Exploring the Catskills: A Hidden Gem in New York
Just 120 miles north of Manhattan, the Catskills offer a dreamy escape where nature, history, and artistic soul collide. Rolling farmland, dome-shaped peaks, and postcard-worthy towns set the stage for a region rich in both history and creativity. Scenic hikes lead to hidden swimming holes, roadside farm stands spill over with local produce, and the coziest diners serve up hearty, seasonal fare. In winter, slopes at Windham and Hunter lure skiers in; whereas summer plans call for exploring streams and trails, inviting lazy afternoons and wildflower walks.
From Woodstock to Phoenicia, each town offers its own flavor, with colorful streets, farm-to-table restaurants, and a laid-back but cheerful vibe. Long a magnet for artists and free spirits—Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Mark Twain, to name a few—the region still buzzes with a creative pull (now, of course, just more contemporary). The dynamic blend of creative urban transplants and nature lovers has amped up the region’s ever-growing innovation. And today, chic lodges, hotels, and Airbnbs nestle into colorfully restored villages, while boutique shops and contemporary galleries showcase a vibrant presence of local talent. The Catskills’ charm is undeniable, with its mix of culture, adventure, and natural wonder.
How to Get to the Catskills
Though much of this corner of New York is unfortunately not directly accessible by major train lines, stops along the Metro-North and Amtrak lines lead to many close-by towns in the bordering region of the Hudson Valley. From there, it’s best to venture into the Catskills by car.
Best Time to Visit the Catskills
The Catskills are a year-round destination, with spring offering blooming wildflowers and waterfalls, and fall boasting stunning foliage without the summer crowds. Summer is perfect for hiking, lakes, and festivals—though be mindful of more crowded trails and hotels. Winter brings skiing and snowboarding, but icy roads and cold temperatures require caution. For a quieter experience, visit in spring or fall for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Where to Eat
The Catskills' culinary revolution has unfolded over the past decade, marked by innovative pairings between local farmers and restaurateurs that result in vibrant and delicious dining. In Livingston Manor, this partnership is exemplified at Kaatskeller, where wood-fired pizzas feature locally sourced ingredients amidst a lively garden atmosphere.
Milkweed offers sustainable vegan gelato, showcasing the region's commitment to ethical dining practices and farm-to-table freshness. The Walk-In embodies this revolution with its casual, locally inspired dishes, celebrating the close-knit community of farmers and chefs. Meanwhile, The DeBruce in Livingston Manor blends James Beard acclaim with a menu that highlights the best of Catskills produce. Near Hunter Mountain, the iconic, old-school Phoenicia Diner is a staple from the early 80s that offers mouthwatering comfort food.
Hotels, too, carry the region’s tradition with hearty fare crafted from locally sourced ingredients: Tannersville's Hotel Lilien reflects the region's commitment to sustainable, delicious, and vibe-y dining experiences. In Callicoon, the Seminary Hill (and especially its Tasting Room) features a seasonal menu that showcases the bounty of the Delaware River Valley, inviting diners to savor flavors deeply rooted in the Catskills' agricultural heritage.
Where to Stay
The region's reimagined historic hotels meet the creative spirit of artists, with purpose-driven design bringing each space to life alongside sweeping nature. Whether you want to be nestled in the lush green mountains or situated just outside one of the Catskills' charming towns, you can truly bask within (and take advantage of) the ultimate upstate getaway in these local hotels—or, of course, you can also camp (say, along the Esopus Creek), or explore many of the fabulous Airbnbs in the area.
