Exploring Goshen

Overview of Goshen NY

The Village of Goshen sits in the heart of the Hudson Valley, home to roughly 5,777 residents according to the 2020 census. 

Though only about an hour north of NYC, the village feels worlds away: red-brick storefronts, a 19th-century courthouse, and tree-lined sidewalks built for an unhurried stroll. Peek in the windows and you’ll see flyers for homes for sale in Goshen, NY—evidence that plenty of visitors decide to make their stay permanent.

Historical Significance and Landmarks

Harness racing put Goshen on the map. The half-mile Goshen Historic Track has hosted races since 1838, making it the oldest active harness racing track in North America. 

Next door, the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame packs vintage sulkies, trophies, and an interactive driving simulator into a landmark stone stable.

Across the green, the circa-1747 Stagecoach Inn mixes Colonial beams with craft cocktails—proof that historic here is more than a plaque; it’s a mood.

Seasonal Activities in Goshen

Because the valley swings through four dramatic seasons, the fun is delightfully seasonal.

Spring uncorks lilacs and opening day at the Friday farmers market.

Summer brings non-stop fun: sulkies thundering under the grandstand lights, fireworks over the fairgrounds, and LEGOLAND crowds flooding the hotels.

Autumn means orchard hay rides, pumpkin-patch photo ops, and cider treats.

In December, the Orange County Arboretum flips on Holiday Lights in Bloom, turning its winter garden into a glowing wonderland.

Attractions in Orange County

LEGOLAND New York Resort

Say “Goshen” and most folks picture bright bricks and dragon coasters: LEGOLAND New York Resort opened in 2021 as the region’s headline theme park.

Spread across seven themed lands—Bricktopia, LEGO® City, NINJAGO® World, and more—the resort balances toddler-friendly spinners with genuine coaster thrills.

Guests at the on-site hotel get pirate-ship bunk beds and nightly in-room treasure hunts, while parents appreciate the shuttle to the village for dinner.

Castle Fun Center: A Family Destination

Ten minutes around Goshen in Chester, the Castle Fun Center mashes mini amusement-park energy with retro arcade nostalgia.

Go-karts scream outside; inside you’ll find a ropes course dangling overhead, an indoor roller rink, and a black-light laser tag arena.

Cash in tickets for plush dragons and you’ve nailed the day’s family fun quota—rain or shine.

Orange County Arboretum: Nature and Leisure

Need quiet after all that brick-colored noise? Wander 35 shady acres at the Orange County Arboretum inside Thomas Bull Memorial Park.

Formal beds bloom from May to October, while winter’s light show proves even the off-season sparkles.

Pack a picnic, claim a bench beside the koi pond, and let the kids count fountains before heading back to the hotel.

Things to Do in Goshen

Goshen Historic Track and Harness Racing

Grab a grandstand seat during Independence Week and watch sleek Standardbreds thunder past. Kids scream for favorite drivers; photographers chase sunset light on the harness track; history buffs loiter by the 19th-century barns. When the race caller quiets, step inside the museum next door for a virtual dash behind the reins.

Craft and Creative Activities

Rainy day? Create a fun plan downtown.

Studios spin pottery wheels, host paint-and-sip nights, and run LEGO® mosaic classes where kids embark on a brick scavenger hunt for wild colors.

Over on Main Street, a kid-friendly brewery keeps an arcade cabinet humming so parents can debate hops versus haze.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Beyond horses, Goshen punches above its weight in culture.

Pop-up shows in converted warehouses spotlight Hudson Valley painters; outdoor sculptures turn an everyday stroll into an art hunt.

Even the public library doubles as a local-history archive—proof that a small town can hold big stories.

Dining and Accommodation Options

Craving comfort? Order stacked burgers and local IPAs at the taproom.

Seeking elegance? The Stagecoach Inn plates Hudson Valley duck with cherry glaze beside a crackling hearth—historic house, modern flavors, pure charm.

Chain hotels cluster by Route 17, but village B&Bs feel cozier.

For brick-obsessed kiddos, the LEGOLAND® Hotel wins “cool parent” points, plus hallways stuffed with giant LEGO creations.

Shopping and Markets

Friday mornings from May through October, vendors fill Church Park at the farmer's market with heirloom tomatoes, goat-milk soap, and still-warm cider doughnuts—the aroma drifts to the courthouse steps.

Antique hunters scour mid-century glassware nearby, while outfitters stock trekking poles for Catskill hikes.

Making the Most of Your Visit to Goshen

Planning Your Itinerary

Balance brick thrills with downtime: blitz the headliner rides at LEGOLAND New York first thing, lunch on Main Street, chill at the arboretum, then cap the evening with trotters circling the harness racing oval. Easy, flexible, done.

Tips for a Memorable Family Experience

Book theme park and Castle Fun Center tickets online to skip queues.

Pack layers—the valley weather flips fast—and comfy shoes for all that strolling. Downtown parking is free; the park isn’t, so budget accordingly.

Ear protection helps toddlers at racing events, and leave trunk space for LEGO sets, farm-market jam, and that commemorative race-day tag.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Goshen

Whether you crave coaster screams, heritage barns, or quiet garden paths, Goshen, NY delivers.

From the bright bricks of a $500 million attraction to a 19th-century inn pouring tavern-style stories, this destination truly offers things to do in Goshen for every taste—proof there’s indeed something for everyone in this Orange County corner.

Things to Do in Goshen, NY FAQ’s

Is Goshen worth visiting even if I skip LEGOLAND?

Definitely. The Village of Goshen balances the Harness Racing Museum, farmers market, and historic downtown without a single brick coaster in sight.

When’s the best season to visit?

Summer packs races and festivals, fall paints the hills, and winter holiday lights sparkle—pick the seasonal vibe you love most.

How long should I plan for LEGOLAND New York Resort?

One full day covers most rides; families staying at the on-site hotel often add a second day for water-play areas and extra shows.

Is the Goshen Historic Track still active?

Yes—July racing meets continue each year, and trainers jog horses almost daily, keeping the sport alive on the original dirt.