Located within Orange County lies the homey city of Newburgh, New York. Just 60 miles north of New York City, this principal city sits along the Hudson River. With gorgeous properties, Newburgh is a great location for investment properties or people looking for a change.
This article explores the city of Newburgh and why this location is an ideal place to live or visit. With trendy restaurants, fun historical sites, and lots of activities to do, Newburgh, New York, is the ideal location for families and more.
A Brief History of Newburgh, New York
In the 18th century, the British and Germans were the first settlers in Newburgh. The city served as the headquarters of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, the town became a prosperous place for shipping, transportation, and industrial work. This helped bring people to the town looking for jobs or new employment opportunities. In return, the city’s economic status began to rise.
In the 20th century, retail and sports became popular activities in the city. With the Hudson River located just to the east, water sports such as boating, swimming, rowing, and even ice skating became popular among residents. Manufacturing plants in the 20th century brought in more jobs and contributed to the city’s thriving economy.
What to See in the City of Newburgh
Though the city lies right on the Hudson River, visitors have much more to do than just explore the Hudson. Outdoor activities, museums, and shopping are all great reasons to visit Newburgh.
Dia Beacon
For those interested in art, the Dia Beacon museum is the perfect location to visit when in the area. This museum displays the work from the Dia Art Foundation collection. This museum is one of 11 sites the foundation manages, showing art in their collection since the 1960s. This specific location opened its doors in 2003 and consists of over 160,000 square feet. Visitors can take guided walkthrough tours every Saturday and Sunday to dive into the collections. The museum currently features artists like Larry Bell, Melvin Edwards, and Robert Irwin.
The Dia Beacon museum is a place to experience contemporary art of all kinds. They showcase sculptures, paintings, temporary exhibits, and even forms of dance. Dia Beacon is a great place to go more than once, as their exhibits are always changing, and those visiting will likely see something new each time.
Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site
Those who love to learn about history should stop at Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site. Also referred to as the Hasbrouck House, this historical site overlooking the Hudson River is where George Washington lived while in command of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. The state turned the house into a historical site in 1961. Guests can sign up for tours to peek inside each room, experience the history, and view over 1,300 different historical objects.
Apart from its historical significance, this property is also the oldest in the city of Newburgh. It’s also the first property that a state acquired for historical preservation.
Motorcyclepedia Museum
Though this is another museum, it features much more than art. The Motorcyclepedia Museum is a non-profit museum in Newburgh that features a fantastic collection of bikes from throughout the years. Take a walk through 85,000 square feet of all different kinds of motorcycles and bikes. Their mission is to show how these bikes have evolved throughout the past, present, and future. Representing different communities in the biker sphere, visitors are sure to find at least one bike they can appreciate.
Admission runs between $5-$15 depending on age, and children under six receive free entry. The Motorcyclepedia Museum is only open Thursdays-Sundays, so plan accordingly to see this exciting collection of bikes.
Downing Park
As one of the largest public parks in the city, Downing Park is perfect for families. Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux designed the park in the 19th century and named it after their mentor, Andrew Jackson Downing. Downing died in 1852 on the Hudson River in a steamboat accident.
Downing Park is one of the best places in the city to take your family to enjoy the outdoors and explore along the river. Kids will love watching the wildlife in the river and the birds flying all around them. The park runs along the river and is a picturesque spot for walking on a sunny day.
Best Restaurants in Newburgh
The city offers many different food options that all kinds of people will enjoy. From fine dining to more casual spots, visitors and residents should check out these restaurants.
The Wherehouse
This local pub resides in an 1860s storefront with a 1960s theme. Featuring American-style food, this location proves ideal for both meat eaters and vegetarians. They serve a wide selection of burgers to sandwiches in addition to plenty of appetizers and small bites. Those looking to grab a drink can select from various cocktails and over 24 beers on tap. Some of their most popular dishes include the Poutine, Wherehouse Nachos, and Wings.
Open to dining in or take out, The Wherehouse gets great reviews and is a place you should try when in Newburgh. Make sure not to go Mondays through as they are closed!
Liberty Street Bistro
Those looking for a more fine dining experience should check out Liberty Street Bistro. This restaurant features American food served with French Techniques in a bistro setting. They are open for lunch and dinner options with both an indoor and outdoor table setting.
