Marlborough (New York) Travel Guide

Plan your next vacation to Marlborough (New York) with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Marlborough (New York)

Nestled in the Ulster County of New York, Marlborough is a charming town located in the Catskills region. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Marlborough (New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Benmarl Winery: Founded in 1957, Benmarl Winery is one of the oldest wineries in the Hudson Valley. It offers wine tours, tastings, and breathtaking views of the Hudson River.

  • Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center: A former dairy farm, Stony Kill Farm offers an educational and engaging place for visitors. Explore the farm’s 1,000 acres, which include woodland trails, gardens, and farm animals.

  • Franny Reese State Park: This 252-acre state park offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Mid-Hudson Bridge. Visitors can hike or bike trails, enjoy picnics and seasonal activities.

Natural Attractions of Marlborough (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hudson Highlands State Park: This park offers 6,000 acres of stunning views and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

  • Marlboro Mountain: Standing at 417ft, Marlboro Mountain offers spectacular views of the Hudson Valley. It is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

  • Walkway Over The Hudson: The world’s longest pedestrian bridge offers stunning views of the Hudson River, and a chance for visitors to explore the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marlborough (New York)

  • Marlboro Mountain Trail: A moderate 2-mile hiking trail with panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.

  • Hudson Highlands State Park: Trails range from 1-10 miles with varying difficulty levels. The trails offer stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Marlborough (New York): Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tours: Take a tour of one of Marlborough’s many wineries, such as the Benmarl Winery, and enjoy tastings of their finest wines.

  • Hudson River Cruises: Tour the Hudson River and explore various historic and cultural landmarks along the way.

  • Farm-to-Table Experiences: Experience the local farm-to-table cuisine scene through farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marlborough (New York)

Day Activities
1 Visit Franny Reese State Park, hike the trails, have a picnic
2 Explore the local wineries, such as the Benmarl Winery
3 Hike the Marlboro Mountain Trail
4 Take a Hudson River Cruise and discover the area’s many landmarks
5 Visit the Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center
6 Take a farm-to-table cooking class or enjoy a meal at a farm-to-table restaurant
7 Relax and unwind at your accommodation or take a day trip to Walkway Over The Hudson, or Hudson Highlands State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Marlborough (New York)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hudson Valley Foie Gras: A luxury delicacy enjoyed by food enthusiasts around the world, made from the liver of a duck or goose.

  • Cornell Chicken: A local specialty; chicken marinated in a vinegar and egg-based sauce, grilled to perfection.

  • Apple Cider Donuts: The region’s most beloved baked goods, made from cider dough and coated with cinnamon-sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Hudson Valley Wines: The area is known for producing high-quality wines, such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

  • Hard Ciders: A must-try; Hudson Valley’s hard ciders are made from locally grown apples and are enjoyed all year round.

  • Craft Beer: Known for its range of different craft beers, the area is home to more than 20 craft breweries.

Where to Stay in Marlborough (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Chateau: A cozy, family-run accommodation which features rustic charm, modern amenities, and stunning views.

  • Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa: A luxurious historic inn and spa, overlooking the Hudson River.

What to Buy in Marlborough (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hudson Valley Artisanal Cheeses: Made from local cow and goat milk, these cheeses are popular in the region.

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Local artists produce a range of handmade pottery that features Hudson Valley motifs and techniques.

  • Catskills Maple Syrup: A sweet souvenir, this syrup is harvested from trees throughout the region in the spring.

Local Culture and Customs of Marlborough (New York)

  • Marlborough is known for its captivating natural splendor, agricultural landmarks, and rich cultural heritage.

  • Respect for local traditions and customs is appreciated and encouraged by residents.

Best Time to Visit Marlborough (New York)

The best time to visit Marlborough is during spring, summer and fall, from March to November. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and winery tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marlborough (New York)

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs.

  • Explore the local wineries and the impressive range of locally-produced food and beverages.

  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Litter in any natural reserves or outdoor spaces.

  • Be too loud or disruptive in public areas, particularly after dark.

  • Disrespect or intrude on private properties or farmland.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marlborough (New York)

Marlborough is a safe area, with no particularly notable safety concerns to be aware of.

Health in Marlborough (New York)

No specific health risks are associated with Marlborough. Visitors should ensure they have medical insurance in case of any emergencies.

Getting to Marlborough (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marlborough (New York)

The nearest airport to Marlborough is Stewart International Airport (SWF), located only 25 minutes away by car and offering both national and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Marlborough (New York)

Trailways and Adirondack Trailways bus services operate from New York City to the neighboring Poughkeepsie station daily.

Other Options

Renting a car or taxi services are also available for transportation.

How to Get Around in Marlborough (New York)

Public transportation is not extensive in the Marlborough area, so it is recommended that visitors rent a car or hire a taxi service for getting around.

Where to Go Next from Marlborough (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Paltz: A quaint town with a lively arts and culture scene, located just 20 minutes away by car.

  • Woodstock: A hippie-chic town known for its vibrant arts and music culture, located only 35 minutes away by car.

  • Kingston: A historic waterfront city known for its amazing restaurants, shops, and art galleries, located just 20 minutes away by car.

Conclusion

Marlborough is a beautiful town that offers its visitors a wide range of unique experiences, from enjoying a glass of wine at a local winery or dining at a farm-to-table restaurant, to hiking trails or enjoying scenic river views from the pedestrian bridge. With this guide, visitors will have everything they need to make their trip to Marlborough a memorable one.