The mention of Woodstock, New York, may conjure up images of peace, love and rock ‘n’ roll, but in reality, the Catskills town that gave its name to the music festival is a picturesque destination for a day trip with kids. There are hints of the past here, of course, but the town has a charming small-town atmosphere that’s infused with an artistic spirit.
Here are our favorite things to do with kids in Woodstock, New York, as well as our top picks for where to stay and where to eat. For more top destinations in the Catskills, check out our list of the 40 best things to do in the Catskills with kids, and for more day trip inspiration, check out our weekend getaway guide.
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A tip: While Woodstock, New York is a great year-round destination, it’s geared more towards the weekend crowd. Many of the small shops are closed during the week, so be sure to check the hours before you go!
Best Things to Do with Kids in Woodstock, NY
1. Tinker Street
Filled with cute and creative shops, family-friendly restaurants, and plenty of treasures to discover while strolling through the small shops, Woodstock’s main street, Tinker Street, is truly the heartbeat of this Ulster County town.
2. Woodstock Public Library
Founded over 100 years ago by curious citizens, the Woodstock Public Library continues its mission to serve the community through free and open access to information. In addition to lending, it offers a diverse calendar of events for all ages in the community.
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Woodstock Waterfall Park is located just off Woodstock’s main street, Tinker Street. Photo by Ajay Suresh via Flickr
3. Woodstock Waterfall Park
This small but beautiful green space is located just off Woodstock’s main street and offers a picturesque backdrop with its beautiful waterfalls on the lovely Tannery Brook.
4. Woodstock Farm Festival
Celebrate local food, live music and community at this weekly festival that highlights local vendors and talent on Wednesdays from mid-May to early October.
5. The Golden Notebook
This independent bookshop has been a mainstay on the high street since it opened in 1978. The well-stocked Little Golden children’s section on the second floor is a welcoming sight and a packed events calendar provides a real sense of community.
6. Candlestick
Step into the downtown branch of this local candle shop and see Drip Mountain, a glowing wax masterpiece that has been delighting visitors since 1969. Stock up on supplies—Hippy Drippy Candles—to start your own wax installation, or take a weekend candle-making class at the Saugerties branch.
7. Overlook bicycles
If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding the city, you can rent a bike from Overlook Bicycles. They even have bikes in kid sizes!
8. Comeau Real Estate
Conveniently located to the city center, this sprawling green space offers 84 acres of woods, meadows, and a peaceful walking path along the Sawkill Stream. Kids love climbing the rocks while exploring! In the winter, it’s the perfect setting for a sledding adventure.
9. Ashokan Railway Trail
Explore the northern edge of Ashokan Reservoir on this rail trail that runs along the former Ulster and Delaware Railroad site. The 11-mile trail is great for walking, biking, and even cross-country skiing in the winter! Fishing is allowed in the reservoir and it’s a great place to look for bald eagles.
Top Things to Do in Woodstock, NY with Kids
10. Woodstock Playhouse
Founded in 1938, the nonprofit Woodstock Playhouse offers a wide range of live entertainment from theater to music, dance, visual arts and more. See what’s playing when you visit!
11. Viewing Mountain
If you’re looking for a walk on the wild side, explore the trails of Overlook Mountain, where you’ll find a historic fire tower, ruins of mountain homes, and panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley during a 5-mile hike. Exploring the area with young children? Try the lower-elevation Overloop Trail instead.
12. Opus40
Explore more than 60 acres of hiking trails, a gallery, museum, and seating areas at Opus 40 in nearby Saugerties. It’s one of our favorite destinations for an outdoor art day out!
RELATED: 3 Days in the Hudson Valley with Kids: A Local Mom’s Ultimate Itinerary
Visit the Tibetan Buddhist monastery Karma Triyana Dharmachakra on a trip to Woodstock. Photo by Patrickwooldridge, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
13. Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
Explore the grounds, gardens and temple of the picturesque Tibetan Buddhist Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Monastery. Tours are available in the afternoon on weekends, but guests are welcome daily from sunrise to sunset.
14. Mount Tremper
Mount Tremper, another peak in the Catskills, offers miles of hiking trails that end with spectacular views from the fire lookout tower at the summit. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching along the way, and in the off-season, snowshoeing is a popular activity.
Best Restaurants for Kids in Woodstock, NY
16. Harley’s Sweet Spot
Ice cream, candy and cold drinks lure visitors to Harley’s Sweet Spot. This new sweet shop in town is named after the owner’s son, who is currently in first grade.
17. Woodstock Brewery
Visit this local brewery and enjoy a selection of small batch beers in a relaxed atmosphere. A lovely back patio is inviting for families and the menu has plenty of kid-friendly dishes. Let the kids nibble on a homemade crumble cookie while you finish another pint.
18. Peace, Love and Cupcakes
Baker Janice Hardgrove-Kollar is a self-confessed baking addict and her creative combinations at Peace, Love & Cupcakes won over locals long before they took her to the Food Network where they convinced the jury –twice.
19. The Mud Club
Wood-fired bagels and organic coffee are the signature dish at Mud Club. Later in the day, the menu changes and there’s sourdough pizza too!
20. Only bread
Why not go straight to the source at Bread Alone’s Woodstock Café, a local farmers’ market staple? It serves three meals a day, seven days a week from its central location on Mill Hill Road.
21. Oriole 9
Oriole 9 on Tinker Street serves comfort food classics in a no-frills cafe setting, with enough options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
22. Overlook Bakery
You can’t leave town without stopping by the Overlook Bakery and eating a freshly baked salty chocolate chunk cookie!
Where to stay in Woodstock, NY with kids
23. AutoCamp Catskills
Check out the unique accommodations at AutoCamp Catskills. You can choose from an Airstream, family cabin, or glamping tent. No matter what you choose, there are plenty of resort-style amenities on site!
24. Emerson Resort and Spa
Guests at this Mount Tremper resort can stay in either the Lodge or the Inn, but for larger groups, the Lodge is a great choice as it features a family suite that sleeps up to six people.
25. Hotel Dylan
The boutique Dylan Hotel is as versatile as the city it calls home. Families will enjoy the board games available to borrow, the expansive community lawn with fire pits, and a seasonal saltwater pool.
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