Understated Ulster County
There are many reasons to love New York. For one thing, we have a Governor who believes in science and data and...facts (imagine that!). But more than that, we have so many incredible places to visit: from beautiful state parks, gorgeous lakes (Lake George and Lake Placid for example) and breathtaking mountains (The Catskills and The Adirondacks) to historic towns, iconic landmarks and, of course, the Big Apple. This past weekend I explored more of the Hudson Valley area (specifically Ulster County), which extends along the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany, known for its quaint and historic towns, orchards (great for apple picking in the fall), abundance of farms and even vineyards.
I visited Kelder's Farm, a 200 year old family farm in Kerhonkson, on the last weekend of their annual sunflower festival. According to the farm's website, the popular agricultural destination "started as a small idea and grew into one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique experiences with over 100 acres of seasonal produce, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), a farm market and an educational program for many school children every year". Besides enjoying the beauty of a six acre field of sunflowers, the entry to the festival included:
- your choice of up to 3 sunflowers or a pint for berry or cherry tomato picking or a 1/2 peck bag for vegetable picking
- farmyard admission including farm attractions and activities
- entry to the U-pick fruit and vegetable fields (where you pay for what you pick)
- a scenic walk around the farm to the sunflower field
While there is plenty of fresh produce at your fingertips (literally) - such as red raspberries, tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, potatoes, beans, kale, and sweet corn - the on site cafe, the Ice Cream Barn, also offers visitors delicious (albeit less healthy) food and beverages, including brick oven pizzas, hamburgers, hotdogs and donuts. A visit to the farm would not be complete without a photo with "The World's Largest Garden Gnome" which stands proudly at the entrance to the property.
The second fun experience in the town of Kingston this past weekend was an ice cream train ride courtesy of Catskill Mountain Railroad. Catskill Mountain Railroad is a "for-profit organization dedicated to preserving the railroad corridor for all-season recreational use" that depends on "ticket sales and volunteer efforts to operate and make continuous improvements".
The "Ice Cream Sundays" event is a round trip train ride from Kingston that takes passengers through some of the oldest farm regions in the United States and up Hurley Mountain. Due to Covid restrictions, only open air flat cars are currently used, accommodating a maximum of 60 people per train. Ice cream is served on the ride so you get to enjoy a sweet treat while you take in the scenery.
Be sure to keep an eye out for Santa's workshop at the North Pole, tucked away in the woods and part of the railroad's Polar Express ride in winter. This magical holiday ride includes hot chocolate, cookies and caroling on board. When the train reaches the North Pole, Santa and his Elves board and give passengers a gift - a silver sleigh bell.
The best way to experience the richness and creativity of Kingston is by walking. There are self-guided walking tours of the town's diverse street art and public murals, some of which have been created by well-known artists as part of the town's annual O+ festival. The town also boasts a host of trendy cafes and bars, amazing galleries and antique stores and cozy coffee shops and bakeries (the macarons at Sweet Maresa's are a must). And of course, the record stores are a highlight for any vinyl collector; I scored big at Rhino Records and Rocket Number Nine Records, both located on North Front Street.
At any time of the year there is no shortage of fun activities and unique experiences in the Hudson Valley.
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