In the same way that some people love spending time in a good bookstore, shelves filled with adventures to be had, all packaged up in interesting designs, a great General Store also serves up endless possibilities for those who savor the allure of the new, of the “hand-crafted”, the “artisanal” and most especially the product of of the hands, imagination and labors of real people who live nearby. We hope you enjoy our completely subjective picks for our favorite General Stores.
Step inside the historic corner location in the Rondout neighborhood of Kingston and immediately be transported to a cafe in Paris. Behind the millioned windows is a provision market meets Italian/Jewish deliocatessen, with some noteworthy baked goods. If you’re passing through Kingston or planning a day exploring the city, you’ll definitely want to carve some time out to make a pit stop at Rosies!
Germantown may be a tiny hamlet, but it packs a punch — we like to think Otto’s Market is one of the primary reasons. This charming brick building was originally a central market dating back to the 1920s, and has recently been revived to continue serving the community. This market carries locally sourced produce, classic deli sandwiches, and a robust selection of local craft beers. But it also carries a prideful responsibility in bringing the town together through sustainable practices, partnerships and events. You can order your food and groceries ahead and pick them up when you swing through town, but we think it’s worth sitting down and staying a while, especially on Pizza Night.
Main Street Farm is all about “local”. With nearly everything in the store coming from area New York makers, you can easily pick up some of the tastiest honey, maple syrup, craft beer and so much more. This larger than average store is stocked with produce and meats from nearby farms, and specialty items that range from coffee table books to trout jerky from a nearby smokehouse, Van Smokey. Post up on their back patio overlooking the Willowemoc Creek with a house-made soup or sandwich, and stay for a fun grocery run — not only of essentials, but of unregrettable indulgences to remind you of your visit.
Not far from some of the best waterfall destinations in the Catskills, the Circle W Market in the tiny hamlet of Palenville dates all the way back to 1908. After a 20 year hiatus, the market was brought back to life in 2009 and has been serving its grateful community of locals and weekenders with specialty goods, superb coffee, and deli sandwiches. Some may say they have the best coffee in all of Greene County, but you didn’t hear that from us.
This anything but general, general store adds to the pulse of Narrowsburg’s beloved Main Street. Aside from being a specialty grocer, this shop has a good spread of random finds— clothes included— in the event you forgot to pack something for your weekend upstate. Their assortment of domestic and imported cheeses, meats, olives, and spreads will help you whip up one dreamy charcuterie board to graze at all day long.
If you’re coming into Hudson via train, you won’t make it into town without walking by Kitty’s. You can stock up on locally sourced produce and pantry items of course, but we highly recommend showing up with an appetite to indulge in their cafe’s breakfast, lunch or dinner-to-go. With food this good, its no wonder the owners also have arestaurant underway.
This is likely the smallest and quaintest of all the general stores on the list, but no less noteworthy. Owned by a pair of Bard College graduates, Tivoli General is stocked full of local pantry and produce, many of which comes from Five Maple Farm under the same ownership. Their cafe serves scrumptious breads and baked goods as well as a selection of sandwiches and salads. But what we really love about Tivoli’s general store is that it acts as a venue for the goods of local craftspeople and designers. Trust us when we say, you’ll want to pay a visit next time you’re in the cute Dutchess County town.
Adding a buzz to the small river town of Barryville since it opened in 2021, with its deli counter and grab-and-go meals, Barryville General is a snack haven that’s sure to put fuel in your tank before embarking on the day’s adventures. If you’re in need of vegan or gluten-free options, this general store has plenty to choose from. Whether you need a quick cup of joe for the road, or are looking to stock up on pantry essentials for the long weekend, Barryville General is a must-stop spot.
Talk to anyone about the Hudson Valley and Kingston is sure to be one of the first destinations to be mentioned. Just two hours north of New York City, and with loads going on, it’s top on the list for both weekend visitors and Catskills residents alike. The city was actually the first capital of New York, which means there’s lots on tap for history buffs. (Fun fact: The intersection of Crown and John Street is called the Four Corners and it’s the only intersection in America where the buildings on all four corners were built before the Revolutionary War.) Of course, there’s plenty to do if you’re more interested in, say, eating than learning about the Burning of Kingston.
