Onsite & Area Attractions
Before you explore the Catskills, explore
the Emerson Resort & Spa!
To find out more about local/regional events and activities go to:
- See the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope. The Kaleidoshow is located in The Shops At Emerson and is complimentary for our guests.
- Learn about native plant species, pollinating meadows, streamside ecology and flood mitigation on a stroll through our Brookside Wander path. This protected environment is a natural streamside buffer planted with native vegetation in order to stabilize stream banks and provide down-stream benefits. Discover more about Brookside Wander here, ask the Front Desk for a Brookside Wander guide or join us on a Guided Nature Walk to discover more.
- To learn more about the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program and its mission to protect Ashokan Reservoir streams and ecosystems, visit their website at https://ashokanstreams.org/, follow them at facebook.com/AWSMPUlster or check out their educational videos on YouTube.
- Take a bike out for a spin. Bikes are complimentary for our guests and available seasonally on a first come, first serve basis at the Front Desk starting at 10am. All bikes must be returned by sunset.
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Track a bald eagle or great blue heron gliding along the Esopus Creek (right in our backyard!) with a pair of complimentary binoculars. Available on a first come, first serve basis at the Front Desk starting at 8am. Binoculars must be returned by 8pm.
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For avid bird enthusiasts and beginning bird watchers alike, ask the Front Desk for a copy of our “Birding at the Ashokan Rail Trail” guide and head just a few miles down the road to the Ashokan Rail Trail to spot a variety of wildlife including over 194 bird species.
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Track a bald eagle or great blue heron gliding along the Esopus Creek (right in our backyard!) with a pair of complimentary binoculars. Available on a first come, first serve basis at the Front Desk starting at 8am. Binoculars must be returned by 8pm.
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For avid bird enthusiasts and beginning bird watchers alike, ask the Front Desk for a copy of our “Birding at the Ashokan Rail Trail” guide and head just a few miles down the road to the Ashokan Rail Trail to spot a variety of wildlife including over 194 bird species.
- The Emerson pool is typically open Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. The pool is open from 2 to 6pm on Thursday and 10am to 6pm Friday through Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) through June. Pool is currently open weekends only through October 14 , 10am to 6pm. Please note the pool is closed during periods of inclement weather.
- During the warm weather months, play a game of volleyball, horseshoes, frisbee or cornhole at the Emerson Park. Just ask the Front Desk for the sports equipment of your choice.
- Challenge each other to a game of Pickle Ball! Fun for novice players as well as pickle ball slammers. See our Front Desk for equipment. Available first come, first serve.
- Stroll the Emerson grounds on a leisurely walk around the property. Stop by the Front Desk for information on our Guided Nature Walks, Emerson Property Trails and other recommended Hiking Trails.
- Sit, Stay and Play at our Emerson Dog Park. Featuring a 60-foot wide by 100-foot long dedicated area just for canines with a special section for small dogs.
- Gather around our Emerson camp fire Friday and Saturday nights 7:30-9pm (weather permitting). S’mores kits are available at the Front Desk, $5.
- Guided Walks: Walk the Emerson grounds and learn more about the history and wildlife of the Catskills! Walks depart from lobby at 9:30am and 3:30pm on select dates. See Front Desk or website to sign up.
- Take a stroll across the street to visit the Emerson Gardens. Typically lush in summer and fall, vegetables and herbs are harvested from the garden to supply fresh produce for our restaurants.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore… but every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile.” Spend some time finding smiles in the sky – ask the Front Desk for our Guide to the Catskills Night Sky.
- Gather around our Emerson camp fire Friday and Saturday nights 7:30-9pm (weather permitting). S’mores kits are available at the Front Desk, $5.
- Guided Walks: Walk the Emerson grounds and learn more about the history and wildlife of the Catskills! Walks depart from lobby at 9:30am and 3:30pm on select dates. See Front Desk or website to sign up.
- Take a stroll across the street to visit the Emerson Gardens. Typically lush in summer and fall, vegetables and herbs are harvested from the garden to supply fresh produce for our restaurants.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore… but every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile.” Spend some time finding smiles in the sky – ask the Front Desk for our Guide to the Catskills Night Sky.
- A group of mystical creatures have taken up residence at the Emerson and their homes are nestled throughout the property. Enjoy a self-guided tour while trying to find these magical doors (maps are available at the Front Desk). Don’t forget to share your adventures on social and tag us @emersonresort. Use the hashtag #fairydoorsatemersonresort.
- Enjoy one of our Watercolor Post Card, Pebble Painting, Japanese Knotweed Wind Chimes or Suminigashi workshops on select dates. $25 per person, free for overnight guests. Sign up for these and more on our Experiences page.
Located Nearby
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Some attractions and activities may be closed. Please contact the individual locations for hours of operation.
- Named by Forbes magazine as one of the six best fall hiking destinations in New York State, you can enjoy the Ashokan Rail Trail any time of year. Open daily from dawn to dusk, the “ART” is built upon the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad right-of-way along the Ashokan Reservoir.
