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
Image courtesy of 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
Image courtesy of 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
Image courtesy of 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
Image courtesy of 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
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📍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.
Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, Andes, New York, is brimming with charm, history, and small-town allure. This picturesque hamlet blends rustic beauty with a vibrant community of artists, makers, and entrepreneurs. In The Best of Andes, we highlight must-visit spots that capture the essence of this unique destination. From cozy cafés and cider houses to eclectic boutiques and scenic trails, Andes offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or looking to explore upstate New York’s best-kept secrets, Andes is waiting to welcome you. Book your Andes Getaway today!
1. Wayside Cider
Image courtesy of Wayside Cider
📍 Location: 55 Redden Ln, Andes, NY Wayside Cider offers a cozy, rustic setting where you can savor locally crafted ciders. Their crisp apple and pear ciders are made from seasonal fruit from the Hudson Valley. Alongside their drinks, enjoy small bites such as locally sourced charcuterie and cheeses. The picturesque views of the Catskill Mountains complete the experience, making it the perfect place to relax with friends or enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
2. Sounds Good Catskills
📍 Location: 119 Main St, Andes, NY For music lovers and vinyl collectors, Sounds Good Catskills is the perfect spot to discover a wide variety of records. Whether you’re digging through crates of classic rock or exploring indie releases, this record store is a true haven for vinyl enthusiasts. In addition to a wide selection of music, they also offer vintage audio equipment and local music memorabilia, making it an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Woodstock.
3. Café Mutsi
Image courtesy of Café Mutsi
📍 Location: 11 North Main Street, Andes, NY For a cozy spot to relax with a cup of coffee or a fresh pastry, Cafe Mutsi offers a delightful atmosphere. Known for its warm, inviting vibe and delicious seasonal menu, this café is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a leisurely afternoon snack. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go or sitting down to enjoy their freshly baked goods, Cafe Mutsi is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
4. The Andes Hotel
📍 Location: 227 Main Street, Andes, NY Step into the historic The Andes Hotel, a charming inn that doubles as a great spot for delicious food and drinks. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty, locally sourced meals, it’s a perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or a quiet dinner.
5. Hawk + Hive
📍 Location: 61 Main St, Andes, NY Hawk + Hive is a vibrant contemporary art gallery that showcases thought-provoking exhibitions from both local and national artists. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just curious about emerging trends, the gallery’s ever-changing exhibits provide a fresh perspective on the art world. The open, airy space encourages visitors to spend time exploring the diverse collections on display.
6. Dragonfly 55
📍 Location: 55 Main St, Andes, NY For an elevated dining experience, Dragonfly 55 offers contemporary dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. With its intimate ambiance and creative menu, it’s the ideal spot for a special evening out or a relaxing dinner with friends. The seasonal dishes showcase the best of the Catskills’ local produce, making every meal a delightful experience.
7. Big Pond
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📍 Location: 343 Barkaboom Rd, Andes, NY A peaceful escape into nature, Big Pond is a serene destination perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Catskills. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding greenery offer a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon by the water. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or someone looking to relax in nature, Big Pond provides a peaceful retreat.
8. The Andes Diner
📍 Location: 120 Main Street, Andes, NY The Andes Diner is a beloved local spot offering classic comfort food in a relaxed and welcoming environment. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunch and dinner options, their menu features delicious, made-from-scratch meals. It’s a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the Catskills, with friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere.
9. Briar
📍 Location: 75 Main St, Andes, NY Briar is an artfully curated boutique featuring unique handmade goods, local art, and beautifully designed home décor. Every item in the shop has been thoughtfully selected, offering visitors a wide array of items—from jewelry to furniture—created by local artisans. Whether you’re shopping for a gift or treating yourself, Briar’s eclectic selection will make your visit worthwhile.
10. Weaver Hollow Brewery
📍 Location: 294 Depot Street, Andes, New York Reopening in spring 2025, this is a must-visit for craft beer fans. Weaver Hollow Brewery is a small-batch brewery tucked away in the Catskills. Known for its seasonal brews and intimate atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to sample unique, locally inspired beers. The brewery offers a laid-back environment, ideal for enjoying a drink while taking in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
11. Diamond Hollow Books
Image courtesy of Diamond Hollow Books
📍 Location: 11 Delaware Ave, Andes, NY For book lovers, stop by Diamond Hollow Books! This independent bookstore offers a mix of rare finds, indie releases, and literary classics. With a charming atmosphere and a well-curated collection, it’s the perfect place to lose yourself in a good book or find your next great read. Don’t forget to check out their art and photography section for some unique, visually stunning books.
