Historic Huguenot Street - New Paltz, New York

Introduction to Historic Huguenot Street

Historic Huguenot Street, located at 81 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561, United States, stands as a remarkable testament to early American history and a poignant reminder of a specific group’s struggle for religious freedom. This carefully preserved historic district offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the lives of the Huguenots, a French Protestant community who sought refuge in New Paltz in the 17th century. The street itself is a living museum, showcasing beautifully maintained 18th-century homes and buildings that speak volumes about the challenges and triumphs of its former inhabitants. It’s a place where history isn’t just read about; it’s felt and experienced.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of New Paltz, New York, Historic Huguenot Street is easily accessible. The address, 81 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561, provides a central location within the town, allowing visitors to combine their visit with other local attractions. Phone inquiries can be directed to 8452551660. For comprehensive information and to plan your visit, the official website, http://www.huguenotstreet.org/, offers a wealth of resources. The site includes details about events, tours, and visitor services.

Specialties and Activities

Historic Huguenot Street offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. The district functions as a historical landmark, an engaging event venue, a thoughtfully curated gift shop, a vital historical society, and a captivating history museum. It also serves as a local history museum, showcasing the unique story of the Huguenot community and its impact on the region. Furthermore, it proudly operates as a tourist attraction, a desirable wedding chapel, and a sought-after wedding venue. The organization provides a variety of services, including on-site assistance and wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

Key Features and Historical Significance

The street’s architecture is a defining characteristic. The buildings themselves, despite their relatively small number, are remarkably well-preserved, offering a tangible link to the past. These structures, dating back to the 18th century, represent a significant architectural heritage. The Huguenots, facing persecution in France, established New Paltz as a haven for their faith. Their presence profoundly shaped the town’s character and development. The street’s layout and building designs reflect the practical needs and aesthetic sensibilities of the era. A significant aspect of the Huguenot experience was their commitment to education and the establishment of a school, which played a crucial role in preserving their language and culture. The street is a physical embodiment of this legacy.

Visitor Information and Recommendations

For those planning a visit, several resources are available. The website, http://www.huguenotstreet.org/, provides detailed information about current events, tour schedules, and visitor services. Self-guided tours are available, offering a flexible and convenient way to explore the street at one’s own pace. Downloading the associated app streamlines the tour experience, particularly for those with limited time. Guided tours, while requiring advance booking, offer a deeper understanding of the historical context and personal stories. The gift shop offers a selection of souvenirs and educational materials related to the Huguenot story. The on-site services and wheelchair-accessible car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Families will find the street to be a particularly engaging destination, with opportunities for learning and discovery. It’s a place where children can connect with history in a meaningful way. The organization also hosts various events throughout the year, catering to a wide range of interests. The average opinion on Google My Business is 4.6/5, reflecting the overwhelmingly positive experiences of visitors.

Additional Points of Interest

Beyond the historical buildings and guided tours, visitors can discover a variety of related attractions in New Paltz. The surrounding natural beauty of the Shawangunk Ridge offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. The town itself boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and performance venues. The local restaurants offer a diverse selection of culinary options, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

👍 Reviews of Historic Huguenot Street

Maria P. L.

5/5

If you visit New Paltz, it's a very interesting place to visit and learn about the history and colonization of this part of the country. Its buildings, though few in number, are incredibly well-preserved despite the years, allowing us to appreciate the past.

Katie C.

5/5

We downloaded the app and did a self guided tour due to our time constraints, but I would have loved to take the guided tour. It was a quaint historic street with gobs of history perfect for a relaxing afternoon of sight seeing. If you’re on a schedule, and want the guided tour consider buying tickets in advance.

Stephen H.

4/5

Beautiful historic village. You can do a self guided tour or pay $15 for a guided tour. Cute little gift shop and visitor center.

Akeela A.

5/5

Super interesting and short. Great for kids. All outdoor plaque reading…quick walk. Can look down into old wells (safely gated). Lovely little piece of history. Loved the wigwam and accurately portraying colonists and indigenous differing perspectives.

Lisa S.

4/5

Wonderful way to step back in time "on a birthday size " level. There was no organized tour when I stopped in the visitor center so the other houses weren't open but they were all nicely marked and easily walkable. They give you a great sense of the history of the Huguenots without being overwhelming. A good history lesson in about an hour to hour and a quarter. Thank you

Ingrid H.

5/5

Interesting historical area to walk through when visiting the New Paltz area. Tours available and buildings open at various times.

Tax P.

3/5

About 6 houses that are closed unless you take the tour. I went inside the gift shop and upstairs; figured that all the houses looked similar. Coming here is a charming part of a day trip.

Jessica D.

4/5

Nice little historic street. Perfect to break up the day. Just long enough to keep the tablet obsessed boys interested. Beautifully maintained historic buildings.