Winter in the Catskills is a beautiful time to plan a visit to our region of Upstate NY. And, just because you’re not a skier, have no interest in snowshoeing or snow tubing, and think ice skating is for the Olympics, doesn’t mean you have to stay inside once the snow falls. Head to the Catskill Mountains this winter where nature abounds and cool shops, restorative spa treatments and makers’ workshops are at the ready!
This winter, don’t miss your chance to explore nature. Several nature preserves offer groomed trails where the only special gear you need is a good pair of winter boots, and probably a camera to capture the beauty of the season. Grab a warm beverage from a Catskills coffee spot and head out in the winter wonderland.
At the Mountain Top Arboretum in Tannersville, you’ll find a public garden, woodland area, and meadows all transformed by the season.
Explore the Woodland Walk area and enjoy the way the sun filters through the trees, before heading down the road to Circle W Market in Palenville for a warming lunch.
If you’re up for exploring shop aisles instead of nature trails, head charming Catskill downtowns from Tannersville to Andes and beyond that offer truly unique shopping experiences.
In Andes, Main Street shops offer everything from imported crafts to original artwork.
In Hobart, the entire village is dedicated to the literary world. Hobart Book Village is on Main Street, and covers the ancient world to contemporary fiction, and everything in between. Stroll through shelves lined with classics and paperbacks, first editions, and forgotten masterpieces. What’s better than a day spent in the company of a good book?
One of the most exclusive spa experiences available in the Catskills is at the Dewa Spa at Menla in Phoenicia. Ancient Tibetan therapies meet western spa treatments to offer a diverse spa menu that makes for a restorative retreat in the heart of winter. Menla is located on a private nature reserve, and guests are welcome for a single spa treatment or for a multi-day retreat. Wellness facilities include a yoga studio, fitness room, tennis courts, and hiking trails, in addition to Dewa Spa.
Overnight guests will enjoy seasonally prepared meals from Chef Alicia. Spa guests will enjoy traditional Finnish saunas, steam rooms, far-infrared saunas, Ayurveda Steam Box Therapy, as well as a full spa menu. From energy therapies to massage and bodywork, discover Dewa for a relaxing spa day.
The Catskills are a place that historically inspired creative souls to, well, create. It’s where Washington Irving dreamed up Rip Van Winkle, and where Thomas Cole began the first brushstrokes of the Hudson River School. It’s a place where tomorrow’s culinary rock stars learn their craft, and where artists from every medium continue to find inspiration.
It’s no surprise that the list of classes and workshops available for drop-ins is long and varied. In winter, head to Henning’s Local in Cochecton Center where culinary classes from Red Barn Studio go over everything from pies to bagels, and cheese making to fermenting foods.
However you explore the region this winter, don’t miss your chance to make the most of the season’s unique, only-in-the-Catskills offerings.
Ski-less Winter Vacation Ideas
Take a Winter Walk
This winter, don’t miss your chance to explore nature. Several nature preserves offer groomed trails where the only special gear you need is a good pair of winter boots, and probably a camera to capture the beauty of the season. Grab a warm beverage from a Catskills coffee spot and head out in the winter wonderland.
At the Mountain Top Arboretum in Tannersville, you’ll find a public garden, woodland area, and meadows all transformed by the season.
Explore the Woodland Walk area and enjoy the way the sun filters through the trees, before heading down the road to Circle W Market in Palenville for a warming lunch.
Explore Cozy Downtowns
If you’re up for exploring shop aisles instead of nature trails, head charming Catskill downtowns from Tannersville to Andes and beyond that offer truly unique shopping experiences.
In Andes, Main Street shops offer everything from imported crafts to original artwork.
In Hobart, the entire village is dedicated to the literary world. Hobart Book Village is on Main Street, and covers the ancient world to contemporary fiction, and everything in between. Stroll through shelves lined with classics and paperbacks, first editions, and forgotten masterpieces. What’s better than a day spent in the company of a good book?
Relax With a Spa Day
One of the most exclusive spa experiences available in the Catskills is at the Dewa Spa at Menla in Phoenicia. Ancient Tibetan therapies meet western spa treatments to offer a diverse spa menu that makes for a restorative retreat in the heart of winter. Menla is located on a private nature reserve, and guests are welcome for a single spa treatment or for a multi-day retreat. Wellness facilities include a yoga studio, fitness room, tennis courts, and hiking trails, in addition to Dewa Spa.
Overnight guests will enjoy seasonally prepared meals from Chef Alicia. Spa guests will enjoy traditional Finnish saunas, steam rooms, far-infrared saunas, Ayurveda Steam Box Therapy, as well as a full spa menu. From energy therapies to massage and bodywork, discover Dewa for a relaxing spa day.
Learn a New Craft
The Catskills are a place that historically inspired creative souls to, well, create. It’s where Washington Irving dreamed up Rip Van Winkle, and where Thomas Cole began the first brushstrokes of the Hudson River School. It’s a place where tomorrow’s culinary rock stars learn their craft, and where artists from every medium continue to find inspiration.
It’s no surprise that the list of classes and workshops available for drop-ins is long and varied. In winter, head to Henning’s Local in Cochecton Center where culinary classes from Red Barn Studio go over everything from pies to bagels, and cheese making to fermenting foods.
However you explore the region this winter, don’t miss your chance to make the most of the season’s unique, only-in-the-Catskills offerings. 
