Kingston, New York: A Historic City With Modern Charm
One of our biggest objectives at Vacationer is to encourage our readers to visit smaller cities in addition to the bigger, better known queer destinations around the globe. There is so much queer life and culture to uncover in these lesser-known locales. Plus, technically wherever we as queer people decide to go is a queer destination, am I right?
As a resident of New York City, I often look for quiet and natural beauty when taking some time off. As a result, I often times end up out in Long Island or in one of the many cities just north of me in Upstate New York. Kingston is one of those cities.
The City of Kingston is nestled in the heart of Ulster County, New York. It is 91 miles north of New York City and 59 miles south of Albany. Kingston was New York’s first capital in 1777, and was burned by the British on October 16, 1777, after the Battles of Saratoga. In the 19th century, the city became an important transport hub after the discovery of natural cement in the region and had both railroad and canal connections. Passenger rail service has since ceased, and many of the older buildings are part of three historic districts: the Uptown Stockade District, the Midtown Neighborhood Broadway Corridor, and the Downtown Rondout-West Strand Historic District; so, there is plenty to see.
With respect to places to stay, feel free to pick any local hotel chain property. They are all classified as “gay-friendly”, and my husband and I have never encountered any issues when checking in together. The Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center is located in Kingston and we’ve spotted numerous rainbow flags while walking around town, so believe me when I tell you, we are safe here.
Whenever visiting we tend to spend a lot of time around North Front Street. Our favorite antique shop Kingston Consignments is located there. They have a wonderful selection of furniture, artwork, jewelry, crafts and memorabilia. We always find something we just have to have when browsing there. A few shops down the street is another of our favorite places, Rocket Number Nine Records. It is run by the most knowledgeable and friendly guy and features a fantastic assortment of vintage and current releases. The bargain bins out front are mazing as well. You are virtually guaranteed to walk away with a hidden treasure.
With respect to food, you cannot go wrong with Hoffman House. Registered on the National Landmark of Historic Places, the building is a fine example of Early American Dutch rubble architecture featuring wide planked random width board floors, a fireplace in each of the main rooms and many small multi-level rooms. Their menu is varied and features steaks, fresh seafood, pasta specialties and homemade artisan desserts. Their portions are generous, and their prices are very reasonable. However, be sure to book a reservation, they tend to fill up fast, especially on the weekends.
Right across the street from Hoffman House you will find Snapper Magee’s. It is a dive bar in every sense of the word, which is perfect for me, but it is also the closest thing Kingston has to a queer bar. Everyone is welcome here so you will see an extremely diverse clientele, all looking to have a good time. Its cash only, so make sure to hit the ATM before going.
We usually make our annual trip to Kingston in the fall for leaf peeping, so the Catskill Mountain Railroad is always on our itinerary. Running from March through December, the folks at Catskill will shepherd you out from Kingston proper into the surrounding mountains and forests where you can get a good look at the trees and even wildlife in the area. If you’re lucky enough to book a ride during peak fall foliage you are in for an amazing treat. If you take the Pumpkin Express, you will be gifted with a Halloween pumpkin after your journey ends and in late November the train ride becomes the holiday-themed Polar Express.
Another one of our favorite stops in the area is the El Paso Winery. We stumbled upon this place by accident and loved it so much that we make it a part of every trip back to Kingston. Located just a few minutes outside of the city in nearby Ulster Park, this winery features some of the most exquisite wines I have ever tasted. Now, I’m no sommelier, but I’ve certainly sampled enough wine to know what’s good; and believe me, these wines are good. The onsite vinter is a genius with her unique blends of grapes, creating delicious and very satisfying wines for all tastes. We never leave this place without a case of wine to bring home. The staff is so friendly and personable as well; you’ll never want to leave.
If none of these things suit your tastes, there is also a gorgeous waterfront featuring a spectacular view alongside the local farmer’s market. Just up the road from there you will find a series of unique boutique shops featuring the work of local artisans and beautiful interior design pieces. There is just so much to see and do, no matter what your interests! I can hardly wait to go back!
For more information about Kingston and to plan your trip click here.
