THE WOODSTOCK TRAVEL GUIDE

A village sits against Catskill’s lush, splendid backdrop. Though small in size, the village has made its home and its mark at the foot of the mountains, baring a rich history and cradling its legacy. Along its narrow streets, in its cafes, shops, and performance venues, out in its woods and hills, a distinct, unparalleled experience can be found. 

This is Woodstock,

and here is the Woodstock Travel Guide.

Woodstock was founded in 1787. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, it became a safe haven for artists, philosophers and poets. Since then, it has cultivated its love of arts and artists. Its name was brought to worldwide fame in 1969, and though the famed festival took place some 60 miles away, in Bethel, the three-day event perhaps embodied Woodstock’s values of peace, love, and art. 

In this historic town, freshman visitors may not know where to begin. From its shops, to its performance venues, to its outdoor escapes, Woodstock has a variety of attractions for all. Here is a guide, so that no newcomer may miss out on all this New York town has to offer.

Woodstock’s main stretch begins along Route 212, which morphs into Mill Hill Road. The town comes into view as the road slopes up, and restaurants and cafes can be found on either side of the street. The road parts at the top of the hill, its split marked by Woodstock’s Village Green.

Tinker Street veers left, while Rock City Road turns right. There is five dollar parking in a lot a little ways down Rock City Rd, but further down the road, there is free parking in a spacious lot on the left. There is also a smaller free lot on Tannery Brook Rd. along Tinker St. 

After parking, visitors looking for a basic map or guide along Woodstock can find the Information Center on Rock City Road.  Public restrooms are also beside the Information Center. 

After picking up info, head up to the Village Green, and take a stroll down Tinker St., the hub of most shops. There are cafes, restaurants, and diverse clothing, book, and trinket shops. The Woodstock Waterfall Park, only a little ways down the hill on Tinker St., is a lovely little park to relax for a moment.

After shopping on both sides of the street, walk back to the town square and head back down Rock City Rd. Families with children can turn into the Andy Lee Field, a peaceful park with a playground. History buffs should explore the Woodstock Cemetery and the Artist’s Cemetery further down the road. 

The Woodstock Colony is also on Rock City Rd, directly across the street from the free parking lot. This theatre plays a variety of shows year round. As could be expected, Woodstock hosts a number of performance venues. Show-goers can also find the Bearsville Theater back down Tinker St., as the road heads out of the town’s heart. This historical theater also hosts an array of performers and performances, and before a show, theatergoers can visit the Bear Café and recline in the little courtyard behind the theater. The Maverick Concert Hall, on Maverick Rd., hosts the oldest continuous summer chamber music festival in America. Levon Helm Studios can be found on Plochmann Ln., going into town, while the Woodstock Playhouse is on Playhouse Ln., just off Mill Hill Rd.

Hikers and nature lovers will also find Woodstock a delight. Overlook Mountain is the closest hike to the town, down Meads Mountain Rd. off Glasco Turnpike. This steep climb winds up forest trails and passes the marvelous shambles of an old hotel before peaking at a fire tower with a stunning view. Kaaterskill Falls, a beautiful hike ascending alongside waterfalls, is also not far from Woodstock, further up in the Catskills beside the hamlet of Palenville.

Ashokan Reservoir is a scenic, paved trail for runners, bicyclists, or walkers. Opus 40, in Woodstock’s next-door village of Saugerties, is a remarkable sculpture park to explore.

Woodstock is a vibrant town, a haven for a movement and homage to New York’s splendor. It has countless sights and experiences for all to enjoy in a unique experience. For a trip to one of New York’s finest towns, visit Woodstock—and, perhaps, come armed with this Woodstock travel guide to help you along the way.

Article by Maya Schubert