Looking for a summer day trip that feels like stepping into a different era? Tucked among the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, Kingston blends small–town charm, waterfront scenery, and a fascinating slice of American history: it was even the first capital of New York State.
Today, the city’s historic Rondout Waterfront remains one of its biggest draws, lined with maritime landmarks, local shops, and sweeping views of the Hudson River.
But perhaps the most charming way to experience it all is aboard a vintage trolley that rattles along the water’s edge, offering passengers a glimpse into both Kingston’s past and present.
Operated by the Trolley Museum of New York, these nostalgic waterfront rides take visitors aboard an authentic restored 1920s electric trolley car, traveling along a 1.5-mile stretch of the original Ulster and Delaware Railroad tracks.
The scenic route hugs Rondout Creek before arriving at Kingston Point Park, where riders can hop off to enjoy picnic areas, Hudson River views, and a glimpse of the historic Rondout Lighthouse from the shoreline before catching a later trolley back.
Inside the Trolley Museum of New York
Long before it became a favorite Hudson Valley getaway, Kingston helped shape New York’s early history.
Settled by the Dutch in 1652 and named New York’s first capital in 1777, the city has spent centuries reinventing itself, from a thriving colonial trading post to a bustling canal town.
Today, visitors can still explore its remarkably preserved 18th–century streets, stroll the historic Rondout Waterfront, and experience the layers of history that make Kingston one of the region’s most captivating destinations.
To fully capture that industrial–era magic, head down to 89 East Strand Street in the heart of the Rondout Waterfront, where the Trolley Museum of New York acts as a living time capsule for transit history.
The museum preserves and restores vintage rapid transit cars, freight equipment, and trolleys sourced from cities across the United States and Europe.
Waterfront Rides: The Journey to Kingston Point Park
The centerpiece of any visit is the excursion ride aboard a beautifully restored, authentic 1920s electric trolley car. As the wooden interior creaks and the electric motor hums to life, the trolley leaves the station for a breezy, nostalgic ride along a 1.5-mile stretch of the old railroad right-of-way.
The open-air route directly hugs the scenic banks of Rondout Creek, passing modern marinas, historic brick buildings, and peaceful wetlands. The journey culminates at the sweeping picnic grounds of Kingston Point Park, a destination that has welcomed summer travelers since the 19th century.
Passengers are encouraged to hop off at Kingston Point Park and make a day of it, whether that means relaxing by the Hudson River shoreline, enjoying a picnic beneath the trees, or taking a stroll for views of the iconic Rondout Lighthouse, the charming 1915 beacon that sits in the middle of the river. When you’re ready to head back, simply hop aboard a later trolley and ride back to the museum.
The museum operates from early May through late October, with rides running on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays between noon and 5 p.m., and the final departure leaving the museum at 4:30 p.m.
Tickets include museum admission and a round-trip trolley ride, costing $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 6–12, seniors, veterans, and first responders, while children 5 and under ride free.
How to Get There from NYC
Getting to Kingston from Manhattan is a straightforward trip up the Hudson Valley, whether you prefer to drive or utilize public transit.
- By Car (Approx. 2 hours): Take the New York State Thruway (I-87) North to Exit 19 (Kingston). After the toll, follow signs for the Historic Rondout Waterfront / Urban Cultural Park. Head down to the end of Broadway, turn left onto East Strand Street, and the museum will be on your left.
- By Bus (Approx. 2 hours): Take the Adirondack Trailways direct bus from the Port Authority Bus Terminal straight to the Kingston Bus Terminal (located at 400 Washington Avenue). From the terminal, a quick 10-minute rideshare or taxi will drop you right at the waterfront museum.
- By Train & Connection (Approx. 2 to 2.5 hours):
- Amtrak: Catch the train from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station to the Rhinecliff station.
- Metro-North: Take the Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to the final stop at Poughkeepsie.