The key thing you need to know about planning a trip to Kingston is that the city is made up of three main parts: the Stockade, the Rondout, and Midtown. The Stockade (aka Uptown Kingston) is where you’ll find that historic corner and it’s very walkable. The Rondout is a charming waterfront area on the shore of Rondout Creek near where it meets the Hudson River; it’s also very walkable. You can usually find a parking spot on the street very easily in these neighborhoods. The spots are metered, but are free on weekends and at night during the week. Midtown is kind of the catch-all for everything between The Stockade and The Rondout. (You’ll likely want to drive from spot to spot in Midtown and most attractions have lots or nearby parking.) We recommend checking out the entire city. Start at the Rondout and end in the Stockade. Or vice versa, you can’t go wrong.
Want to know where, exactly, to go in each of these neighborhoods? Here’s a nearly complete list of our favorite restaurants, shops, bars, and things to do. Warning: Your want-to-visit-list is going to be very, very long.
FOOD + DRINK
Brunette Wine Bar–Stylish spot for drinks before or after dinner in the Rondout. If you just want a snack, there are plenty of yummy little bites on offer. Do not skip the Trout Roe “Nachos.”
Outdated Cafe–Part cafe, part antique store. Be ready because almost all the décor is for sale. The menu is all vegetarian and features local and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Diego’s Taqueria – Consider this taco heaven! Be sure to ask about their daily specials and enjoy a cold beer — with chips and the green salsa! — at the bar.
Stockade Tavern – Enjoy crafty cocktails of all kinds at this hip, prohibition-era inspired spot.
Keegan Ales – One of the Hudson Valley’s premier breweries, Keegan Ales boasts a fun, laid-back great tasting room. The Mother’s Milk stout is famous around the area.
Ship to Shore – If walking around the Rondout has you in the mood for seafood, head to Ship to Shore. The menu features shrimp, clams, tuna, and more. Beyond seafood, there’s pasta, filet mignon, a 32-ounce ribeye, and other new American classics.
Restaurant Kinsley – Located in a restored 19th century bank building, Restaurant Kinsley has Style with a capital S. Enjoy a cocktail at the tiny bar before sitting down for dinner. Also: Make this your brunch go-to on Saturday or Sunday.
Lola – Lola churns out some of the best pizza in the Hudson Valley, with a seasonally rotating selection of pies cooked in a wood fired oven, neapolitan style. House made pastas, tasty salads, and a fantastic cocktail menu will help round out your meal.
Kingston Bread + Bar – Go online to order from Kingston Bread + Bar’s lengthy menu of incredible handmade loaves and pastries or stop by the store to find even more goodies. Note: Their sandwiches are top notch.
Tubby’s Kingston – This Midtown watering hole has a laid-back vibe and quality cocktails. It also features a venue, so check social media for upcoming shows. Shows often sell out, but if you do get tickets, expect an intimate concert with a small group of your new Kingston friends.
First Capital Poke Bar – There’s not a lot of poke around, but that’s okay because there’s First Capital Poke and that’s all we need. Choose from a signature bowl or make your own.
Chleo Wine Bar – This wine bar is coming soon to the Stockade district. And we can’t wait.
Black Eyed Susies – Speaking of soon-to-open businesses! Black Eyed Susies is in the process of moving from Saugerties to Kingston. It’s due to open in the next few weeks and will be your new go-to for family-style takeout.
Half Moon Cafe Coffee & Donuts – Located in the Rondout, Half Moon doles out fresh donuts made to order. Ask if they’re making the Fruity Pebble one when you visit.
The Tortilla Taco Bar – Burritos, tacos, vampiros, and more. If you like al pastor or carne asada, this is a taco bar you should not miss.
Armadillo – This Mexican restaurant has been in Kingston since the early 80s, so you know it has to be good. Go here (and sit outside) when the weather is on your side.
Pakt – Looking for a brunch spot? Go to Pakt. Just check their Instagram for further convincing.