Their menu offers some unique dishes like the Chicken Liver Mousse as an appetizer and the Leg of Duck as an entree. Those planning to dine in should make a reservation ahead of time. Otherwise, their food is also available for takeout.
Blu Pointe
Seafood lovers will enjoy Blu Pointe. This restaurant offers high-end seafood options with a raw bar station. Some favorites amongst customers include crab cakes, Sole Francese, and Lemon Cheesecake for dessert. Enjoy a meal inside or sit outside along their riverfront patio. They also have fireplaces to keep their customers nice and warm on chilly nights.
Even those who don’t enjoy seafood can visit Blue Point as they offer plenty of beef and chicken dishes. They also offer catering options for large events. To experience a great meal, the restaurant staff recommends making a reservation before you visit.
Captain Jake’s Restaurant
Those looking for a more relaxing dining experience should visit Captain Jake’s Restaurant. This seafood spot offers classic American dishes as well as seafood plates. Located right on the river, people eating there can enjoy their food while sitting along the water.
Customers love Captain Jake’s Restaurants lobster rolls and New England Clam Chowder. The restaurant also serves unique cocktails like Jake’s Sangria for adults to enjoy alongside their meals. No need to make a reservation as they accept walk-ins.
The Newburgh Real Estate Market
Investors and families will find their ideal properties in Newburgh, New York. Large family-style homes and buildings perfect for investment are available throughout the city.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
85 Carpenter Avenue
A property perfect for an investment or families with in-laws, this multi-family home located on 85 Carpenter Avenue might just have everything you need. There are two units inside the home with three bedrooms and one bathroom in each. A detached four-car garage sits on the property, which an investor may even consider turning into another unit. The property has plenty of windows for those who love natural light and enough space to spread out.
This property is currently listed for $444,999 and is a fantastic opportunity for an investor or a family looking for a lot of space. Though the home needs a little love, with the proper updates, it can look brand new in no time.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
32 Maple Street
This charming home at 32 Maple Street is a perfect location for a larger family. With four bedrooms and two bathrooms, this Victorian home recently underwent updates while maintaining its original accents. Renovations include a remodeled kitchen and new hardwood floors throughout the home For those expecting guests, the house comes with a complete guest suite with a bedroom and bathroom.
The property resides near major highways and the local train station, ideal for those who commute to work. Listed for $389,900, this home has the potential to be the perfect family home for those moving to the city of Newburgh.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
253 3rd Street
Those looking to secure a piece of history should consider 252 3rd Street. Built in 1900, this five-bedroom two bathroom house features 2,236 square feet of living space and recently underwent renovations. Listed for $339,999, there is enough space for an office, and one bedroom even opens up to an outside balcony.
Located just minutes from local waterfront restaurants, shopping, and even a marina, this property has much to offer. Investors can even consider this location as a potential short-term rental property. The house is spacious and near all of Newburgh’s most popular attractions, perfect for visitors to stay in during their travels.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
81 Liberty Street
A great opportunity for investors, 81 Liberty Street is a multifamily home that includes two units, each with views of the Hudson River. The well-maintained property includes original features like vintage bathroom tile and patterned plaster walls while also updating areas like the basement.
This multifamily currently recently dropped its price from $645,000 to $599,000, providing further advantageous opportunities for investors. Those interested in purchasing the unit could generate a yearly net profit of $134,448.
*Photo contribution: RealtyHop
14 Norton Street
This townhouse at 14 Norton Street resides in the popular Newburgh area, Colonial Terrace. With three bedrooms and one bathroom, the home features original hardwood floors along with a recently updated kitchen and bathroom. The home sits on a corner unit with a fenced-in yard and screened-in porch.
The townhouse is located near major highways for easy access to nearby towns and an easy commute route. Listed for $230,000, this townhouse could be a great option for a family home.
Conclusion
Newburgh, New York is a city along the Hudson River, home to fantastic waterfront restaurants, museums, and outdoor activities. After the city’s economic boom in the 1900s, people moved to Newburgh for employment opportunities, a strong community aspect, and sporting events. The river provides a great place for different water sports and boating activities.
Though Newburgh is a great place for travelers, families also move to the area to experience the fun. The city holds plenty of house options perfect for families of all sizes. Many homes reside near highways and local train stations, making them advantageous options for those who commute. Investors can also consider purchasing properties in the city as travelers come to experience what Newburgh has to offer every year.
