Ultimate Guide: 25+ Unforgettable Things To Do In The Catskills
Dreaming of a getaway that blends outdoor adventure with small-town charm, cultural richness, and culinary delights? Look no further than the Catskill Mountains, a legendary region just two hours north of New York City that has captivated artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. Often called the "birthplace of American recreation," the Catskills offer a stunningly diverse palette of experiences. Whether you're seeking a heart-pumping hike to a panoramic summit, a serene afternoon by a cascading waterfall, a cozy weekend in a historic resort town, or a sophisticated sip on a craft brewery tour, this guide will unlock the very best things to do in the Catskills. From the Hudson Valley foothills to the High peaks of the Catskill Park, prepare to discover your own slice of mountain magic.
The region's identity is a fascinating tapestry woven from Native American heritage (the name "Catskill" derives from "kaatskill," meaning "cat creek" or "mountain of the cats"), Dutch colonial history, the Borscht Belt era of grand hotels, and its modern renaissance as a hub for farm-to-table dining, artisans, and outdoor enthusiasts. This isn't just a destination; it's a vibe. It’s the smell of pine forests after rain, the sound of a fly fisherman's line hitting the Willowemoc Creek, the taste of a freshly picked apple from a u-pick farm, and the sight of a sunset painting the Hudson River in hues of gold and violet. Let's dive into the comprehensive list of Catskills activities that will make your next trip truly unforgettable.
1. Hike Iconic Trails with Breathtaking Vistas
Lacing up your boots is non-negotiable for any Catskills trip. The region is a hiker's paradise, boasting over 300 miles of trails within the Catskill Park's "Forever Wild" forest preserve. The challenge ranges from gentle walks through hemlock groves to strenuous climbs to some of the Northeast's most iconic peaks.
Must-Do Summit Hikes for the Bucket List
For the classic Catskills experience, summit one of the 35 High Peaks over 3,500 feet. Slide Mountain, the highest at 4,180 feet, offers a rugged, rewarding trek with 360-degree views that stretch to the Adirondacks on a clear day. Hunter Mountain is another favorite, featuring a historic fire tower at the summit that provides an unparalleled panorama of the entire region. For a hike with a historic twist, Catskill Mountain House trail leads to the ruins of the famed 19th-century hotel, where you can stand on the same ledge that inspired Hudson River School painters like Thomas Cole.
Family-Friendly Walks and Easy Nature Trails
Not every adventure requires a major climb. The Kaaterskill Falls trail (though the falls themselves are in the next section) offers a relatively easy, paved path to two stunning cascades. The North-South Lake area is a massive recreational hub with flat, scenic trails around the lake and to Alligator Rock. The Catskill Interpretive Center in Mount Tremper provides excellent, accessible trails and educational exhibits perfect for introducing kids to the local ecology.
Pro Tips for Hiking Safety and Preparation
- Check Conditions: Trail websites like New York-New Jersey Trail Conference provide up-to-date reports on mud, ice, or blowdowns.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and stay on marked trails to protect the fragile alpine environment.
- Gear Up: Sturdy hiking boots, layers for changing mountain weather, ample water, and a map are essential. Many trailheads have parking fees, so bring cash.
- Start Early: Popular trailheads fill by 9 AM on weekends. An early start guarantees solitude and a parking spot.
2. Chase Waterfalls and Natural Wonders
The Catskills' hydrology is its liquid soul, creating hundreds of waterfalls, from thundering giants to delicate ribbons. Kaaterskill Falls is the undisputed star—a two-stage cataract dropping 260 feet into a crystal pool. View it from the official viewing platform or, for the more adventurous, carefully navigate the rocks below (use extreme caution). Fallsburg Falls in South Fallsburg is a powerful, easily accessible single drop. For a serene, lesser-known gem, seek out Basha Kill Wildlife Management Area, where you'll find multiple small falls and abundant birdwatching.
Beyond waterfalls, explore other geological wonders. The Vly in Windham is a vast, high-elevation flatland that feels like a secret alpine meadow. The Gunks (Shawangunk Ridge) just south of the Catskills offers world-class bouldering and dramatic white quartz cliffs. Don't miss the Catskill Mountain Railroad scenic trips or the Zoom Flume water park for a refreshing summer splash.
