Summer escape to the catskills
Summer in New York City is not unlike a Mister Softee served straight from the truck…sweet, sticky and a bit of a mess. While there is much to love about the seasonal scene in the city, if you’re like me, sometimes you just need a little dose of nature. Luckily a scenic day-trip or weekend getaway to a number of charming upstate gems is just a drive away.
The Catskills region is a charmer. Offering a natural reprieve for city slickers, plan a socially distant hiking weekend getaway or a long-term stay in one of several quaint hamlets. Below are are a few of my favorite towns to visit and places to grab a bite before or after a hike (pro tip: call ahead to be sure they’re open for take-out or have an outdoor seating).
A favorite of skiiers and boarders alike, Hunter is a chilled small mountain resort town to offering mountain views and spaces to kick back after a long day on the slopes. In summer, however, the focus is shifted on proximity to restaurants, breweries and hiking trails.
Jagerberg Hall transports diners to the alpines with a hefty menu of beers and burgers. Come hungry, and wearing stretchy pants.
Scribers Prospect is a definitely catered to the city slicker crowd. The menu is slightly more expensive and bougie than the surrounding restaurants but worth a visit for a special occasion.
West Kill Brewing is a whole upstate NY vibe. There is something truly special about this space. Their focus on locally grown and foraged ingredients for their brews is an added plus.
If you’re less of a hiker and more of a shopper this one’s for you. Neighboring Hunter, Tannersville has slightly more to offer visitors on the food front in addition to several quaint antique stores. Go for a bite and stay for the chance of acquiring something unique.
Maggie’s Crooked Cafe & Juice Bar is your new favorite go-to diner type cafe. The menu is simple yet satisfying and the staff is lovely.
Twin Peaks Coffee and Donuts serves up exactly what it says in the name. Order up a fresh batch of donuts (made on the spot) and a large coffee to match.
Lastly, you’ve surely heard of this town. A larger central town offering several restaurants, artisan shops and festival-inspired shops, Woodstock is a must-visit. Below is just a culinary snippet of what the town has to offer.
Bread Alone Bakery might be somewhat familiar to you as an artisan loaf available in grocery stores. This bakery allows you to get the wheaty goodness straight from the source. Pop in for a loaf or sandwich.
Garden Cafe is a plant-based eaters dream. While most restaurants in Woodstock are veg friendly this place truly takes the cake (sans dairy of course). When open, a table in the garden is worth the wait.
Yum Yum Noodle Bar is a winner in both food and drink categories. Contrary to the name this eatery offers much more than noodles…we’re talking Banh Mi, Korean Tacos and more.
