Our downtowns have benefited from centuries of benign neglect. Kingston was settled in 1653. Until recently, Ulster County was primarily a quiet farming community. The county still has more original stone houses than any other county in the United States. But at the end of last century, the region became a refuge for the rich from New York City.
Trains wound their way up the mountains to elaborate hotels at the tops.
A little later, Woodstock became an important art colony. The Catskills became an inexpensive summer retreat for New York City families, and a winter mecca for skiing, and developed a flourishing craft and shopping culture. Finally, in the 'fifties, the building of the New York State Thruway connecting New York City to Albany made the region's downtowns accessible for day and overnight shopping trips. You will not find anywhere else in the northeast a history as rich or a collection of shopping destinations as engaging as you can find in the Catskills. Bookmark this site, and return to it as we add more stores and information to add to your shopping opportunities.