Moonburger – Fast food, but make it without meat. All the burgers at the recently opened Moonburger are made with Impossible meat. The fries are out of this world and the MB Brownie Batter Shake (made with oat milk) is worth waiting in line for. And, yes, there’s almost always a decent line at this drive-thru spot.
Sissy’s – Swing by Sissy’s for juices, smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. It’s a good informal brunch or lunch spot.
Kingston Candy Bar – Once you’ve had your smoothie, pop into this fun, old timey candy store and you’ll be like, well, a kid in a candy store. Fruit and candy. It’s all about moderation.
The Anchor – The best burger in Kingston can be found at The Anchor. They serve up local grass-fed beef burgers and lots of bar snacks. On weekends, you can also pick up donuts from The Anchor’s bonus space, Hole in the Wall Donuts. They even have mochi donuts, which are vegan and gluten free.
Le Canard Enchaine – Celebrating a special occasion? Make a dinner reservation at this traditional, highly-regarded French restaurant.
Hutton Brickyards – The Winter Pavilion at Hutton Brickyards offers stunning views (of the Hudson River) and a delicious menu with small bites and large plates.
Tanma Ramen – A somewhat new addition to town, Tanma Ramen offers a pork-based broth and vegan broth. It’s already getting rave reviews from locals and industry folks.
Urban Fork – Hot tip: Get the Hot Mess Fried Chicken Sandwich to go. That is all.
Masa Midtown – Stop by during the day for Turkish tea or coffee and a sweet or savory pastry. Or go for a meal and order up some hot or cold meze.
Lunch Nightly – Don’t be confused by the name; Lunch Nightly serves lunch and dinner. We highly suggest the Pickled Egg Sandwich, but also recommend calling to hear about their specials. For dinner, the Smoked Beef is the star.
Sweet Maresa’s – Specializing in vegan macarons and celebration cakes, Sweet Maresa’s is a great place to call if you want to order something ahead of time for a special weekend. You can also stop in for something more impromptu.
Uptown Coffee – Uptown Coffee can load you up with a quick coffee and breakfast to go before you hit the road for some adventures.
Secret Vegan Cafe – This cafe’s menu is inspired by Dutch food and dedicated to the humble mushroom. Everything is mushroom centric (including coffee and nuggets). Of course, everything is vegan, too.
Top Taste -This Caribbean restaurant is tiny and off-the-beaten-path. It was also nominated for a James Beard award. Swing by for classic homestyle Jamaican fare like jerk chicken and ackee fish.
West Kill Brewing Tasting Room – West Kill Brewing is one of the best breweries in the area. The only issue is that it’s a bit of a drive from Kingston. The good news: They’re opening a tasting room in Midtown this summer. It’ll be across the street from Pakt and next to a soon-to-open tattoo spot. While we can’t give any more details at this time, we can say that there will be food and it’s going to be amazing.
See Things to Do for additional spots that also offer live music.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
Birch Body Care – Go here for a great massage in the Stockade. You’ll find a lovely ambience and caring therapists who check in before the session (to set intention) and after (to send you floating down the street). Also, the whole place smells amazing. Another great massage spot: The Repair Shop.
Zephyr Floats – One last massage option, although you should really go here for the floatation therapy. Reduce stress and alleviate chronic pain in an afternoon.
Walk the Riverfront – Grab a latte and walk along the riverfront to see the city of Kingston from a different vantage point.
Senate House and Museum – Visit the Senate House to see how the Dutch lived in the 18th century. Guided tours take you through the kitchen, family room, and parlor — ending in the room where the first New York State Senate met in 1777.
Tivoli Sailing Company – Despite its name, the Tivoli Sailing Company actually leaves from Kingston’s Rondout. They have a few different tours and charters on offer, so check out the site. Be sure to make your plans early.
Kingston Point Beach – Swim in the Hudson River! The Kingston Point Beach even has seasonal lifeguards.
Volunteer Fireman’s Museum– A great kid-friendly spot, the Volunteer Fireman’s Museum keeps cool, old fire trucks on display.