- Countryside escape in Narrowsburg: $150.00, Airbnb (starting price)
- Restorative one-bedroom in the woods: $225.00, Airbnb (starting price)
- Cozy Catskills retreat: $170.00, Airbnb (starting price)
- Studio in South Kortright: $192.00, Airbnb (Starting Price)
- Magical A-frame cabin: $277.00, Airbnb (starting price)
- Historic six-bedroom in Saugerties: $741.00, Airbnb (Starting Price)
In the up-and-coming town of Narrowsburg, Blue Fox Motel is a mom-and-pop-owned gem that combines rustic cabin charm with groovy tunes and swanky cocktails in a unique dining and bar area. For a romantic stay with gazebos and themed dinners, Kenoza Hall is a historic gabled Victorian in Sullivan County on the quieter grounds in the western Catskills. Nearby, the Chatwal Lodge and Chapin Estate sit not far from the Monticello Raceway, the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, and the site of the original Woodstock festival. (It's a dream for family stays.) As for upscale cabins with thoughtful service and a top-tier Mexican restaurant, Camptown in Leeds is a destination in and of itself.
For design-forward hotel lovers, seek out Inness for a rich marriage of Scandinavian-chic and rustic Americana. The property is on a gentle hill up a quiet country road—located just outside of Accord. Or, in Tannersville, you mustn't miss a stay at the colorful and rustic Hotel Lilien. With modern touches juxtaposed by Victorian charm, the inn-like property offers a cozy yet trendy cocktail bar and proximity to Hunter Mountain, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. If you're looking for a quintessential lodge stay, head to Scribner's Catskill Lodge right across the highway from Hunter.
Wildflower Farms, part of Auberge Resorts, is a spa retreat nestled in the Shawangunk Mountains with a working farm, cooking classes, a spa, and freestanding cabins offering stunning views. It’s a premier destination for both nature lovers and those simply seeking solace. Piaule Catskill, another standout, combines sustainable design with wellness in a stylish setting, featuring 24 designer cabins and a large communal spa. Also in Ulster County, the Eastwind Oliverea Valley is a cozy getaway with a woodfire-warmed lounge, sauna, nearby ski slopes, and summer activities like outdoor yoga and DJ sets, ensuring year-round appeal.
What to Do in the Catskills
The Catskills region is perfect for enjoying wide-open outdoor spaces and vibrant culture. A prime example is the events roster hosted by The Wild Honey Pie; throughout the Catskills and Hudson Valley, the music-blog-turned-creative-agency hosts music and dining parties open to anyone who wants to buy a ticket, and features tasty delights like Brooklyn’s Paulie Gee’s pizza. All year round, the ticketed events attract an evolving (and genuinely cool) community of music lovers who travel nationwide to join in on the fun.
For nature lovers, the Catskills are first and foremost an outdoor paradise. Kaaterskill Falls features a stunning two-tier waterfall with hiking trails and breathtaking views. Mongaup Pond Campground is perfect for swimming, camping, and enjoying the surroundings. Onteora Lake in the Catskill Park near Kingston provides a peaceful spot by the water, with picnic tables and scenic trails. For a refreshing dip, the Esopus Creek offers inviting waters. Echo Lake and Overlook Mountain near Woodstock are adjacent to a beautiful Buddhist monastery. The hiking trails wind through building ruins and lead to a fire tower, which you can climb to admire the overwhelmingly breathtaking panoramic views of the Catskills (and beyond).
The Colony in Woodstock, a restored 1929 theater where multiple notable artists have performed, is also the perfect spot to listen to bands in the Great Room over a meal or drinks. You can also grab a bite and a craft beverage at the eclectic live-music Dancing Cat Saloon, where Catskill Distilling Company partners for handcrafted spirits from local farms utilizing ingredients and water sourced from the surrounding mountains.
The Catskills art scene is equally enchanting, with venues like the Catskills Art Space in Livingston Manor showcasing rotating exhibits by cutting-edge artists and authors. This dynamic space, situated in front of a small freshwater lake, also hosts live events and performances. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the birthplace of Woodstock, now serves as a cultural center, displaying local artwork and educating visitors about the region’s native history, and holding events like the Catskill Cuisine food festival, live music performances, and local vendor markets. Visitors also visit the historic home of the early environmentalist and American artist, Thomas Cole (as well as its studios, grounds, and a hiking trail), for major exhibitions of 19th-century and contemporary art. New exhibitions focus on Indigenous approaches to the local land, alongside Cole’s articulation of the American landscape.
