ORANGE COUNTY
County Offices
255 Main Street
Goshen 845-291-4000
https://www.orangecountygov.com
Chamber of Commerce
11 Racquet Road
Newburgh 845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
Situated on the western shores of the Hudson River, Orange County is just 40 miles from New York City. Despite its proximity to the Big Apple, it has remained relatively untouched by urban influence. One of New York State’s twelve original counties, the name of Orange County dates as far back as 1683. This region was named to honor Prince William of Orange, who later became King William. Orange County was inhabited by the Minisink tribe of Native Americans when it was discovered by Henry Hudson. The explorer landed at Cornwall while searching for a northwest passage to the Orient. He declared it to be “a pleasant place to build a town on,” a statement that modern residents would agree has proven to be absolutely true.
Economy & Transportation
Always regarded as a favorable place to visit, the area has long been considered an ideal destination for holidays and relaxing weekends. With more than 800 square miles of open space, this beautiful area maintains agriculture as a leading industry. Hundreds of commercial farms add a scenic quality. In recent decades, the economic base has considerably broadened by diversifying into new industries and services. The sweeping countryside that “city folks” once referred to as “upstate” is rapidly transforming into a suburban and residential haven. Orange County has seen the arrival of many new corporations, including highly visible corporations like Toyota. However, the business community has been drawn by more than just the region’s pastoral setting. The county is ideally situated at the crossroads of the Northeast, with Route 17 and Interstates 84 and 87 affording easy road access to major points in New England, the mid-Atlantic, Canada, and the Midwest. Stewart International Airport is convenient for passenger and cargo air travel to major cities across the nation.
Education
While the lifestyle may be more relaxed, the county is serious about education. The public school districts pride themselves in offering progressive and comprehensive core curriculums and feature a high level of parental and community involvement.
Schools of Excellence, magnet schools, vocational training, classes for both gifted and challenged students, computer-assisted learning, and integrated technology are some of the innovative programs that have been developed and implemented in area schools.
The selection of institutions of higher education close to home, are also first-rate. Students of all ages can take advantage of the wealth or programs at Orange County Community College. Also in this area are Mount St. Mary College and the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Lifestyle
Orange County has developed into a desirable area for living and working that offers residents a rich but relaxing way of life. The pace may be slower than that of the more developed areas to the south, but the region provides ample opportunities for fun and excitement. Hot air balloon rides or hang gliding over the lush countryside are popular leisure activities. Other favorite outdoor pleasures include bass fishing or hiking and camping in the region’s state and county parks.
Historic country inns and cozy bed and breakfasts make ideal weekend getaway spots. Good restaurants come in every style and flavor, from home cooking to delicious continental cuisine. The quaint hamlets and villages throughout the county are a step back into the past, offering rich treasures to antique hunters and history buffs alike. Eclectic galleries and studios off the beaten path are just waiting to be discovered by art lovers. Shoppers and browsers will enjoy working their way through Sugar Loaf’s collection of craft shops tucked into the charming 18th and 19th-century buildings along Kings Highway.
From spring through fall, outdoor jazz festivals and concerts draw neighbors and friends together from every corner of the county. Sidewalk sales, arts and craft shows, and flea markets tend to be popular weekly occurrences in the months when the weather is mild. The annual “April in Paris” festival in Middletown features entertainment, fine art, books, and great food — all with a French accent. While the Orange County lifestyle tends to be relaxed and serene, the world-class museums and cultural attractions of New York City are easily accessible. Residents often plan a weekend “in the city” to take in Broadway shows or to attend one of the major professional sports events for which New York is so famous. The communities in Orange County vary significantly in their personalities and size, enabling newcomers to choose from a wide selection of lifestyles and settings. Small hamlets contrast with major urban centers in this diverse region.
New residents to the area will discover a wide range of homes that vary widely in architectural style, size, and price range. From well-kept older residences and quaint farmhouses to contemporary designs and multi-family complexes, Orange County creates an ideal environment.
An area of growth, opportunity and sheer livability, Orange County is a region that provides a favorable business climate, low taxes, first-rate public schools, a highly educated workforce, and a population that maintains a progressive attitude. By encouraging industrial development without compromising the area’s natural beauty, Orange County has every reason to be optimistic about the future.
