7 Charming Small Towns in the Catskills-With Retro Diners, Wood-fired Hot Tubs, and New York's Most Beautiful Waterfall

"The Catskills have long been a retreat-first for 19th-century painters and writers, later for city escapees chasing mountain air and summer swims. That legacy hasn't faded, but the region feels freshly alive these days as chefs, artists, and creative entrepreneurs put down roots. Farm-to-table restaurants, craft food and beverage purveyors from breweries to creameries, and design-driven boutique hotels now coexist with retro diners, antique shops, and historic inns-many of which have been restored."

"Just a few hours from New York City, the region truly offers something in every season: skiing and snowboarding in winter, wildflower-lined trails in spring, swimming holes and paddling in summer, and fantastic foliage in fall. And because the Catskills aren't one-size-fits-all, here are the towns that best capture the region's spirit, from artsy enclaves to foodie hubs and beyond."

The Catskills long served as a retreat for 19th-century painters and writers and later for city residents seeking mountain air and summer swims. The region retains that legacy while experiencing renewed vibrancy as chefs, artists, and creative entrepreneurs establish roots. Farm-to-table restaurants, craft food and beverage purveyors from breweries to creameries, and design-driven boutique hotels now coexist with retro diners, antique shops, and restored historic inns. Located just a few hours from New York City, the area offers year-round activities: skiing and snowboarding in winter, wildflower-lined trails in spring, swimming holes and paddling in summer, and spectacular foliage in fall. Distinct towns capture varied spirits from artsy enclaves to foodie hubs.

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