O+ Festival – Every October, O+ takes over Kingston with art installations, concerts (Magnetic Fields!), wellness events, and more. It’s all for a good cause, too, as O+ is a national nonprofit working to help under-insured artists and musicians.
Ulster Performing Arts Center – Known as UPAC by the locals, this venue gets lots of fun acts including Stomp, Lewis Black, and “Weird Al” Yankovic. Be sure to check the calendar.
Field + Supply – Twice a year (May and October) makers, crafters, and artisans gather at Hutton Brickyards for one of the Valley’s best pop-up markets. Shop pillows, ceramics, jewelry, antiques, apothecary goods, and more. Plan on eating there, too, as there’s always local vendors, beer, and music for your entertainment.
Kingston Stockade – Not to be confused with the Stockade in Kingston, this is the semi-professional soccer club that plays nearby. (You can have dinner in the Stockade and then walk over to see the Stockade!) Tickets for the 2022 season are on sale now.
Catskill Mountain Railroad – Bring little ones for a ride on the Catskill Mountain Railroad. It’s a quick, out-and-back ride on old train cars that kids are sure to love. In the fall, there’s an added pumpkin patch stop and, in the winter, the train becomes a holiday ride.
Kingston Point Rail Trail and Walkill Valley Rail Trail – Rail trails are huge in the Hudson Valley so it makes sense that Kingston would have two different options. The first one is shorter and starts at the Rondout. The second one stretches for more than 22 miles and is accessible from the Lucas Avenue Extension.
RETAIL THERAPY
Kingston Wine Co. – This wine shop carries a wide and interesting assortment. And the staff is ridiculously friendly and knowledgeable. Pick up a bottle or two while wandering around the Rondout.
Ester Wine + Spirits – Located in the Stockade, Ester has a lovely selection of natural and traditional wines, and a curated selection of spirits, with a lot of local options.
JK’s Wine & Liquor – Make a pit stop here, on your way into town, to stock your house. It’s one of the largest wine and liquor stores in the Hudson Valley.
Hops Petunia–Hops Petunia is a seriously dreamy flower shop in the Rondout that will magically put you in a chipper mood.
Rocket Number Nine – Any record lover will strike gold at Kingston’s newest record shop.
Clove and Creek – Prepare to want everything in this curated gift shop in the Rondout. It’s stocked with irresistible home goods, books, and design-forward gifts that even the most choosy friend or family member will love.
Milne Antiques and Design – This is the spot to go to if you’re ready to deck out your Hudson Valley home in refurbished antiques. Find it in the Rondout.
Rough Draft Bar & Books – Located on one of the Four Corners (see above!), Rough Draft is a bookstore, a bar, and a coffee shop all in one. There’s even a selection of homemade savory pies, if all that reading makes you hungry.
Kingston Consignments – Just up the street, Kingston Consignments is a two-story building in the Stockade with a bonus Antique Center and a wide range of dealers. Bring your pup with you and it just might wind up on their Instagram.
Cheese Louise – As its name implies, Cheese Louise has an unbelievable assortment of cheeses — and pates, caviar, and other tasty bites. You’ll have to drive here.
Mother Earth’s Storehouse – You’d never suspect to find this gem along the busy stretch with Target, Home Depot, and fast food chains, but it’s there! Stock up on organic and all natural groceries and personal care products. Another grocery store we love: Adam’s Fairacre Farms, which is just a bit further up the road.
Zaborski’s Emporium – This architectural salvage spot (in a historic factory!) is filled to the brim and yet somehow still incredibly organized. There’s a whole room dedicated just to toilet tank covers! Shop for windows, furniture, wooden crates, doors, hardware …. you name it. Just know that pictures are not allowed.
Hamilton & Adams – Need a tee that says “Upstate & Chill” or a super soft flannel? This curated clothing store has you covered.
Flora Beauty – Flora Beauty is a boutique salon that offers cuts, blowouts, and a brow bar. You can also pop in to shop all sorts of apothecary goods including essential oils, serums, perfumes, and more.
Fuller Building – This historic Midtown building used to be the Fuller Shirt Factory and, now, 42,000 square feet have been turned into working studios, shops, and office spaces. Stop by if, for no other reason, than to shop at Eleven Six.
