Things To Do
in Ulster
Ulster, NY sits in the Hudson Valley as a gateway to the Catskills, offering river towns, farmland, and dramatic ridge views. The town is a short drive from Kingston's historic Rondout District and New Paltz's leafy streets, with abundant outdoor recreation at every turn. Farm-to-table eateries, craft beverages, and a vibrant arts scene reflect the region's creative spirit.
Outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and warm, small-town hospitality define a visit here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the heart of Ulster, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings, each telling a story of the town's rich past. Visit the Ulster County Historical Society to immerse yourself in the local heritage with engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a family-owned restaurant that serves traditional American cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, explore the beautiful parks in the area, such as the scenic Kingston Point Park, where you can appreciate the stunning views of the Hudson River. Consider renting a bike to ride along the waterfront or partake in a guided tour to learn more about the area's significance.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at one of Ulster's renowned farm-to-table restaurants, where the menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest produce. After dinner, enjoy an evening walk along the riverfront, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps catching a glimpse of local wildlife. Cap off your day with a visit to a nearby brewery for a tasting session of craft beers made from local ingredients.
Kick off your morning with a refreshing breakfast at a riverside café, where you can enjoy views of the Hudson River as you fuel up for the day's adventures. After breakfast, head to the Hudson River for a kayaking session; guided tours are available to ensure you get the best experience on the water. Paddle along the river, enjoying the stunning scenery and learning about the local ecosystem from your guide.
After your kayaking adventure, stop for lunch at a nearby eatery specializing in seafood, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish and shellfish. Following lunch, explore the local art scene by visiting galleries showcasing works from regional artists that capture the essence of the Hudson Valley. Don't forget to check out any outdoor installations or murals that adorn the streets of Ulster.
As evening approaches, head to a local restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, where you can enjoy a delightful dinner. After your meal, take a stroll through the historic district, marveling at the beautifully lit buildings and shops. You might even catch a local event or festival happening in the area, allowing you to mingle with residents and experience the community spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel room | $120-180 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to outdoor activities
- Rich history and a vibrant arts scene
- Great farm-to-table dining and local produce
- Compact towns with walkable districts and friendly locals
- Limited public transit outside major towns
- Seasonal crowds at popular attractions, especially fall and summer
- Some rural roads can be winding and slower to navigate
Places to Visit in Ulster
Visit one of these nice places.
A compact 17th-century fort district with brick-and-timber facades along historic streets—great for golden-hour street photography.
Colorful warehouses, boats, and the water create reflections at sunrise or sunset.
Lake views, cliffs, and expansive vistas offer dramatic landscape photography.
Ridge lines and rock ledges provide striking silhouettes and sunrise/sunset opportunities.
Food in Ulster
Ulster Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly made at local bakeries and markets using apples from nearby orchards.
Must-Try!
Seasonal dish featuring maple syrup from regional producers, often found on dinner menus at farm-to-table spots.
River fish prepared with local apples and herbs, a regional flavor profile.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods along the Rondout Creek.
Crops, meats, jams, and artisanal goods from local farms and craftspeople.
Weekly market with local produce, breads, and ready-to-eat options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People are generally friendly and informal; a polite greeting goes a long way.
Yield to uphill hikers on narrow trails; stay on marked paths and pack out trash.
Safety
Tipping in Ulster
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 15-20% for good service; bartenders may be tipped per drink; speed of service affects tipping. For takeout, tipping is optional but appreciated for special service.
Most places accept credit/debit cards; cash is always welcome. Some small venues may be cash-only or have a minimum for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm temperatures, and lush greenery; expect weekend crowds at popular trails and lake spots; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Peak foliage typically late September through October; crisp air and dramatic colors—perfect for photography and scenic drives.
Cold temperatures with possible snow; some trails may be icy; cloud cover can yield moody landscapes.
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards and early green-ups; variable weather and muddy trails early in the season.
Ulster at Night
Hiking in Ulster
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails with panoramic views and variety of difficulty.
Lakes, cliffs, and expansive vistas ideal for long hikes.
Ice caves and rugged terrain with spectacular viewpoints.
Iconic ridge lines and rock formations popular with climbers.
Airports
How to reach Ulster by plane.
Located in New Windsor, NY, about an hour’s drive from Ulster County, with domestic flights and car rental access.
A larger regional hub in Albany, about 2-2.5 hours away, offering many domestic flights and ground transportation options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the outdoors and good schools.
Retirees value the slower pace, scenic beauty, and cultural amenities.
Universities campuses and creative communities contribute to a vibrant arts scene.
Hikers, climbers, and cyclists frequent the area for outdoor recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular activities along the Shawangunk Ridge and Catskills.
Winter sports at Belleayre, Windham, and nearby resorts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulster.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Ulster County provide vegetarian options; look for farm-to-table salads, veggie mains, and plant-based specials. When in doubt, ask the kitchen for seasonal vegetables and cheese-based dishes.