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Edited by: TJVNews.com
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of upstate New York, Ulster County offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and engaging activities for families. A mere 2 ½-hour drive from Manhattan, this famed Alpine enclave promises fun for all ages, combining the latest attractions with the timeless charm of its mountainous surroundings, as was reported by The New York Post.
Upon reaching Ulster County, families are often greeted with the familiar chorus of “we’re hungry!” A perfect answer to this call is Mill & Main in Kerhonkson. This family-run restaurant, led by a husband-and-wife team and their son, offers a diverse menu that caters to both children and adults. The Post reported that young diners will find joy in the dedicated kids’ menu, while adults can indulge in shareable plates that range from loaded yucca fries with Colombian queso to grandma’s lemon-and-rosemary fried chicken. The cozy banquettes inside or the inviting patio outside provide the perfect setting for a satisfying meal. For those seeking a quick bite or a sweet treat, Mill & Main Provisions next door offers heavenly pastries and refreshing iced coffee.
After fueling up, families can embark on an adventure with the Ulster County Nature Bus. This free shuttle service, run by the county’s tourism office, offers mountain, ridge, and river routes originating from Kingston and Ellenville, according to the information provided in The Post report. The Nature Bus makes several stops ideal for hiking and biking, allowing families to immerse themselves in the region’s stunning natural scenery.
A must-visit stop is the Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson. Here, the two-mile Carriage Road Loop around the lake provides a breathtaking journey through kaleidoscopic panoramas of the lake, cliffs, mountains, and sky, as per The Post report. This loop is perfect for a leisurely family hike, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and nature appreciation.
Ulster County is home to several unique attractions that promise to captivate both children and adults. In Mount Tremper, the Emerson Resort & Spa houses the world’s largest kaleidoscope, offering a mesmerizing visual experience that delights all ages. The report added that for a hands-on creative activity, families can visit Candlestock’s Wax Imagination Studio in Saugerties, where they can craft their own multicolored candles, making for a memorable and personalized souvenir.
Start your journey by immersing yourself in a private yoga experience enhanced by essential oils with Nixa De Bellis. Her sessions can be tailored to your group, providing a personalized touch to your wellness routine. Indicated in The Post report was that for those looking for a communal practice, her weekly class at Whole Sky Yoga in Stone Ridge offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, grounding participants in the tranquil beauty of the region.
For a comprehensive family getaway, the Rocking Horse Ranch Resort in Highland stands out as an all-inclusive haven. Starting at $1,000 for four people, this resort is a paradise for children and adults alike. It features an indoor water park, mountain tubing, horseback riding, and an array of other activities designed to keep the entire family entertained.
Kelder’s Farm in Kerhonkson: Embrace the joy of U-pick fun and a petting zoo at Kelder’s Farm. Whether it’s picking strawberries or interacting with the animals, this farm offers a hands-on experience that brings you closer to nature. The effort behind gathering fresh produce will make you appreciate the convenience of pre-packaged goods all the more.
Rail Explorers: For a unique adventure, hop on the Delaware & Ulster Railroad tracks for a pedal-powered ride with Rail Explorers. This activity combines the thrill of cycling with the scenic beauty of the Catskills, offering a memorable outing for families.
Saugerties Stallions Game: Catch a game of the Saugerties Stallions, the local summer collegiate baseball team. The games are family-friendly, featuring activities such as races, games on the field, and face-painting for children. It’s an excellent way to engage with the local community and enjoy a classic American pastime.
Belleayre Beach: No trip to Ulster County is complete without a visit to Belleayre Beach. Enjoy swimming and boating in the pristine waters, followed by indulging in a massive sundae at the Santa Fe Burger Bar in Rosendale. This combination of outdoor fun and delicious treats is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Villa Roma Resort in Callicoon: Step into a slice of Borscht Belt paradise at the Villa Roma Resort. With rates starting at $207 per night per person, this all-inclusive resort offers a wide range of activities, including zip lines, tennis, golf, basketball, volleyball, bumper boats, go-karts, outdoor pools, rock-climbing walls, hiking trails, and fishing. There truly is something for everyone, making it an ideal choice for families with diverse interests.
Catskill Conestoga Wagon Outpost: For an extraordinary and rustic experience, consider staying at the Catskill Conestoga Wagon Outpost. Starting at $260 per night, guests can reside in covered wagons along the banks of the Beaverkill River at Roscoe Campsite Park. This unique lodging option encourages families to disconnect from technology and embrace a simpler way of life, reminiscent of prairie living.
The idyllic regions surrounding Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, renowned for its historical significance as the original site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, now offer an array of family-friendly accommodations and activities, as per the information contained in The Post report. From innovative glamping options to immersive farm experiences and luxurious treehouse stays, the area provides something for everyone, ensuring a memorable family getaway.