River Mint Finery – The owner of River Mint Finery has a background in design and aesthetics and it clearly shows. Everything in the shop (jewelry, bags, clothes, etc) is simply gorgeous. Walk over to Population for even more Insta-worthy shopping.
Capital Vintage – This vintage shop in the Stockade specializes in goods from the mid-century through the 1990s. It carries all sorts of goodies including kitchenware, furniture, clothing, and more.
Exit Nineteen – Exit 19 is the Kingston stop on the Thruway, but the shop Exit Nineteen is the place to go for 20th century furniture, art, lighting, and more. The mix is always changing and always eclectic.
Spruce – The sister shop to Exit Nineteen (and in the Rondout instead of the Stockade), Spruce offers glassware, bar tools, serving pieces, and more.
Karina Dresses – Every dress in this store is made in Kingston, but the thing that’s most important to know is that many of the designs have pockets. That’s right. Dresses. With. Pockets!
Blue Cashew – Whether you’re shopping for your Upstate place or a gift for someone else, you’re sure to find what you need at this cute kitchen shop in the Stockade. You’ll find blenders, cookware, pantry staples, tabletop pieces, and so much more.
Black Creek Mercantile – Every piece of furniture at Black Creek Mercantile is made by artisans on-site.
This guide in many instances references offerings as they are under normal circumstances. As with so many businesses these days, schedules and protocols are changing all the time. We strongly suggest confirming opening times in advance.
While not a complete secret, Margaretville and the scenic surrounding areas seem to play second fiddle to their better-known neighbors to the east, like Phoenicia and Woodstock, and to the south Livingston Manor and Callicoon. But we’re here to tell you that not only Margaretville, but especially nearby Roxbury, should be on your must-visit list for their eye-popping scenery, burgeoning business community and myriad activities. The distinctly rural character coupled with a blossoming food and culture scene makes this a part of the Catskills that should be on your radar.
Read on for where to dine and what to do when you put on your OOO and slip into vacation mode.
WHERE TO DINE AND DRINK
MARGARETVILLE
Located about 140 miles northwest of New York City, Margaretville is the business hub of the region. It may be a small village of some 600 residents, but the area is awash in stunning scenery including bucolic farms and trout-filled waterways, a solid foundation for any Upstate trip. Throw in worthy dining destinations and myriad outdoor pursuits, and you’re well on your way to a memorable vacation.
This family-owned local eatery (as the Italian name implies) is, well, family-owned epicurean perfection. Inside an “old house”-style setting, the Italian menu boasts wonderful cuisine including handmade pasta, homemade bread, and hand-pulled mozzarella. Save room for the delectable tiramisu, strawberry cream crostata, and blood orange cream cake—and pencil in that hike for tomorrow.
Originally known as The Binnekill Square and an area staple, this centrally-located restaurant perched over the Binnekill Stream received a refresh with new ownership and new chef Bryan Calvert in 2018. Savor “mountain comfort food” with recognizable favorites like honey glazed salmon, jumbo shrimp cocktail and terrific burgers, and sip craft cocktails at the copper bar, by the fire, or out on the dining terrace.
For grown-up fun, venture to this farm-licensed craft distillery making vodka distilled from apples and wheat, and a vodka distilled from local maple syrup and purchase to go, or better yet, grab a seat and order up a craft cocktail and relax on their front deck. Check social media for their roster of periodic live music. Located in Arkville. (Arkville and Margaretville are really at either end of the same “neighborhood”.)
If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll beeline straight for the ice cream and milkshakes. If it’s just the adults, you’ll be glad you embraced your inner child and lined right up for ice cream too.
Oh, Cafe Marguerite. Let us count the ways we love you: Quiche, avocado toast, smoked salmon on an everything croissant, pain au chocolat, toasted almond horchata, maple latte, to name a few that are top of mind. Coffee snobs will rejoice at their offerings, but also don’t leave without trying their spicy hot chocolate or white chocolate (!) beverage.
