Just a couple hour’s drive from New York City, Windham aka “the gem of the Catskills” has long been a place to seek solace from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature.
Known for its expansive outdoor activities, from downhill and cross-country skiing, to hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and more, this picturesque town is perfect for family getaways.
For families seeking ultimate, heart-pumping adventures, here’s 6 of the best things to do in Windham, NY.
1. Ski & Tube at Windham Mountain
When visiting Windham in the winter, there’s no better place to spend a day than Windham Mountain Ski Resort. Nestled at the base of the Catskills Mountains, this Ikon resort is one of the best in the state, boasting one thousand six hundred feet of vertical gain, fifty-four groomed trails, and six progressing terrain parks for free skiing.
Want to brush up on your skills together? The ski and snowboard school has won several awards and is great for young families, with plenty of patient instructors and pointers to kid-friendly terrain.
Insider Tip: Don’t worry if you’re not into skiing! A thrilling six-hundred-forty-foot tubing hill with rentals lies below the runs.
Relax and reconnect in nature with a walk, bike, or snowshoe on this two-mile stunning paved trail known by locals as the Windham Path. Just minutes from the heart of town, you’ll be transported into this mountain oasis, as you make your way through quiet wooded forests, open meadows, and over charming wood bridges, great for that perfect family holiday photo.
Insider Tip: Guests of Wylder Resort can enjoy complimentary mountain and e-bike rentals with their stay.
For the family that can never get enough adrenaline, meet New York Zipline Adventures-a speedy course near Windham that offers expansive birds-eye views of the Catskills. Recognized as the second-largest zipline in the world, your kids will love working through the course over five-ish miles, at speeds of up to fifty miles per hour!
Insider Tip: Check details- kids must be ten or over to ride.
Catch some rest after a thrilling day in Windham, with a special magic show by local resident, Sean Doolan, a lawyer-turned-sleight-of-hand expert. Hosting private shows for up to ten attendees on Main Street, Sean will razzle your kid’s (10+) minds and leave them laughing for hours after.
Insider Tip: Shows are by reservation only! No walk-ins are allowed.
5. Horseback Riding at Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables
Ready to see the Catskill Mountains from a different point of view? Operating since 1963, this family-owned ranch will blow your mind with 300+ private acres nestled at the foot of the Catskill Mountains. The Riding Stable is still in operation today and offers guided mountain tours daily. The stables are home to over 50 horses and ponies.
Both private and group lessons are available for all ages and abilities. Show your room key to receive 10% off of your lesson.
Insider Tip: Make sure to stop by their park to view over 40 exhibits of domestic & exotic animals!
Fuel up for tomorrow’s Catskills adventures with a nourishing dinner at Babblers, a quaint indoor-outdoor restaurant and bakery, serving up classic favorites and satisfying comfort dishes. From decadent six-cheese BBQ nachos to bacon cheeseburgers, and fresh-baked berry pies, you’ll never want to leave!
Insider Tip: Make sure to sit outside during warm months for some sunshine and great views!
Experience the railroad like never before – on a Rail Explorers railbike! Join them on an unforgettable journey down the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad through the woods alongside the Esopus Creek.
Insider Tip: Everyone can ride! Couples, groups of friends & families. All ages and abilities can enjoy the pedal powered scenic tours along the rails.
8. Mountain Brook Farm
Stop by Mountain Brook Farm and experience the history of their farm that dates back to 150 years! They offer backcountry trail rides, horseback riding lessons, boarding, and farm experiences.
Insider Tip: All ages & experience levels! Beautiful views of the Catskills while horseback!
For adventurous-spirited families seeking the ultimate mountain getaway, Wylder Resort offers rustic accommodations, delicious on-site dining, and is just minutes away from four-season outdoor activities.
