10. Town of Woodstock

Photo courtesy Emerson Resort & Spa

The town of Woodstock, though not the actual location of the Woodstock Music Festival which was on a dairy farm 40 miles south in Bethel Woods, has a rich artistic history. Considered an “art colony,” Woodstock was the locus point for the Hudson River School of painting, then the Arts & Crafts movement thanks to the Byrdcliffe art residence program, and as a location of the summer program for the Arts Students League in New York City.  Woodstock has also attracted writers, musicians and other creatives. There is even an “Artist’s Cemetery “in Woodstock! There are numerous art galleries, small shops, and restaurants to discover.

Finally, another great way to see the Catkills, beyond by rail or by water, as we’ve covered is by air! The Belleyare scenic gondola ride is open from June to Columbus Day, and in the winter is part of the ski mountain there. If you’re interested in ski trips from New York City, check out our guide to the various mountains here.

Enjoy your trip to the Catkills! On a visit to this area, don’t miss the great things to do in Kingston, less than 30 minutes away in the Hudson Valley.