Things to do in Kingston, New York
- Kingston was the first capital of New York and was burned by British troops in 1777 during the American Revolutionary War.
- The city's 'Stockade District' contains one of the highest concentrations of original stone houses in the United States, many dating back to the late 1600s.
- Kingston was once a major producer of natural cement, which was used in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge and the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty.
- The city is home to the Senate House State Historic Site, where the first session of the New York State Senate took place.
- The Rondout neighborhood functioned as the eastern terminus of the Delaware and Hudson Canal, which was vital for transporting coal from Pennsylvania.
About Kingston, New York
Kingston, New York, is a historic city situated along the Hudson River that served as the first capital of New York State in 1777. The city is divided into two distinct primary districts, the Stockade District and the Rondout waterfront, both featuring well-preserved 17th and 18th-century architecture. While exploring the region, visitors often integrate trips to nearby cultural and recreational sites like the art-focused Dia Beacon [7844] and the expansive trails at Hudson Highlands State Park [24335]. The area remains a focal point for regional history and riverfront commerce, anchoring the northern Hudson Valley.
Highlights of Kingston, New York
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
This museum is housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory and features large-scale contemporary art installations.
Parks
These state park lands provide rugged hiking trails with panoramic views overlooking the Hudson River.
Parks
Visitors can traverse challenging terrain and unique geological formations throughout this state park.
Parks
This park offers a quiet space for walking along the Fishkill Creek and observing local ecological restoration projects.
Historical places
This site serves as the location where George Washington maintained his headquarters during the final year of the Revolutionary War.
Parks
The trail offers a paved, accessible path directly along the Newburgh riverfront with views of the Hudson.
Museums
This facility focuses on the rehabilitation and public education regarding local predatory bird species.
Top things to do in Kingston, New York
The 35 highest-rated places in Kingston, New York, ranked by travellers.
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Museums
Dia Beacon is a museum of modern and contemporary art housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory on the banks of th...
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Parks
SplashDown Beach is a water park located in Fishkill, New York, marketing itself as 'America's Biggest Little Water Park...
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Parks
Hudson Highlands State Park is a non-contiguous preserve encompassing over 8,000 acres along the Hudson River in the Hud...
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Parks
Storm King State Park is a rugged hiking destination located on the west bank of the Hudson River, known for its steep i...
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Parks
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park covers over 14,000 acres in the Hudson Highlands, offering a rugged landscape of...
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Venues
Heritage Financial Park is a minor league baseball stadium located in Wappingers Falls, New York, serving as the home fi...
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Parks
Madam Brett Park is a 12-acre park located in Beacon, New York, notable for its integration of industrial history with n...
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Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site, also known as the Hasbrouck House, served as General George Washington’s...
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Places of interest
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Kingston, New York on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Kingston, New York
Early autumn, specifically September and October, offers comfortable temperatures and the visual spectacle of fall foliage throughout the Hudson Valley.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to tour the historic Stockade District and local riverfront sites.
A personal vehicle is highly recommended for regional travel, though the city's historic districts are conducive to walking.
The Stockade District is ideal for those interested in colonial history, while the Rondout waterfront area is best for proximity to river views and restaurants.
Mid-range; the area features a mix of boutique lodging and historic inns, with costs reflecting its popularity as a weekend destination.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 35 curated attractions in and around Kingston, New York, ranked by traveller ratings.
Dia Beacon is the highest-rated place to visit in Kingston, New York right now.
The largest category is museums, with 13 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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