Catskills Weekend Getaway Guide: 7 Charming Towns

Just a short drive from New York City, the Catskill Mountains offer an unparalleled escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This Catskills getaway guide is your ultimate resource for planning a perfect trip, revealing a landscape of breathtaking natural beauty, a thriving local food scene, and the charm of its most welcoming small towns.

No matter your travel style, a weekend in the Catskills has something for you. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging trail, a foodie eager to explore local restaurants, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat by a cozy fire, you’ll find your ideal adventure here. This guide will walk you through seven of the best towns, ensuring your next trip is unforgettable.

Your Catskills Getaway FAQs Answered

1. What are the best towns in the Catskills for a weekend getaway?

The “best” town depends on your interests, but many are known for a specific vibe or set of activities. Here are my best suggestions!

• For the Artsy and Bohemian: Woodstock is the legendary hub for artists, musicians, and free spirits. You’re looking for unique shops, galleries, and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.
• For the Outdoor Adventurer: Phoenicia is a quintessential mountain town, perfect for hiking the tallest peaks, tubing down the Esopus Creek, and world-class fly fishing.
• For the All-in-One Mountain Resort Experience: Hunter and Windham are your go-to destinations. They offer year-round resort activities, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter and scenic sky rides and festivals in the summer.
• For a Quiet, Historic Escape: Stamford, the “Queen of the Catskills,” provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful views, historic architecture, and easy access to the flat, scenic Catskill Scenic Trail.
• For a Foodie and Antique Lover: Tannersville and Andes are both known for their vibrant, walkable main streets packed with colorful shops, unique art galleries, and acclaimed local restaurants.

2. What is there to do in the Catskills besides hiking?

The Catskills offers a wide array of activities beyond the trails.

• Water Activities: Tube the Esopus Creek in Phoenicia, or rent a kayak to paddle on one of the many pristine reservoirs, such as the Pepacton Reservoir near Margaretville.
• Unique Experiences: Go for a scenic sky ride at Hunter Mountain or Windham Mountain to get incredible mountaintop views without the strenuous hike. For a truly unique activity, try pedal-powered rail biking along the historic tracks with Rail Explorers in Phoenicia.
• Culture and Arts: Explore the vibrant arts scene in Woodstock with its many galleries and boutiques. You can also visit the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill, or see a live show at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville.
• Local Food & Drink: The Catskills has a thriving farm-to-table food scene. You can visit local breweries like Rip Van Winkle Brewing Company or cideries like Wayside Cider. Many towns also have excellent farmers’ markets during the season.

3. When is the best time of year to visit the Catskills?

Each season in the Catskills offers a completely different experience. You should plan your Catskills getaway around what season you most want to experience – or take a trip in every season to experience it all!

• Summer (June – August): The most popular time for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and tubing. The weather is warm, and all attractions and businesses are fully open.
• Fall (September – October): The most iconic season, famous for its breathtaking fall foliage. The vibrant colors peak in late September and early October. This is also a great time for local harvest festivals and farmers’ markets, though it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
• Winter (December – March): The season for snow lovers. Hunter, Windham, and Belleayre are all popular destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The towns have a cozy, festive atmosphere with plenty of après-ski options.
• Spring (April – May): Known as “mud season,” this is the quietest time of year. While hiking can be difficult due to wet trails, this is when waterfalls are at their most powerful and streams are perfect for fly fishing. You’ll find the best deals on lodging and fewer crowds.

4. How do I get to the Catskills from NYC?

The most common way to get from NYC to the Catskills is by car. Luckily, there are public transportation options available to help you get to your Catskills Getaway.

• By Car: Driving is the most flexible option, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on your destination within the Catskills. This allows you to easily explore multiple towns and trailheads.
• By Bus: Trailways and Adirondack Trailways offer bus services from Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan to a number of towns in the Catskills, including Kingston, Woodstock, and Tannersville. This is a popular and cost-effective option.
• By Train: Amtrak offers service from Penn Station in NYC to nearby Hudson, NY. From there, you would need to arrange a ride or take a taxi to your final destination in the Catskills.

