From charming coastal towns and scenic harbors to artisanal shops and farm-to-table dining, Maine’s Blue Hill Peninsula offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and natural beauty. Spend your days exploring rocky shores, wandering local galleries, and savoring fresh seafood, then retreat to a cozy Red Cottage stay where comfort and coastal charm await. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Maine.
Haystack Mountain School of Crafts
Image courtesy of Haystack Mountain School of Craft
📍89 Haystack School Rd, Deer Isle, ME Perched on the coast of Deer Isle, Haystack Mountain School of Crafts is a creative haven where art and nature meet. Visitors can wander the campus, take in exhibitions, or simply soak up the inspiring surroundings. A visit here always feels like a refreshing retreat for anyone seeking inspiration.
Four Season Farm
📍609 Weir Cove Rd, Harborside, ME Brimming with seasonal produce and fresh flowers, the farm stand at Four Season Farm is a delight for the senses. Stop by to pick up crisp vegetables or a colorful bouquet, and enjoy the charm of Maine-grown goodness. Locals and visitors alike return regularly for the farm’s friendly, welcoming vibe.
Aragosta
📍300 Goose Cove Rd, Deer Isle, ME Fresh seafood and inventive dishes await at Aragosta, a lively spot perfect for dinner. With each course, the flavors celebrate the bounty of the coast. The atmosphere makes every evening feel special and memorable.
Blue Hill Mountain
📍Blue Hill Mountain Rd, Blue Hill, ME Trails wind through forested paths before opening to sweeping vistas at Blue Hill Mountain. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. It’s an essential stop for anyone craving adventure and unforgettable scenery.
Tinder Hearth
Image courtesy of Tinder Hearth
📍1452 Coastal Rd, Brooksville, ME Tucked into a cozy corner, Tinder Hearth serves wood-fired pizzas that steal the spotlight. Between the warm, inviting setting and perfectly cooked pies, it’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Every visit feels like gathering around a hearth with friends.
Devta Doolan’s Studio
📍3 Main St, Deer Isle, ME Devta Doolan’s Studio offers a vibrant space where art comes alive. Visitors can explore colorful pieces inspired by Maine landscapes and culture. Each visit brings fresh inspiration and a new perspective.
Compass Rose Books
📍3 Main St, Castine, ME Books, cozy corners, and a welcoming atmosphere make Compass Rose Books a must-visit. Shoppers can explore carefully curated selections and discover new favorites. The staff’s friendly guidance turns every visit into a little adventure for readers.
El El Frijoles
📍41 Caterpillar Hill Rd, Sargentville, ME Bold flavors and playful décor come together at El El Frijoles, a spot where Mexican cuisine shines in the heart of Blue Hill. Each dish bursts with flavor, making every meal feel like a celebration. Locals and visitors return for the joyful dining experience.
44 North Coffee
Image courtesy of 44 North Coffee
📍7 Main St, Deer Isle, ME At 44 North Coffee, rich aromas greet you the moment you step inside. The baristas make every cup with care, creating a cozy spot to linger. Whether fueling up for a hike or taking a mid-afternoon pause, this café feels like a local gem.
The Brooklin Inn
📍22 Reach Rd, Brooklin, ME For a cozy dinner with a Maine twist, the restaurant at The Brooklin Inn is a must. Seasonal ingredients shine in every dish, and the intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for a night out or a special occasion. Don’t skip their locally inspired cocktails, they’re almost as memorable as the view.
Ronald Harte Antiques
📍12 N Deer Isle Rd, Deer Isle, ME Hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures? Ronald Harte Antiques is where vintage charm meets expert curation. Every piece tells a story, from delicate glassware to rustic furniture. It’s the kind of shop where you’ll linger a little longer than planned.
Bagaduce Lunch (Open Seasonally)
📍145 Franks Flat Road, Penobscot, ME A James Beard Award winner, Bagaduce Lunch offers the quintessential lobster shack experience. Fresh seafood, buttery rolls, and a waterfront view make every bite a celebration. Locals and visitors alike swear by the fried clams and lobster rolls.
Barred Island
📍Goose Cove Rd, Deer Isle, ME Nature lovers will adore a hike at Barred Island. Winding trails lead past salt marshes and rocky shoreline, offering plenty of spots to pause and soak in the scenery. Keep your camera ready, eagles, herons, and stunning vistas are never far away.
Sand Beach
📍118 Sand Beach Rd, Stonington, ME Pack a picnic and soak up the sun at Sand Beach in Stonington. The soft sand and calm waters make it ideal for swimming, while nearby rocks are perfect for clambering and exploring. Bring a blanket and let the day drift by in true coastal style.
Acadia National Park
Image courtesy of Raphael Assouline
📍Acadia National Park, ME Just a drive away, Acadia National Park is perfect for a day trip. Rugged cliffs, serene lakes, and sweeping mountain views await. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just taking in the scenery, it’s a slice of Maine you won’t forget.
Add Blue Hill Peninsula to your list of must-see Maine destinations, where sweeping views, and charming towns await around every corner. Spend your days hiking, exploring local galleries, or sampling the best seafood in town. A Red Cottage stay offers a cozy retreat to rest and recharge after your adventures.
Fall in the Berkshires is magical, with crisp air, vibrant foliage, and trails that wind through some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery. Take your time on these hikes, soak in the colors, and make it a full weekend getaway with a cozy stay at a Red Cottage home. From challenging peaks to peaceful forest paths, these trails showcase the season at its finest.
Bash Bish Falls
Image courtesy of Samuel Quek
📍Falls Rd, Mt Washington, MA A classic fall destination, Bash Bish Falls delivers a stunning waterfall surrounded by vibrant foliage. This 2.1-mile hike is moderate, with a few inclines that make the view at the bottom even more rewarding. Take your time and enjoy the sound of cascading water as the leaves blaze in autumn colors. Perfect for soaking in scenery without rushing.
The Cobbles Lookout via the Appalachian Trail
📍Furnace Hill Rd, Cheshire, MA The Cobbles offers sweeping views of the Berkshires and Taconic Mountains. This 1.7-mile moderate hike is short but steep in sections, making it a satisfying climb for a morning adventure. Pause at the lookout to catch the colorful canopy stretching across the hills.
Alander Mountain
📍162 East St, Mt Washington, MA Alander Mountain’s 5.8-mile moderate trail is ideal for a half-day adventure. The route winds through forests and rocky ridges, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas at the summit. Enjoy the crisp fall air as you trek this scenic mountain trail.
Mount Race and Race Brook Falls
📍716-732 S Undermountain Rd, Sheffield, MA Race Brook Falls is a 5.7-mile hike that combines a challenging climb with a stunning payoff. Steep inclines and rocky terrain make it a trail for more experienced hikers, but the cascading waterfalls framed by fall foliage are worth every step. A full morning or afternoon of adventure.
Mount Greylock via Bellows Pipe Trail
📍1200 Notch Rd, North Adams, MA The highest peak in Massachusetts deserves a hike with a bit of challenge. At 5.9 miles and hard difficulty, this trail climbs steadily to Mount Greylock’s summit, offering sweeping autumn vistas. Take your time and savor a weekend escape with a Red Cottage stay nearby.
Appalachian Trail: Jug End Rd to Mount Bushnell
Image courtesy of Janez Fabijan
📍256 Guilder Hollow Rd, Egremont, MA This 3.6-mile moderate section of the Appalachian Trail is perfect for hikers seeking a manageable trek with rewarding views. Gentle inclines and forested paths make it ideal for a half-day hike in vibrant fall colors.
Monument Mountain via Hickey & Peeskawsa Peak Loop
📍546 Stockbridge Rd, Great Barrington, MA A 2.4-mile moderate loop packs in striking rock formations and summit views over the Housatonic Valley. The trail has some steep spots but remains very accessible, making it a favorite for quick hikes with dramatic scenery.
Laura’s Tower Trail
📍2 Park St, Stockbridge, MA Laura’s Tower Trail is a 1.8-mile moderate hike that climbs to a charming stone tower with panoramic views. The trail is perfect for a short morning outing, allowing plenty of time to linger and soak in autumn’s full spectacle.
Olivia’s Overlook and Charcoal Trail
📍Yokun Ridge South, Hiking Trails, West Stockbridge, MA This 1.7-mile moderate loop is ideal for a leisurely fall hike with colorful forest views and peaceful overlooks. A short, manageable trek that gives a sense of adventure without requiring a full-day commitment.
Umpachene Falls
📍Umpachene Falls Rd, New Marlborough, MA A tiny gem, Umpachene Falls is only 0.3 miles and easy for all skill levels. This short trail delivers big rewards with cascading water and brilliant fall leaves—a perfect quick stop on a weekend getaway.
Burbank Trail
Image courtesy of Greg Garnhart
📍Richmond Mountain Rd, Richmond, MA A 3-mile moderate hike through wooded terrain, the Burbank Trail offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Gentle inclines make it accessible while still providing satisfying autumn vistas along the route.
Explore the Berkshires this fall and take in stunning views, vibrant foliage, and trails for every skill level. After a day of adventure, rest your feet and make it a weekend getaway at a cozy Red Cottage home nearby.
The Hudson Valley and Catskills have become a true playground for food lovers, where orchards meet wood-fired kitchens and small towns hide some of the most exciting restaurants around. From cozy diners and cideries with sweeping views to modern spots reimagining global flavors, the region is brimming with places worth the trip. Turn a weekend getaway into a culinary adventure with these must-visit spots.
Matilda Restaurant
Image courtesy of Matilda Restaurant
📍39 Goshen Rd, Hensonville, NY Tucked into the heart of the Catskills, Matilda Restaurant serves up locally sourced, seasonally inspired dishes that feel like a warm hug. Their brunch and dinner menus change with the harvest, so every visit brings a new favorite. Pair your meal with a thoughtfully curated cocktail or wine for a full sensory treat.
Eliza Bistro
📍582 Broadway, Kingston, NY Eliza Bistro offers a modern European dining experience with a Hudson Valley twist. Fresh ingredients shine in every dish, from house-made pastas to perfectly cooked proteins. The cozy, intimate vibe makes it a perfect spot for date night or a special gathering.
Klocke Estate
📍2554 County Rte 27, Hudson, NY For wine lovers, Klocke Estate is a must-visit. Nestled in scenic Hudson Valley vineyards, it’s a serene escape to sip estate-grown brandy while taking in sweeping views. Tastings are paired with insights into the brandy production process, making it both educational and indulgent.
LOLA Pizza
Image courtesy of LOLA Pizza
📍243 Fair St, Kingston, NY LOLA Pizza is all about wood-fired pizza perfection. Crispy crusts, fresh toppings, and creative flavor combos keep pizza fans coming back. Don’t forget to grab a drink and settle in for a casual, fun meal with friends.
The Hereafter
📍721 Columbia St, Hudson, NY The Hereafter is a cocktail lover’s dream. Inventive drinks meet a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like stepping into a hidden gem. Perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a night out with friends.
Nansense
📍2 Eliza St, Beacon, NY Nansense brings bold Afghan flavors to the Hudson Valley with a menu full of vibrant street food favorites. From Chapli Kebab Smash Burgers to dumplings and spiced rice bowls, every dish is hearty, flavorful, and totally crave-worthy. The modern space keeps things casual yet stylish, making it a go-to for both quick bites and lingering meals with friends.
The Walk In
📍66 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY This hidden gem serves up hearty sandwiches and comfort food with a twist. Casual and welcoming The Walk In is the kind of spot where locals love to grab lunch. Don’t skip their rotating specials, which often steal the show.
Mirador
📍636 Broadway, Kingston, NY Perched with a view, Mirador is where ambiance meets refined dining. Expect fresh, locally sourced dishes and a menu that changes with the seasons. It’s ideal for a leisurely dinner with friends or a romantic night out.
SILVIA
Image courtesy of SILVIA
📍42 Mill Hill Rd, Woodstock, NY SILVIA sets the scene with a sleek, modern space and an open kitchen where contemporary American dishes come to life. Seasonal ingredients take center stage, paired with craft cocktails that feel just as thoughtful. On warmer days, the deck is the perfect spot to enjoy dinner and drinks.
Phoenicia Diner
📍5681 NY-28, Phoenicia, NY A Catskills classic, Phoenicia Diner is beloved for hearty breakfasts and comfort food done right. From pancakes to classic diner fare, every bite feels nostalgic and satisfying. The friendly service makes it a perfect stop for morning fuel.
Seminary Hill
📍43 Wagner Ln, Callicoon, NY Seminary Hill is a hillside orchard and cidery with sweeping views of the Delaware River Valley. Their small-batch ciders are crafted from apples grown right on the property, making each sip a reflection of the land. Between tastings, settle into their restaurant where farm-driven dishes pair beautifully with the crisp, complex pours.
The Katskeller
📍39 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY The Katskeller is a must for pizza lovers and craft beer fans alike. The cozy, welcoming vibe pairs perfectly with their inventive pies and rotating beer selection. Perfect for a casual night out or a weekend treat.
Rivertown Lodge
📍731 Warren St, Hudson, NY Rivertown Lodge combines eclectic décor with hearty, flavorful dishes. Locally inspired comfort food makes every meal feel like home. Their cocktail menu is just as inventive as the food, rounding out a full dining experience.
Casa Susanna
Image courtesy of Casa Susanna
📍800 Co Rd 23B, Leeds, NY Casa Susanna serves wood-fired Mexican dishes inspired by Jalisco, using heirloom masa tortillas made in-house. The menu features bold, shareable plates paired with a stylish lodge setting that feels both rustic and modern.
Ollie’s Pizza
📍4 Bruceville Rd, High Falls, NY Ollie’s Pizza in High Falls is all about big flavors and crispy, wood-fired crusts. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for grabbing a slice or two with friends. Don’t skip their inventive toppings that keep locals coming back.
Mel the Bakery
📍324 Warren Street, Hudson, NY Mel the Bakery is a sweet stop in the Catskills for pastries, breads, and morning treats. Every bite is carefully crafted, making it hard to choose just one favorite. Pair your pastry with a coffee for the perfect start to your day.
The DeBruce
📍982 Debruce Rd, Livingston Manor, NY The DeBruce is a luxury retreat with fine dining that highlights the best of Catskills cuisine. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients shine in each thoughtfully plated dish. It’s a special occasion spot, ideal for leisurely meals in a beautiful setting.
Café Mutton
📍757 Columbia St, Hudson, NY Café Mutton offers seasonal, locally driven menus in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Their creative dishes showcase the best of the region, from fresh vegetables to locally raised meats. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend brunch.
Good Night
📍15 Rock City Rd, Woodstock, NY Good Night blends Southeast Asian flavors with a seasonal Catskills twist. The menu is vibrant and shareable, with dishes that pair perfectly with their inventive cocktails. A lively, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for dinner with friends.
Bushland Eating House
📍1927 County Hwy 6, Bovina Center, NY Bushland Eating House blends rustic charm with refined flavors in the heart of the Catskills. Locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful preparations make every meal memorable. Pair your dinner with one of their craft cocktails for a perfect night out.
Stissing House
📍7801 S Main St, Pine Plains, NY Stissing House in Pine Plains is all about farm-to-table dining with seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, highlighting the best local produce and proteins. A cozy, inviting space makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Via Cassia
Image courtesy of Via Cassia
📍214 Warren St, Hudson, NY Via Cassia brings the flavors of coastal Italy to Hudson with handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce. The menu is elegant yet approachable, and the warm, stylish space makes it perfect for a night out.
After tasting your way through the Hudson Valley and Catskills, there’s no better way to unwind than with a stay at a Red Cottage property. Settle into a cozy, beautifully designed home, curl up by the fire, and let the flavors, sights, and sounds of the region linger a little longer. It’s the perfect way to turn a foodie getaway into a full, memorable escape.
Fall is calling in the Hudson Valley, and there’s no better way to answer than with a basket full of freshly picked apples. From classic family-run orchards to spots with cider tastings and live music, the region is packed with farms ready to welcome you for crisp autumn afternoons. Grab your cozy sweater and get ready to explore the season’s best apple-picking adventures.
Fishkill Farms
Image courtesy of Fishkill Farms
📍9 Fishkill Farm Rd, Hopewell Junction, NY This beloved farm offers more than just apple picking. Think hard cider tastings, hayrides, and a gorgeous hilltop orchard view. With over 100 years of history, Fishkill Farms is especially known for eco-certified apples and fall weekends packed with family-friendly activities.
Clarke’s Family Farm
📍2086 US-44, Modena, NY A seventh-generation family farm nestled by the Shawangunk Mountains, Clarke’s offers organic and low-spray apples, pumpkins, and more. Open weekends from September 13–October 19, 2025, it’s a perfect spot for a fall outing.
Mead Orchards
📍15 Scism Rd, Tivoli, NY A classic spot for fall fun, Mead Orchards has pumpkins of every size, a corn maze, and hayrides that make for a perfect family day. While apples are available in season, it’s the vibrant autumn fields that steal the show. Stop by for fresh cider and sweet treats while wandering the colorful farm paths.
Masker Orchards
📍45 Ball Rd, Warwick, NY A Hudson Valley classic, Masker Orchards has been welcoming families for generations with its 200 acres of pick-your-own apples. Drive right up to the trees, load the car with your haul, and don’t skip the farm store for apple cider donuts and fresh pies. September through October, it’s bustling with fall energy.
Apple Dave’s Orchards
📍82 4 Corners Rd, Warwick, NY Apple picking here comes with a little extra charm: stroll through the orchards, sip fresh cider, or enjoy live music in the autumn air. Apple Dave’s Orchards is set up for relaxed afternoons with plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment alongside the apple rows.
Greig Farm
Image courtesy of Greig Farm
📍227 Pitcher Ln, Red Hook, NY Since 1942, Greig Farm has been a go-to for seasonal pick-your-own, and apples shine brightest from September into October. The farm stand keeps things festive with cider, treats, and local goods, making it an easy stop for families and weekend travelers alike.
DuBois Farms
📍209 Perkinsville Rd, Highland, NY DuBois Farms is a family-friendly destination offering pick-your-own apples, peaches, and more. Enjoy fresh cider donuts, homemade pies, and a variety of beverages at their on-site tavern.
Minard’s Family Farm
📍250 Hurds Rd, Clintondale, NY Apple season at Minard’s is packed with activities, from corn mazes and wagon rides to a pumpkin patch and petting zoo. The orchard grows dozens of apple varieties, ensuring something is always ripe to pick from early September into October.
Harvest Moon Farm
📍130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY Harvest Moon Farm is a fall favorite for pumpkins, corn mazes, and farm-fresh fun. While apples make a seasonal appearance, it’s the sprawling pumpkin fields and festive autumn activities that draw families from near and far. Grab a cider donut, hop on a hayride, and soak in the vibrant fall colors.
Hurds Family Farm
📍2187 NY-32, Modena, NY A family favorite, Hurds offers apple picking alongside outdoor play zones, bounce pillows, and hayrides. It’s as much about the autumn experience as it is about the fruit, making it perfect if you’re heading up with kids.
Rose Hill Farm
📍19 Rose Hill, Red Hook, NY Rose Hill Farm is a 100-acre family-run orchard blending old-fashioned pick-your-own charm with a modern cidery. Visitors can pick a wide variety of apples, then settle in for small-batch cider tastings while soaking up sweeping Hudson Valley views.
Twin Star Orchards
Image courtesy of Twin Star Orchard
📍155 N Ohioville Rd, New Paltz Apple picking meets serious foodie vibes at Twin Star. After filling your bag with crisp apples, stay for wood-fired pizza, burgers, and cider tastings. Live music and laid-back orchard views make it a perfect fall hangout.
Wright’s Farm
📍699 NY-208, Gardiner, NY Wright’s Farm is a sixth-generation farm offering pick-your-own apples from September to early November. No reservations are required, and dogs are welcome.
Cedar Heights Orchards
📍8 Crosby Ln, Rhinebeck, NY Cedar Heights Orchards mixes pumpkins, squash, and seasonal produce with a cozy farm vibe. Kids love the hayrides, petting areas, and photo-ready pumpkin patches. Stop by for baked goods and fresh apple cider.
Stone Ridge Orchard
📍3012 NY-213, Stone Ridge, NY Stone Ridge Orchard has become a go-to for pumpkins, hayrides, and festive fall events. While they do have a few apple trees, most visitors come for the seasonal pumpkins and farm experiences. Grab a spiced cider and enjoy the autumn scenery.
Samascott Orchards
📍5 Sunset Ave, Kinderhook, NY Samascott Orchards is a family-friendly farm where pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal fun take center stage. Apple picking is available, but the sprawling pumpkin fields and farm activities like hayrides make it a top fall destination. Don’t miss their fresh-pressed cider and bakery treats.
Kelder’s Farm
Image courtesy of Kelder’s Family Farm
📍5755 US-209, Kerhonkson, NY Kelder’s Farm is more than a pumpkin patch, it’s a full fall adventure. Pick your perfect pumpkin, navigate the corn maze, or grab a cider donut while taking in the stunning valley views. Seasonal apples are also available, but this farm shines brightest when the leaves turn.
Lean into fall and turn apple picking into a full weekend escape in the Hudson Valley. Stay in a Red Cottage home and make the most of crisp mornings, scenic drives, and charming farm towns. Pack your favorite sweater, plan a long autumn weekend, and soak up all the colors, flavors, and cozy vibes the season has to offer.
Nestled between the Hudson River and the Berkshires, Columbia County is full of small-town charm, wide-open views, and plenty to do. From farm-to-table restaurants and eclectic shops to art spaces and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to fill a weekend. Make it a true getaway with a Red Cottage stay, the perfect home base while you eat, shop, and explore your way through the county.
