Unwind Windham Blog

1. Chase the Craft Beverages (and Comfort Food)

When the mountains get chilly, the inns and taverns get warm. November is the perfect month for a culinary road trip through the region.

• Brewery Tours: Visit spots like Woodstock Brewing or Rough Cut Brewing to sample darker stouts, porters, and seasonal ales. Many have rustic interiors with big stone fireplaces, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
• Cozy Dining: Seek out local gems specializing in farm-to-table cuisine, where menus shift to rich, satisfying comfort food. Think venison stew, hearty pasta dishes, or a grilled cheese by a crackling fire.

2. Get an Indoor Splash at the Waterpark

Need a guaranteed way to escape the “stick season” chill? Head to an indoor waterpark like The Kartrite Resort in Monticello.

This is a great option for families or anyone looking for a burst of summer fun when the weather outside is gray. You get the thrill of the slides and the warmth of the tropics, all while enjoying the mountain views from indoors.

3. Explore the Art and History Museums

The Catskills have a rich history, from the Hudson River School of painting to the birth of American fly fishing. November offers the quiet time you need to fully appreciate the local culture.

• Thomas Cole National Historic Site: Visit the home and studio of the founder of the Hudson River School of landscape painting in Catskill, NY.
• Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum: Located in Livingston Manor, this museum preserves the history of American fly fishing and is a fascinating, quiet stop for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

4. Pre-Season Ski Buzz: Gear Up for Winter

The ski resorts—like Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain Club, and Belleayre—are already buzzing in November, even if the slopes aren’t fully open yet.

Stop by the resort shops to check out the new season’s gear, grab a warm drink in the lodge (many have beautiful, expansive fireplaces), and check the snow report. If the temperatures drop low enough for snowmaking, you might even catch a glimpse of the slopes getting a fresh coating!

5. Go Hunting for Antiques and Local Crafts

The charm of a Catskills town is best explored at a slow pace. November is ideal for browsing the antique shops and boutique stores without fighting for space.

The small villages like Andes, Phoenicia, and Narrowsburg are full of unique treasures. Look for handmade pottery, vintage furniture, and local artwork—it’s the best time to find a one-of-a-kind holiday gift.

6. Find Inner Peace at a Meditation Center

For a deeply relaxing and spiritual experience, the Catskills are home to world-renowned centers like the Karma Triyana Dharmachakra (KTD) Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Woodstock. Visitors are often welcome to tour the grounds and the stunning shrine room, providing a quiet, contemplative escape from the everyday.

7. Lounge, Read, and Roast S’mores

Ultimately, the best thing to do in the Catskills in November is to fully embrace rest.

Stay at Unwind Windham complete with a hot tub and an outdoor firepit. Spend your days with a good book, your evenings soaking under the stars, and your nights roasting a perfect s’more. It’s the mountain antidote to the stress of the impending holidays.