5. What are some unique places to stay in the Catskills?

No Catskills getaway is complete without the perfect accommodation. Beyond traditional hotels and B&Bs, the Catskills offers a range of unique lodging options for a memorable stay.

• Boutique Hotels: Modern and stylish boutique lodges like Scribner’s Catskill Lodge in Hunter or The Urban Cowboy Lodge in Big Indian offer a luxurious, rustic-chic experience with excellent dining and amenities.
• Glamping: For those who want to be in nature without sacrificing comfort, glamping sites like Eastwind Hotel & Bar in Windham offer stylish A-frame cabins and well-appointed canvas tents.
• Farm Stays: Experience rural life firsthand by staying at a local farm. Many farms, like Stone and Thistle Farm in East Meredith, offer lodging in a serene country setting, often with farm-to-table breakfast included.
• Tiny House Resorts: If you’re looking for a quaint and modern escape, a stay at A Tiny House Resort in South Cairo provides all the comforts of home in a minimalist and charming package.

7 Charming Catskill Towns You Need to Visit

Add one of these incredible towns to your next weekend Catskills getaway! Planning a New York road trip? These towns are the perfect addition to your New York trip!

1. Delhi

📌 Delaware County

Nestled along the scenic West Branch of the Delaware River, Delhi is a charming village that perfectly captures the serene beauty of the Catskills. Its rolling hills, lush forests, and tranquil riverfront create a picturesque landscape that feels both wild and welcoming. The town’s historic architecture and quaint, tree-lined streets add to its timeless appeal, making it a truly idyllic escape.

We love Delhi for its blend of small-town charm and authentic Catskills appeal. Its adorable Main Street shops, bustling farmer’s market, and access to serene trails offer a perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor activity. The town’s vibrant community and amazing local events, like the Catskill Mountain Yoga Festival, make it a delightful destination to plan a trip around

While you’re in town, plan to stop at Hollow for breakfast, or, at the very least, coffee and a treat. Another great option for lunch is Blue Bee Cafe. We highly recommend trying their Tea of the Month for a unique twist on your typical iced tea.

When we’re visiting this area, we like to stay at Steady Slope; a HipCamp-style glamping set-up with an outdoor sauna, cold plunge, and shower for guests! It was the perfect mix between enjoying nature and enjoying some basic creature comforts.

2. Andes

📌 Delaware County

Andes is a small but vibrant town with a strong sense of community, known for its art galleries, antique shops, and proximity to stunning hiking trails. With a nickname like “The Land in the Sky,” Andes lives up to its name, offering a captivating blend of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and dramatic, mountainous vistas. It’s a place where you can feel connected to nature while enjoying the unique creative spirit of a close-knit, welcoming community.

We love Andes for its unique combination of seclusion and artistic spirit. The town’s Main Street is a perfect escape from city life, with no cell service to interrupt your connection with a community that balances a rustic feel with an eclectic mix of art galleries and antique shops. It’s the perfect place to truly disconnect and get inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Be sure to grab sourdough and a latte at Cafe Mutsi for pre- or post-hike fuel. If you’re looking to eat closer to dinner time, Dana’s Place is a must-visit. This “speakeasy-like” hometown tavern is absolutely charming with a relaxed atmosphere, full bar, and pub grub.

Plan to stay at Steady Slope where you’re just a short drive from both Delhi and Andes! Spend a day exploring each and check two amazing Catskill Towns off your list. On a recent Catskills getaway, I did just this and it was perfect for a little taste of both towns.

3. Margaretville

📌 Delaware County

Nestled in a wide valley, at the base of Pakatakan, Margaretville is a hub for outdoor recreation and a perfect base for exploring the central Catskills. The surrounding landscape is a beautiful mix of mountains, rolling hills, and the East Branch of the Delaware River, which flows right through town. This natural setting, combined with a friendly, down-to-earth community, gives Margaretville a special, unhurried charm that makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.