12. Clementine Vintage Clothing
📍 Location: 7 Main St, Andes, NY Clementine Vintage Clothing is a treasure trove for vintage fashion enthusiasts. The boutique offers a beautifully curated collection of clothing from various eras, including one-of-a-kind dresses, coats, and accessories. Whether you’re on the hunt for a retro piece or just browsing for inspiration, Clementine’s warm and inviting space makes it easy to get lost in the world of vintage fashion.
13. Dana’s Place
📍 Location: 103 Main St, Andes, NY A casual and welcoming eatery, Dana’s Place is the perfect spot for enjoying comfort food with a twist. Dana’s offers everything from fresh salads to hearty sandwiches and local specialties. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite or spending the evening with friends.
14. Andes Rail Trail
📍 Location: 266 Depot St, Andes, NY For outdoor enthusiasts, the Andes Rail Trail offers a scenic hiking and biking path that showcases the natural beauty of the Catskills. The trail winds through lush forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely hike or an afternoon bike ride, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the region’s pristine landscapes.
15. Magpies on Pink Street
Image courtesy of Magpies on Pink Street
📍 Location: 103 Main St, Andes, NY Magpies on Pink Street is a whimsical café and shop that serves as a perfect spot to relax with a coffee or tea. The café offers a delicious selection of pastries, sandwiches, and unique local goods, while the store features curated vintage items, art, and handmade pieces. It’s a delightful place to spend an afternoon exploring local art and enjoying a bite to eat.
Andes, NY, is a charming town where nature, history, and local businesses come together in a perfect blend—and these 15 spots highlight just that. From savoring comfort food at The Andes Diner to exploring unique finds at Clementine Vintage Clothing, there’s a little something for everyone. Book your Red Cottage Andes escape!
Upstate New York blesses locals and visitors with a taste of the ethereal — the lush, tree-filled hills in the Catskills Mountains invite you to explore every ridge and valley through wildlife sightings and peaceful hiking trails.
As you progress on a hike, you might feel the fresh air envelop your body. The sound of water rushing echoes through the trees, drawing you closer to the piece de resistance of the Catskills Mountains: the plentiful waterfalls.
One look is enough to feel cleansed and released from your day’s stresses and anxieties as the ever-swooshing water mimics the constant flow of energy that moves us through the waves of life.
Sounds like the perfect getaway or romantic escape from your day-to-day hustle. You can experience these waterfalls at your leisure if you stay at one of our luxurious yet cozy Catskill vacation home rentals. We’ll walk you through our favorite waterfalls in the region, plus the unique characteristics of each one.
Notable feature: Double cascade or two-tier waterfall.
Ever thought you’d witness Eastern New York’s tallest waterfalls? Enjoy the 260 feet of Kaaterskill Falls in Greene County, which separates into two dreamy cascades (a two-stage waterfall).
You can take a lovely waterfall hike down an impressive 300 feet to the base of the falls (or up if you’re looking for a workout), but remember to pack the right hiking gear. The Visitor Center also cautions against going off trail, as rustic, exposed rock and loose soil are a pretty sight for the eyes but dangerous to maneuver.
The sumptuous layering of rocks against the backdrop of the airy waterfall and rich greenery is enough to calm even the most stressed-out souls.
Take a moderate 0.6-mile hike up to the viewing platform and absorb the sight that inspired many 19th-century paintings and poetry. Or, hike down to the second level for a dip in the refreshing water body that touches the falls!
Planning a trip to the historic and rugged Platte Cove? This natural wonder spans 208 acres and boasts a number of gorgeous waterfalls. The first? Old Mill Falls is named after the old flour mill that used to sit at the falls’ base.
Tucked away in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Old Mill Falls is best seen in the spring or after a heavy rain, when its cascades flow with full force and leave behind an angelic veil of mist overtop the water. Plus, it’s an easy trip if you’re traveling with young ones since the trek isn’t too long or steep. Beginner hikers, rejoice!
Unlike other popular scenic waterfalls that can be bustling with visitors, Plattekill Falls offers a peaceful escape where you can fully appreciate the serenity of the natural world.
3. Artist Falls
Location: Artist Falls, Keene, NY
Notable feature: Artist Falls is an easy 2-3 minute walk from the parking lot.
Artist Falls cascades gracefully over moss-covered rocks down a 25-foot drop into pristine waters.
