Things to Do in New Paltz, NY – Mohonk, Restaurants, and More!

Looking for the best things to do in New Paltz, NY? After over a decade of visiting this incredible Hudson Valley town, I’m sharing my personal guide to New Paltz’s top attractions—from Mohonk Mountain House to my favorite restaurants, shops, and scenic spots.

Whether you’re visiting for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or returning for the tenth time, this video has something for everyone—great food, beautiful nature, and small-town charm.

🏞️ Mohonk Mountain House

  • World-famous resort with hiking, spa, boating, and day passes available
  • Stunning nature trails and historic grounds

🍽️ Best Restaurants in New Paltz, NY

  • Main Street Bistro – Local brunch favorite with creative, hearty breakfast options
  • Garvan’s Gastropub – Irish-style pub with refined dishes and incredible hospitality
  • Burger Box – Fast-casual burger joint with flavorful, customizable eats
  • Plaza Diner – Classic New York diner with a nostalgic vibe and comfort food staples

🛍️ Water Street Market

Eclectic outdoor shopping village with boutique stores, antiques, art galleries, and cafés

🐾 Bonus: Many of these locations are dog-friendly, making New Paltz a great destination for pet lovers too!

🌄 Whether you’re planning a hiking trip, a food-focused weekend, or just want to explore upstate New York’s hidden gems—New Paltz should be on your list.

Main Street Bistro New Paltz | Creative American Brunch Since 1993

Join me for a delicious trip down memory lane at Main Street Bistro in downtown New Paltz — a beloved local gem that’s been delighting patrons since owners Doug & Teresa Thompson took over on July 1, 1993.

🍽️ What We Experienced:

  • Classic & creative brunch fare—think Salmon Hash with hollandaise, hearty breakfast specials, and inventive sandwiches like the Santa Cruz
  • Consistently excellent food with generous portions, charming down-to-earth service, and a bustling college-town atmosphere.
  • A menu that even earned “Best Breakfast in the Hudson Valley 2020” from Hudson Valley Magazine

👨‍🍳 What Makes It Special:

  • The Bistro’s roots date back decades—a fixture in town with a solid 25+ years under its belt
  • Doug Thompson, the owner, is a SUNY alumnus, ex-punk drummer turned restaurateur, who built a loyal staff—many with over 15 years of service
  • Launched dinner hours in 2024 featuring a fresh Vietnamese‑vegan menu, all while keeping the iconic daytime menu intact

✅ Why You’ll Love It:

  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and now even dinner.
  • Friendly, familiar service—staff often know you by name
  • A must-visit spot in the heart of New Paltz—ideal after a hike, or any time you crave comfort food with flair

Let us know: have you tried Main Street Bistro? What’s your favorite dish?

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Dining at Garvan’s in New Paltz, NY

Looking for a memorable meal in New Paltz, NY? We had an incredible dinner at Garvan’s Gastropub, a charming Irish-style pub known for its warm hospitality and elevated pub fare. From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond—especially in helping me stick to my low-carb/keto diet with delicious, customized options.

We were even lucky enough to meet Garvan himself, the owner and namesake of the restaurant. A true gentleman and gracious host!

📍 Located just minutes from downtown New Paltz and Mohonk Preserve, Garvan’s is a must-visit for anyone craving hearty, flavorful food in a cozy, welcoming setting.

🍽️ Highlights from our visit:

  • Friendly, attentive service
  • Great low-carb accommodations
  • Beautiful outdoor patio and Irish-inspired interior
  • Personal visit from Garvan!

✅ Whether you’re local or just visiting the Hudson Valley, Garvan’s Gastropub is a dining experience you won’t want to miss.

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Plaza Diner Review – New Paltz, NY

Searching for a breakfast win in New Paltz, NY? Look no further than The Plaza Diner! This video takes you on a delightful journey through their menu, with a focus on their incredible omelets and milkshakes that are absolutely awesome

Here’s why The Plaza Diner should be your next breakfast stop:

  • Omelet Heaven: I dove into a mouthwatering corned beef omelet that was pure perfection – a must-try for any omelet enthusiast!
  • Waffle & Milkshake Magic: My son, Ben, declared their waffle and milkshake the absolute best in town – and trust me, we’ve tried our fair share!
  • Service with a Smile: Our waitress might just be the happiest, nicest waitress we’ve ever encountered. She truly made our dining experience extra special
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The Plaza Diner offers a warm atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service that will leave you with a smile. It’s the perfect spot for a satisfying breakfast in New Paltz!

P&G Restaurant Review – New Paltz, NY

Craving a juicy prime rib and a classic pub atmosphere? Head to P&G Restaurant in New Paltz, NY for a taste of down-home deliciousness! In this video, I dive into their Saturday night prime rib special and explore the classic pub fare that P&G’s is known for.

Here’s what you can expect at P&G Restaurant:

  • Mouthwatering Prime Rib (Saturday Special): Savor a generous portion of perfectly cooked prime rib – a must-try for meat lovers!
  • Classic Pub Grub: Burgers, wings, sandwiches – P&G’s offers all the comfort food favorites you crave.
  • Casual Downtown Vibe: Relax and unwind in a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or drinks with friends.

B-Side Grill Review – New Paltz, NY

Calling all New Paltz families and breakfast enthusiasts! This video takes you on a delicious journey to B-Side Grill, a music-themed restaurant serving up killer tunes and even tastier eats.

Why you NEED to try B-Side Grill:

  • Breakfast Delights: We devoured mouthwatering breakfast dishes that will jumpstart your day, no matter your taste.
  • Milkshake Mania: My kiddo went crazy over their thick and creamy milkshakes – perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!
  • Fast & Friendly Service: The staff got our food out quickly, so we could hit the road (or explore New Paltz) without delay.
  • Musical Ambiance: The rock ‘n’ roll decor and tunes create a fun and upbeat atmosphere for the whole family.

B-Side Grill is the perfect spot for a delicious and fun breakfast experience in New Paltz!