This Catskills Village Nicknamed The “Land in the Sky” Is Famous For Its Hiking Trails, Cider Houses & Storybook Main Streets

Have you started planning your dreamy Upstate NY fall getaway yet?! Well if not, we have a suggestion — one that’s a mere three hours from NYC and tucked into the western Catskill Mountains. The town is called Andes, NY , and it’s a charming hamlet with a lofty nickname: the “Land in the Sky.” Known for its stunning hikes, cozy cider houses, and storybook Main Street lined with antique shops and galleries , Andes is one of those small towns that feels tailor-made for a weekend escape. And right now, Andes shines brightest in the fall , when its rolling hills explode in fiery foliage, farm stands spill over with pumpkins and apples, and Main Street hums with seasonal festivals . But make no mistake — whether you’re snowshoeing in winter, hiking in summer, or sipping small-batch cider by the fire year-round, Andes truly earns its spot as one of the Catskills’ most enchanting destinations. So why make the drive from NYC? It’s a no-brainer in our opinon. Andes blends natural beauty with authentic Catskills charm — in a way like very few Upstate NY small towns do. It’s home to trails with panoramic mountain views, farm-to-table dining, artisan shops, and a rich history that includes a starring role in the Anti-Rent Wars of the 1800s. Today, its balance of outdoorsy adventure and cozy village life makes it a favorite for both New Yorkers and travelers in the know. Fall things to do in Andes, NY ------------------------------ Ready to book your getaway? These are some of our favorite fall activities that you have to check off your bucket list: 🍂 Leaf-Peeping Hikes – Wander the Andes Rail Trail and Palmer Hill Trail for easy access to breathtaking Catskill views. For something more off-the-beaten-path, hike to Tompkins Falls for a secluded waterfall framed in autumn color. 🍎 Sip Small-Batch Cider – Pop into Wayside Cider , a rustic taproom housed in a restored barn, where you can warm up with hard cider and local cheese boards. 🛍️ Main Street Strolls – Explore eclectic shops like Kabinett & Kammer (part museum, part curiosity shop) and Clementine for vintage fashion. Don’t miss Two Old Tarts , a bakery-café beloved for its pies and farm-fresh fare. 🎃 Festivals & Markets – From apple-picking to craft fairs like the **Fall Harvest Festival at Guy’s Pumpkin Patch & Gladstone Farms Beef**, the town’s calendar fills with classic Catskills autumn fun. Where to eat & drink in Andes ----------------------------- * Wayside Cider – Cozy cider taproom in a restored barn. * The Andes Hotel & Restaurant – Classic Catskills tavern fare and local drinks. * Two Old Tarts – Famous for decadent baked goods and brunch. * Dirty Girl Farm – Small-batch cheese and dairy right in town. Where to stay in Andes ---------------------- * The Andes Hotel – Updated motel rooms right on Main Street. * The Delaware House – Farmhouse-style suites perfect for longer stays. * Quaint Airbnbs and cabins abound — many with fire pits and mountain views. How to get there from NYC ------------------------- Andes is about a 3-hour drive from NYC . Take I-87 North to Kingston, then scenic Route 28 west through the Catskills. If you don’t have a car, Trailways buses run from Port Authority to nearby hamlets like Margaretville, about 15 minutes from Andes. Source: https://secretnyc.co/land-in-the-sky-small-town-andes-ny/