Cornwall
Town Hall
845-534-3760
http://www.cornwallny.com
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
The charming Town of Cornwall and its sister village, Cornwall-on-Hudson, are both located along the banks of the Hudson River just north of West Point Military Academy. Commanding majestic views of Storm King Mountain, residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle less than 55 miles from the glitter and bustle of Manhattan. This area also offers access to Woodbury Commons shops, Black Rock Forest, and Stewart International Airport. Downtown Cornwall as well as the nearby village center are filled with historic charm, providing a collection of quaint shops and intimate restaurants. The town’s lush park with its famous duck pond offers a serene retreat to local residents. The “Riverfest” celebration draws visitors each year to “al fresco” dining, arts and crafts, and musical performances. Being in close proximity to major thoroughfares such as Interstates 87 and 84 ensure quick trips throughout the valley and to important destinations in the Northeast region.
Goshen
Town Hall
845-294-6996
http://www.townofgoshen.org
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-7741
https://www.goshennychamber.com
Although Goshen serves as the county seat and center of regional government, this area does not support any significant industrial development nor is it a strong commercial center. Retaining much of its original agricultural flavor, the Goshen area offers a countryside graced by picturesque farm properties. Housing opportunities are primarily single-family dwellings. Schools are well-respected and options for private education are available. Local shopping is limited to a mix of retail establishments, although major malls are just a short drive from home. Recreational amenities add to the quality of life, from nearby regional parks to opportunities for picnicking, sports play, tennis, swimming, and hiking. Those who commute enjoy mass-transit service to Manhattan via Metro-North rail service and buses into the Port Authority. Buses are also available within the county.
Monroe
Town Hall
845-783-1900
https://monroeny.org
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
Characterized as a bedroom community and residential haven for commuters to the employment centers of White Plains and other key metropolitan areas, Monroe is known for its panoramic and serene living environment. The community’s downtown district offers a variety of shops and small businesses, and limited commerce dots the town and outlying areas. A pleasing blend of homes are available along the town’s tranquil tree-shaded streets and friendly neighborhoods. Monroe is just a short drive from Harriman’s amenities, which include the retail mecca of Woodbury Commons. Those who live in the Monroe area and commute daily to New York City enjoy the convenience of Metro-North rail and bus services into the Port Authority. Route 17 and the New York Thruway link to major arteries. The recreational opportunities are diverse, from the fishing lakes and hiking trails of county parks to sports facilities, golf courses, and tennis courts.
City of Middletown
City Hall
845-346-4166
https://www.middletown-ny.com/en
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
Surrounded by such communities as Goshen and Wallkill, Middletown offers the expanded educational opportunities of Orange County Community College to the regional amenities. Tranquil and yet convenient, Middletown is home to retail and commercial activity. For expansive shopping, regional malls are just minutes from home. Although the city is home to a number of businesses and light industry, it is primarily a residential community with a pleasing variety of single-family homes. Both newer construction and fine older homes combine with multi-family options. Commuters can travel to New York City via Metro-North rail or catch buses into the Port Authority. An abundance of county and local parks ensure outdoor enjoyment. Attractions include picnic areas and miles of hiking and biking trails as well as tennis courts and golf courses.
New Windsor
Town Hall
845-565-8800
http://town.new-windsor.ny.us
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
Located just 15 miles north of the United States Military Academy at West Point New Windsor benefits from a significant degree of tourist trade. The community boasts a rich historic legacy that includes cultural attractions like the Knox Headquarters, the New Windsor Cantonment, Patton House, Last Encampment, and Edmonston House. Serving as a bedroom community as well as a center for limited business activity, this reason is home to commuters and those who are employed locally. Among the recreational amenities are Crestview Lake, sports leagues, ball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, a skating rink, a senior center, and supervised programs.
Metro-North commuter rail service and buses are available to New York City, and several routes link to major thoroughfares: Routes 94, 32, 207, and 300. LaGuardia, Stewart, and Kennedy international airports are all accessible.
Town of Newburgh
Town Hall
845-569-7300
https://www.cityofnewburgh-ny.gov
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
A pleasing mix of agricultural, country charm and suburban amenities, Newburgh has become known as the “Crossroads of the Northeast” for its prime transportation connections and close proximity to major thoroughfares. A scattering of businesses and light industry add local employment opportunities, although most of the area’s economic activity is focalized in an area known as the Northeast Business Center with its cluster of modern industrial parks. The affordable and attractive housing selection reflects the artistry of the past but also includes contemporary styling and modern construction. Local retail shops and services combine with a fine seasonal array of farmer’s markets. Nearby recreational amenities include lush parks for picnics, hiking trails, lake fishing, sports facilities, wilderness areas, hiking trails, hills for cross-country skiing and sledding, country clubs with premier facilities, stables, and community centers.
