Catskills
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Overview
This beautiful mountainous region west of the Hudson Valley has been a popular getaway since the 19th century. The romantic image of mossy gorges and rounded peaks, as popularized by Hudson River School painters, encouraged a preservation movement: in 1894 the state constitution was amended so that thousands of acres are 'forever kept as wild forest lands.'
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Catskills
It's hard to miss this stunning timber block work Ukrainian church perched on a hill just off of Rte 23A, about 10 miles west of Tannersville. You can…
Catskills
For the best view of New York State's highest falls – 260ft, compared to Niagara's 167ft – without a strenuous hike, head to the viewing platform. Popular…
Catskills
A half-mile nature trail leads to this 1869 landmark on the point where Esopus Creek joins the Hudson. Tours of the building are available by appointment,…
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
Catskills
The site of the 1969 Woodstock Music & Art Fair, on Max Yasgur's farm outside Bethel, is 70 miles southwest of the town of Woodstock. It's now home to an…
Opus 40 Sculpture Park & Museum
Catskills
Beginning in 1938, artist Harvey Fite (founder of the fine arts department at nearby Bard College) worked for nearly four decades to coax an abandoned…
National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum
Catskills
Cooperstown bills itself as the home of baseball (the myth that it was the birthplace of the game was long ago debunked). This classy three-floor facility…
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Catskills
Join stressed-out New Yorkers and others needing a spiritual break at this blissful Buddhist monastery about 3 miles north of Woodstock. Soak up the…
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Center for Photography at Woodstock
Catskills
Founded in 1977, this creative space gives classes, hosts lectures and mounts exhibitions that expand the strict definition of the art form, thanks to a…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
Explore artsy enclaves and outdoor escapes that make the Catskill Mountains New York’s coolest weekend retreat.
Read articleBest Time to Visit
Be it hiking, swimming, skiing, or leaf-peeping, there’s something exciting to do in the Catskills no matter the season.
Read articleTraveling with Kids
Build a tradition with your family to return to again and again at one of these nostalgic and chic summer resort camps.
Read articleBest Road Trips
Drive along scenic byways to see the natural wonders and charming towns that make the Catskills worthy of wanderlust.
Read articleSpending Diaries
What a Lonely Planet colleague spent on a weekend of art, rustic-chic lodging and eating out in New York State’s Catskills.
Read articleArticles
Latest stories from Catskills
Filter by interest:
- ActivitiesThe 8 best hiking trails in the Catskills for every fitness level
Dec 30, 2021 • 9 min read
- Public TransportExplore the Catskills on these 7 stunning scenic road trips
Dec 17, 2021 • 9 min read
Destination PracticalitiesBest time to visit the Catskills for all four seasonsNov 24, 2021 • 5 min read
