Craving a peaceful mountain escape with four-season fun? Visit Windham! Nestled in the Catskill Mountains, Windham blends outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and cozy hospitality. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, leaf peeping, or relaxing at a spa, this upstate gem is a perfect getaway from the city.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Windham is year-round, depending on your interests. Winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Fall (September–October) offers brilliant foliage, while spring and summer are great for hiking, biking, and festivals.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Windham is located off NY-23, about 2.5 hours north of New York City and 1 hour southwest of Albany.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Albany International Airport (ALB), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Bus: Trailways and other regional bus services offer transportation from NYC to nearby towns like Hunter or Cairo, with taxi service to Windham.
Where to Stay
- Albergo Allegria Hotel & Breakfast Restaurant – A charming inn with gourmet breakfasts and cozy, country-style rooms.
- Windham Mountain Club Lodging – Ski-in/ski-out convenience with upscale amenities right on the slopes.
- Hotel Vienna – A modern chalet-style hotel with mountain views and easy access to downtown Windham.
Top Attractions
⮕ Ski, Snowboard, or Hike Year-Round at Windham Mountain
Located in the northern section of the Catskill Mountains, Windham Mountain is a popular ski/outdoor adventure resort which is easily accessible in less than 3 hours from New York City. There is nothing quite like a mountain adventure to restore body and soul and reconnect to nature. At Windham Mountain you can enjoy a winter wonderland comprising 54 ski trails served by 11 lifts – the skiable area covers 285 acres and there are 6 terrain parks and a tubing park for your enjoyment. If you plan to visit in summer you can look forward to hiking, golfing and taking the 2-mile Skyride to the mountain summit. On-site accommodation and restaurants complete the picture.
Windham Mountain, 19 Resort Drive, Windham, NY 12496, Phone: 800-754-9463
⮕ Stay and Play at Christman's Windham House Country Inn and Golf Resort
Windham House was originally established as a drover’s tavern in 1805. For many decades the house was surrounded by farmland which incorporated a functioning dairy farm. In 1962 it was decided to build a golf course on the farm and the inn evolved to meet the requirements of the discerning golfers and their families who came to stay and play. Today the golf course comprises an 18-hole mountain course and a 9-hole valley course and an excellent golf coaching facility. Other property amenities include hiking trails, a heated swimming pool, children’s playground and tennis courts. In winter you can enjoy skiing at Windham Mountain Resort.
Christman’s Windham House, 5742 Route 23, Windham, NY 12496, Phone: 518-734-4053
Where to Eat
⮕ Shop and Dine with Charm at The Catskill Mountain Country Store & Restaurant
The Catskill Mountain Country Store and Restaurant invites you to stop by and discover the true flavors of the Catskills. Everything on the menu is bursting with fresh local produce and many items come with a story – ask your hosts Drew and Natasha to tell you more. The store uses free-range eggs and as many organic ingredients as possible to produce their mouth-watering pancakes, French toast, salads, wraps and sandwiches. Depending on the weather you can dine inside or out on the scenic terrace. The store is packed with unusual country-style products including candles, bath and body products, gourmet foods and much more.
The Catskill Mountain Country Store and Restaurant, 5510 Route 23, Windham, NY 12496, Phone: 518-734-3387
⮕ Unwind with a Glass at the Cozy Ze Windham Wine Bar
Just the right place to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring, Ze Windham Winebar has been voted one of the best wine bars in the country. The wine bar is proud of its collection of more than 100 wines from all corners of the globe - your Sommelier Cordelia is on hand to assist you in choosing the perfect wine for your style. If wine is not your favorite tipple you can order something from their great collection of imported and craft beers to accompany your food. The food menu has been carefully designed to compliment your beverages and includes light bites, charcuterie platters, cheese plates, soups and sandwiches.
Ze Windham Wine Bar, 5369 Main St, Windham, NY 12496, Phone: 518-734-9200
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Windham Path – A peaceful 1.5-mile trail with mountain views, perfect for walking or biking.
- Windham Fine Arts – Gallery showcasing regional and contemporary works in a welcoming downtown space.
- Five State Lookout – Scenic spot on NY-23 where you can see views of five states on a clear day.
- Elm Ridge Wild Forest – Hike or bike through scenic Catskills terrain with well-marked trails.
If you are interested in local events:
- Windham Autumn Affair (October) – Fall festival with craft vendors, music, food, and small-town charm.
- Windham Mountain Bike World Cup (Summer, select years) – International mountain biking competition with big crowds and adrenaline.
- Windham Chamber Music Festival (Summer) – Classical music performances held at historic venues and local churches.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Windham, New York:
- Hunter (15–20 min) – Another great ski town with scenic trails, ziplining, and the Hunter Mountain Skyride.
- Prattsville (15–20 min) – Explore Pratt Rock, often called “New York’s Mount Rushmore,” with history and hiking.
- Cairo (25–30 min) – A quiet Catskill town with parks, local cafés, and antique shops.
- Haines Falls / Kaaterskill Falls (30 min) – One of New York’s most iconic waterfalls with short scenic hikes to the viewpoint.
- East Durham (20–25 min) – Known for its Irish heritage and summer festivals, plus laid-back countryside charm.
FAQ:
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Where is Windham located?
- Windham is nestled in the Catskill Mountains in the heart of the beautiful Hudson Valley.
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Why is Windham a popular getaway destination?
- Windham is a great choice for a weekend getaway, attracting outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and shoppers alike.
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What outdoor activities are available in Windham?
- Windham Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking year-round.
- Golfers can enjoy challenging courses, including the historic Christman’s Windham House and Golf Resort, which features two golf courses.
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What dining and shopping options does Windham offer?
- The lush surroundings ensure an abundance of farm-to-fork restaurants and vineyards to visit.
- Shoppers can browse antique stores and art galleries for unique finds.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and fewer crowds before summer.
Albergo Allegria Hotel & Breakfast Restaurant – A charming bed & breakfast with a cozy atmosphere.
Visit Windham Path – Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride with scenic mountain views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, great for outdoor activities.
Eastwind Hotel & Bar – A stylish boutique lodge perfect for a mountain retreat.
Explore Windham Mountain Bike Park – Ride thrilling trails and enjoy stunning landscapes.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and breathtaking autumn foliage.
Wylder Windham – A cozy and luxurious resort in the Catskills.
Take a scenic drive along Route 23 – Experience the vibrant fall colors of the Catskills.
Plan Your Trip