Less than 100 miles from the center of New York City lies Kingston, New York. Once the state’s capital, this small town has enough charm to transport visitors back in time. Stone homes from the 16th to early 19th century line the roads, while two rows of rainbow townhomes border the main street. Vintage shops, quaint cafés, and boutique clothing stores can be found on every corner, offering trinkets, goodies, and long-lost treasures that can’t be found elsewhere.
Throughout the town stands Hotel Kinsley’s distinct outposts. This 42-room hotel (which was designed by Studio Robert McKinley) is spread across four historic buildings, each with its own well-defined personality and appeal. The flagship of the hotel can be found on the corner of Wall Street, which just so happens to be the former State Bank of New York from the 1860s. To keep some of the history alive, the hotel’s reception room is located in an old bank vault. At this hub (known as 301 Wall Street), 10 guest rooms can be found, all of which feature custom headboards, bright rugs, and rustic desks with vintage chairs.
Down the block is 41 Pearl Street. Dating back to the 1680s, this former Georgian stone home is perhaps the crown jewel of the restoration efforts. Complete with original fireplaces that feature hand-painted tiles, a grand staircase, and crown molding that was preserved, this quiet retreat is the perfect spot for the architecture-loving historian.
Walk three minutes north to find 270 Fair Street. This building dates back to the 1870s and was first occupied by a steam and gas fitter company. Nowadays, a chic women’s clothing store has set up shop. Above the store, 12 renovated guest rooms can be found, each filled with a vibrant collection of American Abstract Impressionist art posters from the mid to late 20th century.
The fourth and final outpost, which is also the hotel’s latest renovation, is 24 John Street. A transformed European-style cottage predating the Revolutionary War (!), this branch features seven rooms that have original wide plank white pine flooring and restored fireplaces. Choose from the Luxury King Suite, which has three rooms and a private deck, three Luxury Queen Suites that feature gas fireplaces and heated bathroom floors, as well as two Standard Rooms that have exposed original wood beams and stone walls.
In terms of dining, the hotel is home to Restaurant Kinsley, which is located at the Wall Street building. The restaurant is open to guests for continental breakfasts each morning, and to the public for lunch and dinner.
The seasonal menus include locally-sourced New American dishes where diners can find fresh appetizers, mouthwatering entrees, and delicious desserts. (We strongly recommend getting the flourless brownie – it doesn’t disappoint.) For a nightcap, head to the wood-paneled cocktail bar by the reception. The Kinsley Martini is a classic.
Top Takeaways
Location: Kingston, New York
Address: 301 Wall Street, Kingston, New York
Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: The sixteenth century meets modern design influences.
Food + Drink: Restaurant Kinsley serves a delightful continental breakfast selection with pastries, fruit, yogurt, and fresh juice. The all-day menu includes New American classics such as oysters, fried chicken, wild mushroom tacos, and rigatoni pomodoro. The cheeseburger and baby beets should not be missed. As for the bar, enjoy handcrafted libations that feature top-shelf liquor.
Amenities: A gym, infrared sauna, massage room, complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries, and complimentary parking.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Each outpost of the hotel is uniquely different from the rest. For example, 24 John Street was a stand-alone home that featured a porch, private parking, and fireplaces in the rooms. Staying here feels like being at a home away from home.
What’s nearby?: The main drag of Kingston has vintage shops, boutique clothing stores, and other small shops that are worth popping into. If you’re hungry, be sure to go to Lola Pizza for lunch where you can nosh on incredible pizzas, pasta, and appetizers. Additionally, Kingston has three distinct neighborhoods – the historic Uptown (Stockade) district, the Midtown Arts district, and the Downtown (Rondout) waterfront district. In each spot, you’ll find an array of great shops, restaurants, local hangouts, and more.
Rooms: 42
Pricing: Rates start at $229 per night, including breakfast.
Closest Airport: Newburgh Airport (SWF)
