Introduction
When I first pulled into the small town of Catskill, New York, I honestly thought I’d just be popping in for a weekend getaway from the city. What I found was so much more—charming streets, forested mountains, a thriving local food & arts scene, and plenty of spots that made me stay longer than anticipated. If you’re looking for a place that mixes nature, culture, chill‑vibes, and little surprises, Catskill might just win your heart too.
With that in mind, here are 12 of the best and fun things to do in Catskill & the surrounding region—things I personally experienced or heard great things about. I’ve grouped them roughly by theme (nature, culture, food & drink, town‑vibe) so you can pick what fits your mood.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Catskill, NY (2026)
1. Hike to Kaaterskill Falls
One of the most iconic natural sights in the Catskills, Kaaterskill Falls is a two‑stage waterfall rising about 260 feet.
The walk up (or down) is moderate and very scenic—bring good shoes and maybe a picnic. The dramatic drop and the view make it one of the “must‑do” hikes.
Tip: go early in the morning or during a weekday to avoid crowds. Fall colors make it especially magical.
See Also: 22 Best and fun things to do in Bath, ME
2. Scenic Drive Through the Mountains
Sometimes the best activity is just sitting back and letting the landscape do the work. The region offers spectacular scenic byways like Route 23A or the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway.
This gives you flexible time, freedom to stop at vista points, charming diners, or unexpected roadside gems.
Tip: Pack some snacks, a map (or offline map), and let a leisurely drive be part of your day.
3. Visit the Historic Estate at Olana State Historic Site
For a bit of culture and history, Olana is a standout. It was the home and studio of the painter Frederic Edwin Church and is a 250‑acre artist‑designed landscape with sweeping views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains.
You’ll find architecture, art, nature, and viewpoints all in one.
Tip: Book ahead for house tours if you want the full experience; otherwise, just exploring the grounds is worth it.
4. Get Your Craft Beer On at Local Breweries
After hiking and driving, it’s nice to unwind—and the Catskills region has some excellent breweries. For example, the Rip Van Winkle Brewing Company, located in the Town of Catskill, offers a solid brewpub experience.
Another is the Catskill Brewery, which combines mountain views, beer, and a friendly vibe.
Tip: If you’re driving, pick one spot per day and enjoy a local food pairing. Consider a designated driver or rideshare if you’re sampling more than one.
5. Wander Main Street + Antique & Boutique Shopping
Catskill village itself has a really relaxed, authentic feel. I found myself strolling down the main road, popping into vintage shops and small cafés. Local advice:
“Citiot, made x Hudson, Magpie book shop, Kaaterskill Market … there’s really just one Main Street in Catskill but there is plenty to explore especially if you like antiques and browsing!”
Tip: Bring a little cash for impulse buys. And stop for a coffee at a local café rather than a big chain.
6. Fly‑Fishing or River Walk Time
Even if you’re not hardcore into fishing, the setting is so peaceful that a quiet morning by a stream or river is totally worth it. The Catskills region is considered the birthplace of American fly‑fishing.
And for a gentler option, a marina or creek‑side walk gives you the beauty with less gear.
Tip: For anglers, check licence requirements. For walkers, bring shoes that can handle some damp or uneven ground.
7. Zipline Adventure for the Thrill‑Seekers
If you want to elevate your weekend (literally), check out the zipline canopy tour near Hunter Mountain. One operator boasts zips up to 600 feet above ground and speeds of ~50 mph.
Tip: Make sure you meet the weight/height requirements and check available seasons. This is a full‑on adrenaline activity, great for those who like a rush.
8. Go for a Fall‑Foliage or Winter‑Snow Escape
One of the things I loved about Catskill was how different it looked depending on the season. Whether you’re hiking in golden autumn tones or enjoying snow‑laced woods in winter, the backdrop is gorgeous. Sources point out the scenic drives and seasonal outdoor activities across all weather.
Tip: If you’re planning for fall, watch the foliage reports. If winter, check trail/ski conditions early in the day.
9. Eat Local—Some Outstanding Food Spots
Good food always enhances a trip. I found that Catskill doesn’t just rest on its natural beauty—it delivers on meals too. For example, one recommended spot is Creekside along West Main Street, with views of the creek and seafood that locals rave about.
Tip: Try something local—fresh trout, seasonal produce, craft beer on tap. And a dessert or donut stop never hurts.
10. Enjoy an Arts & Culture Break
On one of my evenings there, I found a cozy live‑music spot (the small venues give a really friendly vibe). According to listings, Catskill offers art galleries, local theater, and music venues that attract visitors and locals alike.
Tip: Ask at your lodging or a local café for current events—sometimes there’s a performance, open mic, or art show that isn’t widely advertised.
11. Take a Farm Visit or Local Maker Stop
Getting a little off the “main trail” can bring delightful surprises. Whether a small working farm offering tours or an artisanal shop showcasing local makers, these stops add authenticity to your trip. There are mentions of boutiques, home‑goods shops, and vintage finds in the region.
Tip: Take time to explore side streets, ask locals for recommendations, and keep an eye open for “open studio” signs, weekend markets, or seasonal events.
12. Relax & Unwind in Nature—Make Some Quiet Time
Perhaps the most important thing: remember to just relax. At a quieter moment, sit with a cup of coffee on a deck, watch a sunset over the peaks, or stroll a lazy trail with no agenda at all. The region lends itself to a slower pace, and sometimes that is the best “thing to do” of all.
Tip: Choose one morning or afternoon where you do nothing structured—no hike, no museum, no itinerary. Just be.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Catskill, NY, was one of those trips where I expected a cute, small getaway—and found so much more. Whether you’re a nature‑lover, a foodie, a craft‑beer fan, an arts enthusiast, or simply someone craving a calm place away from the buzz, Catskill gives you variety without chaos.
It’s flexible too—if you’ve only got a day, you can hit a waterfall and a craft beer. If you’ve got a long weekend, you can combine road trips, hikes, local eats, shopping, and relaxing sunset views.
So pack a pair of good shoes, a camera (or phone), a sense of adventure, and also a willingness to slow down. The Catskills will reward you.