Outdoor adventures and indoor delights
Rosendale is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a glorious hike, run, or bike ride. Catch unparalleled views along Rosendale Trestle, a 940-foot-long pedestrian bridge that overlooks the Rondout Creek and the town’s thriving Main Street. Part of the 22+ mile Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, the trestle — a former railroad bridge — is a standout stretch of the trail and linear park. With multiple access points, a stroll along the path includes lake views, cement mine ruins (more on that later), and historic buildings.
Enjoy some shopping, dining, and entertainment in Rosendale’s Main Street, the town’s charming little hub of restaurants and local businesses. Head to The Big Cheese for delicious domestic and imported cheeses as well as Mediterranean grub, fresh salads, and gourmet sandwiches. Inside the eatery, there’s a secondhand store that sells books, clothing, and kitchenware. For authentic Japanese cuisine, go to Soy, a highly recommended restaurant nearing a five-star average rating on Yelp. The treasured spot serves homestyle dishes like niku jaga, miso soup, and takoyaki. Another highlight of Main Street is The Rosendale Theatre, a historic venue that runs as a nonprofit organization. At this beloved indie theater, catch classic films, new movies, live plays, and music performances.
Cement your love for Rosendale (calling all New Yorkers)
A trip to Rosendale isn’t complete without a stop at Widow Jane Mine, a unique attraction with a rich history. In the 19th century, Rosendale established itself as a key player in the cement industry. As the century drew to a close, the town contained more than a third of the nation’s cement plants. Rosendale cement helped assemble famed landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the U.S. Capitol, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Talk about iconic!
In 1970, the Widow Jane Mine stopped functioning as a cement mine but continued to be used for a variety of purposes. It has operated as a trout nursery, mushroom farm, supplier of whiskey water, performance space, and recording studio. Due to its exceptional acoustics, the rock amphitheater is an incredible home for recording sessions as well as live shows and concerts. This rustic venue, which can seat up to 500 guests, has held music shows, dance performances, poetry readings, drum circles, and art exhibitions. In addition to its entertainment offerings, the Widow Jane Mine has a small museum and a short hiking trail. The site’s admission is donation-based, with a suggested contribution of $5 per adult. Just another activity that will cement your love for Rosendale.
