If you’re looking for a perfect weekend escape to enjoy nature, delicious food, and a little adventure, you need to head to the Catskills!
I used to not spend a lot of time in the Catskills during the summer and fall months, as I am more likely to be up during ski season. But recently, I have taken an appreciation to the fall foliage, delicious food, and being able to hike the mountain or take the ski lift when it’s not freezing out.
That being said, all of these spots are local to Hunter Mountain in Hunter, NY as that is where we ski. And here’s my ideal itinerary for a weekend trip.
Friday: Arrive and Unwind
Afternoon:
Once you’ve arrived in the Catskills and settled into your Airbnb or hotel, truly just take a look outside and appreciate the views.
Dinner Ideas
For your first dinner, head to The Chicken Run for an absolute Catskills staple! This family-friendly spot serves comfort food. (My absolute favorite thing here is the ribs!!!!)
If you’re looking for a nicer dinner option, I highly recommend Deer Mountain Inn (pictured below) or Lilly’s Steaks & Cocktails.
Evening Options
After dinner, a few recommendations to wrap up the night:
- Catch a movie the Windham Theater a local theater if you’re feeling low-key. (The showings aren’t crazy late, and selection is small, so just keep that in mind.)
- Hit a local bar like Tipp Tavern or Slopes. (Slopes is a bit more of a party feel usually, Tipp tavern is more of a chill spot with a pool table, darts, etc.)
- Chill at AirBnb / Hotel
Saturday: Scenic Views Galore!
Breakfast at Phoenicia Diner
This is probably one of the most iconic diners in all of the Catskills. The Phoenicia Diner, a favorite by locals, has a unique and delicious menu alongside some of the best pancakes I have ever had. Served with real maple syrup from upstate. You have to get them when you are in the Catskills.
It also served as the filming spot for Pip’s Diner in Severance!
Pedal your way through a scenic view!
Book a tandem Rail Explorer to do while you are in Phoenicia as well, there’s many different ride options to choose from all in the Catskills! There are options like a 4- or 8-mile course, during golden hour, by the river and more!
There’s also the world’s largest kaleidoscope nearby, which isn’t the coolest thing ever, but you can go inside it and watch this visual show they play inside. It’s a massive silo turned kaleidoscope. If you like Kaleidoscopes, you must visit here!
Or Hike to Kaaterskill Falls
Then, head to Kaaterskill Falls, one of the most popular hiking spots in the area! The waterfall is breathtaking and worth the (moderate) hike to see it up close. (Towards the bottom near the falls we definitely noticed it getting slippery, so please be careful!)
Alt idea: Scenic skyride at Hunter Mountain offers breathtaking views from the top of Hunter Mountain and you get to take the ski lift up. Explore as much as you want on the top, find the Rip Van Winkle statue and then take the lift back down. I think you can hike it too, but I never have! Link to Skyride tix here!
Post-hike, reward yourself at Hunter Mountain Brewery after conquering the falls! Their beer selection is fantastic, food is good, and the perfect place to take a break after!
Dinner Ideas
After freshening up, head over to Pancho Villa’s for a delicious Mexican dinner. The tamales, enchiladas, and margaritas will hit the spot after a long day of adventure. It’s a casual but flavorful way to end the evening!
For a nicer option, try Prospect at Scribner’s. The chef worked at a 3 Michelin star restaurant in Spain.
Sunday Send-Off
Breakfast at Pantry on Main
On Sunday morning, grab breakfast and coffee at Pantry on Main. This is one of my favorite spots in all of the Catskills. I highly recommend the Turkish Eggs or Bread Pudding French Toast. You truly can’t go wrong with any of their dishes!
Antiquing & Shopping
Before you head out of the Catskills, spend some time exploring the local antique shops. The region is known for its unique finds, from vintage décor to collectibles.
MUST STOP: The Catskill Mountain Country Store
Look through a massive array of homemade and local made goods at the Catskill Mountain Country Store in Windham. They seriously have everything. Homemade jams and jellies, honey, sauces, syrups and more! Baked goods, breads, fudge, condiments, pickles, and so so much more! This is a non-negotiable stop every time I am in the Catskills. I always find something new and delicious to try.
There is also a dining area, ice cream, coffee bar, and even a farm out back with animals you can go look at and a teeny, tiny maple museum that’s worth peaking your head in.
I recommend stopping here last cause it is an easy place to grab a bunch of stuff to take with you back home.
And that, my friends, is how you have an amazing weekend in the Catskills.
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