. has a menu of food options, but their major focus is still on craft beers.
Kingston Standard Brewing Co. also lets you try a range of fresh, small-batch beers made with local ingredients. Kingston Standard Brewing Co. is a great place to hang out. Along with your drinks, order some tasty food.
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Address: 22 Jansen Ave, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.
16. Zaborski Emporium
In Kingston, NY, Zaborski Emporium is a treasure trove for people who love old things and building salvage. This huge, 40,000-square-foot store has an amazing collection of old things, souvenirs, and architectural elements.
Find one-of-a-kind items for repair projects or home decor that will get people talking. Zaborski’s has everything from old windows and doors to used hardware and lights.
Shopping at Zaborski’s is like shopping nowhere else. You probably won’t find these gifts anywhere else, so it’s a great spot to find unique items for your home or things that will make people talk.
Address: 27 Hoffman Street, Kingston, NY, 12401, United States.
17. Green Kill
Green Kill is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kingston, NY. Green Kill is a lively, multipurpose culture center. It’s a teaching center, an exhibition space, and a place for performances. It encourages artistic expression and community involvement.
Green Kill provides a special place for known, up-and-coming, and outsider artists from a wide range of fields, such as performance art, visual arts, poetry readings, theater productions, film screenings, and music events.
Every month, a different group of local, national, and foreign artists’ work is shown in the exhibitions. Green Kill is based on the idea that artists should help each other grow and promote other artists. The space is also available for people with disabilities.
Address: 229 Greenkill Avenue, Kingston, New York, United States.
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18. Dietz Stadium
If you like sports, you might want to check out Dietz Stadium in Kingston, NY. Find a great place to work out. You can get stronger and sweat it out. This sports venue has enough seats for thousands of people to watch.
The Dietz Stadium has a lot of fun things to do, and it also has a field that can be used for baseball, football, and soccer. After having fun with your friends at the game, you can check out the snack stand and get some food and drinks.
Dietz Stadium also makes your sports experience useful by having bathrooms and other facilities for guests. The venue has a big video screen or scoreboard that you can use to get a better view.
Address: 170 N Front Street, Kingston, NY,12401, United States.
19. Eliza
The best European-style bistro in Kingston is Eliza. This popular spot has a warm and welcoming vibe and is great for a relaxing and enjoyable meal. Eliza’s menu has a unique mix of comfort foods from around the world, with inspirations from Asia to Europe.
This diner focuses on using seasonal, fresh food from the Hudson Valley as much as possible. The cafe is a great spot to get together with family and friends because it feels warm and friendly.
Their carefully crafted menu will take you on a delightful journey of tastes from around the world. You can also enjoy the taste of the Hudson Valley because they only use fresh, in-season food.
Address: 582 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.
20. Hoffman House
Look around Hoffman House. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Kingston, NY. This place is both a historic icon and a well-known restaurant in Kingston’s Stockade District. It has a charming setting and tasty food. It was built in the 1700s.
The Hoffman House is a national historic landmark with a long and interesting past. You can also eat fine food made with fresh, in-season products. For people who are interested in history, this Venus also has a cute and historic setting that lets you see into the past.
Besides that, the Hoffman House is one of the best places to spend quality time with your family. You can step into Kingston and experience a piece of the city’s past.
Address: 94 N Front St, Kingston, NY 12401, United States.