New York’s Catskills region is unique in that it’s a sought-after getaway destination at any time of the year. Whether you’re visiting in the fall to take in the foliage and explore the area’s farms and cideries, or you’re visiting in the winter to take in the ski and snowboard destinations; there’s no shortage of things to do. There are quite a few towns that make up the Catskills region and each one has something unique to offer. To help guide you as you plan your next Upstate New York escape, I’ve compiled a complete guide to the Catskills NY.
Livingston Manor, New York
What to Do:
Visit Upward Brewing Company – Located just outside the town of Livingston Manor you’ll find Upward Brewing Company, the most aesthetically pleasing brewery I have ever laid my eyes on. In addition to its eye-catching interior, it offers a beautiful outside space and even an onsite hiking trail that you can tackle upon arriving and celebrate your completion with one of their delicious brews.
Explore the Town of Livingston Manor – Park your car right on Main Street and hop out to explore the shops and restaurants that make up this unique town. A few of my favorite spots are: Long Weekend for vintage furniture and goods, Homestedt for Catskills gear and nest for the cutest trinkets and gifts.
Stop by the Weekly Callicoon Farmers Market. Hosted every Sunday in the town of Callicoon, the local farmers market is a great place to grab local goods ranging from seasonal to produce to jarred jams and handmade trinkets.
Where to Eat:
The Walk In – A delicious restaurant in downtown Livingston Manor, The Walk In serves breakfast, lunch, alcoholic beverages and more. We popped by for breakfast one morning and wow – that breakfast biscuit is quite a treat! The owners are from the South and it really shows in how delicious and comforting their food is.
Conover Club – Callicoon Hills’ on-site restaurant, Conover Club offers a seasonal menu serving brunch, dinner and some pretty delicious cocktails, all in a beautiful cozy setting.
A few other restaurants and bars in the area that I’ve heard great things about but haven’t had the chance to try myself, include:
Where to Stay:
Callicoon Hills – An informal vacation resort located in Callicoon, NY, Callicoon Hills is equipped with a pool, impressive onsite restaurant, Conover Club, hiking and walking trails, along with three sets of rooms – Boarding House, Pool House and Ridge Rooms. This spot really exudes all of those feel good Upstate New York vibes.
A few other hotels in the area that I’ve heard of but haven’t had a chance to experience myself include:
Woodstock, New York
What to Do:
Wander down Tinker Street & Mill Hill Road. Technically one long winding street, Tinker Street and Mill Hill Road are packed with the town’s best shops, restaurants and bars. A few of my favorite shopping destinations include: beck, Little House, and Casa Ziki.
Hike Overlook Mountain. A moderately challenging hiking route just outside of Woodstock offering some pretty beautiful views.
Spend a Day at Glo Spa. A local boutique spa with saunas, steam rooms and specialty services like massages, facials, etc. It’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon relaxing in the Catskills.
Visit the Woodstock Festival Grounds. The historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, technically located in Bethel, the area is still used regularly for events and concerts throughout the year.
Where to Eat:
Silvia Woodstock – A cozy-chic family-owned restaurant right in the heart of Woodstock, Silvia serves delicious dishes with locally sourced ingredients. I highly recommend giving their mushroom pate a try – it is life changing!
Dixon Roadside – Just a short drive outside of the town of Woodstock, Dixon Roadside is serving up elevated roadside eatery classics. Think crispy chicken with kimchi mayo, mac and cheese and biscuit shortcake. The owner of Dixon Roadside also happens to own the iconic Phoenicia Diner (more on this below) so if you’re familiar with that, you won’t be disappointed.
Bread Alone – An Upstate New York-based, family-owned bakery, Bread Alone serves up delicious breads, pastries and and more.
A few other restaurants and bars in the area that I’ve heard great things about but haven’t had the chance to try myself, include:
Where to Stay:
I haven’t had the opportunity to stay in any hotels in Woodstock, only Airbnb’s, but I’ve heard great things about a few hotels in the area, including:
Phoenicia, New York
What to Do:
Hop on a Rail Explorers: Catskill Ride. Cruise along the historic Ulster and Delaware railroad, all while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Catskills and getting in a little workout. Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy along the way.