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, a nonprofit performance venue, has expanded its offerings to include new campground and glamping options, as well as RV and car camping, with prices starting from $172 per night. These modern camping facilities allow families to enjoy the great outdoors with the comfort and convenience of contemporary amenities. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of traditional camping or the luxury of glamping, Bethel Woods caters to all tastes and preferences.
Just a short drive from Bethel Woods, Buck Brook Alpacas offers a unique and engaging experience for families. Here, children can let their imaginations soar and their limbs run wild through a variety of activities:
Alpaca Yoga: This whimsical activity combines the tranquility of yoga with the delightful presence of friendly alpacas, creating a memorable and relaxing experience for participants of all ages.
Farm Tours: A guided tour of the alpaca farm provides an educational and interactive opportunity for children and adults to learn about these fascinating creatures and farm life.
Gem Mining: Kids can indulge in the thrill of discovering hidden treasures through gem mining, an activity that combines fun with a bit of geology.
Hiking: The area boasts an abundance of trails, perfect for family hikes. These trails offer stunning natural scenery and the chance to explore the great outdoors.
The Post report said that for those seeking a more unique lodging experience, Chatwal Lodge offers an exceptional stay in one of its newly unveiled treehouses. Opened earlier this year, these three treehouses are nestled in a bucolic setting, providing an extraordinary blend of adventure and luxury.
Treehouse Features: The treehouses, starting from $1,800 per night, come inclusive of food, non-alcoholic beverages, and most activities. They offer chic accommodations with a living room complete with a wet bar, a covered balcony, and a firepit. The elevated experience of living in the canopy appeals to children and adults alike, combining the fun factor with sophisticated amenities.
Main Lodge: The Chatwal Lodge itself, with lodges starting from $900 per night, sits on 100 virgin acres along the Toronto Reservoir. This all-inclusive resort features a dizzying array of activities for both kids and kids-at-heart.
The Chatwal Lodge ensures that guests of all ages are entertained with a plethora of activities:
Recreation Center: The resort’s recreation center offers duckpin bowling, billiards, reading nooks, and a theater room, ensuring that there is always something to do, regardless of the weather.
Outdoor Adventures: The expansive property invites guests to explore its pristine natural surroundings, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the serene landscape of the Toronto Reservoir.
Chatwal Lodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that offers a wide array of activities catering to both children and adults. Here are some of the highlights:
Arts and Crafts: Children can unleash their creativity through various arts and crafts sessions. These activities not only entertain but also provide an opportunity for kids to explore their artistic side.
Nightly S’mores: What better way to end a day of adventure than with nightly s’mores around a campfire? This beloved tradition fosters a sense of community and family bonding.
Biking and Swimming: The lodge offers ample opportunities for biking along scenic trails and swimming in the refreshing waters of the Toronto Reservoir, providing both exercise and enjoyment.
Fishing in the Reservoir: The serene Toronto Reservoir is perfect for a family fishing expedition. With the lodge’s equipment and guidance, both novice and experienced anglers can enjoy this peaceful activity.
Baking Classes: One of the property’s unique offerings is a baking class with one of their talented dough wizards. Children and adults alike can learn the art of baking, creating delicious treats to enjoy together.
Stargazing Tours: The “Tour of the Sky” stargazing jaunt is a magical experience that utilizes the lodge’s impressive telescope. Families can marvel at the night sky, learning about constellations and celestial bodies.
While Chatwal Lodge is a haven for family fun, it also plans to cater to couples looking for a romantic getaway. A pool and spa concept is slated to open in spring 2025, promising a serene and luxurious retreat. Future offerings for couples include:
Fly-Fishing: Couples can enjoy the tranquility of fly-fishing in the pristine waters surrounding the lodge.
Hiking and Paddleboarding: Adventurous pairs can explore the natural beauty of the area through hiking and paddleboarding outings.
Yoga and Afternoon Tea: For those seeking relaxation, the lodge will offer yoga sessions and afternoon tea, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting.
Sunset Cruises: A romantic sunset cruise provides the ideal setting for couples to enjoy the stunning vistas and serene ambiance of the reservoir.
Beyond the lodge, the 144th annual Grahamsville Little World’s Fair is a must-visit event from August 16 to 18. This historic fair, organized by the nonprofit Neversink Agricultural Society, promises a vibrant mix of entertainment, activities, and local flavors:
Music and Rides: The fair will feature live music and a variety of rides, ensuring fun for all ages.
Livestock Entertainment: Visitors can enjoy unique livestock shows, including racing pigs, sheep shows, and horse exhibitions, providing a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.
Delicious Food: A wide array of tasty food options will be available, offering everything from classic fair treats to local delicacies.