Cooper’s Daughter Spirits
Image courtesy of Cooper’s Daughter’s Spirits
📍284 NY-23, Claverack, NY Tucked inside a historic 1800s barn, Cooper’s Daughter Spirits makes small-batch whiskey, gin, and seasonal liqueurs that lean on local botanicals. Sip a cocktail in their charming cocktail garden or take home a bottle infused with Hudson Valley flavors. It’s a spot that feels both rustic and creative, just like Columbia County itself.
Klocke Estate
📍2554 County Rte 27, Hudson, NY Klocke Estate is a brandy distillery crafting elegant spirits from Hudson Valley fruit. Set on a scenic stretch of farmland, the distillery focuses on small-batch production that highlights the character of each harvest. Stop in for a tasting and discover how their brandies capture the essence of the region in every sip.
Samascott’s Garden Market
📍65 Chatham St, Kinderhook, NY Samascott’s is the go-to for fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and seasonal pick-your-own adventures. Come fall, their apple orchards are buzzing, and the pumpkin patch is a family favorite. Stock up on farm-fresh finds or grab a cone of house-made ice cream while you’re there.
Red Chair
📍606 Warren St, Hudson, NY This Hudson design shop is full of vintage and antique treasures sourced from across Europe. From rustic farm tables to delicate linens, every piece feels carefully chosen. Whether you’re decorating a home or just browsing for inspiration, Red Chair is worth a stop.
Art Omi
Image courtesy of Art Omi
📍1405 Co Rte 22, Ghent Sprawling fields dotted with large-scale sculptures and architectural installations make Art Omi a must-visit. The sculpture and architecture park is open year-round and free to explore, offering an inspiring walk where art meets nature. It’s the kind of place that changes with every season and every visit.
The Chatham Berry Farm
📍2309 New York 203, Chatham, NY Equal parts farm, market, and brewery, The Chatham Berry Farm has a little something for everyone. Their heated greenhouse taproom hosts live music and pours local craft beers, while the farm store is stocked with fresh produce and artisanal goods. It’s a true community hub.
Nikki Chasin
📍553 Warren St, Hudson, NY Equal parts boutique and experience, Nikki Chasin is known for bold style and statement-making finds. From fashion pieces to home accents, everything here feels playful and chic. It’s a shop that radiates personality, much like its owner.
Feast & Floret
📍13 S 3rd St, Hudson, NY Fresh flowers and seasonal Italian fare come together at Feast & Floret. Dine among arrangements of blooms while enjoying handmade pasta, wood-fired mains, and locally sourced ingredients. It’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate.
The Quiet Botanist
📍426 Warren St, Hudson, NY Step inside and you’ll feel transported to an apothecary garden. The Quiet Botanist is filled with dried flowers, botanical skincare, and natural curiosities. It’s a beautifully designed space where everything feels calm, intentional, and artful.
Morningbird Cafe
Image courtesy of Morningbird Cafe
📍4 Hudson St, Kinderhook, NY This all-day café and wine bar serves up vibrant, globally inspired dishes with a Hudson Valley twist. Bright interiors and a buzzing patio make it the perfect place to linger over coffee or gather with friends for dinner and natural wine. It’s stylish, but never fussy.
WYLDE Hudson
📍35 S 3rd St, Hudson, NY WYLDE Hudson is a wine bar, café, retail space, and open-air market all rolled into one. It’s an intentional community where local brands and creatives come together, sharing space, values, and inspiration. Stop by for a glass of wine, browse unique goods, or just soak in the energy of a place designed for connection and creativity.
FINCH Hudson
📍427 Warren St, Hudson, NY FINCH mixes mid-century design, contemporary pieces, and one-of-a-kind vintage finds. The shop is carefully styled, making it easy to imagine how each piece might look in your own home. It’s equal parts gallery and retail experience.
Talbott & Arding
📍202 Allen St, Hudson, NY Cheese lovers, this one’s for you. Talbott & Arding is a Hudson staple, known for artisan cheeses, house-made charcuterie, and gourmet provisions. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to stop before heading to a picnic, a dinner party, or just back to your Red Cottage kitchen.
Taconic State Park
📍253 NY-344, Copake Falls, NY Outdoor lovers will find endless adventure at Taconic State Park. Whether you’re hiking to Bash Bish Falls, camping under the stars, or cross-country skiing in winter, the park has year-round appeal. With miles of trails and gorgeous views, it’s a Columbia County gem.
Olana State Historic Site
Image courtesy of Olana State Historic Site
📍5720 NY-9G, Hudson, NY The former home of painter Frederic Church, Olana is one of the Hudson Valley’s most stunning historic sites. The house itself is a work of art, blending Persian and Victorian design, while the sweeping grounds overlook the Hudson River. A tour here feels like stepping back in time.
From tasting brandy in to wandering sculpture fields, Columbia County is packed with ways to fill your days. When you’re ready to slow down after exploring, return to a Red Cottage home to relax and unwind with family and friends.
Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, Livingston Manor is a small town with a big personality. From scenic river walks and nearby hiking trails to charming cafés and local shops, it’s a place where nature and community come together effortlessly. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or a weekend full of exploration, Livingston Manor offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
The Catskill Brewery
Image courtesy of Catskill Brewery
📍672 Old Rte 17, Livingston Manor, NY Sip on local flavor at The Catskill Brewery, where creative small-batch beers meet laid-back vibes. Whether you’re after a crisp IPA or a rich stout, there’s something for every palate. Pull up a stool, chat with the friendly staff, and soak in the community energy. It’s the perfect stop for a casual drink in Livingston Manor.
Main Street Farm
📍36 Main St Unit B & C, Livingston Manor, NY Discover a treasure trove of gourmet and specialty foods at Main Street Farm. From fresh local produce to artisanal pantry staples, every visit is a sensory delight. Perfect for stocking up for a picnic or bringing home a unique taste of Livingston Manor.
Upward Brewing
📍171 Main St Box 1015, Livingston Manor, NY Upward Brewing pours inventive, small-batch beers in a friendly, community-focused space. With rotating seasonal offerings and classic favorites, there’s always something new to try. Stop by for a tasting and enjoy the relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Drooz & Company
📍16 Pearl St, Livingston Manor, NY Drooz & Company is a must-visit for curated home goods, gifts, and unique finds. From locally made treasures to one-of-a-kind pieces, it’s a haven for anyone hunting for something special. Browsing here feels like uncovering hidden gems around every corner.
Seminary Hill
Image courtesy of Seminary Hill/Daniel Schwartz
📍43 Wagner Ln, Callicoon, NY For cider lovers, Seminary Hill offers crisp, refreshing options that highlight local orchards and seasonal flavors. The tasting room is welcoming, and the ciders pair perfectly with a leisurely afternoon. A visit here is both tasty and refreshing.
The Walk In Manor
📍66 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Casual, comforting, and packed with flavor, The Walk In Manor is the spot for approachable meals that hit the mark every time. Fresh ingredients and friendly service make it a local go-to. Pop in for a relaxed lunch or dinner any day of the week.
The DeBruce
📍982 Debruce Rd, Livingston Manor, NY The DeBruce elevates dining with thoughtful, seasonal dishes that highlight the region’s best ingredients. Elegant yet approachable, it’s ideal for a special night out or a leisurely dinner. Each plate is crafted to delight both the eye and the palate.
Old Souls NY
📍46 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Old Souls NY blends vintage finds with contemporary touches, offering an eclectic mix of home décor, gifts, and unique curiosities. Exploring the shop is an adventure in itself. Every corner holds something unexpected and charming.
Van Smokey
📍87 Debruce Rd, Livingston Manor, NY Van Smokey serves up smoked meats and barbecue classics that pack big flavor in every bite. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for a hearty meal with friends or family. Their dishes are sure to satisfy any craving.
Nest Catskills
📍34 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Nest Catskills offers thoughtfully curated goods for home and lifestyle, all with a local touch. It’s a perfect stop for discovering pieces that feel personal and unique. Every visit is a chance to find something special to take home.
Catskill Fly Fishing Museum
Image courtesy of Catskill Fly Fishing Museum
📍1031 Old Rte 17, Livingston Manor, NY Dive into the region’s fishing history at the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum. With exhibits that highlight the art, culture, and tradition of fly fishing, it’s both educational and charming. A stop here offers a deeper look into one of the Catskills’ most beloved pastimes.
Homestedt
📍6 Pearl St, Livingston Manor, NY Homestedt is a shopping destination for curated clothing, home goods, and gifts that balance style and function. Each item feels carefully selected, making browsing a pleasure. It’s a go-to spot for those seeking quality and character in one place.
The Kaatskeller
📍39 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY The Kaatskeller is a lively spot for craft beer, hearty food, and live music in a welcoming environment. With seasonal brews and a menu full of local favorites, it’s perfect for a casual evening out. The energy here keeps locals and visitors coming back.
Upstream Wine & Spirits
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📍65 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Upstream Wine & Spirits is a go-to for natural and small-batch wines, with shelves full of bottles you won’t find everywhere else. The team makes it easy to discover something new and perfect for any occasion.
Buck Brook Alpacas
📍12 Bestenheider Rd, Roscoe, NY Get up close with the gentle charm of Buck Brook Alpacas. Visitors can meet the herd, learn about alpaca care, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience. It’s a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy a slower pace in the Catskills.
Catskills Curated
📍7 Erie Ave Suite 105, Narrowsburg, NY Catskills Curated offers a handpicked selection of goods that celebrate local makers and artisans. From home décor to unique gifts, every item tells a story of craftsmanship and creativity. It’s the perfect stop to find something special that captures the spirit of the region.
Catskill Art Space
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📍48 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Catskill Art Space brings contemporary art to life with rotating exhibitions, artist residencies, and engaging community events. It’s a vibrant hub for creativity, where visitors can explore thought-provoking installations and innovative projects. A stop here offers inspiration for both art lovers and curious explorers alike.
Livingston Manor has a little something for everyone, from craft drinks and delicious dining to local shops, art, and outdoor adventures. After a day of exploring, retreat to a cozy Red Cottage stay for a relaxing and charming getaway. Book your stay and experience the best of Livingston Manor up close.
The Catskills and Hudson Valley are home to some of New York State’s most scenic drives, ranging from mountain passes and river-hugging byways to quiet backroads with sweeping views. These routes highlight the region’s diverse landscapes, connecting small towns, state parks, waterfalls, and historic sites along the way. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, the drives below offer some of the best ways to experience the area by car.
Reservoir Road
Image courtesy of Scenic Hudson
📍Ashokan Reservoir Skirting the edge of the Ashokan Reservoir, this road offers some of the most peaceful water and mountain views in the Catskills. It’s especially striking at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the peaks just right. Keep an eye out for walking paths and viewing areas where you can pull over and take it all in.
Route 212
📍Woodstock to Boiceville This short but beautiful stretch links the creative hub of Woodstock with the quieter landscapes near Boiceville. Rolling hills, roadside farm stands, and views of the mountains make it a perfect drive when paired with a stop in town. It’s also a great connector if you’re heading deeper into the Catskills.
Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
📍Port Jervis to Hancock Following the twists of the Delaware River, this drive is full of river bends, historic hamlets, and scenic overlooks. It’s one of the most iconic routes in the region and a favorite for spotting bald eagles in winter. Quaint towns like Narrowsburg and Callicoon make perfect stops along the way.
Route 23
Image courtesy of Howard Wang
📍Catskill to Prattsville Climbing out of the Hudson Valley and into the mountains, Route 23 delivers wide-open views and a true sense of the Catskills’ scale. The scenery shifts from river valley farmland to rugged peaks, making it a rewarding drive year-round. In fall, it’s one of the best foliage routes around.
Route 44/55
📍New Paltz to Kerhonkson This stretch takes you past the dramatic cliffs of the Shawangunk Ridge, where the views are unforgettable. Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park line the route, offering plenty of reasons to stop for a hike or overlook. It’s as much about the journey as the destination here.
Route 23A
📍Kaaterskill Falls Summit Winding through Kaaterskill Clove, this road is steep, curvy, and packed with scenery. Waterfalls, dramatic rock faces, and dense forest make every mile memorable. At the top, you’ll find access to the Kaaterskill Falls trailhead and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway
📍Shokan to Andes Stretching across 52 miles, this byway runs through small towns, farmland, and some of the best mountain scenery in the region. Each village along the route like Phoenicia, Margaretville, and Andes adds its own charm and reason to stop. It’s a drive that captures the essence of the Catskills.
NY 9G
📍Hudson to Rhinebeck Running parallel to the Hudson River, this route links two of the valley’s most vibrant towns. The road passes historic estates, rolling farmland, and glimpses of the river itself. It’s a pleasant, easy drive with plenty of cultural and culinary stops at either end.
Route 344
Image courtesy of The Cultural Landscape Foundation
📍Taconic State Park to Bash Bish Falls This short road leads directly to one of the region’s most dramatic waterfalls, Bash Bish Falls. The drive is tree-lined and quiet, setting the tone for a quick hike to the cascades. It’s an easy addition to a day exploring the Taconic or Berkshire borderlands.
From winding mountain passes to riverfront byways, these drives highlight the variety and beauty of the Catskills and Hudson Valley. Each route offers a different way to experience the region, whether you’re after sweeping vistas, small-town charm, or easy access to outdoor adventures. No matter the season, a scenic drive is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to explore this part of New York.
Rolling hills, charming villages, and winding country roads make Litchfield County one of Connecticut’s dreamiest escapes. From farm-fresh dining to scenic hikes and historic town greens, there’s no shortage of ways to fill a long weekend. Whether you’re here for leaf peeping, antiquing, or simply slowing down, a stay in a Red Cottage home puts you right at the heart of it all.
Community Table
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📍223 Litchfield Turnpike, New Preston, CT Community Table brings fresh, farm-forward dishes to your plate in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Inventive seasonal flavors make every meal feel special. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Litchfield County.
Kent Falls State Park
📍462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT Kent Falls State Park offers scenic waterfalls and peaceful trails perfect for a day outdoors. Pack a picnic or take a stroll while soaking in the natural beauty. It’s a serene escape for hikers and families alike.
The Owl
📍18 E Shore Rd, New Preston, CT The Owl is a cozy spot to savor elevated comfort food with a seasonal twist. Locals and visitors alike flock here for brunch or lunch. Its warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect stop while exploring town.
Music Mountain
📍225 Music Mountain Rd, Falls Village, CT Music Mountain delivers exceptional live music in an intimate, historic setting. Each concert feels personal, and the charm of the venue makes every show memorable. It’s a must for music lovers visiting the area.
Plain Goods
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📍17 E Shore Rd, New Preston, CT Plain Goods is a minimalist’s dream for curated home goods and lifestyle finds. Every item is thoughtfully selected and reflects a clean, timeless aesthetic. It’s a great stop for inspiration or unique gifts.
Krafted Brew Lab
📍725 Bantam Rd, Bantam, CT Krafted Brew Lab blends inventive craft coffee with a welcoming neighborhood vibe. The space is lively and modern, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon pause.
Mohawk Mountain
📍46 Great Hollow Rd, Cornwall, CT Mohawk Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, making it a beloved destination for families. The slopes are welcoming to all skill levels. The surrounding scenery adds to the charm of every visit.
The Well
📍118 Woodbury Rd Route 7, Washington, CT The Well at Mayflower Inn and its Garden Room offers an elegant spa and dining experience. The setting enhances every meal, making it ideal for a special outing. Guests love the approachable yet refined dishes and space.
Action Wildlife
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📍435 Torrington Rd, Goshen, CT Action Wildlife provides a unique opportunity to meet animals from around the world. Educational programs make it fun for the whole family. It’s a one-of-a-kind stop for wildlife enthusiasts.
Infinity Hall
📍20 Greenwoods Rd W, Norfolk, CT Infinity Hall delivers a world-class live music experience in a small, intimate venue. Every seat feels like the front row. The architecture adds to the overall experience.
Kent Falls Brewing Co.
📍33 Camps Rd, Kent, CT Kent Falls Brewing Co. is a local favorite for craft beer lovers. The taproom is welcoming and spacious, perfect for sampling a few brews with friends. Their dedication to quality shines in every pour.
Cornwall Covered Bridge
📍West Cornwall, CT Cornwall Covered Bridge is a beautiful historic landmark spanning the Housatonic River. Walking across the bridge gives a sense of the area’s history and charm. It’s also a perfect photo spot.
Litchfield Distillery
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📍569 Bantam Rd, Litchfield, CT Litchfield Distillery produces craft spirits in small batches with a focus on quality. The tasting room is welcoming and relaxed. It’s a highlight for anyone exploring local beverages.
Privet House
📍13 E Shore Rd, New Preston, CT Privet House offers an emporium of home goods, antiques, and one-of-a-kind items. Each visit is a chance to discover something special for your home or as a gift. The selection is eclectic but curated.
Pergola Home
📍7 E Shore Rd, New Preston, CT Pergola Home is full of thoughtfully curated home goods and lifestyle items. It’s ideal for finding unique pieces or gifts. The store’s selection reflects both style and creativity.
Meraki Food
📍239 West St, Litchfield, CT Meraki Food serves vibrant, contemporary cuisine with bold flavors. It’s a go-to for anyone seeking comfort and creativity on the plate. Every dish feels carefully crafted.
Milton Market
📍14 Cobble Ct, Litchfield, CT Milton Market is a charming general store stocked with curated goods and local treats. It’s the kind of place where browsing is as enjoyable as buying. You’ll find everything from pantry staples to unique gifts.
Appalachian Trail
Image courtesy of The Appalachian Trail Conservancy
📍 Park near US-7 and access the trail from there Appalachian Trail winds through pristine hardwood forest, offering hikers a peaceful escape. Whether for a short walk or longer trek, the scenery and serenity are unmatched.
Bohemian Pizza and Tacos
📍342 Bantam Rd, Litchfield, CT Bohemian Pizza and Tacos delivers casual, flavorful fare with a lively atmosphere. From inventive pizza toppings to creative tacos, it’s a spot that never disappoints.
Warren General
📍10 Cornwall Rd, Warren, CT Warren General is a cozy general store stocked with sandwiches, salads, and pantry essentials. It’s perfect for a quick bite or picking up unique local treats. Visiting here gives a real sense of small-town charm.
From cozy cafes to scenic hikes, historic landmarks, and one-of-a-kind shops, Litchfield County has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended escape, these spots are the perfect starting point for discovering the charm of the region. Make a Red Cottage home your base and explore at your own pace, the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences are waiting just around the corner.
Where lake life meets country charm. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend escape or settling in for a longer stay, this corner of the Hudson Valley offers plenty to fill your days. Think sunrise paddles, leisurely afternoons exploring nearby towns, and dinners with sweeping mountain views. From scenic trails and farm stands to unique shops and local favorites, here’s your guide to soaking up the best near Copake Lake.
Cook & Larder
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📍2642 NY-23, Hillsdale, NY Cook & Larder is a charming spot where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients shine in every dish. Part market, part café, it’s the kind of place where you can grab a beautifully made sandwich, stock up on artisanal pantry goods, or linger over coffee with friends.
Bash Bish Falls Trailhead (From Taconic State Park)
📍396 NY-344, Copake Falls, NY The Bash Bish Falls Trailhead leads you on a scenic trek that crosses from New York into Massachusetts before revealing one of the Northeast’s most breathtaking cascades. Shaded forest paths, rocky ledges, and the sound of rushing water build anticipation until you reach the dramatic, double-drop falls.
Sideshow Vintage Clothing
📍1376 NY-23, Craryville, NY Sideshow Vintage Clothing is a treasure trove for anyone who loves unique fashion with a story. The curated racks are filled with one-of-a-kind pieces, from retro denim and vintage tees to statement accessories that add instant character to any outfit.
Copake Hillsdale Farmers Market
📍9140 Route 22, Hillsdale, NY The Copake Hillsdale Farmers Market is a lively spot celebrating local produce, baked goods, and artisanal finds. Open Saturdays from May through November, it’s the perfect place to stock up on seasonal favorites and enjoy a friendly, community-focused atmosphere.
Random Harvest
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📍1785 NY-23, Craryville, NY Random Harvest is part country market, part café, and all charm. Inside, you’ll find thoughtfully sourced pantry goods, fresh produce, and artisan treats alongside a menu of wholesome dishes made with local ingredients.
Zinnia’s Dinette
📍1843 Route 23, Craryville, NY Zinnia’s Dinette serves fresh New England–style seafood in a cozy, retro-inspired space. Favorites like fish and chips and Rhode Island calamari pair perfectly with sunny outdoor seating. It’s a friendly spot to relax and enjoy a flavorful meal.
Copake Iron Works Historic Site
📍35 Valley View Road, Copake Falls, NY 12517 The Copake Iron Works Historic Site, nestled within Taconic State Park, is a remarkable testament to 19th-century industrial ingenuity. Established in 1845, it stands as one of the most complete ironworks complexes in the Northeast. Visitors can explore these historic structures and enjoy a scenic hike along the Iron Works Heritage Trail, which leads to nearby Bash Bish Falls.
Cooper’s Daughter Spirits
📍 284 State Route 23, Claverack, NY 12513 Cooper’s Daughter Spirits, located on the historic Olde York Farm in the Hudson Valley, is a woman-owned, family-operated distillery celebrating local craftsmanship. Visitors can taste small-batch spirits made from local grains, fruits, and botanicals, including Black Walnut Bourbon and Ramp Vodka.
Roe Jan Brewing Co.
Image courtesy of Roe Jan Brewing Co.