Perched just above the falls is the historic Alfred Clark Covered Bridge, a landmark that bridges the gap between the past and present. Its weathered wooden structure is a testament to a long-gone era, bringing on a sense of nostalgia and inviting visitors to stroll through time. Talk about rustic!
All viewing points are fairly easy to access; a few minutes walk from the parking areas. Kids will enjoy an outdoor pool, while history buffs will relish the 1800s sawmill at the end of the path at the base of the falls.
Location: Vernooy Kill State Forest, 561 Rogue Harbor Rd, Kerhonkson, NY
Notable features: Long-ish hike and dreamy, multiple-tiered falls.
Looking for a New York state park to sink your adventurous teeth into? Take a day trip to Vernooy Kill Forest, featuring a tucked-away 49-foot waterfall: Vernooy Kill Falls.
Rolling, verdant, and dancing with intrigue and mystique, Vernooy Kill Falls sweeps you into another world with its many subtle tiers. But to reach this utopian nugget of nature, you’ll have to take a moderately challenging and rocky 3.5-mile hike along the Vernooy Falls Trail, which should take you an hour and a half to complete.
A word of caution — this region is well-known as the home of many Timber rattlesnakes.
Location: Platte Clove Preserve, Catskill Center, Platte Clove Rd, Elka Park, NY
Best for: Intermediate hikers.
The Platte Clove Preserve is known for the dreamy Plattekill Falls, accessible via a ⅓-mile hiking trail that starts at an information center. Adventurers, to the front! You’ll need to traverse narrow paths and downward slopes to reach the Plattekill Falls, so we’d recommend strong hiking shoes.
Don’t worry about the sweat building under your shirt. The majestic views will be so worth it. Surrounding lush greenery provides a stunning backdrop, enhancing the falls’ allure and feelings of peace. The only downside? No swimming allowed.
Bastion Falls stands as a breathtaking testament to the raw beauty of nature. Although you can easily catch glimpses of this beautiful 70-foot waterfall while driving on Route 23A, you can’t park and take your time to watch while on the road. Instead, you’ll have to park at the Laurel House Road parking lot and hike to this area from the top of Kaaterskill Falls.
Don’t worry; at a mere half-hour trek, it’s a beginner-friendly hike. But you can also access the Kaaterskill Trolley for a budget-friendly $10 ride.
We highly suggest packing two waterfall trips in one day, as you can easily pass over to the Kaaterskill Falls after finishing Bastion Falls.
Location: Minnewaska State Park Preserve, 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson, NY
Notable features: Small pool and grand views.
Awosting Falls is a natural masterpiece that beckons visitors with its sheer beauty and size. Located in Lake Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Awosting Falls is the park’s biggest waterfall, flowing down a steep 65 feet. Sit at the base of the falls to get the best view of its grandeur.
A nice plus? Couples, families, and friends can all enjoy a refreshing dip in the small pool.
While there is a handicapped parking area, the accessibility of the trail for someone in a wheelchair may be difficult due to the trail’s steepness, which spans about 1.2 miles.
Relish the Catskills’ Waterfalls at Your Red Cottage Rental!
From the grand, awe-inspiring Kaaterskill Falls to the intimate and enchanting Artist Waterfall, the Catskills boast some of the country’s most gorgeous natural wonders.
This is the perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those with an eye for beauty. Forget the stressful hustle-bustle of Manhattan — indulge in the more peaceful, rustic northern part of the state that channels serenity and calmness in every trailhead and waterfall. And once you’re finished taking in the best views of each waterfall? It’s time to relax and unwind at your secluded escape to a Red Cottage property. We offer the perfect sanctuary for travelers to the Catskills region, featuring stone fireplaces, private villas, outdoor pools, and access to swimming holes in nearby creeks.
Located in upstate New York, just a few miles from the hustle and bustle of the NYC city streets, the Catskills Mountain Range is a welcome retreat from the chaos of daily life. Everyone has a favorite season in the Catskills, and you’ll find no shortage of incredible year-round experiences amongst these majestic mountains.
You can swim in a pristine waterfall during the scorching summer months, hike amongst the fall foliage while enjoying nature’s first autumn hues, marvel over snowy mountain vistas and glittering waterfalls, or appreciate the splendor of spring as it emerges from its winter slumber.
From stunning waterfalls to panoramic views, the natural wonder of the Catskills is the perfect getaway for all outdoors enthusiasts. There are plenty of opportunities to take to the Delaware River for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing as well.
