7 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Orange County in New York
If you’re moving to Orange County in New York, you’ll need to know a little bit about the area. Orange County consists of several cities and villages including Newburgh, Port Jervis, Middletown Monroe, and more. Whatever city you’re moving to, it’s wise to know tidbits of information about the area before you move in.
1. Monroe is the Birth Town of Velveeta Cheese
Ever wonder who invented that delicious, velvety cheese you can’t resist? Velveeta cheese originated in Monroe, New York by Emil Frey of the Monroe Cheese Company. Soon after, The Velveeta Cheese Company was established and was eventually sold to Kraft Foods.
2. Florida is Also a Village in New York
Don’t get the village of Florida confused with Florida state. Florida is a village in Orange County, New York, and dubs itself the Onion Capital of the World. The historic Village of Florida began as a farming community in the 1700s and developed into the perfect growing ground for onions. The village now hosts the annual Florida Family Fun Fest which features free rides, crafters, local vendors, musical entertainment, and 5K and 10K races.
3. Brush Up on Your Wine Tasting
Orange County, New York is home to what is commonly referred to as the oldest winery in the U.S., so make sure you visit Brotherhood Winery, in Washingtonville, NY. The winery hosts tours in their underground cellars as well as wine tastings. You can also dine in the fancy Vinum Café on the ground floor of the winery or host an event in the elegant Grand Salon. Don’t forget to visit their gift shop for wine glasses and wine openers!
4. Nature Trails and Parks Aplenty
Harriam State Park consists over 200 miles of hiking trails, 31 lakes, and horse trails. Some of the trails allow for mountain biking and cross-country skiing. Witness various animals in their natural habitats including great blue herons, American black duck, otters and timber rattlers. Another park in Orange County is Sterling Forest Park. The park is ideal for hiking, animal viewing, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. It is home to many predators including the timber rattlesnake, black bear and foxes. Watch out for that timber rattler!
5. There’s a Competitive Football League for Kids
The Orange County Youth Football Leagues offer competitive football and cheerleading opportunities for kids ages 8 to 15. The group’s main objective is to instill a sense of sportsmanship and respect among the youth of the community, ensuring them a strong, healthy future. Each of the four football divisions is divided by weight class, and each football team offers a cheerleading program.
6. There’s a County Fair
The Orange County Fair is held annually each summer in Middletown, NY. Visit exotic animals, hop on the carnival rides or watch auto races at the Orange County Fair Speedway. Throughout the year, visitors can watch stock car racing on the Orange County Fair Speedway.
7. Horse Racing is In
In Goshen, New York, there’s a historical collection of harness racing and The American Standardbred Horse. The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame preserves the traditions of harness racing and seeks to promote interest about harness racing. The museum consists of historical artifacts, fine art, exhibits, films and the world’s largest collection of Currier & Ives horse prints.
Whatever your reason for moving to Orange County in New York, the area has a lot in store for you. Watch some horse racing, grab a slice of Velveeta cheese, brush up on your wine tasting and get ready to move to Orange County!
