Catskill
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Catskill's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in the charming town of Catskill and take a leisurely stroll along the Hudson River to soak in the beautiful views. Visit the nearby Catskill Park to get your first taste of the stunning landscapes. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café while watching the sunrise over the mountains.
Head to the Catskill Mountain Arts Center to explore local art and crafts before indulging in a hearty lunch at a cozy bistro. Afterward, embark on a short hike on the Kaaterskill Falls trail, renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and scenic vistas. Take your time to appreciate the lush greenery and picturesque surroundings.
As the sun sets, visit a local brewery to sample some artisanal beers that celebrate the region's flavors. Enjoy a casual dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, where the fresh ingredients from nearby farms shine through. Wind down your day by attending a live music performance at a local venue.
Start your day with a guided kayak tour on the Hudson River, where you can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the waterway. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the morning mist rising from the river. After your kayaking adventure, refuel with a breakfast at a nearby diner.
After lunch, challenge yourself with a hike on the Escarpment Trail for stunning panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains. The trail offers various viewpoints that are perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts. After your hike, treat yourself at a local ice cream shop to relax and cool down.
Visit a local farm during harvest season to pick fresh produce, followed by a cooking class where you can learn to create delicious meals. Enjoy your self-prepared dinner while swapping stories and sharing laughs. Cap off the night by stargazing at a nearby field, experiencing the true beauty of the night skies.
Enjoy breakfast at a bakery famous for its homemade pastries before visiting the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, the birthplace of American landscape painting. Explore the historic home and take in the stunning grounds. Engage in a guided tour to learn about Thomas Cole's influence on American art.
Have lunch in a nearby café, then head over to the Olana State Historic Site, the former home of artist Frederic Edwin Church. Explore the unique Persian-inspired architecture and take a guided tour to learn about the artist's life and work. Spend your afternoon wandering through the picturesque landscape designed by Church.
Dine at a restaurant with a view of the Hudson River, enjoying a peaceful atmosphere as the sun sets. Participate in a local arts and crafts workshop to create your own souvenir to remember your travels. End your night with a relaxing walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Sleep in and start your day with yoga at a wellness retreat amidst the serene Catskill mountains. Rejuvenate your mind and body with fresh, wholesome breakfast options afterwards. Embrace the tranquility surrounding you, making it a perfect morning to reflect and relax.
Spend your afternoon unwinding at a nearby spa with soothing treatments designed to pamper you. Enjoy a light lunch on the spa's patio, taking in the natural beauty around you. Engage in a peaceful nature walk afterward, feeling completely refreshed.
Gather with fellow guests around a fire pit for a communal dinner featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Share stories and laughter under the stars, savoring the flavors of your home-cooked meal. End your evening with some stargazing, immersing yourself in the calm atmosphere of the wilderness.
After breakfast at a local café, head out to explore the town's rich history by visiting the Catskill Historical Society. Learn about the area's past and its significance in American history. Make sure to check out the various exhibits that showcase artifacts and stories from the region.
Visit the Olana State Historic Site for a tour of the artist Frederic Edwin Church's home and studio. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the expansive grounds with views of the Hudson Valley. Spend the afternoon exploring the architecture and taking in the landscape that inspired Church's masterpieces.
Return to Catskill for dinner at a historic tavern, where you can enjoy traditional dishes with a modern twist. Engage in conversation with locals who share tales of Catskill's vibrant past. Wrap up your night by attending a storytelling event or open mic night at a local café.
Kick off your day with an exhilarating zip-lining adventure through the treetops, offering stunning views of the Catskill Mountains. Feel the thrill of gliding from platform to platform, surrounded by nature. Post zip-lining, fuel up with breakfast at a rustic lodge nearby.
Spend your afternoon exploring the scenic Hudson River via stand-up paddleboarding, enjoying the gentle waves and stunning views. Afterward, relax with a lunch of fresh seafood at a riverside restaurant that enhances the local flavor. Embrace the warm sun and fresh air while taking in the beautiful environment around you.
As dusk falls, join a guided night hike to experience the sounds and sights of the forest after dark. Marvel at how the landscape transforms with the setting sun, and appreciate the stars lighting up the night sky. Conclude your day by enjoying dinner at a cozy inn that captures the essence of Catskill charm.
Spend the morning at a local art studio, participating in a painting class inspired by the beautiful Catskill landscapes. Choosing your colors and styles can help unleash your creative side while immersed in nature. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before class to fuel your artistic endeavors.
Visit galleries and artisan shops in Catskill, showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Take your time to appreciate the diverse range of art forms and consider purchasing a unique piece to take home. Grab a lunch at a trendy café with an artistic vibe to match.
Attend an art exhibit opening or a local theater performance, celebrating the vibrant arts scene of Catskill. Engage with fellow art lovers and share your experiences with the creative community. End the night with dinner at a gallery restaurant that blends art with exquisite culinary offerings.
After an early breakfast, venture to the nearby Hunter Mountain for a day filled with outdoor excitement. Take the scenic chairlift for breathtaking views of the foliage and valleys below. Plan for a short hike to fully embrace the mountain atmosphere.
Once back at the base, grab lunch at the mountain lodge and engage in fun activities such as mountain biking or a guided tour. Embrace the adrenaline rush and make new friends as you explore the trails. Test your skills and discover more about the diverse terrain of the Catskills.
End your day with dinner at a mountain-side restaurant that offers stunning sunset views. Share stories of your adventurous day with fellow visitors as you savor local dishes. Take a leisurely stroll under the stars before returning to your accommodation.
On your final morning, enjoy a farewell breakfast at a favorite local spot, recounting your memories of the trip. Take a last peaceful stroll through the quaint town or nearby parks, taking in the scenery one last time. Capture photos to immortalize your journey.
Check out some unique shops and boutiques for any last-minute souvenirs to take home. Visit a local marketplace for artisanal goods and crafts that encapsulate your experience. Spend some time relaxing by the riverside, cherishing the tranquil moments before departure.
As you prepare to leave Catskill, enjoy one final dinner at a restaurant that highlights regional specialties. Reflect on your adventures while savoring a delicious meal. Depart with a heart full of memories and a promise to return to this gorgeous region.