Wallkill is one of the two hamlets in the town of Shawangunk in Ulster County, New York.
European settlements in the Wallkill valleys began in the late 17th century and spread throughout the early 18th century.
The area used to be known as the “Basin” and was later named Wallkill after the river that runs along it.
In the late 1800s, the Borden family, known for the invention of condensed milk, established their “Home Farm” in the area, which was envisioned as a model dairy farm for the country.
Their relocation spurred developments in Wallkill—from roads and industrial centers to electricity and public facilities.
Located by the Wallkill River, the hamlet is home to nature spots, farms, and parks, offering visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
To get you started on planning your trip, here are some of the best things to do in Wallkill, New York:
John Jeffreys / Shutterstock.com
Spend a day in nature at Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge.
The 597-acre refuge features open grasslands and 3.6 miles of trails, with plenty of recreational opportunities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, nature photography, and hunting.
Hike along the trails and explore grasslands to see some beautiful views of Shawangunk Ridge.
Established in 1999, the refuge protects habitats and supports migratory birds and other wildlife.
See and hear grassland birds, such as upland sandpipers, eastern meadowlarks, short-eared owls, and horned larks.
You can also fish on a catch-and-release basis at the pond.
Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge is located along Hoagerburgh Road.
Visit Magnanini Winery for a beautiful afternoon of wine tasting with friends.
Established in 1983, this family-owned winery produces wine from grapes in their vineyards.
Take a sip of some of their estate-grown and bottled wines at their tasting room near the vineyards.
Pair your wine with prosciutto, salami, and other house-made dry-cured meats.
The winery also has a restaurant where you can dine on northern Italian-inspired home-cooked meals.
You can find Magnanini Winery along Strawridge Road.
Go on a weekend of apple picking at DB Orchards.
Located in a picturesque setting with views of the Shawangunk Mountains, this farm grows various vegetables and fruits, such as peaches, pears, apricots, and cherries.
Take the family and harvest your own pecks of lovely apples while enjoying the farm’s atmosphere.
The farm also has a fruit stand where you can get the season’s fresh produce.
DB Orchards’ apple farm is located along Route 208.
Take the family on a relaxing picnic at Popp Park.
This 5.5-acre park has a pavilion, picnic areas, and a barbecue pit, perfect for spending quality time with family.
The park also offers access to the Wallkill River.
Stroll around and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and calming nature views.
Popp Park is located along Route 208 South.
After a day of going around town, head to Nu-Cavu Restaurant for a sumptuous meal in a lovely setting.
This rustic restaurant serves Italian-American dishes.
Have your glass of wine and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
Indulge in freshly prepared pasta and seafood dishes.
In addition to their regular menu, they feature various special dishes throughout the week.
There’s also entertainment on some days, such as fun karaoke nights.
If you come at the right time, get a chance to see the beautiful sunset from their patio.
You can find Nu-Cavu Restaurant along Plains Road.
Book some tee time at Turtle Creek Golf Course at Garden Cathay.
This lovely Par 35, 9-hole course over rolling hills offers a challenging game for both beginners and experienced players.
If you want some practice before a round, head to their driving range, which features a grass tee with 10 stalls.
Soak up some morning sun, enjoy your time on the green, and admire the scenic views.
After a round, head to their grill for a tasty lunch.
Turtle Creek Golf Course at Garden Cathay is located along Plattekill Ardonia Road.
Discover some beautiful furniture and other antique furnishings at Hartmann Antiques.
The shop is housed in a 2,000-square-foot refurbished barn featuring items over a hundred years old.
The owners specialize in dealing American-made pine and cherry antique pieces from the early to mid-19th century, but you can also see lovely chestnut and oak pieces.
Look around the shop, and you might find the perfect country table or dresser for your room or lighting pieces to elevate your home’s look.
You can find Hartmann Antiques along Hoagerburgh Road.
Gyrobo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Looking to explore the area while cycling?
Take your bike for a ride along the Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail.
The 4.3-mile trail was built on the former Conrail, which was used to transport farm produce in the area to markets in New York City.
Enjoy the greenery and beautiful foliage as you pedal along the trails.
You can take a leisurely ride along the paved section of the trail.
If you prefer riding your mountain bike, explore along the unpaved section.
You can get on the Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail via access points along Route 208, Railroad Avenue, and River Road.
Stop by Hudson Valley Chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This shop offers handcrafted confections made from quality ingredients and with no added preservatives.
Take a box and indulge in rich pieces of premium chocolate creations.
They also have chocolate apples, caramel, fruits and nuts, and pretzels.
Their sweet treats are also ideal for getting as a gift with beautiful packaging.
You can find Hudson Valley Chocolates along Wallkill Avenue.
Take the kids for family fun and holiday cheer at Christmas Tree Lane.
This family-owned Christmas tree farm has over 6,000 trees, which they protect by replanting more after the season’s cutting.
