Kingston, NY
New York's first capital: a small city with a colonial Uptown Stockade District, a historic Rondout waterfront, and a fast-rising food scene.
Things to Do
Uptown Stockade District
Blocks of colonial stone buildings, shops and history to stroll in Uptown Kingston.
Kingston Farmers’ Market
The lively Saturday market Uptown. website ↗
Rondout Waterfront
Kingston’s historic waterfront: boats, the maritime/tugboat museum, shops and restaurants.
Ashokan Rail Trail
An easy, scenic walk along NYC’s reservoir with huge views, off Route 28 between the towns. website ↗
Dining
Rough Draft
A cafe, bar, bookstore and live-music room in a 1700s building, two minutes off the Thruway. website ↗
Lola Pizza
Wood-fired, creative pies. website ↗
Eliza
Stylish dining in Midtown Kingston.
Chleo
The current hot spot in Uptown Kingston.
Ole Savannah
Waterfront BBQ and seafood on the Rondout, with nice seating on the water. website ↗
Lodging
Hotel Kinsley
A stylish boutique hotel across four historic Uptown Kingston buildings, with a great restaurant and bar. website ↗
Live Music
Assembly
Kingston's newest concert hall, in the historic Uptown Stockade District.
Old Dutch Church
A historic 1852 church in Uptown Kingston, an occasional home for Maverick's chamber-music series.
TEMPO Performing Arts Center
An 1867 church in Kingston's Rondout district reborn as a community performing-arts center — concert hall, lounge, world-music festivals and roots-music jams.
Tubby's
A beloved Midtown Kingston bar with a fearless underground booking — indie, experimental, punk, global and DJ/dance nights, plus great cocktails and natural wine.
UPAC (Ulster Performing Arts Center)
A grand 1,500-seat 1927 theater in Midtown Kingston, run by Bardavon — the area's biggest room for national touring acts, from indie and rock to jazz, folk and comedy.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Kingston from Woodstock?
About 20 minutes south of the Woodstock green.
What are the best things to do in Kingston?
Highlights include Uptown Stockade District, Kingston Farmers’ Market, Rondout Waterfront and Ashokan Rail Trail.
Where should I eat in Kingston?
Local favorites include Rough Draft, Lola Pizza, Eliza, Chleo and Ole Savannah.
Where can I stay in Kingston?
Places to stay include Hotel Kinsley.
Is there live music in Kingston?
Yes — venues we track here include Assembly, Old Dutch Church, TEMPO Performing Arts Center, Tubby's and UPAC (Ulster Performing Arts Center).