It would be a shame to go to the Catskills without soaking up a bit of her beautiful nature! Here are some of the highlights of outdoor adventures in the Catskills.
One of the most Instagram-worthy attractions in the Catskills is undoubtedly Kaaterskills Falls. Tucked inside the Catskill Forest Preserve in Greene County, you’ll find the highest cascading waterfall in New York. This incredible two-tiered waterfall spans an impressive 260 feet.
The trail itself spans approximately 1.4 miles round trip. At the top of the trail, you’ll find a viewing platform for hikers, which offers an amazing aerial view of the stunning falls. You can continue down to the actual waterfall via another trail.
Be sure to wear hiking shoes, as the trek down is moderately difficult and can sometimes be quite muddy.
Tucked away in the scenic wilderness of the Catskill Forest Preserve, you’ll find the crystal clear waters of Peekamoose Blue Hole. This natural wonder formed from sand swirling around in a whirlpool and landing in an intricate design only nature could create. While its emerald blue waters appear inviting, be warned the waters are notoriously cold.
Be sure to check out their website before visiting. This spot gets extremely crowded, and several restrictions are in place due to past issues with littering. You will need a parking permit to visit.
It’s a bit of a hike to this spot, but well worth it for the incredible view. This 4.5 trail, located in the town of Woodstock, boasts incredible views of the Hudson River Valley and Ashokan Reservoir.
The Overlook Mountain fire tower is one of 5 stationed throughout the Catskills. It spans 60 feet tall, reaching an impressive 3,140 elevation over the valleys below. It offers a panoramic view that is breathtaking in any season.
The Catskills have long been deemed the birthplace of American fly fishing. The Catskill Fly Fishing Center tells the rich history of fly fishing in the Catskills and throughout the world.
This center and museum, located on the road between Livingston Manor and Roscoe, is the perfect spot for the fishing enthusiast in your life. You can spend an afternoon exploring the 53-acre grounds which line the Willowemoc Creek banks or check out the casting fields and ponds on the property.
There is also a museum inside where you’ll find the original souvenirs from the dawn of fly fishing in America. You’ll also hear the stories of the fly fishing pioneers of the region and learn about the techniques they used while fishing the waters nearby.
After your visit, grab a rod and reel and cast your troubles away in the waters of one of the many surrounding rivers, ponds, and creeks.
Nestled in the Shawangunk Mountains in the town of New Paltz, you’ll find New York State’s largest natural preserve. Established in the mid-19th century, Mohonk Preserve was created to protect the natural scenic landscape of the region.
With over 70 miles of hiking trails and carriage roads, Mohonk offers hours of outdoor excursions. You can also visit with your horse and ride horseback through the mountains. Thrill seekers may enjoy climbing the Gunks climbing cliffs. Mohonk Preserve also offers access to their trails for skiing/snow snowing in the winter.
The park is open year-round to visitors. There is a fee for day use, and cost-effective memberships are also available if you plan to visit for several days.
Open seasonally from June to September, Zoom Flume Water Park is a summertime attraction perfect for escaping the heat!
Located in the center of Greene County in Windham, this expansive water park is built around a vast gorge. It offers eight different water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a few pools and splash areas.
The layout of this park is unique as it’s separated into three distinct sections, all with surrounding views of the mountains and the gorge. At reasonable ticket prices, this water park comes with incredible free scenery!
This historic beacon was constructed off the shores of the Hudson River in 1869. The Saugerties Lighthouse served to warn ships of the shallow waters of the mouth of Esopus Creek.
The lighthouse has since been restored to reflect its original 20th-century charm. The building also contains a small museum and restored quarters open for scheduled tours. Tours include a thorough overview of the lighthouse’s history and views of the museum and operational tower.
Reaching the lighthouse requires walking a half-mile nature trail through quiet coastal forests, tidal pools, and a long wooden boardwalk. Keep in mind that parts of the trail can experience tidal flooding daily, and river debris can remain on the trail. This includes sharp items, so be sure to wear footwear suitable for hiking.
Winter Outdoor Activities in the Catskills
If hitting the slopes is high on your Catskills bucket list, you’ll find no shortage of world-class skiing opportunities here. Many area ski resorts also offer unique activities that can be enjoyed even if you do not visit in the winter.
Open to skiing and snowboarding from late November to mid-April (dates vary by season), Belleayre Mountain encompasses over 174 skiable acres, 50 trails, eight lifts, and one pretty epic gondola ride.
