Kingston City Guide

Food focuses on local ingredients with farm-to-table options. You'll find Mexican, Italian, and American dishes along with vegetarian and vegan choices. Late-night food is limited, mostly bars and fast food.

Nightlife is relaxed, centered on bars and live music venues. Places like Stockade Tavern and Keegan Ales offer casual evenings.

Kingston has a strong coffee scene with specialty cafes, local roasters, and a community vibe.

Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, and for services, usually 15-20%.

Buy SIM cards at carrier stores like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, or Best Buy. All offer good coverage and eSIMs for compatible devices. You'll need ID or passport to purchase.

The city is generally clean, especially in main commercial and historic areas. Waste and recycling services are regular.

24/7 services are limited. Some minimarts and emergency rooms operate around the clock, but most places close earlier.

Supermarkets like Hannaford, ShopRite, and Price Chopper sell a moderate range of international products. Local fresh markets and specialty stores are found mainly in Stockade and Rondout districts. Most stores open 7 AM to 9 or 10 PM and stay open on Sundays, often with shorter hours. Prices are fixed; no bargaining.

Most places in Kingston prefer card payments, but cash is still accepted.

ATMs are easy to find at banks and retail spots. Using out-of-network ATMs may cost $2.50 to $5 plus your bank's fees.

Public schools are under Kingston City School District; instruction is in English. Ulster County Community College is nearby for higher education. No major international schools in Kingston.

The digital nomad community is small but growing. Coworking spaces and cafes provide some networking chances.

Several parks and waterfronts provide shaded walking and green space for running and relaxing.

Good running spots include the Hudson River Brickyard Trail and local parks. Running is generally safe and scenic.

Several gyms offer options from strength training to yoga and spinning.

Public tennis courts are available at several parks. Equipment rentals are rare; courts are mostly hard surface.

Padel courts are not common in Kingston.

Yoga studios offer various styles like Bikram, Vinyasa, and Restorative, with drop-in and membership options.

Multiple dojos offer styles like Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Aikido, and Muay Thai, with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Belleayre, Hunter, and Windham are 45-90 minutes away. They offer terrain for all levels and equipment rentals.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on the Hudson River and Rondout Creek. Rentals and guided tours are available in season.

No ocean surf breaks here; Kingston is inland on the Hudson River.

Hudson River is not suited for recreational diving or snorkeling.

HealthAlliance Hospital and local clinics have English-speaking staff. Care is mostly private and quality is good but depends on insurance. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer OTC meds and prescription drugs with doctor’s prescription.

Tap water meets federal and state safety standards.

Kingston has several parks with playgrounds and family attractions like Forsyth Nature Center and Hudson River Maritime Museum. Baby supplies are easy to find. Kid-friendly cafes are common but not specialized.

The community is inclusive and accepting, with legal protections and regular pride events nearby.

Kingston welcomes pets with dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and veterinary services.