Family Fun in the Catskill Region:
The Catskill Region, located just 90 miles north of New York City, is the perfect getaway for families who need to take a reprieve from the urban or suburban world, and reconnect with nature and open spaces. There is a wide selection of appealing and reasonably priced attractions that families are sure to enjoy; whether it is for a quick weekend getaway or a two-week vacation, the region has something for everyone throughout the year.Summer FunSummertime activities for children include water parks, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, horseback riding, biking, nature walks, petting zoos, paint-ball parks and go-cart racing. Families can travel alongside Esopus Creek in the Catskill Forest Preserve and take beautiful photos while riding The Catskill Mountain Railroad. Another must-do is the Delaware & Ulster Railride in Arkville; hop aboard vintage train cars for an old-time journey. To delve into history, guests can visit Fort Delaware, a replica of a colonial-era settlement.
The region also features fairs and festivals that celebrate art, music, cuisine and sports during the summer.Lodging options cover a wide range. Dude ranches and even farm vacations can give families a whole new way of life on their holiday. Seasonal cottages, cabins and campsites are an economical and fun way to experience the splendor of the region. Many of the resorts offer value-added incentives and discounts for families to stretch their travel budgets.Fall ActivitiesThe “Best Haunted Hayride in the Country” can be enjoyed each autumn in Ulster Park. Children will revel in this grand Halloween tradition, which includes a 35-minute hayride, a four-acre corn maze and two haunted houses. The fall draws families to the region for the beautiful foliage, and the opportunity to pick apples and pumpkins. This is the time when the region has colorful festivals celebrating the harvest, crafts, ethnic heritage, historical re-enactments and Halloween fun. Bargain shoppers also will find great deals for Christmas presents for the young and young-at-heart.
Winter WonderlandCome winter, the Catskill Region is home to some of the finest ski resorts east of the Mississippi River. Most mountains offer special rates and instruction for children, and rental shops have the equipment to outfit the little ones and everyone in the family. Visitors also can enjoy ice skating, ice climbing, ice fishing and riding snowmobiles. Many communities sponsor winter carnivals with ice skating races for children, snow sculpting contests, dog sledding exhibitions, ice fishing and other outdoor activities. Spring PleasuresAs the snow begins to melt, families can take pleasure in the magic of the maple syrup season. Many maple tree farms offer participatory tours and allow children to assist in the maple syrup harvest. The region also celebrates the opening of trout fishing - an activity that many children love to learn. Spring is a great time for mountain biking, hiking and exploring small towns with historic homes and museums. Family-oriented festivals showcase fly-fishing, biking and agriculture.
Other popular pastimes include the local railroads scenic train rides and the marinas for boat tours.Preview The Catskill RegionLocated just 90 miles north of New York City, the Catskill Region is an ideal choice for a country escape year-round and the diversity of activities attracts all ages. Places to stay include elegant resorts, spas, bed-and-breakfasts, country cabins and campgrounds. The spectacular landscape makes hiking, fishing and boating an adventure. The region’s slopes offer some of the finest skiing in the northeast, and premier golf can be played at more than 40 courses.
Cultural options include art galleries, museums and historic sites, as well as year-round theater, concerts, dance, fairs and festivals. For shoppers, there are antiques, auctions, craft shops and farmers’ markets.Recommendations For Family Fun in the Catskill RegionBear Creek Landing Run Sports Complex: Open year-round. Licensed NY State fishing preserve, mini-golf, 20-station driving range. Ice skating in winter, complete with rentals and lessons.
Restaurant and pub. Rtes. 23A and 214, Hunter. Tel: (518) 263-3839; http://www.bearcreeklanding.com/.
Belleayre Mountain: Swimming, boating, hiking and scenic chairlift rides. Rte. 28, Highmount. Tel: (845) 254-5600; http://www.belleayre.com/.
Catskill Game Farm: Thousands of exotic and tame animals. Children’s playground, splash pad and amusement rides. Daily from May 1 to Oct. 31. Groups welcome. Free Parking. Off Rte. 32, Catskill. Tel: (518) 678-9595; http://www.catskillgamefarm.com/.
