Where to Play, Eat, and Stay on a Winter Trip to New York’s Catskills

I’ll admit, when I first thought of the Catskills, I pictured summer resorts reminiscent of the classic scenes from Dirty Dancing. But my recent winter trip to the region completely changed that.

During the colder months, the area a few hours north of New York City transforms into a winter playground offering a mix of alpine adventures, wellness activities, and cultural sites. Whether you’re skiing the slopes or unwinding at a local spa, there’s so much to do without as many crowds as you’ll see during the peak summer and fall seasons. For food-focused travelers, the best part is that the region is home to farm-to-table dining and a growing craft beverage scene that’s perfect for keeping you warm during your cold-weather adventures.

From peaceful winter walks to cozy meals by the fire, these are some of the best things to do in the Catskills in winter, plus where to call home base during your trip.

Hit the slopes at Windham Mountain Club

Photo: Laura Danforth

Growing up in the Boston area, my ski weekends usually took me farther north in New England. Little did I know that there are slopes that are just as carve-worthy a few hours west in New York’s Catskill Mountains.

Family-friendly Windham Mountain has long been a go-to winter escape for locals and New York City weekenders. Now, under new ownership, it’s evolving into a four-season destination. A recent large-scale renovation has elevated the experience with an upgraded lodge, a modernized rental facility, and expanded dining options.

For those looking for extra perks, Windham has a membership program that includes access to a stunning new spa, a state-of-the-art gym, private dining, and a growing list of high-end amenities. And with future on-site lodging in the works, overnight guests will soon be able to enjoy these benefits throughout their stay.

Windham Mountain Club: 19 Resort Dr, Windham, NY 12496

Hone your downhill skills at Hunter Mountain

Photo: Laura Danforth

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, head just 15 minutes down the road to Hunter Mountain Resort. At first view, I could immediately see the much steeper terrain. But the mountain still offers plenty of beginner- and intermediate-friendly options. One of the most popular runs is Belt Parkway, a mile-long blue run. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because the original owner named the trails after New York streets to make city skiers feel at home.

Now part of Vail Resorts, Hunter Mountain is the only place in New York where you can ski on the EPIC Pass. It’s also working toward the company’s zero-waste goal by 2030, so you can feel good about skiing green.

When you need a break from the slopes, stop by the expansive food hall for a quick bite. Or unwind at Van Winkle’s, which offers a lively après-ski scene. If you’re up for even more fun, check out the glow tubing nights, complete with a DJ spinning tunes under the lights.

Hunter Mountain Resort: 64 Klein Ave, Hunter, NY 12442

Redefine après ski at Catskill Cryo

For post-ski-day recovery, Catskill Cryo is the place to go. Standing nearly naked in a subzero tank for three minutes might sound a bit extreme, but studies show cryotherapy can help reduce pain and inflammation while speeding up recovery time. Plus, many people experience a rush of endorphins, leaving them feeling happy and energized.

That’s exactly how owner Sandy got hooked. After trying it herself, she fell in love with the benefits and decided to open her own wellness spa. She eased my nerves about my first cryotherapy session and made sure I was comfortable throughout the process.

I also got to try the Cryo Facial, a gentle stream of cold air that encourages cell regeneration and left my skin feeling refreshed. And for those who prefer to warm up, the infrared sauna is a great way to soak in radiant heat and relax.

Bonus: A few doors down is a Pilates studio called Body Be Well that’ll have you leaning into your day of wellness and mastering those hulking reformer machines. With group classes, private sessions, and wellness retreats, the boutique studio is a great stop for winter visitors seeking an indoor activity that’s bound to warm you up.

Catskill Cryo: 414 Main St, Catskill, NY 12414

Visit the “birthplace of American art”

Photo: Laura Danforth

Thomas Cole founded the Hudson River School, America’s first major art movement, around 1825. Originally from England, Cole fell in love with the untouched landscapes of the Catskills, which became a central theme in many of his paintings.

At the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, you can tour his former home and two art studios, getting a behind-the-scenes look at his life and creative process. Standing on the porch, looking out over the rolling landscape, I could easily see why he found endless inspiration in the area’s natural beauty.

Inside, the colorful walls display both originals and replicas from his vast collection. This includes his final piece, Landscape with Clouds, which is hauntingly unfinished with faint outlines of angels in the bottom left corner. Throughout the site, immersive digital experiences bring Cole’s story to life.

And if all those sweeping landscapes leave you eager for more, the Hudson River Skywalk, a scenic pedestrian bridge, starts just steps from the newly built visitor center. It offers stunning views of the region that inspired Cole’s masterpieces.

Thomas Cole National Historic Site: 218 Spring St, Catskill, NY 12414

Give Glice skating a go

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If you’ve never heard of Glice, you’re not alone. This synthetic ice is a newer alternative to traditional ice, and Scribner’s Catskill Lodge loves it because it doesn’t melt. Use of the lodge’s rink is free for guests; community members can buy hour-long skates for either $10 or $20 depending on the day (rentals included).

If you grew up ice skating, Glice takes some getting used to. I found I couldn’t quite achieve the same effortless glide as I would on real ice (not that I’m an Olympic skater to begin with). But it’s still a fun winter activity, especially with the fantastic views of Hunter Mountain in the background.

After some time on the rink, warming up with a steaming mug of hot cocoa in the cozy hotel bar is the perfect way to end the experience.

Scribner’s Catskill Lodge: 13 Scribner Hollow Rd, Hunter, NY 12442

Visit New York’s highest cascading waterfall

Photos: Jay Chung/Shutterstock and Laura Danforth

Kaaterskill Falls is a two-drop waterfall (the highest of its kind in the state) that inspired Thomas Cole’s iconic painting of the same name. While waterfall hikes might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a winter activity, some would argue that Catskill Park’s most popular attraction is even more breathtaking this time of year. And in especially cold winters, the falls freeze into a mesmerizing display of giant icicles cascading down the 260-foot drop.