3. Explore Quaint Mountain Towns and Main Streets
The soul of the Catskills lives in its villages. Each has a distinct personality, offering antique shopping, art galleries, farmers markets, and cozy cafes.
Historic Resort Towns: Phoenicia, Hunter, and Tannersville
Phoenicia, along the Esopus Creek, is a hipster haven with legendary fly fishing, the Phoenicia Diner, and the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum. Hunter is a four-season resort village with a charming main street, the Hunter Mountain ski area, and the Catskill Mountain Foundation's performance venues. Tannersville has undergone a stunning renaissance with art installations like the Tannersville Main Street painted by local artists and the Doctor Jack's general store.
The "Borscht Belt" Legacy: Ellenville, Liberty, and Monticello
These towns were once the playgrounds of mid-century America with grand hotels like the Grossinger's and the Concord. While the big hotels are gone, their spirit lingers. Ellenville has the Nevele Grand Resort grounds (now in redevelopment) and the stunning Fallsburg Lanes bowling alley. Liberty boasts the Catskill Art Society and the beautifully restored Liberty Theater. Monticello is the largest of the Borscht Belt towns, with a growing arts scene and the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts at the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival just a short drive away.
4. Unwind at Historic Resorts and Modern Lodges
You don't have to stay in a rustic cabin. The Catskills offer a spectrum of lodging, from luxury resorts to charming B&Bs.
Grand-Scale Getaways
The Hotel Delaware in ** Hancock** is a meticulously restored 1920s gem with a saltwater pool and fine dining. The Full Moon Resort in Big Indian is an iconic, bohemian-chic complex of cottages and a renowned restaurant, Peekamoose, famous for its "Moonlight Dinners."The Mountain House in Catskill offers a more contemporary, design-forward experience with private hot tubs and fireplaces.
Cozy and Unique Stays
For a quintessential Catskills experience, book a room at a family-run bed and breakfast like The Inn at Wurtsboro or The Eldridge. Consider glamping in a safari tent at Dreamland in Margaretville or a treehouse at Treehouse Village in Catskill. Many old boarding houses have been transformed into stylish vacation rentals with full kitchens, perfect for families or groups.
5. Sip and Savor at Craft Breweries and Wineries
The Catskills craft beverage scene has exploded, turning the region into a premier destination for beer, wine, and spirits enthusiasts. Over 50 producers are now scattered across the mountains.
Brewery Trail Blazers
Catskill Brewery in Beacon (technically the Hudson Valley but a gateway) set the standard. In the heart of the Catskills, West Kill Brewing in Lexington and Devil's Tale Brewing in Woodstock are must-visits. Brewery Ommegang in Rochester (Ulster County) is a pioneer of Belgian-style ales in the US, with beautiful grounds and frequent events. Many breweries are dog-friendly and have food trucks or partner with local food trucks.
Vineyards and Distilleries
The Catskill Region is part of the Hudson River Region wine appellation. Tuthilltown Spirits in Gardiner was one of the first craft distilleries in New York, famous for its Hudson Baby Bourbon. Benmarl Winery in Marlboro is one of the oldest vineyards in the country, with stunning Hudson River views. For a unique experience, visit The Shandaken in Phoenicia, a cider house and tavern specializing in local hard ciders.
6. Get Fresh at Farm Stands, U-Pick Farms, and Farmers Markets
The Catskills agricultural heritage is thriving. Farm-to-table isn't a trend here; it's a way of life. From late spring through fall, farmers markets like the Kingston Farmers Market (Saturdays), Woodstock Farmers Market (Sundays), and Phoenicia Farmers Market (Fridays) overflow with organic produce, artisanal cheeses, fresh baked goods, and local honey.
U-pick operations are a fantastic family activity. Ochs Orchard in Warwick offers apples, peaches, and pumpkins with a maze and farm animals. Mills Family Farm in Cochecton is famous for its strawberries in June. For a true agritourism experience, visit Bronck Museum in Coxsackie, a historic farm complex with 18th-century buildings and heritage livestock. Many farms also host harvest festivals and corn mazes in the fall.
7. Cast a Line in World-Class Fly Fishing Waters
The Catskills are the birthplace of American fly fishing. The Willowemoc Creek and the Beaverkill River are legendary, drawing anglers worldwide to their trout-filled waters. Roscoe, a village on the Beaverkill, is the undisputed "Trout Town USA," home to the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum and classic fly shops like Catskill Fly Shop.
