Museums are not just a fun place for entertainment but also an inspiration for travelers who love to know the intriguing story behind the city they are visiting. And for students and history buffs, it’s an opportunity to learn the rich culture and heritage firsthand.
If you are planning for a great escape from your busy life, then get ready to plan a weekend getaway to Catskill attractions, where you can embrace the beauty of the past by visiting. Exploring museums is one of the top things to do in Catskill NY and it is the home for the unique artifacts which helps to connect you with the bygone era.
No worries about finding the must visit museums in Catskill, in this blog I have covered the top museums which you shouldn’t miss out on. Scroll down to know about why you should go and how you should go for it.
Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum
CFFCM is an educational organization dedicated to preserving the fly fishing heritage of America. The museum is one of the popular Catskill NY attractions which teaches the future generation everything about the fly fishing sport of the country.
This museum was opened in 1983, this historic building is an apt place for all the fly fisher enthusiasts to meet and share their ideas and opinions on it.
This unique museum is an interesting place to take your young ones and introduce them to the distinct way of catching fish, its history, the type of bait used for fly fishing, and many more.
After exploring the place and mastering the art of fly fishing, don’t forget to swing by their cozy gift shop and buy some exciting souvenirs for your loved ones.
The gift shop displays various items including DVDs, bags, fishing bandanas, hatch charts, clothes, mugs, and other cool accessories.
| Address | No.1031, Old Route 17, Livingston Manor, NY 12758 |
| Timings | Friday to Monday – 10 am to 4 pm | Tuesday to Thursday – Closed |
| Entry Fee | Adult – $12 |Under 5 yrs – Free |
Catskill Art Society
Visiting an art museum stimulates and improves your positive emotions. A study published by the University of Arkansas shows that taking kids to the art museum increases their critical thinking.
Catskill Art Society is the must visit art museum in Catskill, which was established in 1972. This is one of the best catskill activities which awakens and motivates potential artists in young ones. Additionally, the museum is also helpful in facilitating the creative and professional development of aspiring as well as established artists.
The museum is famous for organizing multiple exhibitions where the talents of emerging artists are showcased at least 8 to 10 times a year. You can visit their website and check out the upcoming events and plan your trip to Catskill accordingly.
| Address | No.48, Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY 12758 |
| Timings | Friday & Saturday – 11 am to 5 pm | Sunday – 11 am to 3 pm | Monday to Wednesday – Closed |
| Entry Fee | Admission – Free |
Brunel Sculpture Garden
The Brunel Sculpture Garden is one of the best catskill NY attractions which is named after the famous artist of the 20th century- Brunel. Brunel was an immigrant who traveled throughout America and studied the Native American tribes. He was a well-known photographer and also built a studio residence in the Catskill region.
Nestled in the heart of Catskill, Brunel Sculpture Garden is dedicated to the mysteries and grandeur of nature and is home to over a dozen stunning statues.
As you try to explore the south area of the garden, you will come across a 30 ft tall Man- Moon Haw Haw. Whereas the other sculpture -The Great White Spirit is located in the north area of the garden.
If you, your partner, or anyone in your family are avid readers or enjoy being around like-minded people, then the museum is a perfect getaway for you as the garden is a center of regular readings, celebrations, special events, and concerts.
| Address | Route 28, Enter driveway off of DeSilva behind the log cabin with totem poles and signs, Desilva Road, Boiceville, NY 12412 |
| Timings | Everyday – 1 pm to 5 pm |
| Entry Fee | Donation is suggested
Adult – $10 – $20 | Child – $5 |
Discover the utter guide before your visit to Catskill attractions, where you can find out the top places, thrilling activities as well as the history of Catskill.
The Museum of Bethel Woods
Visit The Museum of Bethel Woods is one of the great catskill activities which takes you to have a look at the artifacts exhibited in the gallery that will for sure take you closer to the 60s. People from all walks of life visit this beautiful gallery to experience what it was like in the 60s.
The permanent exhibits here include twenty films, five interactive productions, 164 artifacts on display, text panels, and 300 photographic murals.
It is quite a large place and showcases interesting displays of objects from days of yore. According to the visitors, it takes at least 2 hours to take a full tour of the museum.
The museum is also a hotbed of cultural activity, with regular concerts, events, and other happenings that are sure to entertain and enlighten you, giving you another great reason to visit Catskill.
| Address | No.200, Hurd Road Bethel, NY 12720 |
| Timings | Closed until April 2024 |
| Entry Fee | Adult – $20 | Seniors – $18 | 6 to 18 yrs – $5 | Under 5 yrs – Free |
Empire State Railway Museum
No place in America portrays the history of the Catskill like the Empire State Railway Museum which is one of the perfect things to do in Catskill NY. The museum preserves and depicts the history of Catskill and the surrounding railroads and their impact on the culture, economies, and society.
Established in the year 1960 by railroad enthusiasts, the museum incorporated some fun rail activities like steam excursions and allowed visitors to enjoy the unique architecture, artwork, photographs, and artifacts.
The excursions were later dropped out of the plan; however, the museum gained popularity due to its daily exhibits, hence it continued. So get ready and take your whole family for a real rail exploration with the Empire State Railway Museum.
| Address | No.70 Lower, High Street, Phoenicia, NY 12464 |
| Timings | Saturday & Sunday – 10 am to 4 pm | Monday to Friday – Closed |
| Entry Fee | Historical Tour – $10 |
Plan your amazing visit to top-notch scenic Catskill lakes, where you can amuse yourself in amazing recreational activities along with the best time to visit.
Wrap Up
This blog is the perfect guide before you go to Catskill attractions, where you can find the great history rich museums with stunning artifacts and artworks of the culture of history. It is also the perfect spot to go with your family which makes your children more eager about the richness of the history.
However, the adventure doesn’t stop there. To make the most of your enriching journey through the past, we invite you to have a comfortable stay in HolidayKeepers where you can get the perfect retreat to relax, rejuvenate, and create memories with your family and friends.
Why are you thinking, just contact them and create your happy memories. Sure, you will just enjoy the stay and you will be habitual to stay every year. Have a pleasant and safe journey with your loved people.
With a decade of expertise in travel and hospitality, Aman Mehrotra, Senior Editor and Travel Manager at HolidayKeepers, is known for his compelling storytelling and insightful travel content. He skillfully combines strategic marketing wisdom with engaging narratives, covering everything from undiscovered destinations to the latest trends in vacation rentals. Aman’s writings resonate with both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking leisurely retreats. His global perspective and innovative approach make him a valuable asset to the HolidayKeepers team and a favorite among readers seeking inspiration and practical advice for their travels.
