This New Paltz adjacent town is where many go to avoid the freshman herds and keg parties, taking with them the same sort of drum circle lifestyle. The result of which is a beautiful little hamlet filled with culture and creativity. Perfect for a day trip in spring or summer.
10am: It's about a 90 minute drive from Manhattan, or a 1 hour 45 minute bus ride out of Port Authority (Pine Hill Trailways). One of the first sites you will see, when pulling into town, is the Big Cheese. Stop in for snacks and beverages, or dine on an egg sandwich and coffee. Stock up on fine cheese or peruse their vintage clothing area while you wait. They have a few tables inside and out.
11am: Follow Main Street out past the tressle and look for signs for The Snyder Estate. A short, pleasing walk from the parking lot sits an old, abandoned mine, partially filled with water. Have fun exploring, or just sit and enjoy the cold, crisp air, even on a hot summers day.
12pm: Heading back towards the village of Rosendale, take a left turn onto Binnewater Road. Soon you will see a parking lot on your left, one with several large, old kilns at the back. Just opposite the parking lot is the Rail Trail. Head to the right and in less than ten minutes you will hit the trestle. High above the Rondout creek, you will experience stunning views. Bring your bikes and you can explore beyond the trestle. In several miles you will come to where the Rail Trail meets Springtown Road, and there is a lovely bridge there overlooking the Wallkill River.
2pm: When the lunch bell rings, head to the Rosendale Cafe. While the menu is solely vegetarian, you will not miss the meat. Some personal favorites are the tempeh ruben, chilli stuffed corn bread, and the mission burrito. They have several homemade salad dressings, that you can (and will want to) purchase. As well as out of this world desserts, with some vegan and gluten free options.
6pm: Not ready to leave? Head over to Market Market on Route 32 and dine on deviled eggs, Schnitzel, and Korean style fried chicken. A great wine list and live music could put you well into the evening.
Honorable mention:
Rosendale Street Festival July 19th and 20th
Womens Studio Workshop http://www.wsworkshop.org/
Alternative Baker http://www.lemoncakes.com/
Rosendale Theater Collective http://rosendaletheatre.org/
Joppenbergh Mountain http://joppenbergh.org/
The Creative Co-op https://www.facebook.com/CreativeBCRosendale
