Curator’s statement
Every fall, my mom and I head up to Upstate New York for a little getaway. We try to time our trip for the peak foliage weekend, which can vary depending on the weather. It's always a fun challenge to see if we can get it right. Each year, we pick a new place to stay and explore new areas of the region. We love finding new hikes to go on and trying out different restaurants. There's something special about fall foliage season that just feels cozy and inviting. We enjoy taking in the gorgeous scenery as we drive through the countryside, watching as the leaves change from green to yellow, orange and red. And when we're out on a hike, it's always a treat to hear the crunch of leaves beneath our feet. Sometimes we go for a more wellness-oriented experience, and other times we focus on hiking and exploring. But no matter what we do, we always come back feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Upstate NY is only a short drive away from NYC, which makes it a great destination for a quick weekend trip. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a girls' weekend, this region has something for everyone. So why not come and experience the beauty of fall foliage season for yourself?
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Where to stay in Catskills, NY
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Things to do in Catskills, NY
Museums/art/markets
Storm King Sculpture Garden - Bring a picnic and spend the afternoon biking around sculpture heaven.
Magazzino Italian Art - Public appreciation of postwar and contemporary Italian art in the United States.
Dia Beacon - Extremely cool, innovative contemporary artists held in a large warehouse-like building.
Field & Supply - Twice a year (once in spring and once in fall.) Plan to go the right weekend and hit this incredible makers market.
Hikes
Overlook Mountain Trailhead - 4.5 mile hike to a watchtower and outlooking view. On your way up explore a burned down hotel of the 1800s.
Giant's Ledge - 6 mile hike to a stunning outlook. My favorite out of the hiking options and its perfect in fall.
Breakneck Ridge - 3 mile hike with some scrambling. Overlooking the Hudson river and easily accessible from NYC via Metro North.
Huckleberry Point Trail - 4.5 mile hike with scenic views. Parking is extremely limited so if you want to do this hike go very early. If you can't find parking head down the road a few miles to the Devils Path trail. Don't be scared of this hike from its name, there is a 6-mile section where you can hike to a scenic outlook called Jimmy Dolan's Notch and go out and back.
Day trips
Beacon and Cold Springs are both accessible towns if you are only able to do a day trip from NYC. I would recommend starting out early in the morning and doing the Breakneck Ridge Hike. You can catch a ride into Beacon and grab lunch on main street. In the afternoon checkout Dia Beacon and take the train back into the city from Beacon.
Another option for a day trip is to take the metro north to Beacon and take a bus to the Storm King Art Center. You can book this on the Storm King Website where it is labeled as ticket with shuttle option. The shuttles run every 30 minutes to and from the park. This is a fun day trip to bring a picnic with friends. You can grab some picnic options in the city or if you are running late hit up the Murray's Cheese in Grand Central Terminal before you catch your train.
Places to eat & drink in Catskills, NY
Breweries
Rose Hill Farm: Take a step back in time at this family-owned orchard established in 1798, where you can pick your own cherries, blueberries, plums, apricots, nectarines, peaches and apples on picturesque farmland. Sip on delicious cider in their charming barn or cozy up by the fire with some cornhole and local food vendors.
Arrowood Farms: Immerse yourself in the beauty and bounty of the Hudson Valley at this sustainably-minded farm brewery, distillery and event destination.
Woodstock Brewing: Enjoy an industrial-chic atmosphere with outdoor seating while savoring amazing tacos and beer flights at this microbrewery offering beer on tap and delicious bar bites.
Restaurants
Deer Mountain Inn: Get lost in the cozy vibes of this fine dining restaurant that offers a superbly curated experience with exceptional drinks, food and atmosphere.
SILVIA - New American cuisine. Connect with food and people through back-to-basics cooking that is honest, sustainable and refined at this family-owned restaurant. Indulge in locally-sourced ingredients cooked on their wood-fired grill and pantry of organic vegetables in their open kitchen.
Phoenicia Diner: A beloved mainstay for roadside food, where you can choose to sit inside their classic diner-style setting or enjoy your food outside.
Prospect: Dine in style at this new American restaurant situated inside the chic Scribners Lodge.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns is a must-visit restaurant, located within close proximity to the city. This two-Michelin starred establishment is renowned for its exquisite farm-to-table fine dining. Moreover, the restaurant's unique history as an agricultural farm founded by the Rockfellers makes the dining experience all the more special.
Fellow Mountain Cafe, located just below Hunter Mountain. Not only can you grab a delicious cup of coffee here, but you won't want to miss out on their delectable cinnamon rolls.
Bread Alone Bakery: is a beloved local spot in Woodstock that is also worth checking out. Their coffee, breads and bakery items are all top-notch.
Travel Advisor
Isabelle Sichler
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on Domestic Travel.