We love Margaretville for its central location and adventurous spirit. Nestled in a valley with the East Branch of the Delaware River running through it, the town is a hub for outdoor recreation, from hiking the nearby Huckleberry Loop Trail to exploring the scenic Pepacton Reservoir. Its Riverside Main Street also offers a quick but charming walk with unique shops; stop by
Honeybee Herbs & Apothecary for all your herbal remedies, the Species by the Thousands gift shop, and Pressing Matters Record Store for some unique shopping opportunities.

You have to grab cocktails and a bite to eat at RAEs. Great food quality with unique flavor combinations makes for an incredible dining experience. If RAEs isn’t your vibe, head over to Ark Bowl & BBQ for affordable eats, beers, and cocktails, and the opportunity to enjoy it all while bowling a round or two.

Stay a bit out of town at Sunday Hollow, an adorable two-bedroom A-frame nestled in the woods with scenic pond views. It’s the perfect place ot enjoy nature and get that rugged, mountain feel with all of the amenities of home!

4. Tannersville

📌 Greene County

Set high in the mountains, Tannersville, NY is a captivating village that lives up to its nickname, “The Painted Village in the Sky.” The town’s Main Street is a vibrant mosaic of brightly colored Victorian buildings that stand out against the backdrop of the rugged Catskill peaks. This unique charm, combined with its proximity to iconic natural wonders like Kaaterskill Falls, makes Tannersville a perfect blend of artistic spirit and breathtaking wilderness.

We love Tannersville for its true mountain town vibes and vibrant character. The brightly colored Victorian buildings on Main Street give it a unique, artistic flair that perfectly complements its role as a gateway to iconic hikes like Kaaterskill Falls. Its proximity to Hunter Mountain provides a year-round “ski town” feel, complete with cozy lodges and excellent dining.

Tannersville’s dining scene offers something for every taste, from casual comfort food to refined upscale experiences. We love to try a Mexican Food location everywhere we go and we loves Pancho Villa’s. For a more sophisticated meal, Jessie’s Harvest House is celebrated for its focus on local ingredients and its creative take on American cuisine. If you’re looking for a memorable, higher-end experience, the restaurant at Deer Mountain Inn offers a farm-to-table menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients in a stunning mountain setting

Please stay at Hotel Mountain Brook when you visit Tannersville! My mom and I stayed here for a long weekend and absolutely loved our stay. The building and grounds are a dream, including an outdoor fireplace and seating area, but the breakfast in the morning and the cocktail bar are what did it for me! This is the perfect accommodation for a foodie and hiking-focused Catskills getaway.

5. Phoenicia

📌 Ulster County

Situated in a deep valley surrounded by the towering peaks of the Catskills, Phoenicia is a haven for those who seek to be fully immersed in nature. The Esopus Creek meanders right through the heart of town, providing a constant, soothing soundtrack and a focal point for outdoor fun like tubing and fishing. With its bohemian spirit and rugged, forested backdrop, Phoenicia offers a perfect blend of laid-back charm and unspoiled natural beauty.

We love Phoenicia for its incredible views and laid-back, bohemian energy. The town is one of my favorite Catskills getaway options and an outdoor lover’s paradise. With the Esopus Creek providing the perfect backdrop for tubing and world-class fly fishing, there’s something for everyone. It’s also home to the legendary Phoenicia Diner and other unique local businesses that make the town a destination for both adventure and great food.

The Phoenicia Diner is a must. A line will start to form around 7:45 AM, so get on it, because you will not be disappointed by this old school, local-focused diner with some amazing eats and beverages! For dinner, head just down the road to Woodstock Brewing. The vibes are laid back, the menu has a lot of different options, and the drinks are delicious!

