New Paltz

Between the Hudson River and the Shawangunk Mountains lies the small town of New Paltz. New Paltz was founded in 1677 by a group of French Huguenot Protestants who came to the New World seeking religious freedom. Today, the center of New Paltz lies just east of historic Huguenot Street, where visitors can tour seven of the original stone cottages, or wander Main Street’s clutch of attractive boutiques, mom and pop shops and cafes. New Paltz is also home to a State University of New York branch with a strong arts department, which adds to the town's cultural scene. Sometimes mistaken for the Catskills, the Shawangunks' steep escarpments ...

Between the Hudson River and the Shawangunk Mountains lies the small town of New Paltz. New Paltz was founded in 1677 by a group of French Huguenot Protestants who came to the New World seeking religious freedom. Today, the center of New Paltz lies just east of historic Huguenot Street, where visitors can tour seven of the original stone cottages, or wander Main Street’s clutch of attractive boutiques, mom and pop shops and cafes. New Paltz is also home to a State University of New York branch with a strong arts department, which adds to the town's cultural scene. Sometimes mistaken for the Catskills, the Shawangunks' steep escarpments make them a favorite haunt of rock climbers. Day passes to the 140-year-old Victorian castle-like resort of Mohonk Mountain House offer ice skating, hiking or spa options for those reluctant to opt for the full inclusive stay. A few miles west, Minnewaska State Park is filled with panoramic views, hiking trails, paved carriage roads, waterfalls, and lakes.

About the Expert

Sascha Zuger is the author of the New York State Moon Handbook, the travel novel Girl Overboard (under the pseudonym Aimee Ferris), and is a freelancer for publications such as National Geographic Traveler, the Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post.