After launching an exquisite 19th century Italianate Manse on the village of Catskill’s historic Main street, it only felt like perfect timing to share some of our favorite spots in the area. Catskill has long been an exciting town in the Hudson Valley, with Hunter and Windham skiing areas and an abundance of natural and historical destinations nearby. A central location for some of the Hudson River School’s greatest painters and now home to many thriving and exciting businesses and restaurants, Catskill and its surroundings are the perfect place for the history buff, culturist, foodie, and nature explorer alike.
For places to stay in and around Catskill, make sure to read our earlier Journal article on our favorite design and unique experience-focused hotels, inns, and lodges in the Catskills and Hudson Valley area.
Magpie Bookshop
392 Main street
The Magpie Bookshop is the Catskill go-to for a wonderful selection of both new and old books. The second floor is filled with natural light and features multiple sitting areas for sitting, and the exterior makes a charming mark on Catskill’s Main Street.
The Mermaid Cafe & Bittersweet Catskill
374 Main Street
The Mermaid Cafe offers an eclectic hometown taste of farm-to-table ramen, pho, and tacos with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. In the summer months, make sure to stop next door at one of our favorite ice cream spots, Bittersweet Catskill, also brought to us by the Mermaid Cafe’s Michelle Williams.
HiLo Cafe, Bar, & Gallery
365 Main street
Relatively new to the Catskill main street, HiLo is not only a bar and coffee shop but also an art gallery and performance space for local collaborators and musicians. With rotating art exhibitions being highlighted in their windows seasonally, and some of the area’s best pastries and cocktails, HiLo is a Hudson Valley gem and a must-stop on your list when visiting the area.
SoLo ViNo Catskill
354 Main street
SoLo ViNo’s impeccable collection of natural, organic, and bio-dynamic wines and ciders are our favorite accompaniment to any meal. To keep things exciting, the SoLo ViNo team is always rotating and adding new selections, so make sure to follow their Instagram for their latest additions and spotlights.
Spike’s Record Rack
400 main street
A funky spot with all of the vintage music goods you could be looking for - including records, cassettes, and CDs.
The Community Theatre
373 main street
A community staple in Catskill, the Community Theatre was built in 1920 with two movie theaters and a vaudeville era stage that highlights independent films alongside new releases.
Kaaterskill Market
428 main street
Kaaterskill Market’s curated collection of simple, functional, and impeccably constructed objects for everyday living are designed by artisans with waste reduction and conscious consumption in mind.
For those who can’t make it in person, the market also has an online shop.
The Thomas Cole House
218 spring street
A national historic site featuring the home and studio of painter Thomas Cole, a member of the pioneering mid-19th century Hudson River School art movement. The grounds are the perfect place for a short weekend stroll, and the buildings available to visit are beautiful examples of local historic architecture.
And, for an adventure right outside town:
Olana State Historic Site
5720 State Route 9G
Catch a view of Catskill from just across the river at the Olana State Historic Site. For those looking to further their immersion in the world of the Hudson River School, painter Frederic Church’s preserved estate and home offer an unforgettable experience of Hudson Valley nature and Catskills views, detailed exhibits on this locally-rooted art movement, and a preview of one of the most unique buildings in the area.
For questions about the Main Street Manse or other homes for sale in the surrounding area, make sure to visit our team’s featured listings.
