What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In The Catskills? Our Top 7 Picks

The Catskills region is a treasure trove of activities that go beyond its legendary landscapes. Whether you’re into relaxing cruises, animal encounters, music history, or scenic drives, there’s something here for everyone.

We especially love the Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Kingston, which offers a fantastic way to soak in the natural beauty of the river shoreline, historic estates, and sleepy villages. With engaging narration and panoramic views, it’s perfect for a restful afternoon.

For animal lovers, the Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour delivers a charming, hands-on experience that’s both relaxing and educational.

The Catskills shine as a destination for diverse experiences, blending nature, culture, and history. Our list includes everything from cruises and farm visits to music tours, scavenger hunts, and scenic drives—each offering a different way to explore and get a true feel for this unique region.

Quick Overview

Our top picks cover a wide range of activities. You’ll find scenic boat cruises like the Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise, farm animal encounters such as the Clover Brooke Farm Tours, musical and cultural tours like the Woodstock Rock and Roll Tour, and scenic driving adventures with audio guides. For wine lovers, there’s the Hudson Valley Winery Tour with private transport.

If you’re into interactive fun, check out the Catskills Scavenger Hunts and Rhinebeck’s immersive hunt. Here’s a full breakdown of what makes each experience special.

1. Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Kingston

Delight in scenic views of the Hudson River shoreline during this 90-minute cruise departing from Kingston, NY. The Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise offers a peaceful way to see the river’s natural beauty, historic lighthouses, and luxury estates.

The Rip Van Winkle vessel provides both outdoor and climate-controlled seating, with engaging narration that shares stories of the region’s past and present. Passersby include sleepy villages, vineyards, and the Catskill Mountains’ distant silhouette.

This cruise is rated 4.5/5 based on 756 reviews, with many travelers appreciating the friendly staff and informative commentary. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, making it a relaxed, no-stress outing. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone curious about the river’s history.

The main drawback: it’s just 1.5 hours—so if you seek a longer cruise or a full-day experience, you might want to consider combining it with other activities.

Bottom Line: A quick, scenic, and informative cruise—perfect for a relaxing afternoon with beautiful views.

2. Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour

At number 2, this charming farm tour combines hands-on animal interaction with a peaceful walk across 25 acres of the historic Hudson Valley. The Llama/Alpaca Hike and Farm Tour is a hit for animal lovers and families alike. The tour begins with introductions to farm animals like rabbits, chickens, and barn cats, then guides you through the process of safely petting and caring for llamas and alpacas.

You’ll get to walk your new fluffy friend through paddocks, past a bass pond, and learn about the farm’s history dating back to 1850.

Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 107 reviews, visitors praise the knowledgeable guide Andrea and the gentle nature of the animals. The tour includes water and admission, making it a good value for such a personal experience.

It’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, authentic farm visit, or those interested in fiber arts (since alpacas are known for their wool). The only potential downside is it’s only an hour and a half—so plan accordingly if you want a longer visit.

Bottom Line: A delightful, engaging experience that combines nature, history, and adorable animals—all at an excellent price point.

3. Woodstock NY Rock and Roll Tour

Music history buffs will find this 2.5-hour Woodstock Rock and Roll Tour a must-do. Starting at the Bearsville Center, it takes you behind the scenes and into the legendary spots where iconic musicians like Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Todd Rundgren left their mark. The guide, a seasoned rock historian, shares stories about the artists and the cultural movement that made Woodstock a music mecca.

Rated 5.0/5 from 46 reviews, the tour is praised for its insider knowledge and access to the Bearsville Theater and recording studios. While it’s a walking tour, your own transportation from Bearsville to Woodstock is needed.

If you’re a music fan, walking through the same spaces where legends performed offers a unique connection to the past. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive, anecdotal experience rather than just a sightseeing stroll.

Bottom Line: A lively, inside look at Woodstock’s musical legacy—ideal for fans or anyone curious about how this town became a legend.

4. Connect with Rescue Animals on a Private Farm Tour in Catskills

This private farm tour is a heartfelt experience for animal lovers. The Connect with Rescue Animals in the Catskills offers up-close interactions with donkeys, goats, emus, and other rescued animals. The owner, a family-run sanctuary, emphasizes sharing rescue stories and allowing visitors to connect at their own pace—some animals love pets, others prefer space.