Catskill Scenic Trail: 19-mile Rails to Trails project stretches from the town of Grand Gorge to the town of Bloomville. Perfect for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding and many other outdoor activities. Trail is almost zero grade with a mixed composite surface. Features include benches, scenic bridges and public fishing access. Tel: (800) 225-4132 or (607) 652-2821. Bike rentals and shuttle service available. Tel: (800) GOTTA-BIKE.Catskill
Fly Fishing Center and Museum:
Dedicated to preserving America’s fly- fishing heritage. Special events and educational programs. Video Room, Library, Interactive Displays, Hall of Fame, Visitors Center and Gift shop set on 53 acres bordering the Willowemoc Creek. Tours available. Daily Apr. 1 to Oct. 31 - 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Nov. 1 to Mar. 31 - Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 1031 Old Rte. 17, Livingston Manor. Tel: (845) 439-4810; http://www.cffcm.org/.
Cohotate Preserve: Nature preserve with self-guided tours on nature trails along the Hudson River. All year. Rte. 385, Athens. Tel: (518) 622-3620.
Eagle Institute: Workshops, school scout programs, slide presentations, children’s festivals and guided eagle watches at habitat area. On-site interpretive programs on weekends during winter months when eagles migrate to the region. Volunteer eagle-monitoring project. Programs geared to protection of eagles and other birds of prey and conservation of natural resources for species survival. Rte. 97, Barryville. Tel: (845) 557-6162; http://www.eagleinstitute.org/.
Eldred Preserve Resort: Stand sporting clay complex. Trout and lake fishing with boat rentals. Café, restaurant and motel. Rte. 55, Eldred. Tel: (845) 557-8316 or (800) 557-FISH.Headless Horseman Hayrides: Spectacular illusions, special effects, acres of thrills and chills, gift shops and a cast of over 90. Last weekend in Sept. and every Fri., Sat. and Sun. in Oct. Ulster Park. Tel: (845) 339-2666; http://www.headlesshorseman.com/.
Hudson-Athens Lighthouse: Built in 1874, an architectural gem. Second-empire style. Visible from River Front Park. Tours held Jun. - Oct. Athens. Tel: (518) 828-3828.Hudson River Cruises: Modern 300-passenger motor vessel provides two-hour sightseeing cruises on the Hudson with views of the majestic surroundings, lighthouses and historic mansions. Evening music and special themed cruises. Private charters available. May - Oct. 1 Roundout Landing, Kingston. Tel: (845) 255-6515, (800) 843-7472; http://www.hudsonrivercruises.com/.
Kaaterskill Falls: Highest cascading waterfall in NY State. Scenic marked hiking trails. Views of the Hudson Valley. Access to bottom of falls at Rte. 23A. Access to top of falls Rte. 23A, North Lake Rd., to Laurel House Lane. Rte. 23A, Haines Falls. Tel: (518) 589-5058.Mohonk Preserve: New York’s largest non-profit nature-preserve with 60 miles of trails and carriage roads for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, nature observation and rock climbing cliffs. Daily, sunrise to sunset, year-round. Nature, geology and science exhibits, discovery and observation center and sensory trail. Guided hikes and special nature programs. 3197 Rte. 44/55, Gardiner. Tel: (845) 255-0919; http://www.mohonkpreserve.org/.
Monticello Raceway: One of the quaintest racetracks in NY State for pari-mutuel harness racing year-round. Dining. Rte. 71B, Monticello. Tel: (845) 794-4100; http://www.monticelloraceway.com/.
North and South Lake: Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, motorless boating, rowboat rental, marked hiking trails, pavilion, bathhouses. May 4 - Oct. 21. Swimming, Memorial - Labor Day. Rte. 18, Haines Falls. Tel: (518) 589-5058.Plattekill Mountain Resort: Extreme downhill mountain biking. Plattekill Mountain Rd., Roxbury. Tel: (607) 326-3500; http://www.plattekill.com/.
Ted Martin’s Reptile Adventure: More than 50 living exhibits. Zoo with alligators and lizards. Terrarium with over 100 living snakes. Gift shop. May 15 - Sep. 15, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., daily. Tel: (518) 678-3557.Zoom Flume Waterpark: Slide, spin, splash in the sun at the Catskill Region’s largest waterpark. Waterslides and attractions for a full day of fun. Jun. 16, 17 and 23 - Labor Day. Weekdays, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Weekends, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Shady Glen Rd., East Durham. Tel: (518) 239-4559, (800) 888-358 6; http://www.zoomflume.com/.
