Your Catskills, New York, Itinerary at a Glance
Few areas boast the thrills of the Catskills, New York region, rich in art, history and natural beauty. This Catskills, New York, itinerary weaves together exciting visits to historic estates, inspiring sanctuaries and breathtaking landscapes. From the homes of renowned artists to serene nature preserves, you will immerse yourself in experiences that celebrate the essence of this picturesque area.
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Enjoy These Great Catskills, New York, Attractions and More:
- Thomas Cole National Historic Site
- Book Village
- Belleayre Mountain
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
- Mohonk Preserve
- Huguenot Street Historic District
Day-to-Day Catskills, New York Itinerary
Day 1 of Things to Do in Catskills, NY
Begin your journey at Thomas Cole National Historic Site, an impressive ode to the founder of the Hudson River School of American painting. This National Historic Landmark offers insights into Cole’s life and the landscapes that inspired his work. As you tour the property, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the early American art movement that celebrated the natural beauty of the region. Art lovers should consider a visit to Olana State Historic Site, just a short drive over the river.
Pay a visit to the town of Hobart, also known as the Book Village. Located between Bloomville and Stamford, Hobart is a hidden gem of a destination; a small town complete with delightful shops, galleries and great food and drink options. It is most identified by being the place that boasts of being the home of several truly special collections of books and those who love to sell them. In 2005, Hobart, NY local Don Dales decided to start the only book village east of the Mississippi. Nine different independent bookstores now call it home (along with a few other businesses like antique shops and art galleries). It was also named to Fodor’s Go List for 2022, an annual list spotlighting the best places to travel.
An hour away, in Livingston Manor, pay a visit to the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum, the world’s largest center dedicated to the fly fishing community. Located on 50 acres with a series of beautiful nature trails on the Willowemoc River, this multi-faceted cultural site includes the museum, art gallery and heritage arts workshop.
Conclude your first day with a myriad of activities at Belleayre Mountain, where year-round events await. Depending on the season, you can enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, scenic gondola rides, or relax at Belleayre Beach. If you’re visiting in October, the annual fall festival is a highlight, featuring local crafts, food vendors and live entertainment. Belleayre Mountain encapsulates the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation, offering a fitting end to your New York adventure.
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Day 2 of Catskills, New York, Attractions
Day two in the Empire State commences at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair. This venue encompasses an amphitheater, performing arts center, and a museum dedicated to the legendary festival that defined a generation. Explore exhibits that capture the spirit of the era, and if your visit falls between June and September, consider attending a live concert at the 15,000-seat outdoor venue. The center hosts a variety of musical genres, ensuring a memorable evening under the stars.
In the afternoon, visitors should tackle Dove Trail in Sullivan County, just 15 minutes from Bethel Woods and home to a unique public arts project commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock festival. Scattered throughout villages and towns, there are 50 dove sculptures, each hand-painted by local artists. The trail gives visitors a unique way to explore the Catskills while celebrating the region’s artistic spirit and historical significance. Each dove tells a story, reflecting the creativity and community that continue to thrive in the area.
Pay a visit to historic Woodstock, where the spirit of the 1960s and 1970s are still alive.
Take a stroll along Tinker Street, which is famed for shopping. Tinker Street has everything from rugs and furniture to unique clothing on offer. Don’t miss a stop at Peace Love & Cupcakes, which has won competitions on Food Network for its sweet offerings and where the cupcakes are named after beloved musical artists from the 1960s and 1970s.
The Byrdcliffe Arts Colony was founded in 1902 and is situated on 300 wooded acres with 30 picturesque buildings. It is the oldest continuing arts and crafts colony in the US. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Byrdcliffe houses an artist in-residence program and offers walking tours and classes in ceramics, jewelry making, woodworking, dance, and voice.
For those taking an adventure tour, take a hike to the top of Overlook Mountain, where you will find the newest of the five remaining fire towers in the Catskill Park, having been built in its present location in 1950. The 60-foot tower offers incredible views of the Hudson River Valley across to the Berkshires, Taconics and Litchfield Hills, the Ashokan Reservoir and the Devil’s Path Range.
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Day 3 of Activities in Catskills, NY
First up on day three in the Catskills, New York, region: Mohonk Preserve, where guests have the opportunity to embrace the natural splendor of the Hudson Valley by visiting a nature lover’s dream that is dedicated to protecting the northern Shawangunk Ridge. Spanning 8,000 acres of cliffs, forests, fields, ponds, and streams, the preserve offers a multitude of outdoor activities. With 70 miles of carriage roads and trails, you can hike, bike, climb, or simply soak in the serene environment. It is a place that inspires visitors to appreciate and care for the natural world.
Next up is another preserve, this one located on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains: Sam’s Point. The broader area encompasses approximately 5,000 acres and is home to rare high-altitude pitch pine barrens. Explore scenic vistas, enchanting ice cave crevices and a sky lake known as Lake Maratanza. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a spectacular 187-foot waterfall that offers a breathtaking sight. The park’s diverse habitats provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation in a truly unique setting.
Continue your exploration at Huguenot Street Historic District in New Paltz, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark that spans over 300 years of history. The area features seven historic stone houses, a reconstructed 1717 French church and a replica Esopus Munsee wigwam. Walking through these sites, you can delve into the stories of French-speaking Protestant settlers, Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans. The district’s exhibits and period rooms provide a multifaceted perspective on America’s colonial past and its enduring legacy.
Finally, visit a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing farm animals and advocating for animal rights. Home to over 380 rescued residents, including ducks, cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and turkeys—the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary provides daily care and medical support to its inhabitants. You will connect with animals and learn about the mission to promote veganism and align with other social justice movements. It’s a place where compassion meets education, an ideal way to end your New York journey.
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