Brownstoner Upstate: Rosendale, a Hidden Gem West of the Hudson

Main Street, Rosendale. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Last week, we took a look at Germantown, a hidden gem East of the Hudson River. This week, we take a look at Rosendale, another hidden gem, one located West of the Hudson.

Where Germantown is more pastoral, Rosendale has a funky, artsy vibe to go with its small-town charm. Located in central Ulster County about 10 minutes north of New Paltz, Rosendale village is essentially a one-stop-light town along the Rondout Creek. But there’s a lot happening along the half mile stretch of Main Street.

Rosendale’s history lies within its abandoned cement mines. Well, not so abandoned.

Widow Jane Mine has played host to music and art festivals as well as scores of shutterbugs. There’s even a distillery, appropriately called Widow Jane, built around Rosendale’s mineral-rich limestone.

Widow Jane Mine, Rosendale. Photo by Widow Jane

If you visit Rosendale: Come while it’s still light out, so you can explore the Widow Jane Mine for a $5 suggested donation. Afterward, catch a movie or a show at the Rosendale Theatre, an indie movie house in the middle of town.

Dinner at the Rosendale Cafe is always a great choice, especially if you have a hankering for satisfying vegetarian/vegan food. Or, if you’re in the mood for some live music, order dinner from Market Market Cafe and Bar and stick around for the band or an open mic.

You can stay overnight at the 1850 House Inn & Tavern, which happens to be within stumbling distance of the Red Brick Tavern, a popular local watering hole.

Did you know that Rosendale happens to be the site of one of the most popular free outdoor music festivals in the Hudson Valley? It’s true. The Rosendale Street Festival takes place every summer, so schedule your trip accordingly.

The Rosendale Trestle. Photo via Wikipedia Commons

The Rosendale Trestle is an old railway bridge that runs through the village of Rosendale. It was turned into a pedestrian walkway as part of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. It opened in 2013.

An entrance is via a parking lot on Binnewater Road. Bring your bike or get one at the local bike store.

Rosendale real estate: Rosendale never ceases to surprise and delight us with both selection and pricing. The town’s average listing price, according to Brownstoner Upstate market trends, is $229,158. Not too bad.

794 Binnewater Road, Rosendale: $185,000

The living room depicted above belongs to a little 1950s cottage in Rosendale, located walking distance to both Rosendale village and the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The cottage has been completely renovated with wood floors, new wiring, insulation, and appliances. Beds: 3. Baths: 2. Square Feet: 1207. Lot Size: .37 acres. Est. Taxes: $3962. 794 Binnewater Road, Rosendale (Halter Associates Realty) GMAP. 

619 Creek Locks Road, Rosendale: $375,000

This stone farmhouse lies in the general area of Rosendale, not in the village, and dates from circa 1750. It has been renovated, with an eat-in kitchen, and has original details, according to the listing. There is also a front porch, and the property is large — almost 30 acres. Beds: 4. Baths: 1.5 Square Feet: 2100. Lot Size: 29.2 acres. Est. Taxes: $11,250. 619 Creek Locks Road, Rosendale (Westwood Metes & Bounds) GMAP. 

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