For beginners, many outfitters offer guided trips and lessons. The Beaverkill Angler and Trout Town Flies are excellent resources for gear, licenses, and local intel. Even if you don't fish, a peaceful walk along these storied streams, watching the mayflies hatch and the trout rise, is a quintessential Catskills meditation. Spin fishing for bass and pickerel is also popular in the region's many lakes, like Pepacton Reservoir and Ashokan Reservoir.
8. Discover Art, History, and Culture
Beyond nature, the Catskills have a profound cultural legacy.
The Hudson River School
Visit the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill to see the home and studio of the movement's founder. The Olana State Historic Site in Hudson (just south) is the Persian-inspired home of Frederic Edwin Church, Cole's protege, with breathtaking landscape gardens and views.
Music and Performance
The Catskill Mountain Foundation in Hunter and Tannersville hosts concerts, theater, and dance in historic venues like the Orpheum Performing Arts Center. Bethel Woods is a must for music history buffs. The Woodstock Playhouse has staged summer stock theater since the 1930s.
Galleries and Studios
The Woodstock Artists Association & Museum (WAAM) and the Byrdcliffe Guild (America's oldest Arts & Crafts colony) in Woodstock showcase local and historic art. The Pine Hill Arts Center in Pine Hill and the Catskill Art Society in Liberty keep the creative spirit alive in smaller towns.
9. Hit the Slopes and Trails in Winter
When snow blankets the peaks, the Catskills transform into a winter wonderland. Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain are the two major ski resorts, offering terrain for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds. Both have extensive snowmaking and modern lifts. For a more rustic, old-school experience, try Ski Belleayre in Highmount, a state-run ski area with incredible views and often shorter lift lines.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are phenomenal in the North-South Lake area, Ashokan Rail Trail, and Mongaup Pond. Many B&Bs and resorts offer sleigh rides and snow tubing. After a day on the snow, nothing beats warming up by a fireplace with a hot toddy or local craft beer.
10. Relax and Rejuvenate with Spa Days
The Catskills are a premier destination for wellness and relaxation. The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, PA (just over the border) is a full-service destination spa with golf, fine dining, and a massive spa menu. Closer to the core Catskills, The Full Moon Resort offers massage and yoga. Many hotels and B&Bs have partnerships with local spas or offer in-room massages. For a unique, mineral-rich soak, the Kaaterskill Clove area has historic healing springs sites, though public access is limited. The ultimate relaxation is simply finding a quiet spot by a stream with a good book.
11. Dive into the Legendary Food Scene
Forget bland diner food. The Catskills culinary scene is a destination in itself, driven by celebrity chefs, local farmers, and a commitment to sourcing within 100 miles.
Farm-to-Table Pioneers
The Deer's Head Inn in Delhi (a bit north but iconic) and Peekamoose at The Full Moon Resort are consistently ranked among the best restaurants in New York State. The Restaurant at the Hotel Delaware in Hancock and Cafe Boulud at the Cairn in Hunter (from Chef Daniel Boulud) bring fine dining to the mountains. For a more casual but exquisite meal, Catskill Mountain Pizza in Phoenicia and The Country Store & Cafe in Tannersville are local institutions.
Iconic Eateries and Roadside Stands
No Catskills visit is complete without a meal at the Phoenicia Diner (featured on TV's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives). Grab a legendary bagel at New York Bagels & Deli in Woodstock. In summer, stop at a roadside farm stand for fresh-picked corn, heirloom tomatoes, and maple syrup. For a sweet treat, The Sweet Maresa in Phoenicia and Molly's Cupcakes in Woodstock are musts.
12. Experience Live Music and Nightlife
The Catskills' nightlife is as varied as its landscape. From bluegrass jams to rock concerts, there's always a beat.
Legendary Venues
The Bearsville Theater in Woodstock is an intimate, acoustically perfect historic venue that hosts national acts. The Colony in Woodstock is a classic music hall with a legendary sound system. The Ashokan Center in Olivebridge hosts major folk and roots festivals like Mountain Jam (usually in June) and The Catskill Mountain Bluegrass Festival.
