The Hudson Valley region is known for beautiful and pristine winters, with the countryside blanketed in white snow. This year has been slightly different thus far, with milder temperatures and the only snow arriving on, of all times, Halloween. And although Mother Nature hasn't gotten the memo yet, the holiday season in Ulster County, NY is in full swing! Sure, some of us are dreaming of a white Christmas, but the warmer temperatures give residents and visitors an opportunity to enjoy some holiday activities without worrying about the ice and snow (for now!)
Trains in Kingston, Hiking in New Paltz, & a Visit From Santa in Woodstock!
Children and grown kids alike will love what Kingston, NY has in store for the holidays. The Catskill Mountain Railroad is offering holiday train rides on their classic railroad engine. Leaving hourly, the train rides last an hour and gives riders a 3 mile, round-trip tour through Historic Kingston, NY. The majority of the seating is on their open-air train car so layer up! However, if you're lucky enough to get a seat, you can relax in the refurbished caboose complete with a warm wood stove! Rides cost $6 for adults and $4 for children under 12 (2yrs and under free).
For those looking for a more adventurous Holiday activity this weekend, you can head over to the Minnewaska State Park in New Paltz, NY for a strenuous 8 Mile hike. Originally scheduled as a snow shoeing event, it has been adapted into a hike around the breathtaking Minnewaska State Park. It's places like Minnewaska and the surrounding Shawangunk Mountains, which are unlike any other on earth, that make New Paltz, NY homes for sale so desirable. At a full 8 Miles with various challenging parts, this hike is recommended for those in great physical shape. However, if you're up for it, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful terrain in the Catskills! More information on the trek can be found by contacting hike Leader, Jean-Claude Fouere at jcfouere@gmail.com/midhudsonadk.org
Finally, you can head over to Woodstock, NY on Christmas Eve, for a chance to Santa Clause himself as he visits and hands out gifts to the good boys and girls. The festivities begin right on Main Street Woodstock, NY at around 5pm, and the elves have whispered that Santa is due to arrive at around 5:30. Make sure you behave, because Santa will have stockings filled with chocolates and other goodies to hand out to well deserving children (and grown-ups too!)
Perhaps See Some Real Estate While Out & About in the Hudson Valley?
Milder temperatures also make for great house-hunting conditions, whether you are just looking, or are serious about purchasing a home in Ulster County, NY. There are so many beautiful and unique homes in the area, that a day of house-hunting can give one a complete tour of this beautiful part of the Catskills. From Woodstock, NY real estate on down to New Paltz, each town has it's own characteristic feel and vibe. Sellers too can benefit from warmer weather, because although the local housing market remains active during the winter, the bottom line is less snow equals more showings! There are plenty of fun things to do in Ulster County, NY to celebrate this holiday, and many of them outside! So take advantage of the nice weather and get out there! See some homes and have some fun, and please have a wonderful and happy holiday season from your friends at Taft Street Realty!
Posted by Dylan Taft on
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