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Woodstock: From 1969 Festival Roots to Vibrant Arts Hub

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. rom-1969-festival-roots-to-vibrant-arts-hub.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, December 17th 2025 at 19:38 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: New York, UNITED STATES

The Catskills’ Hidden Gems: A Travel + Leisure Snapshot of the Region’s Best Small Towns

For those seeking a break from the bustle of New York City, the Catskill Mountains offer a blend of rustic charm, cultural vibrancy, and outdoor adventure. In a recent feature for Travel + Leisure (published 2023), the magazine highlighted ten of the region’s most inviting small towns, each with its own character, history, and culinary scene. Below is a concise yet thorough walk‑through of those towns—along with the extra context that the article’s embedded links provide—to help you decide which corner of the Catskills should be your next stop.

1. Woodstock

Perhaps the most famous of the list, Woodstock earned a name in the world’s imagination after the 1969 music festival that defined a generation. Travel + Leisure points to the town’s thriving arts scene: independent galleries, the iconic Woodstock Playhouse, and the annual Woodstock Arts & Crafts Show. A stroll down Main Street is a mix of boutique shops, craft coffee houses, and the famed “Woodstock Inn.” The magazine’s linked profile of the town offers deeper dives into the local history museum and the “Rivoli” bakery, a beloved spot for cinnamon rolls. For accommodation, the “Woodstock House” offers a cozy bed‑and‑breakfast experience that’s as historic as the town itself.

2. Saugerties

Saugerties is a classic New York Village with a waterfront feel. It sits on the Hudson River, providing picturesque views that Travel + Leisure notes as perfect for kayaking and sunset walks. The article links to the Saugerties Historical Museum, where a guided tour can lead you to the original 1840s stone house that now houses antique collections. The town’s “Saugerties Lighthouse” is a must‑visit, offering panoramic vistas of the river and a small gift shop featuring local art. Culinary highlights include the “Café 28” and the “Ridge & River Pub,” both praised for farm‑to‑table fare and craft beer.

3. New Paltz

New Paltz is a college town that balances youthful energy with historic roots. Its downtown is dotted with restaurants, bars, and a farmers’ market that runs week‑long. The Travel + Leisure piece points you toward the Huguenot Street historic district—a well‑preserved 17th‑century settlement where you can take a self‑guided tour of old stone houses. A short drive away lies the Mohonk Preserve, offering miles of hiking trails and the chance to see the region’s flora up close. The article’s link to the “Mohonk Mountain House” provides insight into the historic hotel’s seasonal events, while the “New Paltz Farmers Market” page lists weekly produce and artisanal crafts.

4. Phoenicia

Phoenicia feels like a breath of fresh air. Nestled at the foot of the Catskill high peaks, the town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Travel + Leisure feature emphasizes the Catskill Mountain Railroad, a scenic train that offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the famed Kaaterskill Falls. The article also links to the “Phoenicia Lodge,” which offers rustic cabins and a ski shop during winter months. For hikers, the “Ashokan Reservoir” trail is a gentle walk with spectacular water views, while the “Phoenicia Community Center” hosts local craft markets and seasonal festivals.

5. Roxbury

Roxbury’s small‑town appeal is amplified by its 19th‑century railroad heritage. Travel + Leisure links to the Roxbury Village Historic District, a well‑preserved area of cobblestone streets and old brick homes. The town’s “Roxbury Railway Station” now houses a quaint café where you can taste homemade pies while admiring restored vintage railway equipment. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the “Roxbury Brook” nature trail, which leads to the “Roxbury Water Tower”—a great spot for sunset photos. For lodging, the article recommends the “Roxbury Inn,” a bed‑and‑breakfast known for its historic charm and locally sourced breakfasts.

6. Kingston

Kingston is a larger, yet still intimate, town that serves as a cultural hub for the lower Catskills. The Travel + Leisure article highlights the historic downtown area, including the “Kingston Art Gallery” and the “Hudson River Museum.” Kingston’s waterfront on the Hudson is a focal point for boating enthusiasts, with the Travel + Leisure article linking to the “Kingston Marina,” which offers boat rentals and kayaking tours. For a taste of local cuisine, the “Caffè de la Pala” offers Mediterranean dishes and a relaxed patio, while the “Kingston Pub” is known for its hearty comfort food and live music.

7. Tannersville

Tannersville is known primarily as the gateway to winter sports. The Travel + Leisure article mentions the Tannersville Ski Resort, with its groomed trails and beginner-friendly slopes. The link to the resort’s website provides a calendar of seasonal events, including a Christmas market in December. During the summer, the town offers “Tannersville Ridge Trail,” a moderate hike that yields sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Dining in town is highlighted by the “Blue Mountain Bistro,” a local favorite for its wood‑fire pizza and craft beer selection.

8. Shandaken

Shandaken stands out for its quiet rural feel and historic church architecture. The Travel + Leisure feature notes the “Shandaken Community Church,” a beautiful wooden structure that hosts summer concerts. The linked “Shandaken Arts Center” offers rotating exhibitions of regional painters and sculptors. The town is also a gateway to the “Shandaken Ridge Trail,” a moderate hike that takes you through maple‑filled forests and offers a glimpse of the Catskill’s natural beauty. The “Shandaken Inn” provides a warm bed‑and‑breakfast experience in a restored 19th‑century building.

9. Hudson Valley

Though not a town per se, the Travel + Leisure article touches on the larger Hudson Valley region, which frames the Catskills. This area hosts a plethora of farm‑to‑table restaurants, vineyards, and historic sites. The article links to “Hudson Valley Wine Tours,” an excellent resource for planning a day trip along the famed North Fork.

10. Willow Grove

A lesser‑known gem, Willow Grove is a small hamlet renowned for its seasonal festivals. The Travel + Leisure feature highlights the “Willow Grove Fair,” a yearly gathering that showcases local artisans and musicians. The article’s link to the “Willow Grove Community Center” lists upcoming events and seasonal farmers’ markets. A visit here is perfect for those who appreciate a close‑knit community atmosphere combined with picturesque autumn scenery.

How to Plan Your Catskills Getaway

The Travel + Leisure article doesn’t just name towns; it also offers practical tips for travelers. The “Best Times to Visit” section suggests early spring or late fall for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. It also recommends renting a car, as public transportation between towns is limited. For accommodations, the article links to a curated list of inns, bed‑and‑breakfasts, and boutique hotels—each vetted for cleanliness, comfort, and local charm.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the “Best Hikes” section, which maps the top trails in each town. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a leisurely stroller, there’s a trail for every skill level. Foodies can explore the “Top 10 Local Eats” list, which includes everything from farm‑farmed pizzas in New Paltz to fresh‑catch seafood at the Saugerties waterfront.

In short, Travel + Leisure’s roundup of Catskills small towns offers a well‑balanced blend of history, art, food, and nature. The article’s links serve as a treasure trove of deeper dives into local attractions, events, and dining options. Whether you’re looking to explore iconic music history in Woodstock, paddle the Hudson in Kingston, or hike the quiet trails of Shandaken, the Catskills present an array of inviting villages that promise a memorable escape from the city. Happy travels!