The Ultimate Guide of Things to do in the Catskills

The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in the Catskills

The Catskills have long been a retreat for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the city. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’re a long-time local looking for new experiences, this guide covers the best outdoor activities, must-visit towns for dining and shopping, and the top annual events and festivals in the region.

Outdoor Activities in the Catskills

The Catskills are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from hiking and fishing to skiing and river tubing.

• Hiking & Scenic Views – Explore some of the most breathtaking trails in New York, including Kaaterskill Falls, Overlook Mountain, and Giant Ledge-Panther Mountain, all offering stunning vistas of the Hudson Valley.

• Skiing & Snowboarding – Winter brings excellent skiing opportunities at Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Belleayre Mountain, each offering trails for all skill levels.

• Fly Fishing – The Catskills are considered the birthplace of American fly fishing, with the Beaverkill River and Delaware River offering world-class trout fishing.

• Kayaking & Tubing – The Esopus Creek and Delaware River provide fun summer activities, from tubing and kayaking to whitewater rafting.

• Camping & Glamping – Traditional camping options abound in places like North-South Lake Campground, while luxury glamping experiences are available at Eastwind Hotel & Bar and Collective Governors Island Catskills.

Towns to Visit for Dining & Shopping

The Catskills are home to charming towns with a mix of farm-to-table restaurants, artisanal shops, and cozy cafés.

• Woodstock – Famous for its artistic roots, this town features unique boutiques, galleries, and must-visit eateries like Joshua’s Café and The Mud Club for fantastic bagels.

• Phoenicia – A small but vibrant town with legendary eats at The Phoenicia Diner, plus quirky antique shops and art galleries.

• Kingston – The first capital of New York, Kingston is now a cultural hotspot with waterfront dining at Ship to Shore, plus fantastic breweries and vintage shops.

• Livingston Manor – A hub for craft beer lovers, home to The Catskill Brewery, alongside charming bookstores, home goods stores, and the popular The DeBruce restaurant.

• Narrowsburg – Nestled along the Delaware River, this town boasts stunning river views, unique shops like The Nest, and fine dining at The Heron.

Annual Festivals, Concerts & Events

The Catskills come alive with festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, food, and the arts.

• Mountain Jam (June) – A multi-day music festival at Bethel Woods, the historic site of Woodstock 1969.

• Taste of the Catskills (October) – A farm and food festival showcasing local artisans, breweries, and farms.

• The Catskill Mountain Thunder Motorcycle Festival (September) – A must-visit for motorcycle enthusiasts featuring live music, stunt shows, and vendors.

• The Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice (August) – A celebration of opera and vocal performances in a stunning mountain setting.

• Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest (Fall weekends) – A German-style festival featuring beer, bratwurst, and live music.

• Sullivan County Catskills Pride (June) – A vibrant LGBTQ+ celebration with music, food, and a parade in Livingston Manor.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're hiking to scenic peaks, indulging in farm-fresh cuisine, or attending one of the many festivals, the Catskills offer a wealth of experiences for visitors and locals alike. No matter the season, there's always something new to explore in this timeless mountain region.