Travel Tips for New Paltz, New York, United States

Cost: € (affordable)

Safety: 5/5 for solo female travellers

I studied at SUNY New Paltz, New York for six months and I must say it is a hidden gem. This funky Hudson Valley town has great hiking trails, charming boutiques, cozy cafes and bars, and the people there are down-to-earth and friendly.

A little historical fact for you: the name New Paltz comes from French Huguenot settlers who named the area after the Palatinate region of Germany (the Pfalz in German). A cool fact for you: the HBO hit show Girls filmed at SUNY New Paltz.

I would recommend spending two days in the town.

How to get there

As I was already in New York City, I travelled via Trailways bus from Port Authority to the Main St in New Paltz. The journey took over an hour.

You can also get the Amtrak or Metro-North train service to Poughkeepsie station, but you will then need to get a taxi to New Paltz which will take about 20 minutes.

You can fly from Dublin to Stewart International Airport in Newburgh (Orange County) via a number of airlines, but there will be a stop-over and you will then need to travel to New Paltz via taxi or bus which will take about 30 minutes.

Language, Currency & Weather

English is the most commonly spoken language in New Paltz, and the currency is the US Dollar.

In my opinion, the best time to visit New Paltz is summer as the weather is warm and wet, with average temperatures of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius. I loved travelling to New Paltz during the summer, as it gave me a break from the terribly humid NYC weather.

It’s very cold in New Paltz in winter, with temperatures ranging between -7 and 7 degrees Celsius. I started university just after Christmas, and the snowfall was insane. I would recommend bringing very warm clothes if you’re travelling during this time.

Public Transport

New Paltz is very walkable as it is a small town, however there is a public transport system run by Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT). Under this, it provides the New Paltz Loop which serves the town. Fares will vary, but they are inexpensive. I travelled for free on this service as I had my university card.

Where To Stay

Although I mainly stayed with friends or on campus, I must say accommodation in New Paltz is quite affordable.

I would recommend booking the Hampton Inn by Hilton, The Inn at Orchard Heights, Mountain Meadows Bed & Breakfast or Americas Best Value Inn.

Mohonk Mountain House is also a great option, but this will cost you more.

If you are staying for a couple of days, there is a very cool cabin located in the woods in High Falls (called High Falls Restorative Cabin). This holiday home would be perfect for a group if you are wishing to do some hiking, however it is a bit away from the town of New Paltz.

Where To Go & What To Do

There are three things you simply cannot miss if you travel to New Paltz.

Firstly, there is the Historic Huguenot Street, which has beautiful 17th-century homes, buildings, and artifacts. While you’re there, stop at Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary.

Secondly, there is Mohonk Preserve located in the Shawangunk Mountains. This place is perfect if you want to go hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or horseback riding.

Lastly, there is The Testimonial Gateway, which is a massive stone archway and tower that used to serve as the formal entrance to Mohonk Mountain House.

Take a stroll down Main St which has lots of cool antique shops, boutiques, cafes and bars or visit Water Street Market which has clothing, art, plants, pottery, and collectibles.

From June to October, there is the New Paltz Open Air Market which sells produce from local farmers, art and so much more. There’s also live music as you walk around.

It’s a must to check out the SUNY New Paltz campus while you’re there, particularly Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art which has six galleries for you to explore.

I would also recommend renting a bike and travelling along the Wallkill Valley Trail, which is a section of the Empire State Trail that begins in New Paltz.

What & Where To Eat

I usually dined in Main Street Bistro, which has fantastic breakfast and is a favourite among locals.

Bacchus is a really cool restaurant that has great food and craft beer from The Brewery at Bacchus, as well as live music and art. The Gilded Otter is also a fabulous spot along Main St.

In downtown New Paltz, End Cut is a brilliant spot to go for a solo meal.

If you have time, I would visit Robibero Family Vineyards for delicious tastings, cellar tours, and an outdoor fire-pit.

If you’re cycling the Wallkill trailhead, then I would stop by the Keegan Ales brewery or Whitecliff Vineyard and Winery.

Have fun in New Paltz!