Welcome to High Falls, NY
It is known as one of the most charming hamlets in Ulster County. The tiny village features a cozy mix of nationally registered buildings, unique boutiques and restaurants, farm stands, nature trails, waterfalls and rolling farmland.
The winding Rondout Creek and backdrop of the Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains add to the scenic beauty of the area. It is a favorite destination for weekend visitors, and those looking for the peace and quiet of a country life.
Homes for Sale in High Falls, NY
High Falls is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, for a simpler, more relaxed country lifestyle. Its location also makes it convenient for commuting to some of the larger towns in the area. View High Falls, NY Real Estate Listings.
There are far fewer homes in High Falls, so listings are often not as plentiful; however, what High Falls real estate may lack in inventory, it always makes up for in quality. Discover beautifully maintained stone and wood farmhouses amongst rolling farmland, or on wooded acreages. Large covered porches and decks are common features. Some properties will offer access to Rondout Creek, perfect for fishing on a relaxing afternoon
High Falls residents enjoy a variety of small-town amenities in the tiny downtown area, including shopping and restaurants, with more shopping and entertainment available in nearby towns like New Paltz and Kingston.
About High Falls, NY
High Falls is a small hamlet in Ulster County, with a population of approximately 650. Its 1.2 square miles are mostly located within Marbletown, but some portions are within the towns of Rochester and Rosendale.
It is an area with a very rich history, and both the charming High Falls Historical District and original Delaware & Hudson Canal listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
High Falls is within 20 minutes of larger towns like New Paltz (16 min/ 5 mi) and Kingston (18 min/ 11 mi). The closest major cities include New York City (1 hr 49 min/ 95 mi) and Philadelphia PA (2 hr 54 min/ 175 mi). The closest airport is Stewart International Airport, in Newburgh NY (43 min/36 mi).
The hamlet takes its name from the nearby High Falls on Rondout Creek, where it cuts through a large rock formation and goes over a large, picturesque waterfall. The falls are featured in the classic 1961 film Splendor in the Grass, with Warren Beatty and Natalie Wood.
Things to See and Do in High Falls, NY
High Falls offers the best of relaxed country living. It is a tiny, charming village with a mix of eclectic shops and restaurants, beautiful old buildings and gorgeous scenery, with a strong sense of culture and community spirit.
The compact “downtown” area is something out of a postcard, with gorgeous historical buildings housing unique local businesses. You can park your car and easily explore the village on foot.
There’s a variety of shops featuring jewelry, home goods, antiques, giftware, and more. Some must-sees include Green Cottage, High Falls Mercantile, Linger Apothecary, and Nectar. The High Falls Food Co-Op is a great spot to pick up local produce and other food essentials.
The area also features numerous great little eateries that reflect the diversity of the community. High Falls Cafe is a local institution, with a delicious menu of local food and a venue for live local music. Egg’s Nest features a menu with a southwestern flair, located in a quirkily-decorated former church. The DePuy Canal House is located in a restored stone tavern from the 1700s, and features everything from brunches to duck confit and beef tenderloin on holidays.
The Social Spy Eatery and Bar specializes in contemporary American cuisine, with everything from meatless meatloaf to seafood entrees, duck breast to Black Angus steak. As older restaurateurs retire, fresh owners have been stepping up and not only keeping local faves alive, but adding more to the local scene.
From May to October, the High Falls Flea Market runs out of Grady Park on Sundays. Shoppers from around the region flock to see an ever-changing roster of vendors with various crafts, collectibles, art, antiques and other unique treasures.
The Delaware Hudson Canal Museum highlights local history, and features rotating exhibits. It also maintains the “Five Lock Walk”, a free self-guided walking tour through the restored locks of the old stone canal system that connected the Delaware and Hudson Rivers.
High Falls is ideally located for taking advantage of other amenities and activities in the Rondout Valley and beyond. The valley is full of beautiful rolling farmland, equestrian facilities, and farm stands, perfect for exploring on a Sunday drive.
It is a short drive to Mohonk Nature Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and other spots in the surrounding Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking and camping.
Both New Paltz and Kingston are within a 20 minute drive, when you need extended shopping or more varied entertainment and nightlife. And only a few miles away, the iconic Mohonk Mountain House Resort is a wonderful place for golf, swimming, tennis, spa treatments, and other sophisticated indulgences.
