Exploring the Catskills Town by Town: Tannersville & Hunter
A Local Guide to Tannersville & Hunter, NY
Just a short 15-minute drive from The Henson, the mountain town of Tannersville is one of the Catskills’ most colorful and charming destinations. Known as the “Painted Village in the Sky” thanks to its rows of brightly painted storefronts, Tannersville has a fun, creative spirit that blends small-town friendliness with mountain-town adventure. Whether you’re here for a hike, a cozy meal, or just a wander down Main Street, this village is a must-visit stop during your Catskills stay.
What to See + Do
Tannersville is a gateway to some of the most famous hikes in the Catskills, including Kaaterskill Falls, North-South Lake, and Sunset Rock. For something more low-key, explore the town itself - Main Street is lined with colorful Victorian-style buildings that make for a perfect afternoon stroll. You’ll find a mix of vintage shops, outdoor gear stores, and local boutiques that capture the quirky, creative energy of the town.
In summer, the Orpheum Theater hosts performances, films, and cultural events, while fall is all about leaf-peeping drives and mountain views. Winter brings skiers and snowboarders headed to nearby Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain.
Where to Eat & Drink
For breakfast or a quick coffee, head to Fellow Mountain Cafe for fresh baked pastries and egg sandwiches or Shandaken Bake for local favorite pastries. For lunch or dinner, Last Chance Antiques & Cheese Café for a casual meal or Deer Mountain Inn for a fine dining experience surrounded by antiques and a wood-burning fireplace. We also love Mama’s Boy Burgers in town for post-hike burgers and shakes.
Why We Love It
Tannersville has a little bit of everything we love about the Catskills: gorgeous scenery, a creative downtown, easy access to hiking trails, and a laid-back vibe. It’s the kind of town where you can spend an hour or a whole day, whether you’re fueling up before a hike or just soaking up the mountain-town energy.
Make sure to check out Tannersville Antiques (and surrounding antique shops) but those one-of-a-kind furnishings you can only find in a town like this.
Practical Info
Tannersville is just 15 minutes from The Henson, making it an easy side trip during your stay. Spend the morning hiking to Kaaterskill Falls, grab lunch on Main Street, and then head back to Windham for cocktails and sunset. It’s one of those Catskills towns that feels both fun and unpretentious - and we always recommend it to guests who want to explore beyond Windham.
Charming shops everywhere in Tannersville!