📍32 Anthony Street, Hillsdale, NY Roe Jan Brewing Co. is a charming brewpub in a restored 1850s building. Enjoy house-brewed beers, hearty pub fare, and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends or catching live music.
Copake Lake Boat & Ski
📍281 Lakeview Road, Craryville, NY 12521 Copake Lake Boat & Ski is your go-to spot for lakeside fun and relaxation. They offer a variety of boat rentals including pontoons, kayaks, and paddleboards available by the hour, half-day, or full-day. The on-site snack bar serves up breakfast, lunch, and ice cream, and the bar offers local beers and cocktails.
Twisted Sisters Coffee House
📍 329 White Hill Lane, Hillsdale, NY 12529 At Twisted Sisters Coffee House, every cup feels like a hug in a mug. From muffins and cinnamon rolls to ice cream, the menu caters to a range of tastes, making it a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat.
Klocke Estate
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📍 2554 County Route 27, Hudson, NY 12534 Klocke Estate is a luxury distillery and fine dining destination nestled on 160 acres. Specializing in earth-to-glass brandy and vermouth, the estate employs sustainable agriculture to cultivate acres of vineyards and apple orchards. Visitors can enjoy guided distillery tours, savor seasonal dishes in the elegant restaurant, and take in panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley.
Copake Lake + the surrounding areas bring together the best of the Hudson Valley, from tranquil waters and scenic hikes to charming towns and local flavors you’ll be remembering long after you leave. Consider this your nudge to plan a getaway and discover what makes this lakeside corner so inviting. Book your Copake Lake escape!
Into the northern edge of Delaware County, just where the Catskills start to soften into rolling farmland, you’ll find a stretch of upstate that’s quiet, quirky, and full of charm. Towns like Delhi, Bovina, and Stamford offer a slower pace and a refreshingly unpolished kind of beauty. Think winding country roads, vintage shops, and hidden swimming holes. It’s the kind of place where time stretches out a little longer and the best plan is no plan at all. Stay at a Red Cottage property and see where the weekend takes you.
DELCO
Image courtesy of DLECO
📍95 Main St, Delhi, NY DELCO is a lifestyle brand celebrating rural culture through fashion, design, and authentic storytelling in Upstate New York. Their apparel and goods capture the spirit of country living with a modern edge, blending tradition and creativity in every piece. It’s a fresh take on rural style that feels both genuine and inspired.
Hobart Book Village
📍600-698 Main St. Hobart, NY Known as the “only book village east of the Mississippi,” Hobart Book Village is a bibliophile’s dream. Independent shops line Main Street, each with its own niche, from rare first editions to cozy reads you can curl up with. Come for the books, stay for the charming small-town feel.
Strickland Hollow Tasting Room
📍70 Main St, Delhi, NY Strickland Hollow Tasting Room is a charming spot to sip and savor the Catskills’ best. Specializing in small-batch cider, regional wines, and craft spirits, it offers a curated taste of local flavor in a warm, inviting space. A perfect stop for unwinding after exploring town.
Brushland Eating House
Image courtesy of Brushland Eating House
📍1927 County Hwy 6, Bovina Center, NY Brushland Eating House serves up seasonal, locally inspired dishes in a cozy yet elevated setting. With a menu that changes to highlight the freshest ingredients, every meal feels both comforting and refined. It’s the kind of place where dinner lingers into conversation long after the plates are cleared.
Roam on the Range
📍941 Brockway Rd, Hobart, NY Roam on the Range offers charming goat tours where you can meet, feed, and learn about their friendly herd while soaking in the rolling Catskills scenery. It’s a sweet mix of farm fun and furry companionship, perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone in need of a little goat therapy.
Blue Sky Farm & Winery
📍779 Charcoal Run Rd, Stamford, NY Blue Sky Farm & Winery pairs scenic mountain views with small-batch wines made right on the property. In summer, their blueberry fields burst with color, offering a pick-your-own experience that’s as sweet as the wine tastings inside. It’s a laid-back spot to sip, snack, and take in the beauty of the northern Catskills.
Catskill Scenic Trail
📍Benjamin Rd, Stamford, NY Stretching over 26 miles, the Catskill Scenic Trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing. The old rail bed winds through farmland, forest, and charming hamlets.
Catskill Outpost
📍81 Main St, Stamford, NY Catskill Outpost is a modern general store stocking everything from locally made goods to adventure-ready gear. It’s equal parts stylish and practical.
This & That
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📍110 Main St, Delhi, NY This & That is a charming mix of vintage treasures, handmade goods, and quirky finds that make browsing an adventure. The shelves are a playful blend of the old and the new, from retro kitchenware to locally crafted décor.
Mine Kill Falls State Park
📍161 Mine Kill Rd, North Blenheim, NY Mine Kill Falls is a stunning three-tier waterfall tucked into the park’s lush landscape. Pair your visit with a hike, a swim, or some wildlife spotting.
Hollow
📍84 Main St, Delhi, NY Hollow is a cozy café and bakery where the scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries greets you at the door. Their menu leans on local, seasonal ingredients, making each visit a little different.
Clark Farms Creamery
Image courtesy of Clark Farms Creamery
📍2786 Elk Creek Rd, Delhi, NY Clark Farms Creamery is all about farm-fresh goodness, serving up rich, creamy ice cream and dairy products straight from their herd. The small-town charm pairs perfectly with a cone in hand, whether you’re sitting on the porch or strolling down Main Street.
Bramley Mountain Unit loop from Delhi
📍Bramley Mountain Trailhead, Glen Burnie Rd, Delhi, NY The Bramley Mountain Unit Loop is a rewarding hike that winds through hardwood forests, rocky outcrops, and up to panoramic Catskills views. The loop is just challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, yet still approachable for a relaxed day on the trails. Wildflowers in spring and fiery foliage in fall make it a beauty year-round.
The Lost Bookshop
📍120 Main St, Delhi, NY The Lost Bookshop is a literary hideaway filled with new and used books waiting to be discovered. Its eclectic selection covers everything from contemporary fiction to obscure gems, inviting you to linger and explore.
Northern Delaware County ties together all the best parts of an upstate escape, scenic drives, welcoming communities, and a mix of experiences you’ll be talking about long after you’ve headed home. Consider this your sign to plan that getaway and see what makes this corner of the Catskills so special. Book your Red Cottage homebase!
Perfectly placed for day trips, farmstand finds, and upstate wandering. Elizaville offers a quiet retreat that feels worlds away but keeps you close to the best of the Hudson Valley. Spend your days exploring nearby towns like Rhinebeck, Red Hook, and Tivoli, or keep it local with scenic drives, antique stops, and countryside strolls. With a stay from Red Cottage, you’re perfectly positioned to soak up the charm of the region.
Vosburgh Brewing Company
Image courtesy of Vosburgh Brewing Company
📍1065 Co Rte 19 Barn, Elizaville, NY This farm-based brewery serves up small-batch beers in a beautifully restored barn with sweeping Catskill views. Many of the hops are grown right on the family’s fifth-generation farm, adding a true local touch. Come for a seasonal pint, stay for the laid-back vibes and occasional live music.
Red Hook Stationery Co.
📍7 W Market St, Red Hook, NY Red Hook Stationery Co. is a delightful paper shop tucked right on the village’s main drag. It’s the kind of place where you’ll “just pop in” and leave with a bag full of cards, notebooks, and beautifully designed gifts you didn’t know you needed.
Tivoli Artists Gallery
📍60 Broadway, Tivoli, NY Community-driven and always rotating, the Tivoli Artists Gallery is where local creatives get to shine. Whether it’s paintings, sculpture, or mixed media, there’s always something new to see (and someone passionate behind it).
Historic Village Diner
📍7550 N Broadway, Red Hook, NY Step into the Historic Village Diner and you’re stepping into a retro time capsule. Classic chrome, vintage booths, and all-day breakfasts that hit just right. It’s been around for decades, and once you bite into a stack of pancakes, you’ll understand why.
Aba’s Falafel
Image courtesy of Aba’s Falafel
📍54 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY Aba’s Falafel makes magic out of chickpeas. This Rhinebeck staple keeps it simple and delicious, with fresh-made falafel, house-pickled veggies, and impossibly fluffy pita. Perfect for a quick lunch or farmers market stroll.
Vosburgh Orchards
📍1065 Co Rte 19, Elizaville, NY A visit to Vosburgh Orchards feels like stepping into a quieter, slower-paced season. This fifth-generation farm grows a wide range of heirloom apples, many of which end up in the cider and beer next door at the brewery. Come fall, the fields glow with color and the trees are heavy with fruit, perfect for a scenic stroll or a quick farmstand stop.
Clermont Vineyards & Winery
📍241 County Rte 6, Germantown, NY Clermont Vineyards & Winery pours scenic sips with a view. Grab a glass and settle into the hilltop setting overlooking the Hudson, or do a tasting flight inside their airy, rustic tasting room. Either way, it’s a relaxing detour worth the drive.
Cinnamon Indian Cuisine
📍51 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY Modern Indian flavors meet small-town warmth at Cinnamon Indian Cuisine. It’s a favorite for date nights and long lunches, with standout dishes like saag paneer, biryani, and endless baskets of warm naan.
Greig Farm
Image courtesy of Greig Farm
📍227 Pitcher Ln, Red Hook, NY Goats, berries, and unbeatable views. Greig Farm is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of stop. Pick your own fruit, browse the farm store, and don’t miss the chance to feed the animals while you’re at it.
Upstate Films
📍6415 Montgomery St, Rhinebeck, NY From indie documentaries to international gems, Upstate Films is Rhinebeck’s beloved local theater. It’s cozy, cultured, and just the right size for an afternoon escape into a different world.
Stissing House
📍7801 S Main St, Pine Plains, NY Stissing House is a dreamy country tavern with candlelit charm and serious culinary chops. Helmed by chef Clare de Boer, it’s all about seasonal ingredients, elegant simplicity, and that cozy, transportive vibe you hope every special dinner will have.
Wilcox Memorial Park
📍NY-199, Stanfordville, NY Wilcox Memorial Park is a quiet gem for swimming, picnics, and lazy lake days. With a beach, playgrounds, and hiking trails, it’s a laid-back escape for anyone craving fresh air and a little room to roam.
Land of Oz Toys
Image courtesy of Land of Oz Toys
📍22 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY Land of Oz Toys is a wonderland for kids and nostalgic grownups alike. Shelves are packed with puzzles, puppets, games, and imaginative finds, perfect for gifts or rainy day entertainment.
Locavore Market
📍29 W Market St, Red Hook, NY Locavore Market is where to stock up on local cheeses, small-batch snacks, and thoughtfully sourced pantry staples. Come for the coffee and pastries, stay for the adorable market vibe that makes you wish this was your neighborhood grocery.
Clermont State Historic Site
📍1 Clermont Ave, Germantown, NY Clermont State Historic Site blends riverside grandeur with Revolutionary-era history. Stroll the formal gardens, take in the views of the Hudson, or catch a tour of the Livingston family estate, it’s all stately and serene.
Lasting Joy Brewery
📍485 Lasher Rd, Tivoli, NY Lasting Joy Brewery lives up to its name with small-batch beers and sunny lawn vibes. Whether you’re sipping a citrusy pale ale or posting up at a picnic table for live music, it’s an easygoing spot for a laid-back afternoon.
Fisher Center at Bard
Image courtesy of Fisher Center at Bard
📍60 Manor Ave, Annandale-On-Hudson, NY The Fisher Center at Bard is a destination in itself. With architecture by Frank Gehry and a bold lineup of performances, it’s the kind of place where experimental dance and orchestral music coexist beautifully.
Whether you’re planning slow mornings or packed itineraries, Elizaville makes it easy to settle in and set out. Discover the rhythm of upstate life, one farmstand, trail, or tucked-away café at a time. Book your Red Cottage home base and start exploring.
There’s nothing like a summer morning at the market. Fresh berries, warm bread, and the hum of local life fill the air. From the rolling hills of the Berkshires to charming Catskills towns and the fertile Hudson Valley, these farmers markets are full of peak-season produce, handmade goods, and that unbeatable small-town buzz. Whether you’re stocking up for a weekend picnic or just browsing with a coffee in hand, these are the stops worth planning your morning around, especially if you’re staying with Red Cottage.
Great Barrington Farmers Market
Image courtesy of Great Barrington Farmers Market
📍Church St, Great Barrington, MA 01230 The Great Barrington Farmers Market brings serious charm every Saturday, with over 40 vendors offering everything from organic produce to local blooms. Live music and baked treats make it a social scene as much as a shopping one. It’s the kind of market that turns a quick grocery run into a perfect morning.
Pittsfeild Farmers Market
📍100 First St, Pittsfield, MA 01201 Set on Pittsfield’s historic Common, this farmers market adds extra energy to your weekend with fresh veggies, handmade goods, and community vibes. It’s as much about connection as it is about food. Come for the produce, stay for the people.
Lenox Farmers Market
📍134 Main Street, Lenox, MA 01240 With its tidy rows of farm stands and artisan booths, the Lenox Farmers Market is a quiet gem. Tucked in the heart of this small cultural town, the market has local cheese, maple syrup, wildflowers, and even live folk music on some days. It’s a mellow must-stop for a Friday afternoon.
Kingston Farmers Market
📍285 Wall St, Kingston, NY 12401 Kingston’s farmers market is big, busy, and packed with variety. Dozens of vendors line the street selling fresh mushrooms, prepared foods, local wines, and pantry staples. It’s a great place to catch a taste of the Hudson Valley’s creative spirit.
Rhinebeck Farmers Market
📍61 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 On Sundays, the Rhinebeck Farmers Market transforms a village parking lot into a buzzing hub of food, music, and friendly faces. The lineup includes everything from gourmet pickles to Hudson Valley duck. A true staple for locals and weekenders alike.
Beacon Farmers Market
Image courtesy of Beacon Farmers Market
📍223 Main St, Beacon, NY 12508 With the mountains as a backdrop, the Beacon Farmers Market makes grocery shopping feel like a scenic field trip. It’s open year-round and features sustainably grown produce, small-batch sauces, and the occasional pop-up performance. Bring a tote—and an appetite.
Pakatakan Farmers Market
📍46676 NY-30, Halcottsville, NY 12438 Held in a historic round barn, the Pakatakan Farmers Market is pure Catskills charm. Local farmers, bakers, and craftspeople gather here on Saturdays, offering everything from heritage eggs to trout jerky. The setting alone is worth the drive.
Callicoon Farmers Market
📍A Dorrer Dr, Callicoon, NY 12723 Nestled by the creek and surrounded by rolling hills, the Callicoon Farmers Market is both scenic and stacked with local finds. Organic produce, fresh bread, and small-batch ferments fill the tents. Don’t be surprised if you end up staying for lunch by the river.
Ellenville Farmers Market
📍11 Market St, Ellenville, NY 12428 The Ellenville Farmers Market may be small, but it’s full of heart. Local farms, craftspeople, and musicians make Saturday mornings extra lively. It’s a good spot to stock up on essentials while chatting with growers who actually dug up your carrots.
Barryville Farmers Market
📍3405 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 A community favorite, the Barryville Farmers Market pulls in some of the best small farms and food makers in the Upper Delaware region. There’s live music, fresh flowers, and food trucks most weekends. It’s one of those markets that turns a sleepy Saturday into a celebration.
Hudson Farmers Market
Image courtesy of Hudson Farmers Market
📍6th and, Columbia St, Hudson, NY 12534 The Hudson Farmers Market is the oldest and largest in Columbia County, and it shows. Dozens of vendors pack this downtown lot with fruit, veg, flowers, wine, and hot food. It’s a Saturday morning staple with serious flavor.
Catskill Farmers Market
📍145 Water St, Catskill, NY 12414 Though smaller than some, the Catskill Farmers Market offers a snapshot of the region’s bounty. Expect mushrooms, jams, bread, and the occasional herbal tincture. It’s got that cozy, crunchy Catskills feel that makes shopping fun.
From the Berkshires to the Catskills, these farmers markets offer more than just fresh produce, they’re local snapshots of the communities that make this region so special. Whether you’re shopping for dinner, sipping a small-batch cider, or just browsing in the sun, there’s no better way to spend a weekend morning. Tote bag and Red Cottage stay recommended.
Tucked along the Delaware River, Barryville is a charming home base for exploring the Upper Delaware region. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Think scenic hikes, indie shops, hidden eateries, and lazy river days. With cool neighbors like Narrowsburg, Eldred, and Milford just a short drive away, you’re perfectly positioned for adventure.
Barryville Oasis + Bodega
Image courtesy of Barryville Oasis + Bodega
📍3392 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Equal parts roadside stop and community hangout, Barryville Oasis + Bodega is not your average gas station. Inside, you’ll find a cozy cantina pouring Stickett Inn cider and slinging tacos, quesadillas, and crispy chicken tenders that have earned cult-favorite status.
Clobr
📍3362 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Clobr is a curated clothing boutique that brings stylish essentials for men, women, and kids to the Catskills. Inside, you’ll find approachable everyday wear alongside standout accessories and seasonal pieces. The friendly team makes shopping feel personal and easy, whether you’re updating your wardrobe or hunting for a perfect gift
River’s Edge
📍3351 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Tucked right along the water, River’s Edge brings wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and prime river views to Barryville. It’s especially lively on weekends, with music, a buzzing crowd, and plenty of patio space to soak it all in. Go for golden hour and stay for dinner.
Kittatinny Canoes
Image courtesy of Kittatinny Canoes
📍3854 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Get out on the Delaware River with help from the experts at Kittatinny Canoes, where you can rent canoes, kayaks, or tubes for a mellow float or full-day paddle. You can even camp at the Barryville location. They’ve been a staple of the area for decades, making it easy for first-timers and seasoned adventurers alike to enjoy the water.
Stickett Inn Café
📍3380 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 The Stickett Inn Café serves up cheeky charm with strong coffee, loaded breakfast sandwiches, and an always-friendly vibe. Grab a seat outside when the weather’s nice and enjoy one of the best people-watching perches in town.
Barryville Farmers’ Market
📍3405 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Farm-fresh produce, handmade goods, and strong community vibes make the Barryville Farmers’ Market a weekly favorite. Open Saturdays, it’s a great stop for local veggies, fresh bread, and small-batch everything.
La Cigogne
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📍90 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 La Cigogne brings a little French flair with cozy bistro vibes and a rotating menu of classics. It’s a great spot for a long lunch or romantic dinner, especially when you want something that feels both elevated and inviting.
Cottage Wines
📍3432 NY-97, Barryville, NY 12719 Cottage Wines is a sweet little bottle shop specializing in natural wines and small producers. The owners are welcoming and always down to help you find the perfect bottle for your weekend dinner or river picnic.
The Heron
📍40 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 A warm and inviting wine bar and restaurant, The Heron is known for its seasonal menu and signature fried chicken. With views of the river and a cozy dining room, it’s a go-to for weekend brunch or a celebratory dinner.
Big Eddy Brewing Co.
📍93 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 Big Eddy Brewing Co. brings fresh craft beer and small-town charm to a cozy corner of Narrowsburg. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to sample a flight or catch up with friends after a day by the river.
Monteleone Gardens
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📍582 State Rte 55, Eldred, NY 12732 Monteleone Gardens is a family-run hydroponic greenhouse growing vibrant produce year-round in the heart of Barryville. Their lettuces, herbs, and greens are as fresh as it gets. Stop by the farmstand to taste the difference and stock up on some of the region’s most thoughtfully grown greens.
The Laundrette
📍20 5th St, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 The Laundrette delivers wood-fired pizza, natural wine, and river views in Narrowsburg’s classic 1970s laundromat–turned–restaurant. The seasonal pies are the stars, and the casual patio makes it a lingering kind of lunch spot.
The Homestead Restaurant
📍1040 State Rte 55, Eldred, NY 12732 The Homestead Restaurant + Lounge has returned as a modern farm‑to‑table steakhouse set within the beautiful Eldred Preserve. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows frame peaceful pond and hillside views while you enjoy locally sourced plates like house‑aged steaks, trout, and bourbon‑glazed duck.
Sullivan Public
Image courtesy of Sullivan Public
📍16 Proctor Rd, Eldred, NY 12732 Sullivan Public is a vibrant community arts hub tucked behind the library in Eldred. You can drop in for weekend workshops, kids’ programming, or hands-on classes like pickling parties and pottery. The bright, flexible space feels welcoming and creative. It’s a spot where locals and visitors come together to learn, make, and connect
Studio Jessie Lazar
📍16 Proctor Rd, Eldred, NY 12732 At Sullivan Public, you’ll find Studio Jessie Lazar, where all pottery is handcrafted onsite by Jessie in a space that doubles as gallery, workshop, and boutique. The light-filled room is filled with clean porcelain vessels, cups, vases, and ceramics that feel both playful and timeless.
Looking for the perfect place to stay while you explore it all? Red Cottage has you covered with cozy, design-forward homes tucked into the most charming corners of Barryville and beyond. Whether you’re after river views, a woodsy escape, or a spot near your favorite farmstand, we’ll help you settle in and feel right at home.
Tucked between the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, Saugerties is the kind of town that surprises you in the best way. Think waterfall hikes minutes from Main Street, cozy cafés next to vintage shops, and an artsy, laid-back vibe that makes it easy to settle in. Whether you’re here for the weekend or just passing through, Saugerties is full of spots worth lingering for. Here’s where to eat, shop, and explore while you’re in town.
The Local
Image courtesy of The Local
📍16 John St, Saugerties, NY The Local is a beautifully restored 1800s chapel turned music venue and arts hub. With stained-glass windows, soaring ceilings, and a welcoming vibe, it hosts everything from jazz and folk to indie and world music. It’s the go-to spot for a night of live sound in a space that feels both intimate and grand.