Go around the farm and have fun choosing and cutting your own tree.
The farm has several trees, including Norway spruce, Black Hills Spruce, Serbian, Douglas fir, and Canaan fir.
You can also opt to buy a pre-cut tree.
After picking your tree, get some treats and enjoy a hot chocolate by the fire.
Kids get to ride their reindeer barrel train!
You can find Christmas Tree Lane along Christmas Tree Drive.
If you like vintage clothing and accessories, check out Park Avenue Couture.
This shop features a collection of classic and timeless clothing items and fashion accessories, which include designer pieces.
Stop by and browse their dresses, outerwear, shoes, and bags.
Look at their jewelry and accessories, and you might find a beautiful item that would fit your style.
Park Avenue Couture is located along Albany Post Road.
If you’re an extreme sports enthusiast, check out the exciting off-road scene at Walden Motocross.
This cool motocross park features two tracks that can be used for races simultaneously, one of the few motocross facilities to do so.
Watch some racing action on the tracks, or visit and gear up for an open practice session.
You can find Walden Motocross along Orchard Drive.
If you’re visiting in December, stop by Bruschi Christmas for some holiday cheer.
This Christmas light display features over 25,000 lights, which are set and animated to lively music.
Take the family and watch thousands of bright and colorful lights spread some feel-good holiday cheer as they dance to the tune of popular holiday songs.
The light display is set up by the family each year.
You can find the Bruschi Christmas light display during the season along Madre DeCristo Road.
If you’re looking for a place to celebrate special events in Wallkill, there’s no better setting than the historic Borden Estate.
The 200-acre estate features three beautiful accommodations to cater to you and your guests: the 1906 Marion Borden Mansion, the 1787 Dutch Stone House, and a converted barn with dormitory-style rooms.
Enjoy your gathering with family and friends in this expansive setting with a lovely atmosphere and breathtaking nature views.
Set in a spectacular landscape, a stay at the estate also offers various retreat activities.
Take a hike, explore around on your bike, or go on a kayak trip.
Borden Estate is located along Borden Road.
Daniel Case, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Get a glimpse of the area’s past when you see the Andries DuBois House, considered the oldest house in Wallkill.
A detailed study of the house’s structures dates back to the late 1700s.
The house was originally constructed as a homestead and owned by Andries DuBois, son of a French settler.
The house was said to be remodeled several times, with the changes seen in various parts of the structure.
In 1998, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its historical and architectural significance.
You can find the Andries DuBois House along Wallkill Avenue.
You can explore many other interesting activities and recreation sites from Wallkill.
Here are some nearby spots you can visit:
Liz Van Steenburgh / Shutterstock.com
Experience the Hudson Valley tradition of cider making when you tour the Angry Orchard in the nearby village of Walden.
Located at the heart of Hudson Valley, this 60-acre orchard traces its farming history to the 18th century and now produces apples for cider and culinary uses.
Walk around the orchard and see sweeping views of the Shawangunk Mountains from their treehouse, or take the production tour and learn about the art of cider making.
Liz Van Steenburgh / Shutterstock.com
Of course, no visit would be complete without tasting some of their interesting cider flavors.
The Angry Orchard is a 3.3-mile drive from Wallkill.
Get a glimpse into the Hudson Valley art scene when you visit the Wallkill River School in Montgomery.
This fine art gallery features the original works of a diverse group of regional artists.
Stroll along the gallery and see interesting and fascinating paintings.
The institution sponsors the Hudson Valley Plein Air Festival, an annual outdoor Plein air painting festival.
The Wallkill River School is a 7.6-mile drive from Wallkill.
Looking for some nearby adventure?
Head to Skydive the Ranch in Gardiner and see beautiful views of the Hudson Valley from up above.
This skydiving facility offers an exciting experience featuring spectacular views of the Shawangunk Mountains and the Catskills.
You can enjoy the experience with your group of friends, as the facility flies large planes that can take up to 11 adventurers.
The facility specializes in tandem diving and offers the longest freefall in the northeast.
They also have videographers who will film your skydiving experience.
Skydive the Ranch is a 5.8-mile drive from Wallkill.
Unwind and sample local craft beer at The Brewery at Orange County Hops in Walden.
This farm-to-glass brewery features brews made from hops grown in the Hudson Valley.
Taste some of their brews at the tasting room.
Alternatively, have your pint while enjoying the live music and lovely scenery in their outdoor area.
The Brewery at Orange County Hops is a 6.2-mile drive from Wallkill.
The hamlet of Wallkill is worth visiting for its rich heritage, lovely outdoors, nice parks, and various activities.
With wonderful views of Shawangunk Ridge, recreation and relaxation opportunities await you at this destination.
Start planning your trip now and experience some of the best things to do in Wallkill, New York.
Discover the world.
© All rights reserved.