We opted for some free and dispersed camping nearby on our recent stay. I love free camping for it’s ability to keep a weekend getaway budget-friendly, but I know it’s not for everyone. If you’re interested in the spot, let me know in the comments! If you’re looking for a hotel-style stay, the adorable Phoenicia Lodge is going to be your best bet!

6. Stamford

📌 Delaware County

Known as the “Queen of the Catskills,” Stamford is a picturesque village that once flourished as a major resort destination. Today, it retains its historic charm while serving as an ideal launching point for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s serene setting, framed by mountains and crisscrossed by the Catskill Scenic Trail, makes it a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town tranquility.

We love this area because it feels so relaxed and authentic compared to other parts of the Catskills. As the “Queen of the Catskills,” Stamford’s Main Street is less commercialized and retains a historic, welcoming feel. The town is a peaceful base for exploring the area’s historic architecture and enjoying outdoor activities on the tranquil Catskill Scenic Trail.

We always need to start our day with some caffeine, and Stamford Coffee is the perfect spot for breakfast sandwiches and a cup of coffee. When it comes to dinner, there are a few classic options. For a taste of Italy, Mama Maria’s Ristorante & Pizzeria is a local favorite for its classic pizza and pasta dishes. The Dinner Plate offers a menu of hearty American classics for a satisfying, casual meal.

The Vine on Main is a clean, simple accommodation perfect for people who don’t spend a lot of time in the room. Its convenient location means you might hear some of the hustle and bustle of Main Street. If you’re looking for something that’s more of a 5-star experience, check out Stamford Gables Bed and Breakfast. Often compared to ‘visiting old friends’, Stamford Gables B&B includes a delicious breakfast, garden and sun terrace views, and historical charm.

7. Woodstock

📌 Ulster County

Woodstock is a legendary Catskills getaway town that exudes a unique blend of natural beauty and bohemian charm. Tucked into the Catskill Mountains, its creative spirit is perfectly complemented by the lush, surrounding landscape, with majestic peaks like Overlook Mountain and tranquil streams like the Tannery Brook. The town’s vibrant main street, filled with colorful shops and galleries, feels like a living extension of the peaceful, artistic energy that has long defined this special place.

We love Woodstock for its deep history and creative energy. While it’s most famous for a festival that didn’t actually happen here, the town’s legacy as an artists’ colony is very much alive. It’s a place where you can hike a mountain trail in the morning and then spend the afternoon browsing eclectic shops, listening to live music, and soaking in a peaceful, artistic atmosphere that truly embodies its spirit.

It’s a town where the free-spirited energy of its past is very much alive in its present, from the vibrant shops and galleries to the live music venues. Woodstock’s Tinker Street is a treasure trove of eclectic shops, offering everything from vintage clothing and spiritual items to handmade jewelry and home décor. You can discover unique finds at places like Lily’s Woodstock, which focuses on local women designers, and Timbuktu Woodstock, a store filled with fair-trade global décor, art, and jewelry.

Looking for a unique stay in the trees? Check out Woodstock Way Hotel. All rooms and cabins come with private outdoor areas providing true peace and tranquility from every angle. Also offering a restaurant on-site and free bikes to borrow, this is an amazing option for your time in Woodstock.

Conclusion

From the peaceful, artsy hamlets to the rugged mountain peaks, a weekend Catskills Getaway offers a perfect escape for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning a trip to hike a towering summit, find a hidden antique treasure, or simply unwind in a charming small town, the region provides a rich tapestry of experiences. With diverse options for dining, shopping, and year-round outdoor activities, the Catskills are more than just a destination; they’re an invitation to explore, relax, and discover the unique beauty of Upstate New York.

No matter the season or your specific interests, a Catskills Getaway promises a memorable adventure. The vibrant fall foliage, the cozy winter ski slopes, and the lush summer trails each provide a unique backdrop for your trip. By choosing a home base that fits your style—be it the bohemian spirit of Woodstock or the historic calm of Stamford—you can craft a perfect getaway that leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to the natural world.