It is highly recommended you purchase tickets online in advance to ensure availability. Rental equipment is also available and encouraged to be booked in advance. Belleayre reopens during the summer to offer access to Belleayre Beach, disc golf, hiking, and scenic gondola views.
Their gondolas can accommodate up to 8 people for a 7-minute ride to the summit of Belleayre Mountain. You can enjoy incredible views of the Catskill Forest Preserve as you rise 1,350 feet from the lodge to the peak. After enjoying the views, you can return via gondola or by hiking down the mountain.
Hunter Mountain is the second highest peak in the Catskills and another favorite destination of snow bunnies in the Catskills. Located in Greene County, this mountain resort offers plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes.
Hunter Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing for those in pursuit of some winter fun. They have over 50 miles of trails to enjoy.
On the mountain, you’ll find other activities open year-round, including another of the Catskills fire towers. The tower is accessible by a four-mile hike through the woods or on a scenic Skyride on a chair lift to the 3,200-foot summit.
Nestled away in Prattsville, you’ll find the epic outdoor playground that is Bearpen Mountain. Here you’ll find abundant winter activities that everyone in your group can enjoy.
In addition to cross-country skiing, Bearpen also offers snow tubing, fat tire biking, snowshoeing, and ice skating. They offer rental equipment for all of their activities.
Advance tickets are required for skiing and snow tubing but not other activities. The mountain is open seasonally from December to March (weather dependent).
Excursions in the Catskills
From historic sites to quirky roadside attractions, the Catskills have a unique excursion for any traveler.
This historic site in the Catskills was once home to renowned artist Thomas Cole. Cole founded the nation’s first art movement, the Hudson River School of Painting.
Upon visiting, you’ll quickly realize the inspiration for Cole’s landscape paintings. His home is available to visit during a 45-minute guided tour. Tickets can be purchased online.
You can appeal to your inner hippie by visiting the site of the most legendary music festival in history.
In 1969 Bethel Woods Center for the Arts was home to Woodstock, a 3-day music and art festival that became synonymous with 60s Pop Culture. This epic festival hosted legends like Jimi Hendrix, the Grateful Dead, the Who, and Janis Joplin.
On-site, you’ll find a museum dedicated to preserving the history of that extraordinary event. This impressive stadium continues to host other musical legends in concert. Check out their event calendar for an impressive lineup of concerts and festivals.
This eccentric attraction utilizes old railroad tracks and pedal-powered bikes for a truly unique mountain tour.
Located in Tannersville, Rail Explorers spans the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad, which was built in 1899. This eight-mile round- trip is a quiet and relaxing ride through the woods of the Catskills Mountains along the banks of Esopus Creek.
Vehicles can accommodate 2 to 4 people, and the entire tour takes about 2.5 hours. This experience is hands-free, allowing you to capture incredible images and video. You can also experience this ride in the evening by lantern light.
New York Zipline
Located at the base of Hunter Mountain, you’ll find the longest, highest, and fastest zipline tour in North America. New York Ziplines Mid Mountain tour offers a 4.6-mile ride zipping from peak to peak of the Catskills Mountains at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
They also provide a Mid-Mountain Adventure Tour, which leads you through the trees challenging you with fun obstacles along the way. Featuring a combination of rope bridges, aerial tree platforms, ziplines, and one rappel, it’s a 3-hour adventure families are sure to enjoy.
You can book appointments easily through their website. Be sure to read their requirements and restrictions before booking.
Hobart Book Village
Perhaps one of the more unique locations in the Catskills is the Hobart Book Village. You’ll find an eclectic collection of bookshops and boutiques in the Great Western Catskills of Delaware County.
This small town is filled with bookstores that line two blocks of Main Street. Each bookstore has its own unique charm and offers different genres, and some include rare volumes and antique texts.
Additionally, you’ll find a coffee shop to enjoy a good cup of joe while enjoying your latest book haul. This quaint little town is every book lover’s dream come true!
The Gnome Chomsky, a quirky roadside attraction, is a quick and unique stop! You’ll find one of the world’s largest garden gnomes just outside Kerhonkson’s small hamlet at Kelder’s Farm’s entrance.
After taking a pic with the much beloved Gnome Chomsky, be sure to pop over to the farm for some down-home family fun!
Stay and Explore in the Catskills
One thing’s for sure, New York City has nothing on the natural beauty of the Catskills Mountains. No matter the reason or season for your visit, you’ll find no shortage of incredible adventures while staying in a Catskills vacation home rental.