- Surrounded by stunning views, the Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) is home to a variety of wildlife including over 194 bird species. Ask the Front Desk for our informative “Birding at the Ashokan Rail Trail” guide (and borrow a pair of our binoculars), head to the ART and enjoy hours of peaceful bird watching.
- Hiking and Biking. The Catskills are rich with scenic mountain trails. Ask the Front Desk for information on recommended trails. Click here to view our Local Hiking Trails booklet.
- Be sure to spend time in nearby Phoenicia, voted one of America’s Top Ten Coolest Towns by Budget Travel Magazine. Curbed New York calls it the #1 tourism destination outside of NYC.
- Visit Brunel Sculpture Garden, located just down Route 28 in Boiceville. The beautiful grounds are home to larger-than-life sculptures and statues created by Emile Brunel, a French photographer who was inspired by the indigenous art and culture of Native American tribes. Brunel bought the property in 1921 and welcomed such guests as King Edward and Mrs. Wallace Simpson and Jimmy Cagney.
- Try A truly one-of-a-kind experience at Catskill Fungi. Take a two-hour guided hike with the “Mushroom Man,” John Michelotti. An expert in all things mushroom, John will teach you to identify Catskill mushroom species, how to grow edible mushrooms and all about the healing properties of fungi.
- Be sure to spend time in nearby Phoenicia, voted one of America’s Top Ten Coolest Towns by Budget Travel Magazine. Curbed New York calls it the #1 tourism destination outside of NYC.
- Visit Brunel Sculpture Garden, located just down Route 28 in Boiceville. The beautiful grounds are home to larger-than-life sculptures and statues created by Emile Brunel, a French photographer who was inspired by the indigenous art and culture of Native American tribes. Brunel bought the property in 1921 and welcomed such guests as King Edward and Mrs. Wallace Simpson and Jimmy Cagney.
- Try A truly one-of-a-kind experience at Catskill Fungi. Take a two-hour guided hike with the “Mushroom Man,” John Michelotti. An expert in all things mushroom, John will teach you to identify Catskill mushroom species, how to grow edible mushrooms and all about the healing properties of fungi.
- Pursue the trout known to reside in the Esopus Creek, the birthplace of American Fly Fishing. Fun for the whole family, children are welcome, as per maturity level and physical capability. Fishing licenses are available at the Catskills Visitor Center (click here for fishing license information), or speak to our Reservations department about guided fly fishing. You can also inquire about hunting licenses at the Catskills Visitor Center (click here for hunting license information).
- Learn about the unique natural, historical and cultural resources of the Catskills with a visit to the Catskills Visitor Center, just 5 minutes from the Emerson. While you’re there, climb to the top of the 80-foot fire tower for a bird’s-eye view of the Catskills!
- Check out one of the Catskills’ best adventures – Rail Explorers! Ride the rails along the banks of the Esopus on pedal powered rail bikes. Typically open May through October. Discounted tickets available to overnight guests of the Emerson.
A Short Drive Away
- Interested in kayaking? We’ve partnered with A Day Away Kayak Rentals to offer Emerson guests 10% off kayak rentals. Cruise the Rondout Creek, see the Eddyville Bridge and Waterfall, paddle through an active barge and ship building dock, explore the Historic Kingston Waterfront or navigate the Hudson River to the Rondout Lighthouse. Rental includes instruction (if needed) and lifejackets. Beginners of all ages are welcome! Call Reservations at 845-688-2828, option 0 to book your kayak excursion!
- Enjoy fun for the whole family at Kelder’s Farm, open May through October! The Farm includes pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, a petting farm, jumping pillow, mini-golf and so much more. For the adults, the Loading Dock Tasting Room is stocked with local wines, beers and ciders.
- Learn more about the 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway (and the Emerson’s home address!) by visiting sceniccatskills.com. Drive28.com also has an enlightening selection of downloadable audio tours for your Catskills journey.
- Enjoy the winter wonders of Belleayre Mountain. Just minutes west of the Emerson, Belleayre Mountain offers winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing; and summer sports including hiking, mountain biking and swimming. Belleayre also offers a breathtaking Sky Ride to the summit of the mountain on select summer weekends and holidays.
- Check out special events and activities at The Ashokan Center, the oldest outdoor environmental education organization in New York State.
- The entire family will enjoy an evening out at the Ark Bowl & BBQ in Arkville.
- Check out special events and activities at The Ashokan Center, the oldest outdoor environmental education organization in New York State.
- The entire family will enjoy an evening out at the Ark Bowl & BBQ in Arkville.
- Pick up locally grown, farm fresh produce at farmer’s markets in nearby Woodstock or Kingston.
- For true adventurers there’s rock and ice climbing at Minnewaska State Park on the dramatic cliffs of the Shawangunk Mountains.
- Visit Woodstock, one of the country’s most eclectic towns. Visit the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Arts for a full list of shops, galleries and restaurants.
- Go antiquing in Saugerties (Jimmy Fallon’s hometown) and visit the Saugerties Light House that illuminates the Hudson River.
- Enjoy peace, quiet and meditation at the Zen Mountain Monastery.