A welcome addition to Margaretville’s Main Street as of late summer 2021, the motto here is “good food that’s good for you,” and they more than deliver on that promise. Pick up a few grab-and-go soups, salads, and sandwiches, or opt for “Prepped by Lucky Sparrow Kitchen,” their weekly menu of seasonal, ready-to-eat meals available á la carte or as part of their Weekender Kit which features three days of breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snacks for two-to-three people for around $200. Personally, we’re still dreaming about Lucky’s Niçoise, the lemon tahini kale salad, and the 24 Carat sandwich (roasted carrot hummus, arugula, tomato, cucumber on a baguette).
A popular spot for breakfast or lunch, grab sandwiches to-go or sit and eat in the historic Granary Building with your spread. On offer is a wide array of breakfast dishes, bagels, or a long list of standout sandwiches like the Duke (roast beef, cheddar, roasted red peppers, pickled onions, horseradish sauce) or the Sophia (fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, basil pesto, balsamic vinaigrette).
75 Bridge Street, Margaretville, 845.586.1919
ROXBURY
Roll into the bijou hamlet of Roxbury, which is a picturesque drive under 20 minutes from Margaretville, and you’ll sense the hybrid “hip-rural” vibe, where sophisticated offerings are delivered in a pleasingly personal and friendly way. They’re so glad you’ve come by. Whether born and bred locals or ex-urbanites, these local entrepreneurs have put their own spin on their particular offering, and the community embrace has made Roxbury a great destination for a road trip, or if you just need to pick up some supplies to bring home with you. There are now a few food and drink options, to consume there or take away.
Only the daring opened businesses during a pandemic, and Watershed has gone from strength to strength, providing a daytime hub for the community. This trendy locale now serves breakfast, lunch, coffee and sinful baked goods, not to mention refreshing cocktails on its welcoming front porch. A cup of New York’s Abbotsford Road coffee and fresh mountain air is about as good a way to start the day as we can think of, so join us here pronto.
Opened in late summer 2021, gourmet grocer and sandwich-erie that’s perfect for stocking your fridge when you’re in town; load up on imported cheeses, artisanal coffee, and more. Bagels with the works? Don’t mind if we do. They also serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and that has been such a hit we think we’ll see more in that department. Recent blackboard items: Reubens, soppressata, mozzarella, pesto on grilled focaccia, and salads too!
With a more extensive menu than some of the smaller eateries, head here for lunch or dinner and choose from artisanal pizzas to steak to vegan options. And they make a heck of a Bloody Mary “Explosione” (with shrimp and bacon garnishes). In comfortable weather, the outdoor beer garden is a great spot to unwind after a busy day of excursions. Open seven days a week.
Softly Open: The Old Mill has been given a facelift since coming under new management (the same owner as Chappie’s above), cherishing a lot of the wonderful rustic features of having been a blacksmiths and a mill, and repurposing many of the antique finds they discovered in the building, like old boards for the back bar. As of September 2021 they are still finding their groove with scheduling, but aim to be open seven nights a week. While their food menu isn’t on their site yet, their cocktails menu is, so we like it already.
2318 County Route 41, Roxbury, 607.326.6090
NOTABLE AREA ADDITIONS
For those of us who live here full time, we know that there are plenty of destinations worth the extra few minutes’ drive. Here are a few of our favorites that are just a bit beyond Margaretville and Roxbury.
For a meal Manhattanite day tripper’s dreams and epicurean fantasies are made of, make a reservation at the destination restaurant in Big Indian, 15 minutes from Margaretville. Marybeth and Devin Mills, the dynamic duo behind the spot, sharpened their skills at Gramercy Tavern, Michelin-rated Le Bernardin, the Hudson River Club, Picholine and Guastavino’s, before opening this celebrated eatery with a dynamite ambience. Hugely popular for après-ski, it’s about a seven-minute drive from Belleayre Mountain. Good thing you’ve got a place for postprandial recovery instead of trekking back to the city. Reservations are a must at this popular spot.
Inspired by traditional colonial eating houses, where neighbors would gather to socialize, clink glasses, slurp broth and loosen a top button, Brushland Eating House brings all the comforts of home to the table in an atmosphere that exudes warmth. Sara and Sohail Zandi, the brains behind the operation, focus on extraordinarily good classics, leveraging local ingredients and serve up a culinary and dining experience that has generated mountains of rave reviews. 20 minutes from Margaretville.