The Catskill Region, located just 90 miles north of New York City, is the perfect getaway for families who need to take a reprieve from the urban or suburban world, and reconnect with nature and open spaces. There is a wide selection of appealing and reasonably priced attractions that families are sure to enjoy; whether it is for a quick weekend getaway or a two-week vacation, the region has something for everyone throughout the year.Summer FunSummertime activities for children include water parks, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, horseback riding, biking, nature walks, petting zoos, paint-ball parks and go-cart racing. Families can travel alongside Esopus Creek in the Catskill Forest Preserve and take beautiful photos while riding The Catskill Mountain Railroad. Another must-do is the Delaware & Ulster Railride in Arkville; hop aboard vintage train cars for an old-time journey. To delve into history, guests can visit Fort Delaware, a replica of a colonial-era settlement.
The region also features fairs and festivals that celebrate art, music, cuisine and sports during the summer.Lodging options cover a wide range. Dude ranches and even farm vacations can give families a whole new way of life on their holiday. Seasonal cottages, cabins and campsites are an economical and fun way to experience the splendor of the region. Many of the resorts offer value-added incentives and discounts for families to stretch their travel budgets.Fall ActivitiesThe “Best Haunted Hayride in the Country” can be enjoyed each autumn in Ulster Park. Children will revel in this grand Halloween tradition, which includes a 35-minute hayride, a four-acre corn maze and two haunted houses. The fall draws families to the region for the beautiful foliage, and the opportunity to pick apples and pumpkins. This is the time when the region has colorful festivals celebrating the harvest, crafts, ethnic heritage, historical re-enactments and Halloween fun. Bargain shoppers also will find great deals for Christmas presents for the young and young-at-heart.
Winter WonderlandCome winter, the Catskill Region is home to some of the finest ski resorts east of the Mississippi River. Most mountains offer special rates and instruction for children, and rental shops have the equipment to outfit the little ones and everyone in the family. Visitors also can enjoy ice skating, ice climbing, ice fishing and riding snowmobiles. Many communities sponsor winter carnivals with ice skating races for children, snow sculpting contests, dog sledding exhibitions, ice fishing and other outdoor activities. Spring PleasuresAs the snow begins to melt, families can take pleasure in the magic of the maple syrup season. Many maple tree farms offer participatory tours and allow children to assist in the maple syrup harvest. The region also celebrates the opening of trout fishing - an activity that many children love to learn. Spring is a great time for mountain biking, hiking and exploring small towns with historic homes and museums. Family-oriented festivals showcase fly-fishing, biking and agriculture.
Other popular pastimes include the local railroads scenic train rides and the marinas for boat tours.Preview The Catskill RegionLocated just 90 miles north of New York City, the Catskill Region is an ideal choice for a country escape year-round and the diversity of activities attracts all ages. Places to stay include elegant resorts, spas, bed-and-breakfasts, country cabins and campgrounds. The spectacular landscape makes hiking, fishing and boating an adventure. The region’s slopes offer some of the finest skiing in the northeast, and premier golf can be played at more than 40 courses.
Cultural options include art galleries, museums and historic sites, as well as year-round theater, concerts, dance, fairs and festivals. For shoppers, there are antiques, auctions, craft shops and farmers’ markets.Recommendations For Family Fun in the Catskill RegionBear Creek Landing Run Sports Complex: Open year-round. Licensed NY State fishing preserve, mini-golf, 20-station driving range. Ice skating in winter, complete with rentals and lessons.
Restaurant and pub. Rtes. 23A and 214, Hunter. Tel: (518) 263-3839; http://www.bearcreeklanding.com/.
Belleayre Mountain: Swimming, boating, hiking and scenic chairlift rides. Rte. 28, Highmount. Tel: (845) 254-5600; http://www.belleayre.com/.
Catskill Game Farm: Thousands of exotic and tame animals. Children’s playground, splash pad and amusement rides. Daily from May 1 to Oct. 31. Groups welcome. Free Parking. Off Rte. 32, Catskill. Tel: (518) 678-9595; http://www.catskillgamefarm.com/.