Enoki
📍90 Main St, Saugerties, NY Enoki is a thoughtfully curated shop that blends Asian pantry staples with foraged vintage finds, offering a unique shopping experience. The store features a selection of products including homemade kimchi, dan dan sauce, matcha, and sweet potato noodles. In addition to pantry items, Enoki offers vintage clothing and home goods, creating a space that celebrates both cultural heritage and contemporary style.
Alleyway Ice Cream
📍135 Partition St, Saugerties, NY A must for anyone with a sweet tooth, Alleyway Ice Cream turns out small-batch scoops in big, bold flavors. From Thai Cookies and Cream to Ube Heath Bar Crunch, each one is handmade and packed with personality. Don’t skip the waffle cone.
Seamon Park
Image courtesy of Seamon Park
📍5 Malden Ave, Saugerties, NY This pocket-sized park punches above its weight, especially in the fall when it bursts with color. With views of the mountains and rows of mums in bloom, it’s a local favorite for a quiet stroll or a photo op. Bonus: Seamon Park is walking distance from town.
Falling Waters Preserve
📍Dominican Ln, Saugerties, NY A quick drive from downtown, this riverside preserve is ideal for a shady walk or light hike. Trails wind past waterfalls, old stone walls, and quiet river views. It’s one of those spots that locals return to again and again.
Brine Barrel
📍237 Partition St, Saugerties, NY This tiny takeout gem packs a serious punch. Brine Barrel slings subs, sandwiches, house-pickled everything, and creative specials like the Old World Italian. Order ahead and take your meal on the road, these are perfect to pack for hikes, walks and picnics.
The Orpheum by Upstate Films
📍198 Partition St, Saugerties, NY Housed in a restored theater, The Orpheum by Upstate Films brings indie movies, documentaries, and cult classics to town. The space is charming and the programming always thoughtful. A perfect rainy-day plan or low-key night out.
Saugerties Lighthouse
Image courtesy of Saugerties Lighthouse
📍Lighthouse Dr, Saugerties, NY The walk to Saugerties Lighthouse is peaceful and just under a mile each way, with marsh views and river breezes the whole route. At the end, the historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Hudson and a perfect place to pause.
Miss Lucy’s Kitchen
📍90 Partition St, Saugerties, NY Miss Lucy’s Kitchen is a cozy mainstay known for its farm-to-table comfort food. Think roasted chicken, seasonal pastas, and house-made desserts that feel just the right amount of indulgent. It’s relaxed, local, and always satisfying.
Inquiring Minds Bookstore
📍65 Partition St, Saugerties, NY Inquiring Minds Bookstore is a local go-to for new reads, old favorites, and that cozy bookstore energy. You’ll find everything from bestsellers to quirky zines, plus a solid selection for kids. Pop in for a quiet browse or a last-minute gift.
Josie’s Coffee Shoppe
📍 174 Partition Street, Saugerties, NY 12477 This charming Main Street café delivers expertly brewed espresso, fresh pastries, and a warm, vintage-inspired vibe. Whether you’re catching up with friends or seeking a cozy solo moment by the window, Josie’s is the perfect spot.
Saugerties blends small-town charm with a creative edge, making it one of the Hudson Valley’s most rewarding weekend escapes. Between waterfall walks, indie bookshops, and standout bites, there’s plenty to keep you exploring. Book a stay with Red Cottage to soak it all in at your own pace and give yourself time for one more scoop, stroll, or sunset by the river.
Every summer, Upstate Art Weekend transforms the Hudson Valley and Catskills into one big open-air gallery. With exhibits tucked into barns, performances in meadows, and studios opening their doors, it’s the perfect excuse to hit the road and see what’s blooming beyond the city. Let this be your guide to the region’s most compelling creative moments.
Foreland Open Studios
Image courtesy of Foreland
📍111 Water St, Catskill, NY Foreland’s annual Open Studios is a highlight of the weekend, with three buildings full of working artists inviting you into their creative worlds. Meet painters, sculptors, and makers where the magic actually happens. Grab a coffee from Willow located in the building and spend a few hours wandering.
Harold Stevenson Art Omi
📍1405 County Route 22, Ghent, NY Less Real Than My Routine Fantasy is a sweeping survey of works by Harold Stevenson, best known for his bold explorations of masculinity, beauty, and queer identity. Spanning decades of his practice, the show invites viewers into a deeply personal and often provocative world. Set within the striking architecture of Art Omi‘s gallery, it’s one of the weekend’s most compelling solo exhibitions.
Macedonia Institute x Ten Barn Farm
📍1142 County Route 22, Ghent, NY Macedonia Institute brings its curatorial edge to Ten Barn Farm, pairing contemporary works with wide-open skies and rolling pastures. The space itself blurs the line between installation and landscape. It’s a thoughtfully layered show in a setting that begs you to slow down and take it all in.
The Campus
Image courtesy of The Campus
📍341 NY-217, Hudson, NY Just across the bridge from Foreland, The Campus hosts a series of rotating exhibitions across several artist-run spaces. It’s experimental, engaging, and packed with emerging talent. Definitely worth a detour (or a deep dive).
Mary MacGill Sculptural Jewelry Exhibit
📍212 Main St, Germantown, NY Jewelry becomes sculpture in this special exhibit at Mary MacGill’s sunlit studio. Known for her organic forms and delicate goldwork, MacGill presents new pieces that blur the line between adornment and art object. A must-see for design lovers.
Noisemakers Dance Party at Assembly
📍236 Wall St, Kingston, NY Noisemakers Dance Party is the official kickoff event for Upstate Art Weekend, a celebratory evening that doubles as a fundraiser for abortion access. With beats from Andy Pry of Tiki Disco and Lovetempo (Mattie Safer of Poolside / The Rapture), the vibe is electric and inclusive. It’s the perfect way to dance into the weekend and show some love for a cause, 100 % of proceeds benefit reproductive justice.
Art21 Screening + Artist Talk at Catskill Art Space
Image courtesy of Art21
📍48 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Settle in for a special screening by Art21, showcasing followed by short documentary films on the artistic practices of James Turrell and Arlene Shechet, both of whose work will be on view at CAS. After there will be artist talk and community conversation. The space is intimate and the programming always sharp. A great way to connect with the ideas behind the work and the people making it.
Art Fair at Woodstock School of Art
📍2470 NY-212, Woodstock, NY This juried art fair brings together regional talent across mediums, all set against the historic backdrop of the Woodstock School of Art. Browse paintings, prints, sculpture, and more while mingling with artists on site. It’s casual, community-driven, and full of fresh finds.
Upstate Art Weekend offers something for every kind of art lover, from immersive installations and intimate screenings to lively dance parties and open studios. Whether you’re chasing inspiration or just looking to soak in the creative energy, these events invite you to experience the region in a fresh, vibrant way. Plan your route, gather your crew, and get ready to dive deep into a weekend where art is everywhere you turn. Book a Red Cottage getaway and turn your art-filled weekend into a true retreat.
With winding trails, hidden waterfalls, and lakes that shimmer under the summer sun, the Poconos is a natural playground begging to be explored. Paddle through quiet coves, hike to sweeping mountaintop views, or take the scenic route and stop for every overlook. From forest walks and river runs to afternoons that end around the campfire, it’s easy to fill your days with fresh air and just the right amount of adventure. In the Poconos, the best memories start outside.
Kittatinny Canoes
Image courtesy of Kittatinny Canoes
📍1147 Delaware Dr, Matamoras, PA Floating the Delaware is a Poconos rite of passage. Kayak, canoe, or tube your way along the peaceful riverbanks, where wildlife sightings and wooded views are all part of the ride. Local outfitters like Kittatinny make it easy to plan a day on the water.
Hawk Falls
📍3 Family Camp Rd White Haven, PA An easy walk through the woods leads to Hawk Falls, a hidden cascade that’s perfect for a mid-hike cool-down. The trail is short but scenic, with just enough rocky patches to feel like an adventure. A great payoff for a relatively mellow hike.
Lehigh Gorge Trail
📍1 Susquehanna St, Jim Thorpe, PA (Access to Lehigh Gorge Trail) Hop on the Lehigh Gorge Trail for a breezy bike ride past waterfalls, canyon walls, and forested riverside stretches. It’s smooth, mostly downhill, and loaded with views. Rentals and shuttles in town make it beginner-friendly and easy to navigate.
Bushkill Falls
Image courtesy of Bushkill Falls
📍138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is a series of dramatic cascades framed by wooded boardwalks and forest trails. Grab a trail map and take your time exploring the full loop.
Mountain Creek Riding Stable
📍6190 Paradise Valley Rd, Cresco, PA Take in the scenery from horseback on a guided ride through woods, fields, and stream crossings. No experience? No problem. At Mountain Creek Riding Stable these gentle trail horses and experienced guides make it an easygoing adventure for all levels.
Big Pocono State Park Summit
📍Camelback Rd, Tannersville, PA For some of the best views in the region, head up to the summit of Camelback Mountain at Big Pocono State Park. You can drive to the top or hike your way there but either way, the wide-open overlook is worth the climb. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical.
Promised Land State Park
📍100 Lower Lake Rd, Greentown, PA A peaceful spot for fishing, paddling, or just soaking up the lake breeze. Promised Land offers two scenic lakes surrounded by lush trails and picnic-perfect clearings. Bring a book, a blanket, and make a day of it.
Boulder Field
Image courtesy of Pocono Mountains
📍Boulder Field Trail, White Haven, PA This massive, glacier-formed boulder field feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Kids will love climbing the rocks, and geology fans will be fascinated by the natural history. It’s weird, wonderful, and totally one-of-a-kind. Boulder Trail is 6.5 miles out and back of pure beauty.
The Poconos are packed with natural beauty and just the right mix of adventure and ease, perfect for a weekend escape that feels a world away. Hike, paddle, bike, or just kick back by the lake and watch the sun do its thing. Make it a full-on reset with a Red Cottage stay nearby so you’ve got a cozy base to come home to after every outing.
Perched above the Delaware River, Narrowsburg is a tiny town with an outsized sense of style. Known for its creative energy, indie spirit, and postcard-worthy views, it’s the kind of place that pulls you in and makes you want to stay awhile. With a mix of art galleries, vintage gems, great food, and river adventures, Narrowsburg is a Catskills favorite that punches well above its weight. Here’s where to eat, shop, and explore while you’re there. Make it a a long weekend with Red Cottage so you don’t miss a thing!
Delaware Valley Arts Alliance
Image courtesy of Delaware Valley Arts Alliance
📍Location: 37 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY Delaware Valley Arts Alliance anchors the town’s creative spirit with rotating exhibitions, performances, and events that showcase regional and national talent. It’s part gallery, part community hub, and always a great reason to slow down and soak up some culture. Stop in and see what’s on — there’s always something worth lingering for.
2 Queens Coffee
📍Location: 90 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY 2 Queens Coffee serves up exceptional espresso with small-town warmth and big-city quality. The shop is bright and airy, with just enough seating to sip slowly or catch up with a friend. Don’t skip the house-made pastries or their rotating specialty drinks.
Lander’s River Trips
📍Location: 5961 NY-97, Narrowsburg, NY Lander’s River Trips makes getting out on the Delaware effortless and fun, whether you’re tubing, kayaking, or just floating the day away. It’s the perfect way to see Narrowsburg from a new angle and soak in the river views. Bring sunscreen and a good attitude — they’ll handle the rest.
The Heron
📍Location: 40 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY The Heron has a devoted following for good reason. Their fried chicken is legendary, and the rest of the menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients with elevated comfort food flair. Snag a table by the window for small-town charm and a seriously good meal.
The Laundrette
Image courtesy of The Laundrette
📍Location: 20 5th St, Narrowsburg, NY Pizza, a river view, and natural wine? That’s the magic combo at The Laundrette. Their wood-fired pies are as beautiful as they are delicious, and the backyard patio is the kind of place you’ll want to settle into for hours.
The Tusten Cup
📍Location:8 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY The Tusten Cup is your morning go-to, serving up breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, and all the coffee classics. It’s casual, cozy, and usually buzzing with friendly faces. Grab a booth or a seat outside and enjoy the slow start to your day.
Velvet Maple
📍Location: 90 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY The Velvet Maple mixes fashion, home goods, and just the right amount of glamour. You’ll find chic clothing, statement accessories, and gifts you didn’t know you needed. It’s stylish without trying too hard, a little Narrowsburg magic.
The Chi Hive
Image courtesy of The Chi Hive
📍Location: 22 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY The Chi Hive is part wellness studio, part art space, and all about good energy. They offer everything from yoga and pilates to workshops, pop-ups, and creative classes. Whether you’re stretching or sketching, it’s a place to feel grounded and inspired.
River Gallery
📍Location: 8 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY The River Gallery showcases fine art, ceramics, and handcrafted jewelry in a thoughtfully curated space right on Main Street. It’s small but mighty, with work from local and regional artists that always feels fresh. A must-visit for collectors and casual browsers alike.
One Grand Books
📍Location: 60 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY One Grand Books curates reading lists from artists, authors, and thinkers you actually want to hear from. The shop itself is cozy, smartly stocked, and full of literary gems. If you leave without a book in hand, we’ll be surprised.
Three Hammers Winery
Image courtesy of Three Hammers Winery
📍Location: 188 Flint Hill Rd, Milford, PA (about 20 min from Narrowsburg) Three Hammers Winery offers tastings in a barn-turned-wine-paradise surrounded by rolling hills and vineyard charm. Their small-batch wines lean dry and elegant, and the setting is pure relaxation. Bring a picnic or just sip and stay awhile.
Narrowsburg may be small, but it packs in everything you need for a memorable escape: good food, inspiring art, a touch of adventure, and plenty of charm. Whether you spent the day by the river or wandering through town, chances are you’ll leave already dreaming about your next visit. Book your Red Cottage Narrowsburg escape today!
The Berkshires may be known for its mountain views and cultural landmarks, but it’s also home to a growing scene of craft breweries, small-batch distilleries, and orchard-based cideries worth raising a glass to. From cozy taprooms pouring hazy IPAs to scenic farms serving crisp, dry ciders and locally distilled spirits, this region is full of flavorful surprises. Whether you’re here for a weekend or just passing through, here are the best places to drink local in the Berkshires.
Berkshire Cider Project
Image courtesy of Berkshire Cider Project
📍Location: 508 State Rd, North Adams, MA Berkshire Cider Project presses dry, crisp ciders with a modern twist inside the historic Greylock Works building. Their bottles are as pretty as they are drinkable, with seasonal releases and tasting flights that keep things fresh. It’s a laid-back space where cider meets design.
The Distillery at Greylock WORKS
📍Location: 506 State Rd, North Adams, MA The Distillery at Greylock WORKS brings a modern edge to traditional spirits, all crafted in a beautifully restored mill. With a focus on small-batch vodka, gin, and whiskey, every pour reflects the care and creativity of the Berkshires. Sip a flight, tour the stills, and soak in the sleek, industrial charm of this one-of-a-kind space.
Berkshire Mountain Distillers
📍Location: 356 S Main St, Sheffield, MA Berkshire Mountain Distillers crafts award-winning spirits using local ingredients and mountain spring water. From small-batch bourbon to gin infused with regional botanicals, everything is smooth, complex, and made on-site. Don’t miss the tasting room or their on-site cocktail bar.
Hilltop Orchards
Image courtesy of Hilltop Orchards
📍Location: 508 Canaan Rd, Richmond, MA At Hilltop Orchards, cider tasting comes with sweeping views and orchard walks. Home to Furnace Brook Winery, this spot also serves up house-made hard cider that’s dry, crisp, and great with a view. You can sip by the fire in winter or picnic in the grass come summer.
Bright Ideas Brewing
📍Location: 111 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA Bright Ideas Brewing sits right on the MASS MoCA campus, making it the perfect post-art pint stop. Their beers are unpretentious and flavorful, with a strong local following and plenty of patio space. Grab a flight and soak up the creative energy around you.
Hot Plate Brewing Co.
📍Location: 1 School St, Pittsfield, MA Hot Plate Brewing Co. is woman- and Latina-owned, brewing bold beers with big personality. Their branding is playful, their playlists are excellent, and the beer list ranges from hazy IPAs to creative limited releases. It’s the kind of spot that turns first-timers into regulars.
Balderdash Cellars
Image courtesy of Balderdash Cellar
📍Location: 81 State Rd, Richmond, MA Balderdash Cellars is all about small-batch wines made with a healthy dose of irreverence. The tasting room is cozy and upbeat, with beautiful vineyard views and fun labels that don’t take themselves too seriously. Come for the wine, stay for the lawn games and good vibes.
Carr’s Ciderhouse
📍Location: 295 River Dr, Hadley, MA Carr’s Ciderhouse makes small-batch cider, shrubs, and vinegars on a historic farm along the Connecticut River. Their ciders are tart, complex, and often infused with foraged ingredients. It’s a little off the beaten path, but well worth the detour for the tasting alone.
Antimony Brewing
📍Location: 55 Pittsfield Rd, Lenox, MA Antimony Brewing brings big-city brewpub energy just outside of Lenox. With a scratch kitchen, sleek interior, and thoughtfully brewed beers, it’s a fresh take on a classic beer hall. Their events calendar is packed with live music, and the crowd is always buzzing.
Barrington Brewery
Image courtesy of Barrington Brewery
📍Location: 420 Stockbridge Rd, Great Barrington, MA Barrington Brewery pairs hearty pub food with a rotating lineup of house-made beers. Their oatmeal stout is a local favorite, but there’s something for every taste on tap. Solar-powered and community-driven, this place has been a Berkshires staple for years.
From mountaintop orchards to downtown taprooms, the Berkshires know how to pour a good time. Whether you’re chasing crisp cider, bold beer, or a perfectly aged spirit, there’s a spot on this list ready to welcome you in. Book your Red Cottage Berkshires stay and make a weekend of it, cheers to sipping local!
The Northeast brings a rhythm all its own. Live music echoing through valleys, stages tucked into forests and fields, and towns that come alive with energy and sound. These festivals offer more than just a great lineup; they’re a reason to explore, connect, and celebrate the season. Here are our top music festivals worth traveling for.
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
Image courtesy of Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
📍Location: 1 Poultney Rd, Oak Hill, NY Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival has been a summertime staple for decades, drawing legends and newcomers alike to its scenic hillside stages. Camp under the stars, catch a sunrise jam session, and experience one of the most joyful weekends in the Catskills. It’s more than music, it’s tradition.
Meadowlark
📍Location: Stone Ridge Orchard, Stone Ridge, NY Meadowlark is a newer festival, but it already feels essential. This thoughtfully curated gathering blends music, poetry, and nature into a day of gentle magic. With scenic views and a slow-paced schedule, it’s perfect for those who like their festivals soulful and serene.
Woodsist Festival
Image courtesy of Woodstist Festival
📍Location: Arrowood Farms, Accord, NY Woodsist Festival brings indie rock’s warmest hearts and coolest bands to a laid-back Catskills farm. Hosted by the folks behind Woodsist Records, it’s a low-key, high-vibe weekend of live sets, local beer, and open fields. Think of it as your dream backyard show with better sound and scenery.
Hello Inclusion
📍Location: 200 Hurd Rd Bethel, NY Hello Inclusion is all about celebrating neurodiversity, creativity, and connection. This inclusive festival offers live music, art experiences, and sensory-friendly zones in a setting that feels open-hearted and welcoming. It’s as much about community as it is about the lineup.
Summer Hoot
Image courtesy of Summer Hoot
📍Location: Ashokan Center, Olivebridge, NY The Summer Hoot is a family-friendly folk festival set in the woods, where nature and music go hand in hand. There’s something for everyone, from kids’ activities and local food to singalongs and intimate performances from beloved folk musicians. It’s the kind of weekend that fills your cup.
Rosendale Street Festival
📍Location: Main Street, Rosendale, NY The Rosendale Street Festival turns this small river town into one giant block party. With over 70 bands on multiple stages, local food vendors, artists, and parades, it’s a joyful explosion of creativity. Come for the music, stay for the community spirit.
From bluegrass hillsides to orchard stages and downtown street parties, the Hudson Valley and Catskills know how to throw a festival. Each event offers a unique mix of music, art, and local flavor, with something to discover around every corner. Find your rhythm, grab your crew, and plan a getaway that hits all the right notes.
Callicoon, New York, is where countryside charm meets creative flair. Perched on the banks of the Delaware River, this Catskills town buzzes with indie shops, delicious eats, and a warm community feel that keeps visitors coming back. We’re spotlighting spots that showcase everything we love about this little river town. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a leisurely day trip, Callicoon is calling. Time to plan your escape.
Callicoon Theater
Image courtesy of Callicoon Theater
📍Location: 30 Upper Main St, Callicoon, NY Callicoon Theater is the oldest continually operating movie theater in the Catskills, and somehow it still feels like a hidden gem. With indie flicks, vintage seats, and a glowing marquee, it’s pure small-town movie magic. Grab some popcorn and lean into the charm.
Pollinator Spirits
📍Location: 16 Upper Main St, Callicoon, NY Tucked in a hillside barn, Pollinator Spirits distills small-batch gin, vodka, and more using locally sourced botanicals. It’s warm, earthy, and a little bit wild. Stop by the tasting room to sip something unexpected and beautifully balanced.
Upward Brewing Co.
📍Location: 171 Main St Box 1015, Livingston Manor, NY (25 minutes from Callicoon) Upward Brewing Co. combines stellar craft beers with panoramic mountain views. The taproom has a cool, laid-back energy and the trails out back are perfect for a pre- or post-pint hike. Don’t miss the “Elevation” IPA…it lives up to the name.
