Ulster County Recreation
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Less than 90 minutes from mid-town Manhattan lies a 250,000-acre playground. Four-seasons of opportunity amidst 35 peaks and 350 miles of growing trails including access to the world-famous Walkway Over the Hudson. From biking to hiking, from kayaking to wind surfing, from hitting the sweet spot on one of our 12 golf courses to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, an outdoor adventure awaits. How about slowing down the pace for a casual stroll or jog along our scenic Rail Trails? Take a peek at a countryside painted seasonally by mother nature.
Ulster County’s tourism industry is flourishing, with more than three million people per year visiting for short day trips and longer stays. The many outdoor activities, dining establishments, arts events, award-winning lodging, historical museums and sites, and much more make Ulster a tourist destination with something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the major attractions in Ulster County is hiking. Experience more than 350 miles of trails.
Ulster County Dining
Countless Choices
Ulster County is known for its farmers markets and natural foods. The apple industry is especially strong and, when in season, corn, fruits and vegetables form a delicious bounty. A 2011 report by the SUNY New Paltz Center for Research, Regional Education and Outreach stated Ulster County is one of the nation’s leading producers of apples, with fruits, nuts and berries comprising about two-third of its agricultural output.
Farmer and family-owned operations partner with organizations such as Hudson Valley Harvest to create jobs, support local economies, feed the region and supply area restaurateurs.
Ulster County chefs create their culinary masterpieces using locally-grown produce which attract residents and adventurous tourists to their eateries. In every part of the county, you’ll find venues offering elaborate meals or simple rustic fare.
With so much fresh food available in Ulster County, it’s natural that wineries and breweries are popular destinations. There are 14 vineyards and breweries in the County and Ulster’s portion of the region’s “wine trail” offers a great way to tour the countryside and taste the many craft beverages available before deciding which to bring home.
In Ulster County you’ll find a collection of the Hudson Valley’s finest restaurants, including fresh meals, locally sourced ingredients and acclaimed chefs who bring it all together to create the region’s unparalleled dining experience. Sample the endless dining options that Ulster County has to offer: from fine dining establishments that feature farm-to-table dishes to summertime roadside barbeque, to the locals’ favorite delis and ice cream stands, there is something here for everyone. In almost every town in Ulster County, you will find the table set for elaborate meals or simple rustic fare, in town, in a rural setting or by the great Hudson River. With the countless array of choices available, food will be a fantastic part of your Ulster County adventure.
Arts & Culture
Creativity Abound
Ulster County is the center for arts and culture in the Hudson Valley. Including the spectacular artscape of Opus 40 galleries and outdoor theatre, Ulster County has been home to the creative arts for more than 100 years. Music, of course, has a storied and popular history from Levon Helm’s Midnight Rambles to the current live performances at the Ulster Performing Arts Center.
The Woodstock/New Paltz Art and Crafts Fair bookends the summer months and is full of cultural compliments in Ulster County such as the growing antique center of Saugerties. Paintings, photographs, furniture, film festivals and plenty of culture abound.
Ulster County understands the arts are a powerful force that play a key role as a direct and indirect contributor to its economy. The caliber of music, theater, dance and visual arts programs rival major metropolitan areas and draw audiences from all over the region.
