Just under 3 hours from New York City, head to the Catskills for the ultimate scenic getaway. The Catskills offer something for everyone, from hiking through lush landscapes to wine tasting in charming vineyards to gourmet dining. This travel guide will help you plan a spectacular trip to the Catskills! 

Top Things to Do in the Catskills

Outdoor Activities: Outdoor activities in the Catskills include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, horseback riding, camping, and so much more. The Catskills provide an outdoor paradise in all four seasons!

Farms: Exploring the Catskills’ farms and orchards is a popular activity in this area, and you might even consider spending the night! 

Museums and Art Galleries: A haven for culture and arts (the Catskills were famously home to the 1969 Woodstock Festival, afterall), there are a variety of museums and art galleries to explore throughout the area. The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is just one of the many fascinating museums and galleries worth visiting in the area.

Golfing and Skiing: These are both popular seasonal activities in the Catskills. Golfing is available through several of the resorts in the area and there are no lack of country clubs around here, either! There are abundant opportunities for winter skiing in the Catskills as well, including the Belleayre Ski Center, the highest skiable peak in the area.

Wineries and Vineyards: What better location to enjoy locally crafted vintages than in the scenic surroundings of the Catskills? There are an array of wineries and vineyards throughout the region, so many, in fact, that you might consider taking a tour of several wineries during your trip!

Historic Sites: The Catskills are home to a collection of historic landmarks and museums. Some of these include Historic Huguenot Street, Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Senate House State Historic Site, Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum, and more. 

Where to Stay in the Catskills

The region is made up of 4 different areas, the Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern Catskills, each with their own distinct charm. There are a variety of mountain resorts, cabins, farms, and hotels available for overnight accommodation in every region of the Catskills.

Resorts: All-inclusive resorts are great for families, as they include all accommodations, meals, events and activities during your stay. Ski resorts are another popular option in the Catskills, especially during the winter months. 

Hotels: Boutique hotels are another popular option in the Catskills. They are plentiful in this region and provide a unique artistic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Cabin Rentals: Rent a private cabin, modern home, or rustic farmhouse in the Catskills for a more remote stay in gorgeous natural surrounds.  

Farm Stays: If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Catskills, try one of the region’s many farm stay options. You’ll have the opportunity to stay on an authentic farm and partake in the typical duties it entails. In the evening you’ll enjoy glamping in rustic, luxury accommodations at the farm.

How to Get to the Catskills

The most direct way to get to the Catskills is simply to drive, and it’s about 2 hours and 45 minutes from both New York City and Jersey City. However, if you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive, you have several options for public transit that will easily get you there. Both the train and bus systems are quick and efficient, and go to several of the Catskills’ popular destinations.