About Kingston
Kingston is in New York’s beautiful Hudson Valley. Its location – 91 miles north of New York City and 59 miles south of Albany – makes it the perfect place for a film shoot. Close enough to everything you need but with the charm and vibrancy of a smaller city.
The history of Kingston is fraught with challenges. It was originally the capital of New York, the British burned the city during the Revolutionary War, and then it became a transportation and business hub in later years and present times. The boutique shopping, fine dining, and cultural offerings provide everything that residents and visitors need and want in a city or weekend escape.
Film Shoot Location Options in Kingston
The architecture, Hudson Valley fall foliage, charm, and cultural attractions have prompted film shoot locations in Kingston to become popular. A long list of movies, television shows, and other film projects have all used the location with great success. The companies in the city can tailor their services to film projects, musical performances, or any other request that’s made.
- Catering
You don’t need to be in a big city for a fine dining experience. The word sophisticated is often used to describe the culinary options available in Kingston and you’ll be delighted by the catering and restaurant options available during your film shoot.
- Furniture Rentals
The benefits of being a transportation hub are many, including access to the best furniture, equipment, and other goods. There are a variety of furniture rental companies with all different styles and accessories for any film shoot project. Their services extend to design, set up, and delivery as well.
- Transportation
It may feel like getting to Kingston is a bit out of the way, but that’s part of the charm. The miles from the New York City or Albany airports will pass quickly aboard private or public transportation options that exist, and a variety of services within the city will help you reach your destinations once you arrive.
Film Shoot Location Companies in Kingston
Kingston is used to hosting big names, from musical performers at the Ulster Performing Arts Center to movie stars in town on film projects or a weekend getaway. Each of these local companies will approach your film shoot location in Kingston with the highest level of professionalism.
- Grounded
Grounded crafts the perfect menu for each event that it caters to using local food and a sustainability mindset. They offer cutting-edge cuisine, comfort food, or anything in between. The company has handled catering for everything from small private events to upscale weddings with hundreds of guests. Not convinced? Request a tasting and let their cuisine do the talking.
- North Country Vintage Rentals
The details have to match, and a setting like Kingston requires vintage rentals. North Country Vintage Rentals offers a boutique rental experience with its hand-picked collection. Each item they have brings out the personality in your film shoot.
- Northlander Car Service
Northlander Car Service has more than ten years of experience getting the movers and shakers of Hudson Valley and beyond where they need to be. They have dependable service and are among the best in the area. Their fleet of vehicles includes limousines, sedans, SUVs, and buses. They also offer ADA-compliant vehicles.
Pros and Cons of Film Shoot Locations in Kingston
It’s hard to imagine that there is anything to dislike about Kingston, but there are a few things to consider. The pros and cons of film shoot locations in Kingston should be reviewed before any decisions are made.
Advantages
- Within budget
It’s easier to stay within budget in Kingston. It doesn’t have the same high-end prices that New York City does, although prices are rising compared to previous years.
- Uptown
Yes, Kingston has its own Uptown. It’s also known as the Stockade District and this is where you’ll find the exquisite dining options, boutique shopping, and nightlife that will make you forget all about the big cities.
- Location is everything
This location is attracting a lot of young professionals and families to the area because of its proximity to everything they need, plus the amenities available right in Kingston. The rise of telework is making this a popular location for remote workers, and weekend homes of the New York City crowd.
Disadvantages
- Winter
Winter can be a tough season in upstate New York, even if you like the snow. It’s cold and it can snow a lot, and the winter months can feel like they are dragging on. Luckily, the vibrancy of Kingston offsets this, and maybe you love snow.
- Getting there
The location is everything, but you have to plan in travel time to get there. Kingston is worth the extra effort, but you will lose some time traveling out to the city. We prefer a private car because you can keep working while you travel.
- Crime rate
It’s hard to believe that a small city with so much charm can have a high crime rate. But Kingston does. It’s still a city after all. If you select Kingston, take precautions when you’re visiting, the same way you would in any other city.
Famous Locations in Kingston
- Hudson River Maritime Museum
Step back in time to another world at the Hudson River Maritime Museum. It’s incredible what those ships did without the technology we have today. In addition to the museum, there are boatbuilding classes, solar boat tours, sailing classes, rowing classes, and a lighthouse film, among other attractions.
- Stockade District
The Dutch arrived in Kingston in 1652 and the city has had a vibrant history since then, much of it centered around the Stockade District. Today it boasts some of the best restaurants and shops you can find. It’s also fun to wander through the area without an agenda and soak up the architectural accomplishments.
- Hasbrouck Park
Hasbrouck Park is located downtown, and its 45 acres offer visitors trails, playing fields, a pavilion, and green spaces. In the fall, it’s a great place to catch a glimpse of the fall foliage. One of the coolest features is a stone building that was used during the cement companies' tenure, the Stone Building was completed in 1919.