One Grand Books
Image courtesy of One Grand Books
📍Location: 60 Main St, Narrowsburg, NY One Grand Books is a cozy literary outpost with a unique twist, every title is handpicked by tastemakers, artists, and writers. The shop is small but mighty, and full of great surprises. If you love books with a backstory, this is your place.
Callicoon Wine Merchant
📍Location: 30 A Dorrer Dr, Callicoon, NY Callicoon Wine Merchant keeps things low-intervention and high quality with a sharp selection of natural and organic wines. The space doubles as a wine bar, so you can sip before you commit. Staff picks are always spot-on.
Seminary Hill
📍Location: 43 Wagner Ln, Callicoon, NY Seminary Hill is a hilltop cidery with sweeping views and seriously good cider. From dry to aromatic, each pour reflects the orchard it came from. Stick around for a tasting flight on the deck—you won’t want to leave.
Nest Catskills
📍Location: 34 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Nest Catskills is part design shop, part home inspiration wonderland. From linens to lighting, everything here feels curated and calm. Come in for a candle, leave dreaming about a whole new living room.
The DeBruce
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📍Location: 982 Debruce Rd, Livingston Manor, NY Dining at The DeBruce feels like being let in on a delicious secret. With a hyper-local tasting menu and sweeping valley views, it’s a culinary experience wrapped in Catskills beauty. Book ahead—it’s special occasion territory for a reason.
Old Souls NY
📍Location: 46 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Old Souls NY is a rustic-meets-modern general store with a little bit of everything: fly fishing gear, heritage clothing, outdoor essentials, and hard-to-find local goods. It’s a great place to stock up before hitting the trails—or just browse with a coffee in hand.
Sunshine Colony
📍Location: 47 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY Sunshine Colony is a cocktail bar with cozy indoor vibes and a sun-drenched patio out back. The drinks are creative without being fussy, and the snacks hit just right. It’s the kind of place where one round turns into two.
Buck Brook Alpacas
📍Location: 12 Bestenheider Rd, Roscoe, NY Buck Brook Alpacas is a wholesome detour where you can meet, feed, and even walk with a herd of curious, fluffy alpacas. Great for kids, better for your camera roll, and guaranteed to make you smile. Don’t forget to check out the farm shop on your way out.
Catskills Curated
📍Location: 7 Erie Ave Suite 105, Narrowsburg, NY Catskills Curated lives up to its name with artisan-made goods, from hand-poured candles to farm-sourced snacks and pottery. It’s the kind of place where gifting yourself is totally justified. Everything feels thoughtful, useful, and a little luxurious.
Homestedt
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📍Location: 6 Pearl St, Livingston Manor, NY Homestedt blends Scandinavian design with upstate sensibility. You’ll find wool blankets, handmade soaps, and beautifully understated homewares.
J Ville Bake Shop
📍Location: 4906 NY-52 Jeffersonville, NY 12748 J Ville Bake Shop offers serious pastries worth the 15 minute drive out of town. From buttery croissants to gooey cinnamon rolls, everything is baked with love and a little extra flair. Come early or risk missing your favorite.
Catskill Fly Fishing Museum
📍Location: 1031 Old Rte 17, Livingston Manor, NY The Catskill Fly Fishing Museum is a hidden gem for anyone drawn to rivers and rods. Explore vintage gear, learn about fly-tying history, and get inspired by the Catskills’ legacy as a fishing haven. It’s unexpectedly fascinating—even if you’ve never held a reel.
Whether you came for the small-town charm, riverside views, or unexpected gems tucked along Main Street, Callicoon has a way of leaving a lasting impression. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, stay a little longer, and start planning your next visit before you’ve even left. Book your Red Cottage Callicoon getaway today.
The Hudson Valley and Catskills are a slice of upstate heaven and we mean that literally. With wood-fired pies, brick oven classics, and creative toppings that go way beyond pepperoni, this region is a dream for pizza lovers. From riverside towns to mountain hamlets, you’ll find crusts that crackle, cheese that stretches, and flavors that surprise. Whether you’re after a casual slice or a destination-worthy meal, here’s our guide to the best pizza spots across the Hudson Valley and Catskills.
LOLA Pizza
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📍Location: 243 Fair St, Kingston, NY LOLA Pizza has mastered the balance between nostalgic comfort and upscale flair. With its golden crust, tangy tomato sauce, and clever topping combos, every pie feels like a small event. Add in good lighting and a buzzy crowd, it’s an easy win.
Hudson & Packard
📍Location: 29 Academy St, Poughkeepsie, NY Hudson & Packard is where Detroit-style pizza shines. Their thick, cheesy, crispy-edged squares come loaded with creative toppings and big flavor. It’s a casual, cool spot that locals are fiercely loyal to for good reason.
Cosimo’s Brick Oven
📍Location: 620 NY-211 E, Middletown, NY Cosimo’s Brick Oven brings a polished take on classic Italian pies. The crusts are thin and bubbly, the toppings are high-quality, and there’s always something new on the seasonal menu. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, it’s a solid go-to for crowd-pleasing pizza.
Lolita’s Pizza
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📍Location: 129 Washington St, Poughkeepsie, NY Lolita’s Pizza turns out airy sourdough pies from a wood-fired oven just steps from the Hudson River. Their creative toppings and local ingredients give each pizza its own personality. Sit at the bar for a front-row seat to the action or take it to-go and find a riverfront bench.
The Half Moon
📍Location: 48 S Front St, Hudson, NY At The Half Moon, you’ll find New York-style slices that are as unfussy as they are delicious. It’s part dive bar, part pizza joint, and 100% local hangout. Come late, grab a slice, and enjoy the no-frills charm that Hudson locals love.
The Katskeller
📍Location: 39 Main St, Livingston Manor, NY The Katskeller offers wood-fired pizza in a cozy space that feels like a Catskills lodge with a modern twist. With rotating pies, craft beer, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect post-hike reward or weekend dinner destination. Bonus: there’s plenty of room for the whole crew.
The Laundrette
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📍Location: 20 5th St, Narrowsburg, NY The Laundrette is part riverside café, part pizza paradise, and 100% worth the trip. Their wood-fired pies are made with long-fermented dough and seasonal ingredients that always hit the mark. Stay for a spritz, snag a patio seat, and let the afternoon roll on.
Enoteca Ama
📍Location: 297 Main St, Beacon, NY Enoteca Ama brings rustic Italian charm to Beacon with perfectly blistered crusts and simple, elegant toppings. The space is small and intimate, which makes it ideal for a slow evening with wine and good conversation. Every bite feels intentional.
Westwind Orchard
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📍Location: 215 Lower Whitfield Rd, Accord, NY Westwind Orchard pairs their house-made cider with some of the most craveable pizza in the Catskills. Wood-fired and topped with local produce, the pies feel rustic in the best way. It’s a slice-and-sip setup that’s tough to beat on a sunny afternoon.
Forage Pizza
📍Location: 2846 NY-42, Forestburgh, NY Forage Pizza keeps it small-batch, slow-fermented, and endlessly flavorful. Their pies are crisp on the bottom, light on the crust, and heavy on freshness. The vibe is laid-back, with just enough edge to feel special.
Woodhouse Pizza
📍Location: 3807 County Rte 26, Greenville, NY Woodhouse Pizza makes sourdough magic in a sleek, modern space with big community energy. Their topping game is strong, think seasonal veggies, locally cured meats, and inventive sauces. Pair it with a local beer and hang for a while.
Beekman Ale House
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📍Location: 92 Beekman Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY Beekman Ale House blends elevated bar food with a serious love for pizza. The crust is crackly, the cheese is gooey, and the whole menu is built to satisfy. Grab a pint and a booth and settle in. This is where comfort food comes to life.
Ollie’s Pizza
📍Location: 4 Bruceville Rd, High Falls, NY Ollie’s Pizza has that wood-fired magic you can smell from the parking lot. Their naturally leavened dough gets just the right char, and the seasonal toppings are straight from local farms. On warm nights, the backyard tables are the place to be.
Pizzeria Posto
📍Location: 43 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY Pizzeria Posto fires up thin-crust Neapolitan pies with a soft center and perfectly charred edges. The open kitchen lets you watch the dough fly, and the menu rotates with the seasons. It’s Rhinebeck charm, served one slice at a time.
Brooklyn Cider House
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📍Location: 155 N Ohioville Rd, New Paltz, NY Brooklyn Cider House brings the orchard-to-glass experience full circle with their wood-fired pizza. The crust is crisp and rustic, designed to pair with their funky, dry ciders. It’s casual, delicious, and always worth the detour.
Why not turn your pizza crawl into a weekend getaway? With cozy cabins, dreamy mountain views, and waterfront stays scattered across the region, it’s easy to hop from slice to slice. You might even end up skipping the restaurant table altogether, pizza tastes pretty great on a porch with a view.
The Poconos region of Pennsylvania is a hidden gem known for its scenic beauty, creative spirit, and warm, welcoming communities. From charming small towns like Honesdale to peaceful lakeside trails and unexpected culinary finds, it’s the perfect place to slow down and explore. Whether you’re in the mood for local eats, artisan shopping, or a little outdoor adventure, the Poconos has something special for everyone. Here’s our guide to the best spots to eat, shop, and discover along the way.
Cafe Duet
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📍Location: 35 N 7th St, Stroudsburg, PA Cafe Duet is the kind of place where time slows down. Thoughtfully brewed coffee, beautiful interiors, and the kind of vibe that makes you linger a little longer than planned. Whether you’re catching up with a friend or journaling solo, it’s your cozy haven on Main Street.
Pocono Organics
📍Location: 1015 Long Pond Rd, Long Pond, PA Pocono Organics blends wellness, sustainability, and local flavor all in one place. Stock up on farm-fresh produce, natural beauty products, and organic pantry staples that feel good in every way. With its on-site café and healing vibes, it’s part market, part mini-retreat.
Mountain View Vineyard
📍Location: 2332 Walters Rd, Stroudsburg, PA Mountain View Vineyard feels like a little escape. Sip wine, beer, or spirits made right on site, all while soaking up stunning views and relaxed vibes. Their tasting room is a must, especially when paired with a cheese board and golden hour light.
Calkins Creamery
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📍Location: 288 Calkins Rd, Honesdale, PA Handcrafted cheese in a postcard-worthy setting? Yes, please. Calkins Creamery has been producing award-winning artisanal cheese on a fifth-generation family farm, and the results are as delicious as they are local. Grab a wedge (or three) and create the cheeseboard of your dreams.
Wallenpaupack Brewing Company
📍Location: 73 Welwood Ave, Hawley, PA At Wallenpaupack Brewing Company, craft beer meets community hangout. With seasonal brews, hearty bites, and indoor-outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot to kick back after a lake day or hiking adventure. Don’t skip the flight, it’s a great way to discover a new favorite.
Be Kind Bakehouse
📍Location: 560 Main St Suite C, Honesdale, PA At Be Kind Bakehouse, the name says it all. This sweet little spot serves up next-level pastries with a big helping of warmth. Everything is made from scratch, and the energy is as uplifting as the croissants are flaky.
Llama Ice Cream
📍Location: 266 River Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA Llama Ice Cream brings big flavor with playful energy. Made with love and always full of surprises, it’s the place to go for a scoop (or two) that feels like a celebration. Their ever-changing menu means there’s always something new to try.
Sango Kura
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📍Location: 39 Broad St, Delaware Water Gap, PA Sango Kura isn’t just Pennsylvania’s only sake brewery, it’s also a cozy pub where locals gather for ramen, small plates, and a totally unique sipping experience. The sake is brewed on-site and the atmosphere is as welcoming as it is unexpected.
Mabacol Handmade
📍103 Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA Mabacol Handmade is a treasure chest of artisan goods, all carefully curated and beautifully displayed. Whether you’re hunting for gifts or treating yourself, you’ll walk out with something truly one-of-a-kind. Expect to find handwoven textiles, pottery, and pieces that tell a story.
Native Honesdale
📍Location: 560 Main St # B, Honesdale, PA Native Honesdale feels like stepping into the town’s creative heart. With a mix of local goods, cozy staples, and a warm community feel, it’s a boutique that tells a story with every shelf. It’s the kind of shop that keeps calling you back.
Wild Elder
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📍Location: 76 Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA Wild Elder is a charming wine and cider house with a wild heart and a local soul. Tucked along Broadway in downtown Jim Thorpe, it serves up small-batch pours infused with foraged fruits, herbs, and flowers. Stop in for a glass of elderberry cider or botanical wine.
Bà & Me
📍Location: 1008 Main Street, Honesdale, PA Bà & Me brings the flavor, and then some. This bright and modern spot serves up Thai and Vietnamese classics with a cozy, casual vibe. Their banh mi and pho are local legends, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself craving again tomorrow.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
📍Location: 1 Susquehanna St, Jim Thorpe, PA Hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway and get a front-row seat to Pennsylvania’s wild beauty. The vintage train winds through forests, rivers, and rock tunnels, all at a pace that lets you actually take it in. It’s part nostalgia, part nature show, and all charm.
Moka Origins
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📍Location: 952 Bethany Turnpike, Honesdale, PA Chocolate and coffee, roasted and crafted with purpose. Moka Origins is part roastery, part chocolate factory, and 100% worth a visit. Get the full behind-the-scenes tour or just enjoy a hot cup and dark chocolate bar made with beans they sourced themselves.
The Delaware Water Gap
📍Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, PA The Delaware Water Gap is nature doing its thing—majestic, quiet, and breathtaking in every season. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply watching the river move, it’s the kind of place that reminds you to breathe deeper. It’s not just a destination—it’s a reset button.
There’s no wrong way to do the Poconos. One minute you’re sipping sake, the next you’re chasing waterfalls or scoring the best croissant of your life. With so many hidden gems packed into one place, all you really need is a sense of adventure (and maybe a roomy tote bag). Join the Red Cottage Poconos portfolio today!
East Hampton, New York is framed by windswept dunes and the shimmering Atlantic. Long known as a retreat for artists, writers, and taste-makers, this seaside village offers small-town charm with a touch of luxury. In The Best of East Hampton, we spotlight some of our favorite places that capture the essence of this iconic destination. Sun-drenched beaches, historic homes, stylish boutiques, and farmers’ markets bursting with local flavor all add to its charm. You might be chasing ocean breezes, gallery-hopping, or simply slowing down for a weekend away. East Hampton offers a mix of laid-back vibes and refined experiences. Discover what makes this corner of the Hamptons so captivating – your East Hampton escape starts here.
Moby’s
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📍Location: 341 Pantigo Rd, East Hampton, NY Wood fired pizza, waterfront views, and a breezy barefoot vibe. This is what summer nights were made for. Moby’s blends laid back charm with elevated Italian fare, making it a seasonal must when the days get long and the rosé flows. Come for the pasta, stay for the people watching and sunset cocktails.
Bostwicks Chowder House
📍Location: 277 Pantigo Rd, East Hampton, NY Bostwicks Chowder House feels like summer in every bite. Think crispy fried seafood, no fuss picnic tables, and that salty breeze that makes everything taste better. It’s the kind of place you’ll crave year round. Grab a lobster roll, kick back, and soak in the no-frills, all-flavor vibe.
Guild Hall
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📍Location: 158 Main St, East Hampton, NY Art lovers, meet your local muse. Guild Hall is more than a venue. It’s a community centerpiece offering bold exhibitions, live performances, and creative workshops that keep inspiration flowing no matter the season. Whether you’re catching a play or strolling the gallery, it’s a place that always surprises.
BookHampton
📍Location: 41 Main St, East Hampton, NY BookHampton is a cozy enclave for curious minds and page-turners alike. From bestsellers to hidden literary gems, it’s the kind of bookshop where staff picks actually matter and time somehow slips away. Settle in, explore the shelves, and let your next favorite story find you.
The Little
📍Location: 38 Newtown Ln, East Hampton, NY The Little lives up to its name in the best way. It’s a pint-sized boutique packed with charm, carrying a thoughtful curation of kids’ clothes, gifts, and accessories that are anything but ordinary. Sweet, stylish, and made for small moments that leave a big impression.
Round Swamp Farm
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📍Location: 184 County Rd 40, East Hampton, NY Round Swamp Farm is where farm-stand meets foodie heaven. Overflowing with just-picked produce, legendary baked goods, and prepared meals that taste homemade (but better), it’s a local favorite for good reason. Whether you’re stocking up or grabbing lunch, it never disappoints.
Pollock-Krasner House
📍Location: 830 Springs-Fireplace Rd, East Hampton, NY Step inside the Pollock-Krasner House and step back into an era of fearless creativity. Once the home and studio of Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner, this modest cottage still hums with artistic energy. Walk the paint-splattered floors and feel history under your feet.
LongHouse Reserve
📍Location: 133 Hands Creek Rd, East Hampton, NY Wander through the winding paths of LongHouse Reserve and discover sculptures tucked between trees, bursts of color from unexpected blooms, and a peaceful kind of magic you can’t quite describe. Only feel. It’s a hidden world where nature and creativity live in total harmony.
Carissa’s
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📍Location: 221 Pantigo Rd, East Hampton, NY The scent of fresh bread, a quiet corner table, and shelves lined with thoughtfully chosen provisions. Carissa’s is the kind of spot that feels like a secret even when everyone’s talking about it. Whether you’re picking up a pastry or curating a picnic, it’s the definition of low-key luxury.
From quiet beach mornings to gallery strolls and fresh farm-stand finds, East Hampton invites you to slow down and soak it all in. There’s a little something for every kind of day – artful, easygoing, or just plain fun. Book your Red Cottage East Hampton stay and see where the weekend takes you.
Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Berkshires, North Adams, Massachusetts blends creative energy with New England charm. Once an industrial hub, this small city has evolved into a dynamic destination where art, nature, and community converge. In The Best of North Adams, we share some favorite spots that reflect the spirit of this unique place. Think bold contemporary art at MASS MoCA, locally loved cafés and bakeries, cozy bookshops, scenic mountain trails, and unexpected finds around every corner. Whether you’re planning a quiet weekend away or a culture-filled adventure, North Adams offers an experience that’s equal parts laid-back and inspiring. Come see what makes it so special, your North Adams escape starts here.
The Plant Connector
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📍Location: 73 Main St, North Adams, MA A dreamy fusion of plant shop, gallery, and community hub, The Plant Connector is where greenery meets creativity. Think lush foliage, handmade ceramics, and an ever-changing selection of local art. It’s more than a store – it’s a breath of fresh air for your soul (and your shelves).
Casita
📍Location: 1111 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA With bright flavors and warm hospitality, Casita brings Latin-inspired comfort food to downtown North Adams. Think crispy fish tacos, house salsas, and cocktails that pack a punch – all in a cozy, casual setting.
MASS MoCA
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📍Location: 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA One of the largest contemporary art museums in the country, MASS MoCA is a must-visit. Giant installations, thought-provoking exhibitions, and live performances make it an immersive cultural experience. Allow yourself to wander – every corner holds a surprise.
Berkshire Cider Project (Reopening April 19, 2025)
📍508 State Rd, North Adams, MA Crisp, dry, and totally crushable – Berkshire Cider Project crafts small-batch cider with a modern twist. Located inside Greylock WORKS, it’s the perfect post-hike or post-MASS MoCA stop. Flights encouraged.
The Bear and Bee Bookshop
📍Location: 28 Holden St, North Adams, MA The Bear and Bee is a book-lover’s haven with a focus on children’s books and inclusive stories. Step inside for a charming browse, story time magic, and a curated collection that feels like a warm hug.
North Adams Farmers Market
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📍Location: Eagle St & Main St (Seasonal Saturdays) This your Saturday ritual – North Adams Farmers Market offers fresh produce, local makers, and live music. Grab a coffee, pick up some organic veggies, and stroll among the region’s best growers and creatives.
Studio 9
📍Location: Porches Inn at MASS MoCA, 231 River St, North Adams, MA An intimate recording studio and performance venue, Studio 9 draws artists from around the world. Whether you’re catching a live set or just admiring the acoustics, it’s a rare and special space.
Bright Ideas Brewing
📍Location: 111 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA This relaxed, art-adjacent brewery keeps the taps flowing with approachable, flavorful craft beers. From hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, Bright Ideas Brewing is an easygoing spot to gather after a day of exploring.
Greylock WORKS
📍Location: 508 State Rd, North Adams, MA A reimagined mill complex that’s now a hub for food, craft, wellness, and events. Greylock WORKS hosts everything from cider tastings and yoga classes to artisan markets and stylish weddings – all under one beautiful industrial roof.
The Airport Rooms
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📍Location: 861 State Rd, North Adams, MA Moody, refined, and endlessly cool, The Airport Rooms is a cocktail lounge with vintage soul. Expect expertly crafted drinks, shareable plates, and a speakeasy atmosphere that feels like a secret worth sharing.
Belltower Records
📍Norad Mill, 60 Roberts Dr Suite 105, North Adams, MA Equal parts vintage vibe and audiophile heaven, Belltower Records is stacked with vinyl gems, indie releases, and rare finds. Come for the records, stay for the community – it’s a love letter to music, right in the Berkshires.
Steeple City Social
📍5 Eagle St, North Adams, MA Steeple City Social is a community-orientated Bakery, Café, and Cocktail Bar with a retail space for vintage housewares and ephermera. A place to spend time with friends, get a great drink, eat delicious food, and find something fun for your home, all in the heart of Downtown North Adams.
Savvy Hive
📍Location: 53 Main St, North Adams, MA Savvy Hive, your destination for curated secondhand fashion featuring vintage, modern, and handmade clothing. Bringing the Berkshires’ unique style to you, offering an eco-conscious, size-inclusive shopping experience.