1927 County Highway 6, Bovina Center, 607.832.4861
So much more than just a place to pick up bottles of great cider, Wayside is a destination. With two barns exuding an old world vibe and a long bar that beckons, you’ll be charmed into lingering and to stay for their tasty eats. If live music is on, clear the calendar, it’s where you want to be. About 15 minutes from Margaretville.
Open 7 days a week, you’ll want to stock up on supermarket basics here. It has a decent selection of everything, including fresh produce, and is right in the center of town.
Head to the gorgeous Round Barn and spend your Saturday exploring the selection of some of the Catskills’ finest pasture-raised meats, trout, cheeses, breads as well as bedding plants for your garden and patio, jewelry, soaps, quilts, wool, wood products and more. Bring a big appetite and enjoy a farm fresh meal right at one of the many picnic tables. Pro tip: The early bird catches the most popular products which can sell out. Open mid-May to mid-October.
46676 State Highway 30, Halcottsville, (845) 586-3326
Set in a lovely red-trimmed country store, Sweet Pea Supply Co. is home to some of the best baked treats in the surrounding area. While you’re in there satisfying your sweet tooth, stock up on their locally sourced supply of pantry staples and other prepared foods.
124 Bragg Hollow Rd, Halcottsville, NY 12438 (607) 326-6776
If you’ve got a hankering for seafood, head to Arkville, where tucked into an unprepossessing building you’d otherwise drive right by, is an under-the-radar seafood shop offering Maine lobster, swordfish, scallops, mussels, clams, haddock, tuna, shrimp, etc. by its legendary if slightly gruff proprietor Bruce. He’d been trucking fresh seafood from Maine to the area some 36 years ago when he decided to make the move and open the shop. Patrons embrace the somewhat eclectic surroundings and swear by the quality and freshness. Call for current hours of operation.
If you’re looking to fill out your vacation liquor cabinet (and grab a bottle or two to bring back to loved ones), this inviting wine shop offers a great experience right in the hamlet of charming Roxbury. Plan to chat with the owner and be introduced to your new favorite tipple.
Run by the same tireless folks who draw devotees northward to Brushland Eating (see above), Russell’s has got you covered for an informal breakfast, brunch or lunch. Grab some staples, perhaps some penny candy, but definitely enjoy a sweet surprise with a slice of one of Magpies’ scrumptious pies, or satisfy your savory craving with a pot pie hand crafted by the King of Pot Pies himself, Antonio Mora. You’ll go for the Norman Rockwell-esque vibe, but leave singing its culinary praises.
2009 County Highway 6, Bovina Center, 607.832.4242
Originally a purveyor of mostly wonderful housewares with a few gifty things (think large selection of cookware, knives, baking and cooking essentials, cookbooks, stationery, and candles), it has broadened its inventory to include the best of local farmers’ produce and products, including fresh cheeses and baked goods, breads and other fresh irresistibles.
Housed in the historic Commons Building, this marvelous, artist-run gallery is open on weekends, with exhibitions changing monthly. Expect the works from both professional artists from New York City and rural Empire State artists on display.
On any given visit to Kria, you might stumble upon a snail shell objet d’art or a mineral ice hand-dyed silk pillowcase, along with no shortage of dainty, eye-catching jewelry. The boutique was co-founded by Icelandic designer Jóhanna Methúsalemsdóttir and visual artist Paul Weil, and it’s tucked inside the historic Galli-Curci Theatre on Main Street.
Purveyors of an eclectic and appealing range of goods, from dreamy woven throws and sleek coffee table books, to fun barware, local jams and novelty throw pillows. This is a winning choice for grabbing a memento of your Upstate getaway.
This fine establishment has been cultivating medicinal herbs in the Catskills since 1999. Forget mass-produced junk, the apothecary specializes in growing food for their native honeybees, focusing on endangered species of forest plants. The anti-inflammatory healing salve is particularly fabulous after a few hours on the trails.
