Kingston

Kingston is a historic city located on the west bank of the Hudson, at the point where the Rondout Creek joins the river, with the Catskill Mountains in the background. Founded by the Dutch in the 17th century, in 1777 it became the first capital of the State of New York. That same year, British troops burned the city, which was later rebuilt.

Kingston today has three distinct historic districts. The Stockade District, in the upper part of the city, retains many stone houses dating from the colonial era, several of which predate the American Revolution. Its streets still largely follow the layout established in the 17th century. The Midtown instead reflects urban development of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Finally, the Rondout, on the creek's edge, is Kingston's former port and commercial district.

The Rondout is particularly interesting for boaters. In the 19th century it became an important transport center thanks to the Delaware and Hudson Canal, which allowed coal from Pennsylvania to be carried to the Hudson. The port also served to transport bluestone, cement and other goods. Today, the old commercial buildings along the waterfront house restaurants, shops, galleries and cultural venues.

The waterfront is home in particular to the Hudson River Maritime Museum, devoted to the Hudson's maritime history, as well as the Rondout Lighthouse, still operational at the creek's entrance. You can also stroll along the waterfront, take a cruise on the Hudson, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Rondout.

With its colonial architecture, former harbor district, museums, shops and cultural scene, Kingston offers a rather unique blend of historic city, river port and artistic community.