Mount Greylock
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📍Access via Rockwell Rd or Notch Rd, Adams/North Adams, MA The highest peak in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock offers unbeatable panoramic views, especially from the Veterans War Memorial Tower. Whether you’re a serious hiker or just want a scenic drive, this is nature’s calling card.
STATE Food + Drink
📍Location: 508 State Rd, North Adams, MA Seasonal, stylish, and ingredient-driven, STATE Food + Drink brings a refined dining experience without the fuss. Perfect for date night or a slow dinner with friends – don’t skip the handmade pastas or house cocktails.
The Clark Institute
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📍Location: 225 South St, Williamstown, MA (just a short drive from North Adams) A serene escape for art lovers, The Clark pairs world-class collections with stunning natural surroundings. Wander through galleries filled with European and American masterpieces, then step outside to explore peaceful walking trails and pastoral views. With its mix of classic beauty and quiet elegance, The Clark is the perfect day trip for those craving both culture and calm.
In North Adams, MA, creativity runs deep and community is at the heart of it all. From sipping cider at Berkshire Cider Project to flipping through vinyl at Belltower Records, you can always find something to do no matter what the vibe is. Book your Red Cottage North Adams stay and begin the adventure!
Kingston, New York, is a treasure trove of creativity, history, and community spirit. Nestled in the Hudson Valley, this charming city blends small-town warmth with big-city flair, thanks to its thriving local businesses. In The Best of Kingston, we spotlight 32 must-visit spots that define the city’s unique character. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, prepare to fall in love with Kingston’s culinary delights, handmade goods, and eclectic charm. Book your Kingston getaway today!
1. Chleo Kingston
Image courtesy of Chleo Kingston
📍 Location: 288 Fair St, Kingston, NY A haven for wine enthusiasts and food lovers, Chleo Kingston is a cozy, European-inspired restaurant and natural wine bar. Their ever-changing menu celebrates seasonal Hudson Valley ingredients with creative small plates like handmade pasta, locally sourced charcuterie, and vegetable-forward dishes. Pair your meal with a glass from their thoughtfully curated wine list, which highlights organic and biodynamic bottles. The intimate, candlelit ambiance—complete with exposed brick and warm wood accents—makes it ideal for date nights or savoring a slow evening with friends.
2. Cheese Louise NY
📍 Location: 940 New York 28 Kingston, NY Craving ooey-gooey comfort? Cheese Louise NY is Kingston’s ultimate grilled cheese destination, serving up creative twists on this nostalgic classic. Dive into sandwiches like the “Mac Daddy” (stuffed with mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon) or the “Green Goddess” (featuring pesto, mozzarella, and avocado), all crafted with locally sourced bread and premium cheeses. Vegan? Try their dairy-free “Notorious F.I.G.” with cashew brie and fig jam. Pair your melt with crispy tater tots or a cup of their signature tomato soup. With its retro diner vibe and kid-friendly menu, this spot is a hit for families and cheese enthusiasts alike.
3. Sorry Charlie
📍 Location: 523 Delaware Ave, Kingston, NY A moody, retro-inspired cocktail bar, Sorry Charlie is where craft cocktails meet playful nostalgia. Sip on inventive drinks like their smoked maple old fashioned or espresso martini, paired with elevated bar bites. The speakeasy vibe and live music nights make it a hotspot for nightlife lovers.
4. Hamilton & Adams
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📍 Location: 32 John St, Kingston, NY A modern general store with a twist, Hamilton & Adams stocks everything from artisanal pantry staples to quirky gifts. Their selection of local Hudson Valley products (think honey, candles, and ceramics) makes it a go-to for supporting regional makers.
5. Village Coffee & Goods
📍 Location: 17 Railroad Ave #102, Kingston, NY Start your day at Village Coffee & Goods, a cozy café serving ethically sourced coffee, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfast sandwiches. The industrial-chic space doubles as a mini-market for local goods.
6. Brunette Wine Bar
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📍 Location: 33 Broadway, Kingston, NY Natural wine enthusiasts flock to Brunette Wine Bar for its ever-changing selection of organic and biodynamic wines. Pair your glass with shareable plates like whipped feta or charcuterie boards in an intimate, candlelit setting.
7. Newt Boutique
📍 Location: 58 N Front St, Kingston, NY A haven for minimalist fashion, Newt Boutique offers Scandinavian-inspired clothing, jewelry, and home décor. Their focus on clean lines and neutral tones appeals to those seeking understated elegance.
8. Kingston Ceramics Studio
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📍 Location: 77 Cornell St #309, Kingston, NY Channel your creativity at Kingston Ceramics Studio, where you can take pottery classes or shop handmade mugs, vases, and bowls. Their workshops are perfect for dates or solo artistic escapes.
9. Top Taste Kingston
📍 Location: 446 Hasbrouck Ave, Kingston, NY This Caribbean-inspired, James Beard Nominated eatery serves bold flavors with dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail stew, and plantain fries. Top Taste Kingston is a local favorite for hearty, soul-warming meals.
10. Kingston Bread
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📍 Location: 25 Barbarossa Ln, Kingston, NY Artisan bread lovers line up for Kingston Bread’s sourdough, focaccia, and seasonal pastries. Their fermented doughs and wood-fired baking process create unforgettable loaves.
11. Clove & Creek
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📍 Location: 613 Warren St, Hudson, NY A lifestyle boutique celebrating Hudson Valley craftsmanship, Clove & Creek features home goods, apothecary items, and rustic-chic décor. Their candle collection (made with local soy wax) is a must-buy.
12. Village Grocery & Refillery
📍 Location: 2 Jansen Ave, Kingston, NY Shop sustainably at Village Grocery & Refillery, a zero-waste store offering bulk pantry staples, eco-friendly cleaning supplies, and organic snacks. Bring your containers to refill and reduce plastic waste!
13. Lola Pizza Kingston
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📍 Location: 243 Fair St, Kingston, NY Lola Pizza Kingston serves New York-style slices with a gourmet twist. Try the seasonal specials or stick to classics like margherita—all made with locally sourced ingredients.
14. Lovefield Vintage
📍 Location: 37 N Front St, Kingston, NY Step into a curated wonderland of retro clothing, vinyl records, and quirky collectibles at Lovefield Vintage. Their 70s-era denim and band tees are a hit with thrifters and fashionistas alike.
15. Sweet Maresa’s
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📍 Location: 291 Wall St, Kingston, NY End your Kingston tour on a sweet note at Sweet Maresas, a bakery known for its French macarons, decadent cakes, and gluten-free treats. Their lavender-honey macaron is a local legend.
16. Rough Draft Bar & Books
📍 Location: 82 John Street, Kingston, NY Start your day with a visit to Rough Draft Bar & Books, a cozy spot combining literature with craft coffee and cocktails. Whether you’re browsing their selection of books or enjoying a drink with friends, it’s the perfect hangout for any book lover.
17. Milne Antiques
📍 Location:81 Broadway, Kingston, NY Explore Milne Antiques, an antique treasure trove filled with vintage finds and unique pieces. Whether you’re a collector or just love browsing history, their selection of furniture, art, and curiosities is sure to captivate.
18. Rosie General
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📍 Location: 39 Broadway, Kingston, NY Pop by Rosie General, a charming general store that offers everything from local goods to curated home items. Don’t forget to check out their selection of gifts and artisanal foods, ideal for souvenirs or treating yourself!
19. Hops Petunia Floral
📍 Location:1 W Strand St, Kingston, NY For a stunning bouquet or a thoughtful gift, head to Hops Petunia Floral. Known for their beautiful floral arrangements and eco-conscious approach, they specialize in creating striking designs using seasonal and locally sourced flowers.
20. Moonburger
Image courtesy of Moonburger
📍 Location:5 Powells Ln, Kingston, NY Satisfy your cravings at Moonburger, where plant-based burgers and delicious sides are the stars of the show. Perfect for anyone looking for a quick, eco-friendly bite that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
21. Red Owl Collective
📍 Location:25 Cornell St, Kingston, NY Ready to get lost in vintage heaven? Stop by Red Owl Collective and wonder around the 10,000 sq. ft. space that is filled to the brim with antique, vintage and design vendors!
22. West Kill Supply
📍 Location:602 Broadway Unit 2, Kingston, NY Visit West Kill Supply, a local brewery offering craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re relaxing with a cold brew or enjoying their taproom, it’s a must-stop for beer lovers exploring the Catskills.
23. Fletcher & Lu
Image courtesy of Fletcher & Lu
📍 Location:582 Broadway Apartment 2, Kingston, NY Fletcher & Lu is a delicatessen inspired by old-world traditions of “traiteur-charcuterie” with a focus on sausages, pâtés, artisan cheeses, fresh pasta, rotisserie chickens, smoked fish, prepared & carefully selected goods. Offerings change daily!
24. Pinkerton’s Bakery
📍 Location:8 Fair St, Kingston, NY Indulge your sweet tooth at Pinkerton’s Bakery, a beloved local bakery known for its artisan pastries, cakes, and cookies. Their hand-crafted desserts are as beautiful as they are delicious.
25. Chicory Naturalist
📍 Location:25 Broadway, Kingston, NY For a nature-focused book and gift shop, check out Chicory Naturalist. Drop in to explore a carefully curated selection of books and guides for all ages, as well as board games, naturalist gear, toys, art supplies, gifts–anything that helps folks learn about nature.
26. Capital Vintage
Image courtesy of Capital Vintage
📍 Location: 54 N Front St, Kingston, NY If vintage fashion is your thing, Capital Vintage is the place to go. From iconic jackets to timeless accessories, they offer an incredible range of handpicked vintage clothing that’s sure to elevate your wardrobe.
27. Bluecashew Kitchen Homestead
📍 Location:37 N Front St, Kingston, NY For the home chef or anyone looking to add a little extra flair to their kitchen, check out Bluecashew Kitchen Homestead. They offer a thoughtfully curated selection of kitchen tools, gourmet food, and cooking classes to inspire your next culinary adventure.
28. Kingston Standard Brewing Co.
📍 Location:22 Jansen Ave, Kingston, NY Looking to unwind? Head over to Kingston Standard Brewing Co. for a wide selection of craft beers brewed on-site. With a laid-back vibe and delicious brews, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cold one.
29. Exit Nineteen
📍 Location:309 Wall St, Kingston, NY Exit Nineteen is where you’ll find a stylish selection of clothing and home décor with a focus on quality and sustainability. It’s the perfect blend of modern fashion and unique, hand-crafted goods.
30. Santa Fe Hudson Valley
📍 Location:11 Main Street, Kingston, NY For a true taste of the Southwest, visit Santa Fe Hudson Valley. Specializing in authentic Southwestern cuisine and unique decor, it’s a fantastic spot for both great food and a memorable experience.
31. Black-Eyed Suzie’s Upstate
📍 Location:14 Hurley Ave, Kingston, NY Stop by Black-Eyed Suzie’s Upstate for delicious farm-to-table meals in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, their seasonal menu will leave you coming back for more.
32. Sonder
Image courtesy of Sonder
📍 Location:346 Broadway, Kingston, NY At Sonder, you’ll find natural wine, amazing food, and good vibes. With a constantly changing menu of low-intervention wine by the glass and bottle as well as inspiring food this is a pairing you don’t want to miss.
Kingston, NY, is a city where creativity and community thrive and these 32 businesses prove it. From sipping natural wine at Brunette to hunting for vintage treasures at Lovefield, there’s something here for every taste. Book your Red Cottage Kingston adventure!
For some, turning in to their curated vacation home to relax is the ideal post-ski activity. But for the true ski warriors, après ski might be the most exciting part of the day! Join the ski socialites for fun après ski near NYC and celebrate a successful run down the region’s top ski slopes.
What is Après Ski?
The winter fun doesn’t stop after reaching the bottom of the ski slope. Après ski is inspired by European traditions for socializing with drinks, food, or relaxation after skiing. It’s the perfect way to recap the shreds and the falls and plan which slope you’ll descend on the next ski day.
With ski season in full effect for Upstate New York, we’ve picked out popular venues where you’re sure to rub elbows with other skiers—perhaps friendly faces you saw earlier on the slopes. Add a stop to one of these local hotspots to your itinerary before retreating to your vacation rental to end the day.
Ranked as one of the best beers to warm up during the winter by Thrillist, West Kill Brewing is the perfect stop after hitting the slopes. Wrap your cold hands around a bowl of homemade soup and order a few rounds of their in-house brews to unwind.
This brewing company is just a short drive from popular ski slopes at Belleayre Mountain and Hunter Mountain. It sits on 127 acres of farmland where many of its ingredients are grown. Experience craft spirits brewed from mountain water and combined with yeast from Spruceton Valley and other flavors picked from the farm.
The fire pit will keep you warm while sitting on the outdoor patio and taking in the surrounding mountain views.
Join other skiers fresh off the slopes in the year-round cocktail garden at Cooper’s Daughter Spirits. This historic farm has transformed into a haven for skiers during the winter looking for delicious drinks and great company.
Kick-off with an aperitif while mulling over which flavors to get in your tasting flight. The signature Black Walnut Bourbon is made from the onsite Black Walnut Tree, while the orchard contributes maple flavor to distilled spirits like the Sugar Shack Old Fashioned and Cacao Raz. If you can’t narrow it down to four spirits, you can always indulge in a 10-spirit flight. Now it’s really a party!
Refuel after your ski day with tasty eats. Cooper’s Daughter hosts pop-up food trucks by local vendors. You’re in luck if you catch them on a day serving grilled cheese sandwiches or hot waffles.
You’re cordially invited to Fellow Mountain Cafe for the coziest après ski near NYC. Skip the party crowds and go with a more family-friendly post-ski activity.
Fellow Mountain Cafe has a special après ski every Saturday during winter. Smoke rising from the building is a sure sign that the fun has already started. Meet up at the foot of Hunter Mountain and enjoy warm food & drinks that tickle your belly. Knock the chill off with a hot chocolate, chai latte, or rejuvenate your energy with a cup of drip coffee. Order small plates for the table and fellowship around sliced salami, olives, peanuts, cheese, and bread.
Drag your weary boots to the bottom of the Catskill Mountains, where Subversive Malting & Brewing awaits. Indulge in après ski pleasures at this venue that’s included on the Catskills Beverage Trail—a list of top breweries and wineries in the Catskills. Find even more venues featured on the trail on our list of top 16 breweries in the Catskills.
This original farmhouse brewery repurposed an old mechanic garage to create a space for brewing 100% locally sourced spirits and a fun atmosphere to enjoy them in. Grab drinks from the onsite taproom to taste unique flavors created by their traditional ‘floor malting’ technique. And don’t forget one of their famous Smashburgers from the kitchen made with local grass-fed beef.
Pro Tip: Stop by on Sundays to catch live music from local bands.
Apple Orchards are peppered across Upstate New York. While some are geared towards the “Pick Your Own” crowd, apple lovers stopping by Wayside Cider will find their cherished fruit transformed into a menu full of sweet and savory ciders.
The Wayside Cider Taproom welcomes you to stay awhile after mountain-hopping around the Catskills ski areas. It’s set in a restored barn redesigned after old cider taverns for a warm and cozy ambiance. All their ciders—Half Wild, Catskill, Skinny Dip, Cyserkin, and Wild Select—are handmade from local apples.
Order a few bottles to share at your table before enjoying a few board games and a game of pool on the barn loft. You can even order a bottle to enjoy back at your Catskills vacation rental.
Forget about those dollar slice pizza shops around Manhattan. Lola Pizza is for true pizza connoisseurs who know a hot and delicious pie is the only way to indulge after a day of skiing. You’ll burn plenty of calories shredding the mountain slopes, so you’ll get a hearty meal to replenish your energy.
Lola Pizza is a family-friendly spot for an après ski near NYC. Stuff your face with made-to-order wood-fired pizza. It has classics, signature flavors, and even vegan-friendly pies. Their homemade Italian pasta will instantly warm your insides with every bite. This restaurant also has a bar featuring all-natural wines.
If you call it early on the slopes, spending your après ski at Union Grove Distillery is an excellent choice to fill up the rest of your day. From distillery tours to sips in the tasting room, it’s no wonder skiers make this a must-visit spot.
Union Grove Distillery produces its spirits onsite, giving more control over the end result. Take a distillery tour to see behind the scenes how their handcrafted spirits come to life. Chat with the owners in the tasting room to learn about their distilling passion.
Sample the award-winning Vly Creek Vodka. Taste the Drie Brook Rye Whiskey to see the tasty effects of aging it over one year before bottling and serving. And pick out the rich maple flavor of the Catskill Mountain Maple Spirit, which is given an extra flavor by aging in maple syrup barrels.
Unwind with fine wine at Hudson Chatham Winery. It specializes in limited-run wines made with sustainable farm methods. It has two locations in the Hudson Valley—Ghent and Tannersville—so you can stop by the one closest to your accommodations.
HCW is an excellent option if you have a large group. It is recommended for our guests staying in the larger ski chalet rentals. The experience is a guided wine tasting. You’ll get five curated wines with details about the flavor profile and inspiration behind each.
Clear your palate with light eats between tastings. Find your favorite and order a bottle to-go. It has a variety of whites, reds, ciders, and sparkling wines made from locally grown grapes.
What to Wear to an Après Ski?
Whether you’re fresh off the slopes or made a quick pitstop back at your accommodation to change, everyone is welcome to enjoy an après ski experience at these locations.
There’s no dress code, so feel free to dawn your snow-covered ski fashion—boots, goggles, and all! If you’re like most, you’ll be ready to slip off those ski boots and multiple layers into something more comfortable.
Our nearby rentals at popular ski spots in the Catskills and Hudson Valley have great accessibility to the region’s ski resorts to stop by after the slopes, change, and meet up with your group at your favorite après ski spot.
As the crisp air whirls around your cozy rental cottage and the season of gratitude approaches, Upstate New York gears up for a cherished tradition that combines fitness, festivity, and community spirit – the Turkey Trots. From historic villages to scenic routes, these races serve as more than just a morning run; they encapsulate the essence of Thanksgiving, fostering a sense of togetherness.
Join us on a journey through the top Turkey Trots across Upstate New York, where each race offers unique charm, scenic landscapes, and a vibrant holiday celebration. Discover the races that embody the true essence of Thanksgiving in the Catskills– from supporting local charities to uniting families and communities in the spirit of giving and gratitude.
Let’s lace up our running shoes and explore the best Turkey Trots in Upstate New York!
The former Kingston Turkey Trot is now the Saugerties Turkey Trot, held on Sunday, November 19, beginning at Cantine Field in Saugerties, NY.
The Saugerties Turkey Trot is a race through the historic Village of Saugerties with a backdrop of the Catskill Mountains. Participants are asked to bring donations for the Junior League of Kingston Period Pantry as well as canned goods in lieu of a registration fee – monetary donations will also be accepted. Participants can donate items at athlete check-in.
MHRRC Annual Turkey Trot
Location: Arlington High School, LaGrangeville, NY
The Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club (MHRRC) Annual Turkey Trot is a popular race held on Thanksgiving Day in the Hudson Valley region. The event draws runners of various skill levels to enjoy a scenic course through LaGrangeville.
All routes are out and back except for the 25K, a loop with two hills of 187’ elevation change. An awards ceremony will follow the race. Participants often dress in festive costumes to add to the holiday spirit.
The Troy Turkey Trot is a road race, and one of the oldest and largest turkey trots in the United States, held on Thanksgiving Day. It features several events, including a 5K, 10K, and a Grade School Mile.
All races will start at Fourth and Fulton St. All races will end on River St at Monument Square. Runners and spectators alike are drawn to the historic downtown streets of Troy to participate in this Thanksgiving tradition.
The event also includes a costume contest and a festive atmosphere, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Proceeds benefit the Regional Food Bank, Joseph’s House and Shelter, and other local charities.
The Cohoes Turkey Trot features a 3.5-mile run/walk through the historic streets of Cohoes. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in this Thanksgiving morning tradition. The race starts and finishes at Cohoes City Hall and is followed by an awards ceremony.
Participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to a local food pantry.
The annual Glens Falls Gobble Wobble will take place on Thanksgiving morning in Glens Falls. The race will begin at The Open Door Mission, circle through downtown Glens Falls, and finish back at the Mission. Runners can join in person or virtually.
All proceeds will support the Open Door Mission to help fight homelessness.
The 22nd annual Christopher Dailey 5K Turkey Trot takes place on Thanksgiving at 8:30 AM in downtown Saratoga Springs. Runners can participate in person or virtually. The race begins at Broadway and Lake Avenue, meanders through downtown Saratoga Springs, and finishes on the Corner of Route 50 and North Broadway.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Christopher Dailey Foundation, which benefits youth activities.
Run Off That Turkey Trot 5K
Location: Altamont Village Hall, 115 Main St, Altamont, NY
The 15th Annual Run Off That Turkey Trot 5K and 2-Mile Walk is a fun and festive race that will take place Saturday, November 25th at 9 AM in Altamont. Proceeds will support local food pantries.
Participants are encouraged to bring unexpired food or dry goods to donate. Running gloves will be given to all participants who pre-register, and there will be a special award for the best turkey-related costume!
Burn Off Your Turkey With a Turkey Trot In Upstate NY
These Thanksgiving-themed runs/walks in the Catskills and Hudson Valley offer participants the chance to engage in healthy activities while embracing the holiday spirit and support local causes in the beautiful settings of Upstate New York and its surrounding areas.
Each Turkey Trot race in Upstate New York offers its own unique experience and encourages community engagement. Whether it’s a competitive run or a leisurely walk, these events bring together individuals and families to create lasting memories while embracing the spirit of the holiday.
