"TIE DYE, TREES, BEER, FOOD, WHAT ELSE DO... " a New Paltz Travel Page by moiraistyx

New Paltz's history dates back to the 1600's, but where oh where did the name come from. Well that's simple, it comes from the name of the region which the patenees left in 1675; Mannheim, in what was then Die Pfalz or The Palatine region of Germany.

New Paltz is an area rich in art, music, wine and nature. Yes there are lots of hippies too. As of late, New Paltz seems to be the playground of the hot to trot yuppies. All over the town upscale mini bars and cafe are popping up that just don't seem to go with the original feel of the area. It should be interesting to see in which direction the town moves, yuppie or hippie.

I live in a small town about 10 miles outside of New Paltz, so I get to visit here often. There is a great shopping area located between route 32 and route 208. There are also a number a fantastic eateries that one should check out. New Paltz also has several parks that are great for the kids. When here one should take an hour or so and go for a stroll down the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Please don't miss the Stone Houses and Huegenot Street.

Just outside of New Paltz one can find several options for outdoor fun including the Mohonk Preseve, the Mohonk Mountain House and Minnewaska state park. I am a huge fine of Minnewaska. Check out my albums for Minnewaska through the seasons. Now that I have a hiking buddy who I have to keep up with, expect tons more pictures and lots more tips on specific trails that we explore. Rumor has it that there is a sculpture garden hidden off one of the trails up in the mountains. I intend on finding it this summer.