A 0.2-mile path to the viewing platform sets the scene for a gentle and peaceful excursion to admire the falls. For something more involved, a longer trail (roughly 1.4 miles round trip) leads down to the base of the falls, offering a different perspective. If you go that route, be sure to wear sturdy boots and prepare for the uphill trek back.

Tip: Start your trip at the Laurel House Parking Area for the easiest access to the path above the falls.

Laurel House Trail: 103 Laurel House Rd, Palenville, NY 12463

Catskill Chocolate Co.

Photos: Laura Danforth

Not just a chocolate shop, this women-owned cafe also serves mouthwatering daily lunch specials. Think melty grilled cheese or bacon, brie, and fig sandwiches accompanied by steamy mugs of tomato bisque. Be sure to finish off your meal with a bite (or box) of the handmade, ethically sourced chocolates and a hot cocoa to go.

Catskill Chocolate Co: 473 Main St Catskill, NY 12414

Café Joust

Photo: Laura Danforth

This downtown Catskills cafe is the perfect spot to detox and refuel after a winter workout. Owner Lauren partners with local farms for the fresh ingredients in her cold-pressed juices. You’ll also find a seasonal menu of vegan and vegetarian soups, salads, and sandwiches to keep you energized.

Café Joust: 365 Main St Catskill, NY 12414

Prominence

Photo: Laura Danforth

Just steps from the Wylder Windham hotel, this inviting Italian steakhouse serves up comfort food like rigatoni Bolognese and veal marsala that’s perfect for winter nights. Fresh seafood, including Cognac salmon and sautéed branzino, is brought in daily. And the steaks are melt-in-your-mouth tender. After dinner or for après ski, grab a seat at the wraparound bar for a bit of mingling at this popular local spot.

Prominence: 55 NY-296 Windham, NY 12496

Babblers

Photos: Laura Danforth

Babblers is a restaurant, bakery, and bar at Wylder Windham, where I stayed during my trip to the Catskills. It was my go-to spot for everything from breakfast sandwiches and homemade baked goods to hearty dinners. Don’t miss The Old Braciole, which is stuffed beef in a rich plum tomato wine sauce that will have you slurping up the last drop. For a nightcap, sip on cleverly named cocktails like the Figgin Delicious or the Dry & Dirty AF Martini.

Babblers: 19 NY-296 Windham, NY 12496

Hunter Mountain Brewery

Photos: Laura Danforth

Part of the Catskills Beverage Trail, which chart’s the areas wineries and breweries, this brewpub is a go-to après-ski spot for local craft beers and flavorful bites. Along with burgers and pub favorites like fish and chips, the menu surprises with Indian-inspired dishes like Nectar Naan and rich curries. Not a beer fan? The cocktail menu offers plenty of options to sip while you kick back and reminisce over your day on the slopes.

Hunter Mountain Brewery: 7267 Route 23A Hunter, NY 12442

Fellow Mountain Cafe

Photo: Laura Danforth

When in Hunter, this cozy cafe is an easy choice for breakfast. Choose from sweet treats like muffins and coffee cakes or savory bites like egg and cheese sandwiches or smoked salmon tartines. Chef Rachel and head baker Angelo use local ingredients, with fresh-baked breads daily for their breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Don’t miss Saturday afternoons when local breweries host fun après-ski parties on site.

Fellow Mountain Cafe: 7883 Main St Hunter, NY 12442

Wylder Windham

Photo: Laura Danforth

This historic 1800s inn recently joined the Wylder Hotels family, undergoing a major restoration to become a four-season resort. Rooms are spread across seven lodges, offering everything from peaceful riverside views to mountain-view balconies.

With fantastic on-site and nearby dining — plus two ski mountains less than 15 minutes away — Wylder Windham is the perfect Catskills base. I could have easily spent a week at the resort without getting bored. For a winter trip, Wylder Windham offers an array of outdoorsy fun, from snowshoeing and tubing to firepits and wood-fired outdoor saunas. It also brings in local experts for hands-on classes like candle making, mixology, and cookie decorating. Be sure to check the happenings section on the website for events during your stay.

Wydler Windham: 19 NY-296 Windham, NY 12496

Scribner’s Catskill Lodge

Photo: Laura Danforth

Once a 1960s motor lodge, this spot has been transformed into a contemporary retreat. Just down the road from Hunter Mountain, it’s the perfect place to unwind and explore all the Catskills has to offer.

Choose from two-story suites and bungalow rooms with private balconies, or splurge on one of the 11 luxury cabins known as “The Rounds” (named for their unique round shape). With vaulted ceilings, private decks, Japanese soaking tubs, and sunken circular couches, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature.

Spend your afternoon Glice skating, then warm up in the wood-fired sauna or by the 360-degree fireplace in the cozy library. There’s also a kids’ zone for little ones. Special activities include yoga classes, guided hikes, and meet-the-maker sessions.

Tip: Scribner’s is part of Marriott’s Design Hotels collection, so you can book your stay using points.

Scribner’s Catskill Lodge: 13 Scribner Hollow Rd, Hunter, NY 12442

If you’re flying in, Albany International Airport (ALB) is the closest airport to the Catskills. You can also fly into New York City and take a train (​​Amtrak or Metro-North), bus (such as Greyhound or MegaBus), or rent a car and drive to the Catskills. The latter option is attractive in winter as you’ll want access to a car if you plan on visiting the ski mountains and exploring as much of the area as possible. Parking is generally easy to find once you’re in town.