Ask the great thinkers of history and they seem to agree on one thing: there’s never a bad time for a cold beer. Ask the team at Red Cottage and we would agree. The variety of craft breweries popping up in Hudson Valley and the Catskills have made that point even more apparent.
By utilizing locally-grown hops and malt for the brewing process, these Upstate New York breweries have cracked the code on bold flavors all while supporting the farm-to-table ethos so many of our restaurants are already known for.
Add in tasty food pairing, live music, and a couple of good friends and you’ve got a recipe for a world-class beer-drinking destination, right in the backyard of your Red Cottage rental.
Here are a few of the best breweries that you just can’t miss.
Are you someone who likes to earn your beers? West Kill is the place! The brewery is situated right next to the scenic Spruceton Road Trailhead, where hardcore hikers can climb 2000 vertical feet to the summit of Hunter Mountain, and families (or just normal people) can enjoy the leisurely Diamond Notch Falls hike.
Once you’ve earned them, grab one of West Kill’s delicious beers and post up by the massive fire pit, or inside the minimalist taproom in the colder months. From classic lagers and IPAs to inventive seasonal offerings featuring local ingredients like maple, sumac, or herbs, there’s something for every palate. Speaking of palates, stay up to date on their Instagram for a series of fantastic food pop-ups throughout the season.
Address: 672 Old Route 17, Livingston Manor, NY 12758
More into bar hopping? This award-winning craft brewery is set in the heart of hip Livingston Manor, just around the corner from the buzz of Main Street. An industrial modern barn design with a beer garden, outdoor seating, and fire pit is the setting for sampling their “honest, hard-working beers” made with pure Catskill Mountain spring water.
They’re not just hard-working, they are dedicated to sustainability, with solar panels powering 40% of their operation, green roofs for insulation, and native plant landscaping. Their Ball Lighting Pilsner was awarded a gold medal at the 2022 NY State Competition, and their Nightshine Black Lager also won Bronze at the World Beer Cup.
Address: 696 West Bridge Street, Catskill, NY 12414
This cozy brewery is tucked on Bridge Street overlooking downtown Catskill. They are among just a handful of breweries in the world that produce their own malts through “floor malting,” and use 100% local ingredients in their brews. Talk about local, in-house flavor.
Step into their welcoming garden oasis in the village of Catskill, and come hungry — their taproom kitchen features amazing smash burgers, house-made beer cheese, and even a kid’s menu, so bring the whole family!
Address: 236 Lower Whitfield Rd., Accord, NY 12404
Brewery, distillery, restaurant, and festival grounds? Arrowood Farms is a spend-your-whole-weekend type of place, where summertime is a newly minted right of passage for Hudson Valley residents. This fully functioning farm produces hops for their brews, and be sure to try the famous Porch Beer, fermented with wild yeast from the property. There’s a food truck and open-air pavilion for casual dining or a full restaurant experience at The Apiary.
Arrowood gains bonus points for being a full-service distillery as well, serving up cocktails made with their own vodka, gin, and limited-stock bourbon. As if you’re not sold already, check out their events lineup for a summer of live music, culminating in the second annual 2-day Woodsist Music Festival in September.
Address: 171 Main St Box 1015, Livingston Manor, NY 12758
If you’re into design, Upward Brewing has one of the classiest taprooms in the region, housed in a contemporary Bauhaus barn overlooking 120 acres of privately preserved Catskill land. There’s so much land that they even have their own trails to the top of “Beer Mountain,” the private mountaintop on the property.
This local brewery won an honorable mention at the World Design Awards 2020, so once you’ve hiked to the top of Beer Mountain, you can relax in high style. Cozy up in their lounge area for various tasty brews and elevated bar snacks. If you can’t decide, their Base Camp Lager took Gold at the 2021 NYS Craft Beer Competition.
This award-winning brewery is known for its scientific principles when it comes to beer making. The brewers started their journey at MIT, and they use data-driven techniques to achieve “Equilibrium” in their series of heady brews. If you’re into meticulously researched beer that maximizes flavor and drinkability, this is the place!
They have been expanding their footprint at their base of operations in Middletown to include the brewery, taproom, and “Bonfire” restaurant centered around live-fire cooking, and slow-smoked meats.
Set in the heart of Kingston’s historic midtown, Kingston Standard Brewing is a super-hip nano-brewery surrounded by the burgeoning arts scene of Kingston.
Sit amidst the shining kettles, or grab a picnic table outside, and sample their tasty brews with minimalist hand-applied labels in the American Traditional tattoo style. Wood-fired pizzas and a killer lobster roll are the perfect accompaniment. Don’t forget to grab a 4 pack on your way out, or try a barrel-fermented ale from their bottled series.
Address: 21 Second Street Athens, NY 12015 / 201 Water Street Catskill, NY 12414
Crossroads Brewing Company started with a brewpub and restaurant in an opera house in Athens, just steps from the Hudson River. They were so packed from the first batch they brewed, that expansion was inevitable, and they now have a modern brewhouse and taproom in the Village of Catskill.
For a true brewpub with its full menu, you’ll want the Athens original, but the Catskill location hosts a large gathering space for groups and a rotating selection of food trucks overlooking Catskill Creek.
Fishing in Trout Town USA is hard work, and if you’ve been wading and casting all day, Roscoe Beer Co. is the place to tell fish stories. “It was 2 feet if it was an inch!”
This former firehouse-turned-brewery has an awesome 1600-square-foot tasting room and an expansive outdoor beer garden. The lively atmosphere makes for a great time for friends and family, and it’s right in the heart of Roscoe. In the summer, stop in for their live music and great vibes!
Address: 55 W Railroad Ave, 25, Garnerville, NY 10923 / 511 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY 12508
Industrial Arts is housed in two locations, a pre-civil war brick factory in Garnerville, and a sleek ultra-modern brew/tap campus converted from an abandoned factory in Beacon. They have embraced the industrial history of the Hudson Valley with a series of tool-themed beers in addition to their factory setting.
These talented brewers have embraced science as well, and the industry has embraced them back — you’ll find Industrial Arts in stock at hip hangouts from Brooklyn all the way up the river. They produce styles for all palates, but their IPA selection will have even the beardiest flanneled hop heads grunting in approval.
Address: 55 W Railroad Ave, 25, Garnerville, NY 10923 / 511 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY 12508
You’ll understand the name once you walk through the doors of this hand-hewn tap house and restaurant. Leaning into the hardwood history of the area, Rough Cut is set on the outskirts of Kerhonkson along the scenic country highway that will take you high over the Shawangunk Ridge and past some of the most jaw-dropping views of the Catskills.
If you’ve spent the day climbing the ‘Gunks, hiking or strolling Minnewaska State Park, or lounging in luxury at the Mohonk Mountain House, Rough Cut is the perfect retreat to kick back with some bites and brews. Try the burger with a Minnewaska Trail Ale, and see what keeps people coming back to Kerhonkson’s original brewery.
Drowned Lands is located in Warwick inside a 100-year-old refurbished school administration building. Sitting among 700 acres of land, and with panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, this is one of the best spots in the area for a brew with a view.
Expect quaffable session IPAs and fruity sours on tap, plus a wide range of interesting ales to satisfy every taste. The extensive food menu includes vegan sharing boards, pizzas, and other treats to line your stomach with.
Over in Tivoli is Last Joy Brewing — a proud team of beer lovers who lovingly craft their brews in the Hudson Valley. The ales on offer draw inspiration from the brewery’s surroundings and include Heartbeet of the Hudson — an English stout with the color and earth sweetness of New York beetroot. For something lighter, try the Clouds Over Clermont — a hazy IPA with hints of pine and citrus.
Can’t choose? Treat yourself to a flight and try out some of the most popular signature brews.
Return bills itself as a multifaceted brewing project that aims to create traditional beers alongside more exploratory brews. The goal is to create “beer to return to again and again,” and they are certainly doing a superb job of that!
From barrel-aged imperial stout to sour ale with rhubarb and cherry, there’s a beer style for every taste. The creative can artwork will tempt you into grabbing some carry-out, too. A stop here is the perfect addition to a well-spent weekend in Hudson.
Just down the road from Return Brewing is where you’ll find Upper Depot Brewing Co. These guys specialize in classic brews — expect citrusy IPAs, roasted malt stouts, and grainy amber ale.
Upper Depot hosts a regular program of events including open mic and trivia nights, so there’s a good chance of having a side of entertainment with your beer.
Last but certainly not least is Union Street Brewing Co. This popular spot has a wide range of constantly rotating beers, including seasonal offerings and specials. Expect exciting brews such as German-style tart beers alongside classic IPAs with caramel malts.
Locally sourced wines, ciders, and ready-to-drink cocktails are also available, making it a great pick for groups that include non-beer-drinkers. The food menu is the perfect pairing to drinks on offer and includes light bites like chips and dips and larger plates including pork tacos.
An Upcoming Beer Destination in New York State
Catskills, Hudson, and the surrounding area are becoming one of the state’s premier beer destinations, and the breweries on this list are superb examples of the exciting ales coming out of the region. With so many delicious brews on offer, which ones will you try on your next beer crawl during your vacation to the area?
The Hudson Valley and the surrounding Catskills are popular getaway destinations in New York with so much to offer visitors and residents. One offering that you might not be aware of is the wide range of superb bakeries.
Whether you are looking for crispy French baguettes, gluten-free treats baked with local ingredients, authentic challah, or the perfect breakfast sandwich to set you up for the day, you’re in luck! There are dozens of bakers on hand to satisfy your every craving.For the icing on the cake of a weekend away in Hudson, here are some of the best bakeries in the area.
Nine Cakes
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Nine Cakes have been serving up sweet treats since 2008 and they’ve got their entire repertoire down to a fine art.
This business started out as a micro-bakery, operating out of a Brooklyn apartment kitchen with just 18” of counter space. Now, Nine Cakes serves up delicious and beautifully presented baked goods in their stylish Hudson store. Everything is made with fresh ingredients and once you’ve tried the Italian rainbow cookies or the rich chocolate cake, you’ll want to come back again and again
This vegan specialty shop in Beacon serves up mouth-watering small-batch doughnuts in a tasty array of flavors. The menu changes regularly but expect to see exciting combinations such as pumpkin cinnamon crumb, chocolate peanut butter, and lavender vanilla.
The team at Peaceful Provisions shut up shop once they sell out — which they often do — so try to head over early to avoid disappointment.
For even more doughnut action on Beacon’s Main Street, head to Glazed Over Donuts. Decadence is the order of the day here — flavors are rich and toppings are piled sky-high. Grab a hazelnut chocolate glaze topped with Oreos and a peanut marshmallow drizzle for a sugar hit that’ll see you through the day.
Are you in the mood for a warm and flaky morning bun straight out of the oven? Or perhaps a crusty and chewy sourdough loaf is more your style. Whatever your bread craving, Bread Alone in Rhinebeck, Woodstock, and Boiceville has got you covered.
In addition to their delicious array of baked goods, they also strive to be a climate-neutral business, using organic ingredients and sustainable practices. Next time you’re near one of their locations, stop by and treat yourself to some freshly baked bread — your taste buds will thank you.
Address: 4906 State Route 52, Jeffersonville NY, 12748
Nestled in the charming town of Jeffersonville, NY lies a pink building that serves as the home of Jeffersonville Bake Shop. From the moment you step inside, the air is filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked treats. The croissants are flaky and buttery, the cupcakes are moist and fluffy, and the cakes will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Whether you’re looking for a quick treat on the go or a cozy spot to sip a hot cup of coffee and read a book or hop on the wifi, Jeffersonville Bake Shop has something for everyone. Go visit and see why it’s quickly becoming a beloved destination in the Hudson Valley.
If you’re looking for a new breakfast or lunch spot in Kingston, NY, look no further than Kingston Bread + Bar. At this all-day bakery, you can enjoy delicious bagels for brunch or the famed “hash-ish” sandwich for lunch. And don’t miss out on their pizza night to satisfy all your cravings.
But it’s not just about the food; the atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends or enjoy a cozy meal alone. Join the team at Kingston Bread + Bar for nourishment for both body and soul.
Address: 66 Main Street, Livingston Manor NY, 12758
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab breakfast or a sweet treat, look no further than Neon Croissant in Livingston Manor. This lively bakery is known for its croissants, with flavors ranging from classic butter to raspberry and chocolate almond. But the real showstopper is their jumbo cinnamon rolls, big enough for two (or maybe even three) people to share.
Looking for something a little more substantial? They also offer a variety of fresh bread, as well as creative cakes and pies. It’s no surprise that this popular spot often has a line out the door in the mornings, but trust us — it’s worth the wait. Stop by Neon Croissant for a taste of sweet perfection.
If you’re in search of delicious, homemade treats, look no further than Sweet Maresas in Kingston NY. Using super high quality, fair trade ingredients, their menu includes everything from macaroons to s’mores cookies. And the best part? Even the butter is made fresh in-house.
Each bite will melt in your mouth and leave you craving more. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and try some of their tempting goodies — your taste buds won’t regret it!
If you’re looking for freshly baked bread in the Andes, NY area, look no further than Wilson’s Bread. This family-run mom-and-pop shop offers pre-orders for Friday and Saturday pickup, with a variety of delicious options such as homemade croissants and pastries. And don’t forget to grab a hot cup of coffee while you’re there!
Whether you stop by the shop or pre-order for pickup to bring back to your rental home, Wilson’s Bread will not disappoint.
If you’re ever in the charming town of Woodstock, NY, make sure to stop by Overlook Bakery. Nestled in the heart of the town’s vibrant main street, this cute bakery will steal your heart (and probably your diet). Not only do they have mouth watering pastries and breads, but their cakes are out of this world. Whether it’s a special occasion or just an average Tuesday, you won’t be able to resist ordering one of their showstopping creations.
And if you ask nicely, they might even give you a behind-the-scenes peek at how they decorate those delicious masterpieces. So come on over to Overlook Bakery and treat yourself — you deserve it.
Shandaken Bake is the new kid on the block, born from the owner’s thirty-year-long dream to open their own bakery. Expect savory treats such as curried vegetable hand pies with apricot sambal chutney, and delicious sweet bites including chocolate chip cookies and carrot cake. Swing by the next time you’re in Tannersville at the weekend — you won’t regret it!
Sweet & Savory Delights in Hudson & the Catskills
The bakery game is strong in and around Hudson and the Catskills, and you’ll never be without the freshest bread, the tastiest savory bites, and the most moreish sweet treats. Pick up your goods to bring back to your Red Cottage rental or head into town to enjoy with a fresh cup of coffee. The only question left for you to answer is which bakery will you visit first?
Fall is here, and what better way to embrace the season than to engage all your senses at an apple orchard in Upstate New York? Apple picking, corn mazes, and farm stores await your presence—and taste buds!
You can access it all a short drive from a Red Cottage home. We’ve curated many properties in the region intertwine just enough with nature to give you crisp, peaceful mornings with stellar views—along with all the amenities and luxuries you need to relax Upstate.
Lucky for us, New York State has absolutely no shortage of spots to pick apples. Many of the orchards on our list also have on-site farm markets, pumpkin patches, cider mills, tasting rooms, and more to complement the fresh apples you’ll pick.
Here are eight must visit apple orchards to add to your Upstate NY itinerary.
This beloved “Pick Your Own” orchard will take you to the charming village of Kinderhook, known for its numerous artisan shops and quaint eateries. Samascott Orchards is a family-owned and operated orchard that traces its roots back to the early 1900s. Originally a dairy farm, it now boasts over 200 acres of orchards.
After you’ve filled your crate with Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Cortland, Rome, R.I. Greening, & Idared apples, head over to the hand-pressed cidery and try one of the bespoke flavors like pear or apple-strawberry. The farm store is also a great spot to load up on farm fresh eggs, homemade “hard ice cream,” and cider donuts made from scratch at their on-site bakery. Finally, toss your crate of farm fresh goods in the back of one of their four-person pedal bikes available for rent and tour the rest of the orchard in country style.
2. Fishkill Farms
Address: 9 Fishkill Farm Rd, Hopewell Junction, NY
Founded in 1913, the 100 year old Fishkill Farms started as a veggie and dairy farm. Today, the family farm sells tens of thousands of apples, with about half of their orchards organic. Certain varieties of apples become available for picking after October, but you’ll find many types of apples year-round, like Ambrosias, Galas, Red and Golden Delicious, and McIntoshes. They are also known for having the best apple cider donuts around.
And if the kiddos get bored? Check out the on-site corn maze for a reasonable $5 per person. Before you return to your rental, be sure to pick up some ready-made meals, hot apple cider, or baked goods from the farm store. Admission is free—all you need to pay for is the apples, but double-check if you’re going with a big group.
How would you like to squeeze in apple picking, a Biergarten outing, and farm animal visits all into one afternoon? You can make that happen with a quick trip to Indian Ladder Farms. Apple picking lasts from September till the end of October, and visitors can pick from delectable, tart Rome apples, sweet Mutsus, crisp Galas, and more, depending on the time they visit.
They’re also well-known for their delicious pizza. Try to go early to make the most of this fabulous farm and its offerings before the crowds arrive.
Stone Ridge Orchard brings 200 years of farming experience to today’s upstate NY locals and vacationers. Their apple trees deliver fabulously juicy Staymans, Mcintoshes, Cortlands, and Golden Delicious apples in the fall season. Don’t expect them to find more in the back—when they’re out, they’re out, though that simply reflects their business’s organic, homegrown nature.
And if you’re celebrating a family milestone? You can rent out the farm bar onsite for private events filled with cider tastings, cocktails, and homebrewed beer.
5. Soons Orchards
Photo Credit: Soons Orchards ~ Farm Market & Apple Orchards
Soons Orchards brings nearly 60 years of apple harvest excellence to the region. They offer U-Pick apples, pumpkins, and peaches in the fall season, attracting tons of crowds each weekend.
Browse through 700-foot-long rows of apple trees to select some of the finest Arlets, Tsugarus, Honeycrisps, Empires, and many more apple varieties. While apple picking lasts till late October, you can always purchase fresh, on-site apple cider until May – you can make that a hard cider with alcohol at the on-site Tap Room. Enjoy crisp ciders, beer, whiskey, and wine, along with homemade meals for every foodie to unwind after a long afternoon of apple picking.
Majestic Farm is a family-friendly source of organic apples and meats. Visitors can revel in roaming peacock sightings and visit the farm animals like chickens, pigs, and cows raised and harvested humanely for some of the region’s most healthy, organic agricultural products.
You can enjoy the on-site farmers market and purchase fresh, grass-fed meats and more from them to show your support of local orchards.
Set on an impressive hill that offers uninterrupted views of a tranquil lake, Apple Dave’s Orchards is a great destination for honeymoon couples and friends alike. While they offer some of the area’s most crisp and juicy apples, they don’t have as many kid-friendly activities like corn mazes as some of the other orchards do.
Crunch in comfort with this farm’s sustainable Cornell Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, which allow the farm to produce apples with as few man-made materials as possible. And once you’re done all your picking? Meander over to the farm distillery for a comforting hot toddy or a unique apple wine variety—you deserve it.
Admission to the orchard costs $5, and apple bags cost $25—the best part? They’re open seven days a week, unlike some of the other orchards on our list that are only open on the weekends.
Barton Orchards stands out for its plentiful car shows, festivals, and family-friendly events that run all the way from late August to fall and beyond. Take your pick (literally) of Ida Reds, Mutsus, Cameos, Suncrisps, Snap Dragons, and Red and Golden Delicious apples any day of the week—and don’t forget to grab a pumpkin, too!
This family-owned orchard spans over 175 acres and even hosts a multitude of attractions and activities like a petting zoo, hay rides, live music, tap room, and kids’ fun park. Don’t forget to snag a bottle of apple cider, maple syrup, jams, or honey from the farm store onsite.
Enjoy Apple Picking with Red Cottage
Whether you’re after fresh, organic apples, family-friendly activities, or peaceful views of the fall foliage, upstate NY apple orchards do not disappoint. Luckily, each of our rentals are only a short drive away from an apple orchard.
After you’ve picked your bushel and had your fair share of apple cider, retreat back to your comfortable abode away from home and indulge in our plush beds, inviting living spaces, on-site hot tubs, or pools, depending on your rental. Book your upstate NY getaway today!
Morning dew casts a blurry, dreamy glow across a sky-high window as you gaze at the hills over yonder, bursting with warm-toned trees creating soft bunches of striking yellow-orange hues. Autumn has arrived — and it’s the perfect time to see the best views of fall foliage in New York State’s Catskill Mountains.
We’re lucky enough to enjoy daily views of Upstate New York’s fall foliage at many of our properties but of course, our mountain homes, hillside cottages, and regal manors aren’t the only places to see the show-stopping foliage!
Check out our insider scoop to experience fall foliage from the area’s most impressive lookout points, scenic drives, and quaint towns.
Spring Farm Trailhead
A popular trail in the Mohonk nature preserve, the Spring Farm Trailhead offers “million-dollar views” of the Catskill Mountains. This well-marked trail makes it a safe and accessible option for groups with kids or elderly folks.
You’ll start by walking through a green open field before entering the forest for a gradual hike totaling 3 miles. At the top of the ridge, you’ll marvel at unparalleled views of the Catskills from your very own personal clifftop. Travelers enjoy this viewpoint for its relative accessibility and dynamic terrain, which includes flat, grassy land, a little bog, wooded areas, and rocky formations.
Remember going on ski lifts on your high school ski trips? Imagine that same experience minus the snow and skiing, with an additional marvelous view of the Catskill Mountains. Yes, please!
