Explore Gardiner, NY
Gardiner, NY is a charming little hamlet just seven miles south of New Paltz, situated along the Walkill River with the Shawangunk Ridge as a backdrop.
Gardiner’s claim to fame is skydiving at Skydive The Ranch — where adventurous souls have traveled near and far to jump out of planes while flying over the Shawangunk Ridge. They’ve been in operation for over forty years and in the summer and fall, no matter where you are in town, you can watch them floating in the sky.
Just minutes to Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and the village of New Paltz, on weekends in the warmer months, the town is electric with the jumpers, hikers, and rock climbers who have just arrived.
Gardiner, a small, one-street town, has a lot to offer... I suggest renting a bicycle and riding the rail trail, grabbing a cocktail on the deck of the Gardiner Liquid Mercantile (known for its homemade whiskey), or checking out Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery (New York’s first distillery since prohibition).
Overall, Gardiner, NY is a small town with a very cool outdoor adventure vibe.
A few of my favorite places to eat…
One of my favorite spots for breakfast and lunch, they specialize in locally sourced cuisine crafted with love. A casual and warm atmosphere with artwork displayed by local artists; outdoor seating on the rail trail (so you can bike from wherever). I love the spinach, goat cheese and mushroom omelet, and the blackened cajun catfish sandwich is something you must try! Pair it with a glass of wine from a local vineyard or a cocktail made with local whiskey or vodka from down the road.
Great food and bar scene. It's a small and cozy local bar where everyone knows each other. Good burgers and appetizers, outdoor seating in the nice weather. In the spring and summer, you'll find all the skydivers hanging out, sharing their adventures.
Don’t feel like cooking? Stop in at Julian’s Provisions on Main Street for a wide choice of fresh ready-made food in the fridge. You’ll find homemade soups and sandwiches, dinner specials every weekend for take-out, great coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and waffles with all the trimmings. Fresh frozen meat from the local farms too! My favorite place to make a weekend simple.