Another newcomer for summer ‘21, you’ll unearth natural history collectibles, dried flowers, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and more. Good luck leaving without a birthday gift for everyone on your list.
If thrifting is your middle name, carve out some time to wander this selection of gently used and regularly rotating household items, clothing, shoes, textiles, books, and more. Bonus: You’re supporting the local hospital and residential care center while you shop.
743 Main Street, Margaretville, 845.586.3737
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
Above from top left clockwise: Dry Brook Ridge hiking trail, part of which is included in the Huckleberry Loop. Belleayre Mountain, known primarily for its skiing and family-friendly environment (bottom right), offers year round activities including swimming, kayaking and more at “Belleayre Beach” (top right). The Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival certainly has an extraordinary platform for connecting with nature in summer, perched as it is on Plattekill Mountain, a ski destination particularly popular with tree skiers, in Roxbury.
Photos clockwise from top left: Charlie and Jessica Duke; Belleayre Mountain; Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival.
In terms of attracting sheer numbers, the biggest draw to this region must be Belleayre Mountain in Highmount, just over 10 minutes from Margaretville, where around 150,000 skiers take to the slopes every year. While about the same drive time from the George Washington Bridge as larger mountains Hunter and Windham, the crowds are decidedly more manageable.
Cool off in Pine Hill Lake or laze on the beach at the base of Belleayre, the ski resort on its namesake mountain, about 10 minutes down the road from Margaretville. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are also available for rent. While you’re there, you might also want to check out a scenic gondola ride and enjoy a picnic at the summit. (For more on area skiing, see our blog post Skiing in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.)
Family-owned and operated, Plattekill Mountain in Roxbury is a cult favorite, especially for tree skiiers. Pro-tip: you can actually rent out the whole mountain on a weekday, and it won’t cost an arm and a leg. (The mountain is otherwise open on weekends and holidays only.) In summer there is also a Zen-infused Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival with breathtaking views from the yoga platform. (For more on area skiing, see our blog post Skiing in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.)
Looking for a break from the crowds? This 12.5-mile, lightly-trafficked point-to-point trail runs from Margaretville to Balsam Lake Mountain, although the payoff views of the Pepacton Reservoir and valley to Andes are just 1.8-miles in. It’s moderate in difficulty, so make sure you’re prepared with the right shoes and plenty of water. Trail is open year round. To access, from Route 28 in Margaretville, go southeast on Fair Street, then left on Southside Spur. The trailhead is 0.1 mile on the right.
For more advanced hikers, venture to this 12.8-mile loop trail near Margaretville, which includes a segment of the above Dry Brook Ridge, and is rated as difficult. It’s a very quiet route, so soak up the solitude.
If you’ve got a competitive streak, we recommend The Ark Bowl & BBQ, a funky, 120‐seat, refurbished 1960s eight-lane bowling alley, BBQ joint, saloon and music/entertainment venue all rolled into one. Loser buys dinner!
If water and a peaceful communing with nature is what you’ve really been craving, then head less than ten minutes out of Margaretville to the picturesque hamlet of Halcottsville and rent a kayak to paddle about Lake Wawaka or a bike to cycle a loop around it. It’s such a great way to experience the area’s beauty, and the chances are good that you’ll spot an eagle or heron along the way. Once you’ve worked up an ample appetite, head to Roxbury for a coffee and sandwich at some of our picks above. (Due to Covid, rentals are temporarily closed, but those in the know take their daily constitutional around this largely level loop where there is little to no traffic.)
If you’re on an extended hiatus to the Catskills, you don’t need to give up your gym routine. In fact, it may be improved at the Catskill Recreation Center, a true gift to the area with an indoor pool and impressive gym. You may even meet a new friend or two in an aqua fitness class or crushing it on the weights floor. There are outdoor spin classes and kid-friendly programs too. As with all listings here, do check on Covid-related protocols. Day passes available.
It’s time to celebrate the brassica family of veggies, and the culture and incredible farming heritage of this special region at this annual festival held in September.
Village Park (behind Freshtown), Bridge Street, Margaretville
