The Catskills is a gorgeous destination all year round, but there’s so much to do in the summer and the brilliant colors of the autumn foliage make it a must-see these times of the year. Only a two hour drive from NYC, it is the perfect weekend getaway with kids. With this guide, you can plan a last-minute trip before school starts, or plan ahead for fall fun.
Where to Stay
The Arnold House is an idyllic retreat away from the hectic pace of the city. The renovated manor features nine warm and inviting rooms plus a suite and studio which are better suited for families. There are three small hiking trails on the property, and the inn is pet friendly.
Get back to basics and stay at their Lake House, situated on Shandelee Lake just a mile down the road. Play some board games, chop your own wood or go fishing and grill your catch for a “lake to BBQ” meal. If you prefer to get pampered, try their spa, which offers a wide range of treatments, including a pre-natal massage for expecting mothers.
Other places to stay in the area:
Where to Eat
For breakfast, head to The Walk In for a breakfast sandwich. It’s open Thursday through Sunday and serves breakfast all day. For bakery treats check out The Neon Croissant, @theneoncroissant, which is open Friday through Sunday.
Up the road from The Arnold House is Main Street Farm Market and Cafe, a casual spot to grab a sandwich and shop local produce.
What to Do in the Catskills
Pick some crispy apples at Apple Pond Farm in nearby Callicoon. They also offer children’s farm tours every Saturday in October at 10am. Check out BuckbrookAlpacas for more farm tours.
Find the perfect pumpkin at Cunningham Family Farms in Swan Lake, NY. The kids will also love the huge corn maze, tractor rides and obstacle course. Open 11am-5pm on weekends.
Spend an afternoon fly-fishing in the pristine streams and rivers around Roscoe, NY, the east coast’s top destination for trout fishing. For lessons and a guide check out Baxter House River Outfitters. Lander’s River Trips offers canoeing, rafting, tubing, and kayaking.
Where to Shop in the Catskills
Nest, a lifestyle boutique with gorgeous finds for the home, just opened up their second shop in Livingston Manor a few weeks ago. Find country contemporary products ranging from bed and bath, homewares, furniture, clothing, accessories and jewelry.
For a handpicked selection of outdoor gear, homewares, and local products, head to the Homestedt. The Homestedt owners also coordinate experiences for visitors, have rental properties for weekend stays, and welcome all to stop in for local tips.
For more information: www.visitthecatskills.com
Peggy was born and raised in New York City. In 2010 she decided to leave her banking job behind and travel the world. During her travels she met her husband and has since moved to Tuscany, got married and had a baby girl named Dafne. While breastfeeding Dafne, she was inspired to launch Teat & Cosset, a collection of wardrobe essentials to help nursing moms meet their breastfeeding goals. She loves to travel, dance, eat out and, above all, spend time with her family.
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