5 Hidden Gems You have Probably Missed in New Paltz |
Secret spots locals overlook - from back patios to underground wine cellars |
Explore New Paltz - Week 1
Hey New Paltz locals!
We all drive the same routes, visit the same spots, and fall into routines. But this town has secrets hiding in plain sight. Here are 5 places you probably pass by without a second glance—but shouldn't.
1. The Water Street Market Back Patio
Everyone knows Water Street Market for the shops and cafes. But did you know there's a quiet back patio behind the main building?
Most visitors stick to the front. The back patio has • Twinkle lights at night • Fewer crowds • A more intimate vibe
Perfect for a coffee date or solo reading session.
2. The Secret View Behind Gunks View
The Gunks are famous. But there's a lesser-known overlook off Mountain Rest Road that locals rarely mention.
It's not marked. There's no parking lot. Just a small pull-off and a short walk to a view that rivals the main tourist spots.
How to find it: Look for the second dirt pull-off after the main Gunks entrance. Walk 50 yards uphill.
3. Mexican Kitchen's Breakfast Burritos
You know Mexican Kitchen for dinner. But their breakfast burritos? Game changer.
They start serving at 8 AM. Most locals don't even know they're open that early. • Huge portions • Fresh salsa • Under $10
Get there before 9:30 AM on weekends or they sell out.
4. The Rail Trail Extension Near Springtown Everyone uses the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. But the newer extension toward Springtown?
Practically empty.
What you'll find: • Wildflower fields in June • Bird watching spots • Zero crowds
Park at the Springtown trailhead instead of the main New Paltz lot.
5. The Underground Wine Cellar at Robibero Winery
Robibero Winery gets busy on weekends. But ask about the cellar tasting experience and you'll get access to their underground space. • Limited to 8 people • Intimate setting • Special reserve wines
Most visitors don't know to ask. Now you do.
Your Challenge This Week
Pick one spot from this list. Visit it. Take a photo. Notice something new about your town.
New Paltz has layers. Most people only see the surface.
You're not most people.
Know a hidden gem we missed? Hit reply and tell us about it.
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5 Comments
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The Robibero cellar tasting sounds cool but I called last summer and they said it was by appointment only with pretty limited availability. Worth calling ahead before you just show up expecting it. Don't want people to be disappointed.
I live like 10 minutes from the Springtown trailhead and had no idea the extension even went out that far. Went out there last spring for the first time and the wildflowers are no joke. Parking was completely empty on a Saturday which honestly felt surreal compared to the main lot.
Joel FarnsworthThe main lot on a busy weekend is an absolute nightmare. Good to know the Springtown side is still peaceful. Might have to drag my husband out there this June for the wildflowers.
The back patio at Water Street Market is genuinely one of my favorite spots in town and I never see anyone back there. Brought a book last fall and sat for two hours without being bothered once. More people need to know about this.
Tricia M.Same! I stumbled on it a couple summers ago and kept thinking someone else would show up but nope. It's like the town's best kept secret. The lights at night are so nice too.