Local Pubs and Taverns
For a more low-key vibe, find a local bar with live music. The Cooperage in Phoenicia, The Wittenberg in Tannersville, and The Rosendale Cafe (just south) regularly feature talented local and touring musicians. Many breweries and wineries also host acoustic sets and open mic nights.
13. Take a Scenic Drive or Railway Journey
Sometimes the best things to do in the Catskills involve simply enjoying the view from behind the wheel or on a historic train.
By Car: The Catskill Scenic Byway
This designated route winds through the heart of the region. Drive the NY-28 corridor from Kingston to Oneonta, stopping at overlooks, antique shops, and waterfalls. The Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway (NY-23A) from Hunter to Tannersville offers dramatic mountain vistas and access to Kaaterskill Falls.
By Rail: Catskill Mountain Railroad & Empire State Trail
The Catskill Mountain Railroad operates scenic passenger excursions from Kingston to Phoenicia and West Hurley through the Esopus Valley. It's a delightful, family-friendly way to see the countryside. For cyclists, the Empire State Trail now includes the Catskill section, converting old rail lines into paved paths perfect for biking from Kingston to West Hurley.
14. Camp Under the Stars in Iconic Settings
Camping is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in Catskill wilderness.
Developed Campgrounds
North-South Lake is the most popular, with hundreds of sites, a beach, and easy access to hiking. Mongaup Pond is a beautiful, quieter option with a large pond. Devil's Tombstone near Hunter is a small, rugged campground perfect for hikers. Reserve campsites months in advance for summer weekends through New York State Parks.
Backcountry and Lean-tos
For a true adventure, obtain a free Catskill Park ** camping permit** and backpack to a primitive site or stay in one of the dozens of historic lean-tos (three-sided shelters) maintained by the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference. The Slide Mountain area and the Balsam Lake Mountain loop are classic backcountry trips. Winter camping in the lean-tos is a cherished, challenging tradition for experienced outdoorspeople.
15. Plan Your Perfect Catskills Getaway: A Practical Guide
With so many things to do in the Catskills, planning is key.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (May-June): Lush greenery, waterfalls at peak flow, fewer crowds. "Mud season" can make trails slippery.
- Summer (July-August): Perfect for swimming, festivals, and all activities. Busiest and most expensive season.
- Fall (September-October):Peak foliage is stunning (usually mid-October). Crisp air, harvest festivals. Extremely popular.
- Winter (December-March):Ski season, snowshoeing, cozy fires. Some attractions have reduced hours.
Getting Around
A car is essential. The region is spread out, and public transportation is limited. The Catskill Mountain Railroad and some county bus systems exist but won't get you to trailheads or remote farms. Consider biking on the Empire State Trail for a car-free experience in the Kingston area.
Where to Stay
Book accommodations well in advance, especially for fall foliage and summer weekends. Choose based on your activity focus: stay near Hunter for skiing, Phoenicia for fishing and a hip vibe, Woodstock for arts and music, or Tannersville for family-friendly attractions.
Budgeting
The Catskills offer options for every budget. Camping and vacation rentals can be very affordable. Dining ranges from diner eats ($) to fine dining ($$$). Activity costs include park entry fees ($6-$9/car), ski lift tickets ($80-$120/day), and brewery tours ($15-$25).
What to Pack
Layers are king. Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always pack a rain jacket, warm fleece, sturdy footwear, and sun protection. For summer, bring swimwear for lake dips. For winter, thermal gear, hats, and gloves are non-negotiable.
Conclusion: Your Catskills Adventure Awaits
From the misty summits that inspired a nation's first artistic movement to the bubbling trout streams that defined a sport, from the grand, faded elegance of the Borscht Belt to the vibrant, farm-fueled food scene of today, the Catskill Mountains are a living, breathing, and endlessly fascinating destination. The sheer diversity of things to do in the Catskills ensures that every visit can be a new adventure—whether you're a hardcore peak-bagger, a casual waterfall chaser, a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone seeking peace in a pine-scented forest.
This guide has merely scratched the surface of the trails, towns, tastes, and tunes that await. The real magic happens when you slow down, wander down a dirt road, strike up a conversation in a local shop, and let the mountains' timeless rhythm set your pace. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your escape. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and discover why the Catskills have been, and will always be, a haven for the soul. Your unforgettable journey into the heart of New York's legendary mountains starts now.