Rated 5.0/5 from 27 reviews, visitors enjoy the personal, intimate setting and the stories behind each rescue. It’s a thoughtful experience suitable for families, animal advocates, or anyone wanting a meaningful connection with nature’s gentle creatures. The tour lasts about an hour and costs $97.50 per group, making it a more exclusive, personalized option.

Keep in mind that it’s a private group experience, so it might not suit large families or groups seeking a more social atmosphere.

Bottom Line: An authentic, heartwarming encounter with rescued animals—great for animal lovers and those seeking a peaceful, personal experience.

5. Windham Transportation Only from NYC

If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, this day trip to Windham Mountain is a solid choice. The Windham Transportation Only from NYC service offers reliable bus trips, perfect for a hassle-free winter day. Over 30 years in operation, Urban Sherpa provides comfortable coaches and options for lift tickets, rentals, and lessons.

Rated 5.0/5 based on 1 review, travelers praise the reliability and comfort of the trip. With the trip lasting around a day, it’s best suited for serious winter sports enthusiasts who want to avoid driving and parking hassles. Be sure to reserve early, especially during peak season. The main drawback: it’s transportation-only, so you’ll need to arrange your own lift tickets and rentals.

Bottom Line: A dependable, convenient way to hit the slopes without the stress of driving, ideal for ski fans on a tight schedule.

6. Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Catskills Scenic Byway

For those who prefer controlling their own schedule, the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is a fantastic way to explore the Catskill Mountains at your own pace. The app guides you along an 8-hour route filled with natural wonders and local highlights, like the world’s largest kaleidoscope and scenic gondola rides. You can stop when you want, making it perfect for a flexible day of sightseeing.

Rated 4.5/5 from 6 reviews, travelers enjoy the personalized experience, although initial setup can be tricky. The tour is suited for those with a vehicle and a sense of adventure, or for couples and families looking for a self-paced exploration. It’s a particularly good value at $16.99, offering a comprehensive experience without fixed schedules.

Bottom Line: A flexible, customizable way to see the Catskills’ best sights at your own speed.

7. Farm Tour at Clover Brooke Llama/Alpaca/Goat Farm

This shorter, affordable farm visit emphasizes educational interaction. The Clover Brooke Farm tour, priced at only $15 per person, is designed to teach about farm animals’ importance and history. Visitors meet llamas, alpacas, goats, mini donkeys, and more, discovering how to safely and responsibly interact with them.

Rated 4.5/5 from 4 reviews, it’s praised for the informative guide and the opportunity to meet animals personally. The tour lasts about an hour, making it suitable for families with young children or those seeking a quick, educational experience. Its affordability makes it an excellent introduction to farm life, though it’s less comprehensive than longer farm tours.

Bottom Line: An affordable way to get up close with farm animals and learn about their roles, perfect for a quick family outing.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding which experience to book, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love being on the water, the Hudson River Cruise offers a relaxing scenic outing. For animal lovers, the Farm Tours and private rescue animal experiences provide meaningful, personal interactions. History buffs and music fans should not miss the Woodstock Rock Tour, which dives deep into the legendary music scene.

Those seeking scenic exploration at their own pace will appreciate the self-guided audio tours of the Catskill Scenic Byway and the surrounding area. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Windham bus trip simplifies your day on the slopes.

Budget-minded travelers can opt for shorter, affordable farm experiences, while those with more time might combine a couple of these activities for a full Catskills adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Catskills offers a diverse array of tours and activities that cater to nature lovers, history buffs, animal enthusiasts, and music fans alike. If you’re after a relaxing boat cruise, the Hudson River outing is hard to beat.

Animal lovers should prioritize the Llama/Alpaca Farm Tour, while those interested in music history will enjoy the Woodstock tour. For scenic drives, the self-guided audio tour offers a flexible way to see the region.

To get the most out of your visit, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. Many of these tours sell out early—especially during peak seasons—so booking ahead is wise. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful river cruise or an energetic farm visit, the Catskills has something to offer every traveler. Happy exploring!