City Scout: A Family Guide to the Catskills

Veronica Grimm

There’s nothing quite like fall in the Hudson Valley. Discover what makes this special place a family favorite for @veronicalolagrimm @veronicalolaphoto along with her beloved spots that are not to be missed.

A family running around on the grass with a scenic background and text overlay which reads City Scout Catskills: A family guide with @veronicalolagrimm.

We have frequented the Catskills for many years (we were married up here a decade ago!) and it’s been one of our favorite drivable destinations to visit all year round, but especially in the fall. Chocked full of scenic mountain hikes, farm-to-table restaurants, unique antique shops, breweries, cozy cabins, and fruit orchards it’s a breath of upstate air to reset, recharge, and feel connected to nature–a haven to us.

Things to do with kids in the Catskills

children eating in Supernatural coffee shop.

1. Supernatural coffee + bakery in Hudson, NY

We love their lattes and daily baked pastries–we’ve been coming here for years! Woman-owned + LGBTQ friendly.

Stay at The Boodle Residence

2. Apple picking at Stone Ridge Orchard in Stone Ridge, NY

A beautiful storybook orchard with cider flights for the adults, freshly baked apple cider donuts for the kiddos, wood-fired pizza, and bushels of upstate apples that are crunchy and flavorful (and perfect for pies!). It’s a top favorite autumn activity of ours.

Stay at The Bobillen Road Residence

a mum and two children walking in the orchards.
a child and a dog walking in a restaurant garden at Inness

3. Inness in Accord, NY

Come for the sweeping views over the Catskills, and the simple yet deliciously elevated menu full of seasonal produce sourced from their stunning property (snag a seat inside their magazine-worthy dining room or porch). Sit outside by a fire pit for a more relaxed vibe and sip on some natural wine while the kiddos run around. Pup friendly! Tip: their handmade pasta is not to be missed!

Stay at The Mountain Terrace Residence

4. Kasterskill falls and Plattekill falls

Hiking is a must to really appreciate the beautiful nature of the Catskills. A few family-friendly ones are kasterskill falls and plattekill falls. Hit the trailheads early during peak fall foliage season (it will be busy)!

Stay at The Acra Residence

Kaaterskill Falls in Catskills, NY.
two children reading in a library.

5. A day in historic Kingston, NY

There are many places to visit in this cool town but our fam-friendly fave is Rough Draft Bar and Books for a local beer or counter-culture coffee while you browse the pages of a variety of books. The kiddos love the kid’s section!

Tip: grab lunch at Lola for delicious wood-fired pizza, buy a bottle of natural wine on your way out of town at Kingston Wine Co., and some flowers from Hops Petunia.

Stay at The Copake Lake Residence

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Veronica Grimm

Film Photographer

We are a family of 4 living in coastal, NJ with our two pups + bunny. I am a lover of travel, the ocean, music, and genuine connections.

    Stay in the worlds most

    Kid-friendly Homes

    View our top destinations and book your perfect family vacation today.