Take a Hike on Tremper Mountain and soak up the beautiful views of the Catskills.
Grab a Beer at Woodstock Brewing. A local craft brewery with indoor-outdoor seating, you can easily pop by and pick up something to go or enjoy a beer there.
Cool off in the Esopus Creek. A 65 mile long creek draining from the Catskill Mountains, it’s one of the best places to cool off during a Catskills summer.
Where to Eat:
Foxfire Mountain House – A cozy Catskills lodge and restaurant, the Foxfire Mountain House offers a seasonal farm to table 3-course dinner for $65. I absolutely love the atmosphere here and the food and cocktails are delicious. Plus, it’s also a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cozy, home-like escape.
Phoenicia Diner – A staple in the Catskills, Phoenicia Diner offers traditional diner favorites with a modern twist, all made with seasonal, local ingredients. It’s in absolute MUST if you’re in the area.
Where to Stay:
Airbnb – While there are a number of hotels in the general area, there aren’t many in the actual town of Phoenicia, other than the Foxfire Mountain House, so you’re best bet is to find an Airbnb. Luckily, there are a number of charming options of all different shapes and sizes. I recommend the Eddy Cabin and the neighboring Brookie Cabin.
Other hotels in the area that I’ve heard of but haven’t had a chance to experience myself include:
Greenville, New York
What to Do:
Hike the Huyck Preserve. A beautiful moderate hike with breathtaking waterfalls, views of Lake Myosotis and wooded pathways leading through wildflower bunches.
Take a dip in Catskill Creek. Weaving through much of the area, Catskill Creek is a great place to cool off in the summer, but be sure that you’re not sneaking through someone’s land in order to dip your toes in.
Catch a Flick at the Greenville Drive-In. Open seasonally, the drive in is a great place to cozy up and enjoy a classic movie, surrounded by the great outdoors.
Where to Eat:
Woodhouse Pizza – The Woodhouse Lodge’s newest restaurant, Woodhouse Pizza serves up some delicious pies, appetizers and desserts all made with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a must if you’re in the area!
Gracie’s Luncheonette – Serving a locally sourced breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, Gracie’s Luncheonette is the ideal place to go if you’re looking for some comfort food. If you’re there in the morning, their donuts are also a delicious choice.
Where to Stay:
The Woodhouse Lodge – One of my absolute favorite hotels in the area, The Woodhouse Lodge is a magical hidden escape surrounded by the rolling hills of the Catskill Mountains. Spend your days lounging on the hammocks and your afternoon sipping on fresh cocktails by the fire. It’s truly the epitome of an Upstate New York getaway. Read more about a stay at The Woodhouse Lodge in my post here.
Hunter, New York
What to Do:
Enjoy Hunter Mountain, any time of the year. In the warmer months head over to Hunter Mountain to tackle one of the many hiking trails, hop on the Scenic Sky Ride or take in the sites via zip line. In the winter, enjoy the resorts ski and snowboard trails, or opt for snow tubing.
Hike Kaaterskill Falls. The two-stage waterfall in the Catskill mountains has a rough and often slippery path down to the base of the falls but the views are so worth it. In the warmer months you can even wear your swimsuit and cool off in the bottom pools. Just note that this hike is not for beginners.
Where to Eat:
Jessie’s Harvest House – A local restaurant just under a 10 minute drive from Scribner’s, this is just the place to go if you’re looking for a home cooked meal in a friendly setting.
Where to Stay:
Scribner’s Catskill Lodge – Nestled in the heart of the Catskill mountains and located under 3 hours from New York City, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge is a great place to escape to enjoy the natural beauty of New York state. In fall, its idyllic location showcases the colors of the changing leaves and offers guests a much-needed cozy escape from the confinement of city life and in the summer their resort style pool is a great place to relax and escape the heat.
Looking for more Catskills inspiration? Check out my posts on the Best Hotels in Upstate New York and The Ultimate Guide to the Best Weekend Getaways from NYC.
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