Catskill Scenic Trail: 19-mile Rails to Trails project stretches from the town of Grand Gorge to the town of Bloomville. Perfect for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding and many other outdoor activities. Trail is almost zero grade with a mixed composite surface. Features include benches, scenic bridges and public fishing access. Tel: (800) 225-4132 or (607) 652-2821. Bike rentals and shuttle service available. Tel: (800) GOTTA-BIKE.Catskill
Fly Fishing Center and Museum:
Dedicated to preserving America’s fly- fishing heritage. Special events and educational programs. Video Room, Library, Interactive Displays, Hall of Fame, Visitors Center and Gift shop set on 53 acres bordering the Willowemoc Creek. Tours available. Daily Apr. 1 to Oct. 31 - 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Nov. 1 to Mar. 31 - Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 1031 Old Rte. 17, Livingston Manor. Tel: (845) 439-4810; http://www.cffcm.org/.
Cohotate Preserve: Nature preserve with self-guided tours on nature trails along the Hudson River. All year. Rte. 385, Athens. Tel: (518) 622-3620.
Eagle Institute: Workshops, school scout programs, slide presentations, children’s festivals and guided eagle watches at habitat area. On-site interpretive programs on weekends during winter months when eagles migrate to the region. Volunteer eagle-monitoring project. Programs geared to protection of eagles and other birds of prey and conservation of natural resources for species survival. Rte. 97, Barryville. Tel: (845) 557-6162; http://www.eagleinstitute.org/.
Eldred Preserve Resort: Stand sporting clay complex. Trout and lake fishing with boat rentals. Café, restaurant and motel. Rte. 55, Eldred. Tel: (845) 557-8316 or (800) 557-FISH.Headless Horseman Hayrides: Spectacular illusions, special effects, acres of thrills and chills, gift shops and a cast of over 90. Last weekend in Sept. and every Fri., Sat. and Sun. in Oct. Ulster Park. Tel: (845) 339-2666; http://www.headlesshorseman.com/.
Hudson-Athens Lighthouse: Built in 1874, an architectural gem. Second-empire style. Visible from River Front Park. Tours held Jun. - Oct. Athens. Tel: (518) 828-3828.Hudson River Cruises: Modern 300-passenger motor vessel provides two-hour sightseeing cruises on the Hudson with views of the majestic surroundings, lighthouses and historic mansions. Evening music and special themed cruises. Private charters available. May - Oct. 1 Roundout Landing, Kingston. Tel: (845) 255-6515, (800) 843-7472; http://www.hudsonrivercruises.com/.
Kaaterskill Falls: Highest cascading waterfall in NY State. Scenic marked hiking trails. Views of the Hudson Valley. Access to bottom of falls at Rte. 23A. Access to top of falls Rte. 23A, North Lake Rd., to Laurel House Lane. Rte. 23A, Haines Falls. Tel: (518) 589-5058.Mohonk Preserve: New York’s largest non-profit nature-preserve with 60 miles of trails and carriage roads for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, nature observation and rock climbing cliffs. Daily, sunrise to sunset, year-round. Nature, geology and science exhibits, discovery and observation center and sensory trail. Guided hikes and special nature programs. 3197 Rte. 44/55, Gardiner. Tel: (845) 255-0919; http://www.mohonkpreserve.org/.
Monticello Raceway: One of the quaintest racetracks in NY State for pari-mutuel harness racing year-round. Dining. Rte. 71B, Monticello. Tel: (845) 794-4100; http://www.monticelloraceway.com/.
North and South Lake: Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, motorless boating, rowboat rental, marked hiking trails, pavilion, bathhouses. May 4 - Oct. 21. Swimming, Memorial - Labor Day. Rte. 18, Haines Falls. Tel: (518) 589-5058.Plattekill Mountain Resort: Extreme downhill mountain biking. Plattekill Mountain Rd., Roxbury. Tel: (607) 326-3500; http://www.plattekill.com/.
Ted Martin’s Reptile Adventure: More than 50 living exhibits. Zoo with alligators and lizards. Terrarium with over 100 living snakes. Gift shop. May 15 - Sep. 15, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., daily. Tel: (518) 678-3557.Zoom Flume Waterpark: Slide, spin, splash in the sun at the Catskill Region’s largest waterpark. Waterslides and attractions for a full day of fun. Jun. 16, 17 and 23 - Labor Day. Weekdays, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Weekends, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Shady Glen Rd., East Durham. Tel: (518) 239-4559, (800) 888-358 6; http://www.zoomflume.com/.
