The Best of Catskill/Leeds, NY
Tucked between the mountains and the Hudson, Catskill and Leeds are small towns with big personality. From cozy cafes and creative shops to historic landmarks and lively art spaces, this corner of Greene County has a charm all its own. If you’re just passing through or planning to stay awhile, here’s our top picks on where to eat, sip, shop, and explore while you’re here.
1. Gracie’s Luncheonette
📍Location: 969 Main St, Leeds, NY 12451
Gracie’s Luncheonette brings classic comfort food with a twist. Known for their house-made doughnuts, crispy fries, and everything-from-scratch ethos, it’s the kind of place that turns brunch into a full-blown event. Don’t miss out on their signature milkshakes.
2. Hartland on Hudson
📍Location: 1130 Main St, Leeds, NY 12451
Hartland on Hudson is a delightful blend of espresso bar and stationery shop. Sip expertly crafted coffee while browsing a curated selection of paper goods and gifts. It’s the perfect place to sip, shop, and find inspiration.
3. Kaaterskill Market
📍Location: 355 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414
Step inside Kaaterskill Market and you’ll find a mix of rustic provisions and modern design. From pantry staples to cozy home decor, everything is curated with intention. It’s the kind of market that makes errands feel luxurious.
4. Casa Susanna
📍Location: 800 Co Rd 23B, Leeds, NY 12451
Soulful Latin flavors meet Catskills charm at Casa Susanna. This warm, inviting spot is known for its bold dishes and festive cocktails, perfect for a lively dinner or celebratory night out. Every plate is packed with passion.
5. Citiot
📍Location: 404 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414
Part café, part creative den, Citiot serves up strong coffee and stronger vibes. With vintage furniture, rotating art, and plenty of conversation, it’s got a little something for everyone. You’ll want to stay longer than expected.
6. Magpie Bookshop
📍Location: 392 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414
Magpie Bookshop makes every book lover feel right at home. With shelves of new and used titles, cozy corners, and an occasional feline friend, it’s an easy place to get lost in a story. The selection is smart and refreshingly local.
7. Foreland
📍Location: 111 Water St, Catskill, NY 12414
Foreland feels like a hidden creative world in the middle of Catskill. This multi-building complex houses galleries, studios, and event spaces that pulse with artistic energy. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, it’s a must-see.
8. Cat on the Corner
📍Location: 170 Water St, Catskill, NY 12414
Cat on the Corner is like stepping into the Catskills’ coziest curiosity shop. Handmade crafts, vintage gems, and a few delightful surprises make it a destination for slow wandering. You’ll always leave with something unexpected.
9. Left Bank Ciders
📍Location: 150 Water St, Catskill, NY 12414
Left Bank Ciders highlights the best of Hudson Valley apples with funky, dry ciders served in a welcoming space. The tasting room often hosts pop-ups and live events that bring the local community together. Don’t miss their creative blends.
10. Thomas Cole Historic Site
📍Location: 218 Spring St, Catskill, NY 12414
Thomas Cole Historic Site offers more than just a peek into an artist’s home—it’s an immersive dive into American art history. Wander the grounds, view the studio, and take in the same landscapes that inspired a movement. Pure Catskills magic.
11. Hodge Podge Shop
📍Location: 1103 Main St, Leeds, NY 12451
With its playful spirit and ever-changing mix of goods, Hodge Podge Shop lives up to its name. Vintage treasures, quirky finds, and local art fill every corner. It’s a must-stop for curious souls and design lovers.
12. The Avalon Lounge
📍Location: 29 Church St, Catskill, NY 12414
Live DJs, experimental art, and good drinks all collide at The Avalon Lounge. It’s a nostalgic-meets-now kind of venue where every night feels like a discovery. Come for a show, stay for the vibe.
13. Catskill Mountain Bakery
📍Location: 1126 Main St, Leeds, NY 12451
Catskill Mountain Bakery is your go-to for flaky croissants, hearty sourdough, and rustic cookies that practically melt in your mouth. Everything is made fresh with love. Pro tip: go early for the best selection.
14. Hemlock Cocktail Bar
📍Location: 394 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414
You’ll find moody lighting, elegant cocktails, and unexpected flavors at Hemlock Cocktail Bar. It’s intimate without being stuffy—ideal for a low-key date night or an elevated solo sip. The cocktail list is where the magic happens.
15. Subversive Malting & Brewing
📍Location: 96 W Bridge St, Catskill, NY 12414
Craft beer fans will love Subversive Malting & Brewing, where every pint starts with house-malted grain. The results? Funky, flavorful brews full of personality. It’s a little offbeat in the best way.
16. Catskill Chocolate Company
📍Location: 386 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414
For chocolate lovers, Catskill Chocolate Company is the ultimate indulgence. Small-batch bars, inventive truffles, and seasonal sweets are crafted with care—and plenty of cocoa. You might come in for one treat, but you’ll leave with a box.
17. Willa’s Bakery
📍Location: 512 Main St, Cairo, NY 12413
Willa’s Bakery greets you with the smell of cinnamon, butter, and fresh-baked love. Known for their pies, pastries, and hearty breakfast plates, it’s a local favorite for good reason. Get there early—things don’t last long.
Catskill and Leeds offer local flavor, artsy energy, and laid-back nature. Enjoy cozy coffee shops or inventive eateries and galleries that surprise at every turn, there’s always something new to explore. Make your Red Cottage getaway the home base for your next upstate adventure—you’ll be glad you did.