Port Jervis
Town Hall
845-858-4014
http://www.portjervisny.org
Chamber of Commerce
845-856-6694
This attractive township is surrounded by the communities of Deer Park and Greenville. Residents enjoy a location in close proximity to the state boundaries of both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The township is primarily a residential haven but this area is also home to a number of commercial and light industrial concerns. The public school system is enhanced by the small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community spirit. The housing choices are varied and harmonize well-kept older homes with newer construction in a wide variety of architectural styles. Town homes, condominiums, and apartments are also available for a low-maintenance lifestyle. Recreational facilities and amenities are equally varied, from lush state parks with miles of trails to sports fields and courts, golf courses, and bridle trails.
Tuxedo, Tuxedo Park
Town Hall
845-351-2265
https://www.tuxedogov.org
Chamber of Commerce
845-351-2265
http://www.tuxedochamber.org
Newcomers to the Town of Tuxedo, and adjacent Tuxedo Park, which is a gated community, will find housing styles that range from elegant mansions and cottages to contemporary designs. These gracious residences are all situated within a tranquil atmosphere of natural beauty set among sparkling lakes, rolling hills, and forests.
Abundant recreational amenities include running tracks, ballfields, tennis courts, and playgrounds. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, fish, swim, and hunt in season at Bear Mountain, Harriman, and Sterling Forest state parks. When the snow flies, winter sports are the focal point of the Sterling Forest Ski Center.
Wallkill
Town Hall
845-692-7800
https://www.townofwallkill.com
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-7741
https://www.goshennychamber.com
As a community that offers a pleasing combination of atmosphere, services, and amenities, Wallkill offers an idyllic home. Local shopping facilities are highlighted by the retail resources of the Galleria. Light industry, commerce, manufacturing, and a number of skilled professionals flourish in this balanced community environment. The corporations include some well-known and highly visible names. At the same time, the agricultural activity that covers the rural countryside adds picturesque charm as well as an abundance of farm-fresh produce and homemade delicacies. Home choices are as diverse as the economy, from older homes that reflect the artistry and architectural embellishments of the past to truly modern styling. Local recreational amenities are crowned by vast state and county parkland but also include lakes and beaches, sports fields and courts, senior and youth centers, wilderness areas, golf courses, and diverse supervised programs.
Warwick
Town Hall
845-986-1124
http://www.townofwarwick.org/index.shtml
Chamber of Commerce
845-986-2720
http://www.warwickcc.org
The scenic area known as the Town of Warwick also includes three incorporated villages — Warwick, Greenwood Lake, and Florida — and a number of small hamlets. The rich, black fertile soil of Pine Island; the magnificent Greenwood Lake; and the area’s rolling mountain beauty contribute to the undeniable appeal of this residential haven. Warwick also offers a number of well-established civic organizations and hobby clubs that immediately draw new residents into its strong community spirit. Although local shopping facilities meet the daily retail needs of area residents, the expanded amenities of regional shopping districts are nearby. In addition to lush local parkland with picnic and play areas, Warwick offers golf courses, tennis courts, and a country club with premier recreational facilities. The amenities of a nearby county park add to the opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Woodbury
Town Hall
845-928-7578
https://www.orangecountygov.com
Chamber of Commerce
845-294-1700
https://orangeny.com
Often dubbed the “Gateway to Orange County,” Woodbury boasts an extremely efficient and highly developed system of transportation that has attracted many commuters to the area over the decades. Although many Woodbury residents still commute to urban employment centers, advancements of technology have made this community popular for home-based businesses and telecommuting. With roots that go back as far as 1727, Woodbury and its two hamlets of Central Valley and Highland Mills are rich in history. Both communities are heir to a number of fine older homes and vintage architecture. The Woodbury Common Factory Outlets in Central Valley draws large numbers of daytime shoppers to more than 150 shops and stores. Among the wide selection of recreational choices are local parks, lakes, a beach, athletic leagues, ball fields, hiking and biking trails, tennis courts, and golf courses.