- Visit Kaaterskill Falls, one of America’s oldest tourist attractions. At 260 feet in height, the two-cascade waterfall is one of the Eastern United States’ tallest waterfalls and has been included in multiple books, essays, poems and paintings of the early 19th century. The hike to the falls is 1.4 miles roundtrip and hikers must follow the marked path to avoid slippery rocks.
- Go antiquing in Saugerties (Jimmy Fallon’s hometown) and visit the Saugerties Light House that illuminates the Hudson River.
- Enjoy peace, quiet and meditation at the Zen Mountain Monastery.
- Take a ride on the Delaware and Ulster Railroad in Arkville. You’ll ride in period coach cars that follow the original roadbed of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad which connected Kingston with Oneonta, New York.
- Hudson River Cruises provides passengers with a delightful first-hand view of the historic Hudson Valley shoreline from the decks of the Rip Van Winkle II. Discounted tickets available to overnight guests of the Emerson.
- Play a round of golf at Woodstock Golf Club or Wiltwyck Golf Club. Discounts available to overnight guests of the Emerson.
- Take a beautiful and educational walk through some of the Catskill Mountain’s most serene fields and wooded trails. The Mountain Top Arboretum is comprised of 178 acres of public gardens, exotic trees and Northeastern US native plant displays.
- Play a round of golf at Woodstock Golf Club, or Wiltwyck Golf Club. Discounts available to overnight guests of the Emerson.
- Take a beautiful and educational walk through some of the Catskill Mountain’s most serene fields and wooded trails. The Mountain Top Arboretum is comprised of 178 acres of public gardens, exotic trees and Northeastern US native plant displays.
Arts, Theatre & Fairs
- There’s a Great White Way in Phoenicia. The Phoenicia Playhouse has musical and drama performances throughout the year in its turn-of-the-century theater. The Phoenicia Playhouse is also home to the annual Asbury Shorts Film Concert.
- Take a class in drawing, painting, printmaking or sculpture at the Woodstock School of Art (advance registration is required). Or just stop by the school, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, to explore one of the original National Youth Administration sites, tour a sculpture trail and explore their Exhibition Gallery.
- Each summer for more than 90 years the Maverick Concert Hall has hosted Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon chamber music concerts in their hand-built concert hall just outside of Woodstock.
- The Woodstock Playhouse offers a diverse summer schedule of musical events in their outdoor bandshell auditorium.
- The annual Woodstock Film Festival held each autumn features film premieres, appearances and workshops by notable directors and actors, as well as gala events and concerts.
- The O+ Festival takes place each October in Kingston. The O+Festival empowers communities to take control of their collective well-being.
- The Ulster County Fair returns to New Paltz every year. Don’t miss this good old-fashioned country fair.
- The Woodstock Playhouse offers a diverse summer schedule of musical events in their outdoor bandshell auditorium.
- The annual Woodstock Film Festival held each autumn features film premieres, appearances and workshops by notable directors and actors, as well as gala events and concerts.
- The O+ Festival takes place each October in Kingston. The O+Festival empowers communities to take control of their collective well-being.
- The Ulster County Fair returns to New Paltz every year. Don’t miss this good old-fashioned country fair.
Wineries & Distilleries
- Enjoy a wine excursion to one of our partner wineries – Benmarl Winery, Glorie Farm Winery and Robibero Farm Vineyards.
- Visit our neighbors, Woodstock Brewing or West Kill Brewing for the Catskills finest handcrafted beers or head over to Keegan Ale’s Brewery in Kingston for brews, live music and weekend brewery tours and, don’t miss a chance to try the award-winning Vly Creek Vodka from Union Grove Distillery in Arkville.
- Discover New York’s first distillery after prohibition at Tuthilltown Spirits in the quaint town of Gardiner – just south of New Paltz.
History Happened Here
- Visit New York’s first capital, Kingston, established in 1777. Kingston is home to the original New York Senate House and Museum.
- Stop by the Stockade District, the refurbished business district that dates back to Peter Stuyvesant in 1658.
- Don’t forget to visit the Hudson River Museum that displays Hudson River artifacts and provides boat rides.
- Tour two of the Hudson Valley’s most famous National Historic sites: Springwood, the lifelong home of Franklyn D. Roosevelt; and the Vanderbilt Mansion, the country estate of Frederick Vanderbilt.
- Kingston and the Catskills are rich in history. To learn more, visit our History Happened Here booklet.
- Visit New York’s first capital, Kingston, established in 1777. Kingston is home to the original New York Senate House and Museum.
- Stop by the Stockade District, the refurbished business district that dates back to Peter Stuyvesant in 1658.
- Don’t forget to visit the Hudson River Museum that displays Hudson River artifacts and provides boat rides.
- Tour two of the Hudson Valley’s most famous National Historic sites: Springwood, the lifelong home of Franklyn D. Roosevelt; and the Vanderbilt Mansion, the country estate of Frederick Vanderbilt.
- Kingston and the Catskills are rich in history. To learn more, visit our History Happened Here booklet.
Please Note: On property activities and schedules are NOT guaranteed and are subject to change without notice. The Emerson Resort & Spa is not responsible for changes in activities, hours and/or pricing for off property venues. Participation in any of the activities listed are at your own risk – please contact the individual locations with any questions.