From July 1st each year, summer and autumn travelers can take the Hunter Mountain lift up the towering, 3,200-foot mountain. After 11 minutes cruising in the air, you’ll reach the mountaintop and relish incredible views of the fall foliage, specifically of the Northern Catskill Mountains, Vermont’s Green Mountains, and the Berkshires of Massachusetts.
Not a fan of heights? You can still relish memorable views of the Catskills from the comfort of your own car. The Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway stretches over 50 miles, mainly on Route 28. You’ll wind through the mountains and see charming forest views at every turn. Moreover, the route spans four towns with their charm: Shandaken, Middletown, Andes, and Olive.
Why not stop by Middletown’s Oak & Reed for a lunch break? Try their fish and chips or, even better, the buttermilk fried chicken. You’ll feel well-fueled and ready to continue your journey through the Catskill foliage.
Nestled between two deep valleys in the Catskills, the Town of Phoenicia is an adorable, unique small town to visit on your Catskill vacation. A nice bonus? Uninterrupted views of the fall foliage from basically every point, whether you’re standing outside a local artisan shop or driving through the town’s main streets.:
Red Cottage hosts rental properties just a short drive away in the nearby town of Woodstock.
Walnut Mountain Park
Picture the early sun shining, peaking through the peppered gaps of the trees, or the gentle gap separating a wooden bridge from the towering branches above. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairy woodland walking through Walnut Mountain Park, with plenty of breathing space and open fields in between.
The 265-acre park invites people of all ages (plus your leashed furry friends) to enjoy its daily-friendly playgrounds, picnic tables, and colorful trails that display the most beautiful fall hues. Grab some staples from a nearby farmers market and enjoy a picnic with the family as you take in the sights!
Sitting at the Northeastern portion of the Catskill Mountains, the town of Windham is the starting point for the Escarpment Trail. It stretches about 22 miles, but the gorgeous Catskill mountain views don’t come easy. Most travelers find this Greene County trail incredibly steep and challenging — but the Hudson River Valley views are once-in-a-lifetime.
Leaf peeping season lasts from September to November, but October is prime time for making the most of each viewpoint. Something about the pumpkin harvest and Halloween vibes makes each orange shade stand out more!
Hamlet of Boiceville
Nestled in the small town of Olive, Bouiceville is a picturesque hamlet that gifts passersby with gorgeous views of the rolling Catskill Mountains and parallel Esopus Creek. Enjoy the views on a day of driving, or stop along the way for camera shots that you just can’t access from your daily wanderings.
And if your legs are asleep from all the driving? You’re never far from hiking trails, and in this case, your trail of choice is the Boiceville Bridge Trailhead within the Ashokan Rail Trail. This flat trail is accessible to beginner adventurers on foot or via biking. The flat land gives you uninterrupted vistas of each Catskill hill standing tall and magnificent alongside one another against the sky’s backdrop — stunning.
Left Bank Ciders
Maybe you’re not among the most enthusiastic hikers, especially on vacation. But that’s okay — you can still indulge in fall foliage views without getting up from your seat.
Nothing says autumn like a warm cup of apple cider, and there are many delectable cideries and breweries in the Catskill region. A personal favorite? Left Bank Ciders, based in the town of Catskill. Each cider is blessed with flavors from fruits from local farmers’ markets, and you can experience that groundedness in the fall with its annual fermentation festival.
As for the views of the fall foliage? All you need to do is sit on the patio. Relish the expansive views of the landscape with plenty of shaded trees to feast your eyes on.
Marvel at the Catskills Fall Foliage
The best vistas for New York fall foliage are right here in the Catskills, and a vacation rental from Red Cottage gives you ample opportunity to take in the scenery at your leisure. Whether gazing at the mountains from your cottage porch or cruising through a scenic byway, you’re always a short distance away from some of the state’s most impressive fall views. Ready to indulge in a vacation of peacefulness, beauty, and luxurious comfort? We’d be delighted to host you. Book a Catskill Mountain vacation today!
When people think of New York state, their minds usually jump to places like Manhattan or Brooklyn, but after just one visit to the Hudson Valley, you’ll quickly realize that the real gems are hidden in Upstate New York!
Whether you’re just trying to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City or an outdoor getaway to the Catskill Mountains has been on your bucket list for years, the small town of Hudson just across the river from the famed mountain range is the perfect weekend destination for you.
Spend your days here walking down charming Warren Street, lined with Victorian homes and historic buildings, eating brunch at the coziest restaurants, and perusing the antique shops and art galleries. This is your travel guide to a fulfilling weekend at a Hudson Valley vacation home.
Day One in Hudson, NY
Everybody loves waking up on a Friday and knowing that the weekend is ahead, but it’s even better when you know that you have an amazing getaway planned. So leave the stress of the weekdays behind you and head right out to Hudson after work to start your adventure.
Evening
Check-In to Your Red Cottage Vacation Home
With so many Hudson properties to choose from, Red Cottage will have you contemplating whether you should spend your entire weekend snuggled up by the fireplace or hanging by the pool. Unpack your bags, make yourself feel right at home, and take a moment to enjoy the scenery. Your Hudson vacation starts now!
One of the easiest ways to fall in love with a new city is by diving into its restaurant scene and Hudson does not disappoint. Follow a line of visitors and locals alike as they make their way to Columbia Street’s Lil Deb’s Oasis This vibrant and swanky restaurant is unlike any you’ve had the pleasure of trying before
The fun doesn’t stop at the decor either. Their cuisine is self described as tropical comfort food, meaning you’ll get to try all of the abuela classics with a modern twist. They also offer a wide drink and wine list. Keep in mind that if you plan on eating here with a group of 4 or more, you’ll need to make reservations in advance.
Eager to get back to your fairytale home for the weekend? Take dinner to go and enjoy your empanadas with an incredible view from your A-frame window.
Day Two in Hudson, NY
With so many exciting things to do, an early morning start is a must! Besides, who wouldn’t want to be awake for sunrise when their vacation rental has floor-to-ceiling windows and an unmatched view of the Hudson Valley?
Anybody who knows anything about Hudson knows that Kitty’s Market has the best egg sandwich around, and New Yorkers know something about breakfast sandwiches. People travel from all over the valley to taste this simple yet delicious breakfast icon. Shop around the market while you wait for a sandwich that will ruin all other breakfast sandwiches, and once it’s ready, take a moment to accept that you will be dreaming about this sandwich for the rest of your days.
Enjoy your breakfast out on the garden patio, or take a walk down to the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park to scarf down your sandwich with a serene, early morning view of the Hudson River.
While you are at Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, leave your stress on the shores and float your worries away on the Hudson River. There’s no better way to explore the shores than by paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. You can rent all of the above at Hudson Paddles in the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park.
Not feeling like getting wet? Alternatively, you can grab a coffee to go from Kitty’s and check out one of the best river views in Hudson instead! Bring your dog along for the ride because everyone is invited to explore the Olana State Historic Site. The 19th-century home of Frederic Edwin Church and the surrounding grounds makes this one of the most Instagram-worthy locations in the Hudson area. Learn about Church’s rich history as you wander around the estate and keep your camera in hand because everything about this place screams picturesque. Even if you are not a history buff, you will love the many amenities on-site, like the scenic picnic areas, the charming gift shop, and the endless walking paths to walk your pup.
After a busy morning of adventure, nothing feels more satisfying than a fresh and delicious meal. While Cafe Mutton doesn’t serve typical lunch, they do offer a varied brunch menu from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Here you can enjoy traditional breakfast favorites or embrace lunch time with a salad, soup, sandwich, or one of their daily specials. Their menu changes with the seasons so come back time and time again for a different meal.
Take the Hudson Ferry to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse
With so many cozy little towns just a stone’s throw away from the city of Hudson, an afternoon day trip is in order. Head over to Athens to climb up into the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse or make your way over to Rhinebeck to admire the Dutch influence as you window shop along Market Street. The Hudson Valley is filled with charm!
Don’t have a vehicle? Get across the river by taking the Hudson Ferry! This makes for a faster way to explore the adorable towns on the other side of the river.
Enjoy a Locally Inspired Dinner at the Tavern at Rivertown Lodge
After a day of exploring some of the best Hudson offers, it is time to reward yourself with the most local of meals at the Tavern at Rivertown Lodge. This farm-to-table fine dining restaurant goes above and beyond with its seasonal menu set amidst an outdoor patio. Indulge in combinations that you have never even thought of before, like rabbit and fermented chile or wild Blufish with smoked eggplant.
The night is still young! Head to The Maker, one of Hudson’s trendiest lounges to enjoy exclusive craft cocktail recipes like the Libertine featuring Fred Jerbis Fernet, LN Mattei Cap Corse Blanc, dried hibiscus, rose, and lemon. If cocktails aren’t your thing, enjoy a wide selection of wines and local beers. On some nights, The Maker even hosts live piano performances. Check their updated events schedule for more information.
Day Three in Hudson, NY
It’s never easy to say goodbye, but especially hard when you have to leave somewhere as wonderful as the Hudson Valley and your cozy vacation home.
Enjoy a late wake-up time while you lounge around your new home away from home, then head to Le Perche. Grab a tasty croissant while you wait for a table because this ‘everything from scratch’ French bakery is one of the most popular in the Hudson Valley! However, just one bite of the Pesto Poached Egg Toast, and you’ll know it was worth the wait.
Afternoon
Check-out of Your Vacation Home
With an 11 AM check-out, there is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the last bits of your cozy vacation rental for the weekend. Spend a leisurely morning taking in the views of the valley, soaking in the hot tub, and sitting by the fireplace.
Hudson is full of artisan shopping areas full of local charm. Warren Street, a shopper’s paradise, offers a unique blend of contemporary style and historic charm. This charming street is lined with a diverse array of independently owned boutiques, antiques, shops, and art galleries, making it a must-visit destination for any shopping lover. From high-end fashion to vintage finds, there’s something for everyone on Warren Street.
Stop in stores like Nikki Chasin to support a local clothing designer and the Quiet Botanist, where every corner is a photo-op waiting to happen if you would rather do your shopping somewhere a bit low-key, venture over to the Antique Warehouse for bespoke finds – the ultimate Hudson Valley souvenir!
Have a Riverfront Picnic at Promenade Hill
What better way to end your Hudson vacation than with a riverfront picnic at Promenade Hill Park? Swing by Talbott & Arding, the picnic packing specialists, and grab some Marge’s Mufaletta, an Uncle Karen’s Hippie Sandwich, and some antipasti, then you are set to enjoy one of the most scenic little parks along the Hudson River. It’s also the perfect place to start planning your next Hudson Valley adventure!
Your Hudson Valley Getaway Awaits
Whether seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or a thrilling outdoor adventure, this region has it all. Imagine the breathtaking beauty of the Hudson Valley’s rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Indulge in the region’s renowned farm-to-table cuisine, art galleries, boutique shops, and historic landmarks. Whatever your desires, your Hudson Valley getaway and Red Cottage vacation rental await!
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.
When you visit the breweries, bakeries, and wineries in Hudson Valley, you’ll likely notice the picturesque farmland, creative food scene, and carefree ambiance. But did you know Hudson Valley is home to some of America’s oldest wineries?
While it’s true that some of these wineries have their stories deeply rooted in America’s history, many of them are new and offer a youthful take on New York’s wine scene.
So, whether you’re a lover of American history, a student of wine, or a thirsty novice, you’re guaranteed to love the Hudson Valley wine scene. A stay amongst the Hudson Valley vineyards is the perfect pairing for your Red Cottage getaway. You’ll be minutes from these premiere vineyards when you stay at one of our rental homes. In short, this is the ideal place for a friend’s weekend or a romantic getaway.
About Wineries in the Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley’s history as a wine region began in the 1600s when the Hudson River became the first major waterway of the New World. This helped put New York City on the map, eventually attracting farmers and increasing agriculture. When farmers realized they could make more money selling wine, many transitioned to owning vineyards.
Much of the region’s success in growing wine comes down to its location. Its proximity to the river and surrounding hills creates a microclimate that keeps the weather consistent and allows popular varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling to flourish.
In addition, many hybrid varietals have come out of this region, such as Baco Noir, Seyval Blanc, and Vignoles. These varietals are bred between American and French grapes to make wines uniquely able to grow in New York’s climate.
Established on an old dairy farm in 1982, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery is proud to produce some of Hudson Valley’s most award-winning wines. Millbrook was the first winery in Hudson Valley to dedicate the entire vineyard to solely vinifera grapes. To date, they’re making some of the Valley’s best Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling.
Wine tastings are conducted in the restored Dutch barn or outside overlooking the vineyard. Guided tours are offered on the weekends. They also have picnic tables available on a first-come, first-serve basis, where you can either bring your own picnic lunch or utilize their food service on the weekdays.
Address: 100 Brotherhood Plaza Dr, Washingtonville, NY
Located in Washingtonville, Brotherhood Winery is proud to be the oldest winery in the United States. Established in 1839 by the former cobbler turned winemaker, John Jaques, he began selling wine at the local markets using the native species that grew in New York. Today, Brotherhood is proud to produce dry red wines, white wines, rosé, sweet dessert wines, fruit wines, and sangria.
Brotherhood offers daily wine tastings, public tours, and guided tastings at their property. Reservations are recommended for the guided tasting, which includes a deep dive into the depths of their underground wine cellars.
While Brotherhood Winery may lay claim as the oldest winery in the US, nestled within the rolling green hilltops of Marlboro, you’ll find America’s oldest vineyard. Benmarl Winery hosts vines dating back to the 1700s.
Today, Benmarl sits on a 37-acre estate that overlooks the entirety of the Hudson River Valley. Their premiere wines include Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Merlot.
Guests can make a reservation to enjoy a wine tasting outside, overlooking the property. Benmarl also hosts events throughout the seasons, including their spring barrel tasting and summer sangria party.
What to sip: Awosting White, a semi-dry white blend
Address: 331 Mckinstry Rd, Gardiner, NY
Housed smack dab in the heart of Hudson Valley, Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery is proud to produce some of the region’s best award-winning wines, crafted with intention. Owners Michael and Yancey produce entirely vegan wines made with sustainability in mind.
Their diverse catalog of wines includes everything from big and bold Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to delicate Riesling and Gamay Noir. Wine tastings are offered in their new Hudson Valley tasting room overlooking fruit trees and the Hudson River.
Tousey Winery
Photo Credit: Tousey Winery
What to sip: Naughtiness Sparkling Rosé
Address: 1774 New York, US-9, Germantown, NY
Tousey Winery is a fun, laid-back boutique winery with a youthful atmosphere and equally bright wines. They have a variety of wines to taste, including big and bold reds, whites, and sparkling.
Guests can enjoy wine tasting inside or outside at the picnic tables. In addition, Tousey also has a cafe conveniently located next door that offers wine-friendly foods like flatbreads and charcuterie. Groups of six or more are required to make a reservation.
Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery
Photo Credit: wvwinery
What to sip: Gewürztraminer
Address: 114 Little York Rd, Warwick, NY
Self-proclaimed “lovers of life,” Warwick Valley Winery began their story in 1990 as apple growers before becoming the first cidery in New York state. Today, they’re makers of world-class cider, wine, cordials, and spirits. They also have a cafe focused on locally-sourced and farm-grown ingredients.
Warwick’s estate is known as a Hudson Valley music venue, so if you’re in the mood for live music, this is the spot to be. Many of the shows are free to enter unless it’s during the apple-picking season or one of the many infamous festivals hosted on the property.
Set along the Shawangunk Mountains ridge near New Paltz, Robibero Winery is a family-owned winery focused on small-batch wines served in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere. This is a must-visit if you’re looking for an easygoing destination to relax, sip on delicious wines, and bask in the New York sunshine. They also have weekly events, including live music, comedy nights, and Mother’s Day festivities.
Robibero has an eclectic selection of wines, from juicy Cabernet Franc to sweet Riesling and Seyval Blanc. Guests are welcome to walk the vineyards or enjoy a wine tasting outside. When you’re hungry, you can either bring a picnic or order a wood-fired pizza from their cafe. Guests of four or more are asked to make a reservation.
Quartz Rock Vineyard
What to sip: Unoaked Noiret
Address: 40 Mountain Rd, Marlboro, NY
Formerly known as Glorie Farm Winery, Quartz Rock Vineyard is another all-day affair that’s perfect for families, wine lovers, and craft beer lovers alike. All of the wines are made using estate-grown grapes from their Nightingale Farm in Marlboro. Some of their must-try wines include their Muscat Chardonnay blend, semi-dry Riesling, and Cabernet Franc, to name a few.
Guests can choose from first-come, first-serve seating or private tastings. Kids and leashed dogs are welcome, and an ever-changing selection of food popups and food trucks are available on-site. In addition, Quartz Rock also has live music on the weekends.
Perched on an epic 40-acre apple orchard, Applewood Winery is Orange County’s oldest farm, dating back to 1700. Today, it’s a bustling and vibrant spot known for producing both dry and sweet wines, hard ciders, and mead.
Visiting the estate is a full-on experience. Guests can choose to enjoy wine tasting, cider tasting, or sip on some handcrafted cocktails. In addition, there’s free music on the weekends and a food menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and charcuterie. When you’re finished at the winery, you can head next door to Apple Dave’s Distillery for a spirits flight and apple picking.
Milea Estate Vineyard
Photo Credit: mileaestatevineyard
What to sip: Papa Joe Red Blend
Address: 450 Hollow Rd, Staatsburg, NY
Milea Estate Vineyard sits on the scenic landscape of Staatsburg and has been voted time and time again as one of New York’s must-visit wineries. The tasting room is located in their modern reclaimed farmhouse and sits atop the estate, overlooking the Hudson River. Some of their premier wines include Claret, Grüner Veltliner, and Pinot Noir.
Guests that visit can choose between an indoor or outdoor wine tasting, a guided tour and tasting, or sharing a bottle and relaxing in the grass. When you’re hungry, Milea proudly offers a curated tapas-tasting menu featuring unique Korean and French influences.
Located in Milton, Nostrano Vineyards is a 65-acre family-run farm, vineyard, and winery. The tasting room is perched atop a picturesque hill overlooking the vineyard and farm property. Some of their best-known wines include Baco Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
Guests can choose between indoor and outdoor seating, which can be reserved ahead of time, or when you arrive. They also offer locally-sourced cheeseboards and live music on the weekends.
Baldwin Vineyards specializes in fruit wines, first and foremost. However, unlike other fruit wineries, Baldwin emphasizes the pure expression of the fruit rather than cloaking it in copious amounts of sugar. This makes for both dry and sweet fruit wines with depth and richness.
Even if you’re more of a traditional red wine drinker, Baldwin has a wide selection of wines to choose from. Guests can choose between a flight, glass, or bottle of their wine, which can be enjoyed on the property overlooking the vineyard.
Founded in 2009, Torne Valley Vineyards is the first official winery in Rockland County. Today, its presence on a 19th-century country estate and unique Victorian architecture make it a worthwhile destination for enjoying new-school wines in retro, old-school scenery.
Torne Valley is only open on the weekends. They offer wine tasting, glass, and bottle purchases alongside a curated selection of small bites and sandwiches. As for the wines, Torne Valley offers both red and white wines alongside local New York distilled liquors, sangria, and craft beer. Their most popular wines include the Seyval Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and sparkling rosé.
Hudson-Chatham Winery
Photo Credit: hudsonchathamwinery
What to sip: Rosado Pet Nat
Address: 1900 NY-66, Ghent, NY
Founded in 2006, Hudson-Chatham Winery is Columbia County’s first winery, though it began its story as a dairy farm established in the 1760s. Today, it’s a premiere winery focused on hybrid varietals ideal for growing in upstate New York. This includes exciting and unique wines like Baco Noir, Seyval Blanc, and Chambourcin, to name a few.
HCW is a family and pet-friendly winery where kids and pups alike can lounge in the hillsides while the adults sip on some of New York’s finest wines. Reservations are recommended for guided wine tastings. However, anyone can pop in for an unguided tasting or split a bottle and enjoy the fresh air.
Brimstone Hill Vineyard
What to sip: Sparkling Chardonnay
Address: 61 Brimstone Hill Rd, Pine Bush, NY
If you’re looking for “local wine with a French touch,” then Brimstone Hill Vineyard is the place to be. Owners Richard and Valerie Eldridge began making wine in 1979 with only two wines. Today, they’re proud to offer eight wines, including a sparkling Chardonnay made in the style of Champagne.
Richard and Valerie have focused on producing high-quality, small-batch wines made in a classic French style using varietals designed to succeed in New York. Their tasting room is open on weekends only, and many guests comment that they’re the best winery on the Shawangunk Wine Trail.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Hudson Valley Wineries
Call Ahead: Always call ahead to check open hours and to verify if they allow children and dogs.
Make Reservations: Reservations are usually required or highly suggested, especially for larger groups.
Check Food Policies: Many wineries allow you to bring food in, so plan ahead if you’d like to bring a picnic lunch.
Check the Weather: Wineries located in more rural areas may be closed due to inclement weather.
Prepare for Hot Weather: During the warmer months, be sure to carry water, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as most of the wineries offer outdoor seating.
Designate a Driver: Many wineries require a decent amount of driving between each, so decide on a designated driver in advance or utilize a car service.
Grab a Glass and Taste Your Way Through Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley is home to some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and historically significant wineries. When you choose to stay at one of our vacation rentals, you’ll find yourself within arm’s reach of many of these fun and lively wineries.
So, whether you’re a wine lover, a wine novice, or just want to bask in the New York summer sun, you’ll have a blast visiting any of these wineries. Then when you’re ready, your vacation rental will be there waiting for you!
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.
