Upstate New York has many regions, and Sullivan County has become yet another part of The Catskills that has seen some incredible hospitality leaders come to play and recharge via new ventures. One such area is Narrowsburg, New York, located about 2.5 hours from New York City — a small hamlet in Sullivan County. Known for its strong arts and cultural community, the riverside community in the Western Catskills has many things to do, places to hike, and relaxation to be had. It’s perched right next to the Delaware River in New York, literally a few steps from the state of Pennsylvania and the Poconos. Here is an itinerary and things to do in Narrowsburg, NY to have yourself a little weekend getaway — including our stay at The Blue Fox Motel.
History + How to Get There
The history of the region is tied to the river, commerce, and transportation. In the mid-1750s, when settlement began here, this community was first known as Homan’s Eddy, named for early settler Benjamin Homan. Later the community was known as Big Eddy for the large quiet pool in the river at this location. It’s also the narrowest and deepest section of the Delaware River.
It’s important to note that public transportation may be a bit tricky in this area; so your best bet is to rent a car and drive. Being able to drive around to various towns throughout the region is part of the fun of The Catskills — and there are many spots nearby 30-60 minutes drive, including Roscoe, Milford (PA), Port Jervis, Cochecton, and Bethel.
Read More: 22 East Coast Destinations for a Road Trip
Where to Stay
Blue Fox Motel | 5670 State Route 97, Narrowsburg
This is THE place you’ll want to stay if you’re in the Narrowsburg area. It’s a renovated 1950s mid-century boutique motel just a few minutes by car from town; a little rustic resort oasis that’s also dog-friendly — owned by two Narrowsburg locals, Meg Sullivan and Jorge Neves. We brought our two dogs there and had the best time!
There’s a restaurant/bar on the 4-acre property, as well as a pool with a backdrop of the mountains and a poolside bar. And, to really make you feel like you’re in the mountains, two goats live on-site and are taken care of by the staff and chef.
The restaurant at the Blue Fox Motel is also a must; it’s got a hearty menu of fan favorites by Chef Honorio Anguisca, and a chorizo that is a necessary order — as are the chicken lollipops and octopus salad. Having an on-site bar is a major plus, too. The menu consists of American classics, traditional European cuisine, and European-inspired specials. The motel doesn’t serve breakfast or brunch — yet, but the owners noted that it may be coming soon. It’s the ideal spot, however, for dinner and nightcaps on a Friday or Saturday night as it’s open later than a lot of the spots in downtown Narrowsburg.
PS: In August 2023, there are some pool parties happening — August 20th being one coming up quite soon, and a potential September event as well — stay tuned to Blue Fox’ Instagram for more details here.
Things to Do
Landers’ River Trips | 5961 NY-97, Narrowsburg
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Floating down the Upper Delaware River is an idyllic (and refreshing) way to enjoy the beauty of the scenery and get a serious day of beautiful weather in the mix. Lander’s River Trips is just the ticket.
The Heron | 40 Main Street, Narrowsburg
Located on the Main Street of Narrowsburg in its quaint downtown area, this is a spot for brunch. Its interior is stylish, intimate, and the cocktails are thoughtfully curated.
Tusten Cup | 8 Main Street, Narrowsburg
Tusten Cup is open seven days a week, year-round, which is a feat for any small business owner. So regardless of when you’re visiting, be sure to stop by. It’s a coffee house with a full espresso bar and pastries galore.
2 Queens Coffee | 104 Kirks Road, Narrowsburg
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Hand-crafted, small-batch coffee roaster with premium teas and coffees is what makes 2 Queens so special. This coffee shop is open on select days but is a serious fan favorite.
The Chi Hive Wellness Space | 22 Main Street, Narrowsburg
The Chi Hive Sanctuary is a small storefront on Main Street that has a variety of wellness activities going on at any given time. There’s weight training, yoga, and other wellness events that happen — as well as a massage therapist on staff.
Delaware Valley Arts Alliance | 37 Main Street, Narrowsburg
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This is a wonderful art gallery in Narrowsburg — with both ground-floor and second-floor exhibit spaces, as well as housing a little gift shop with locally-made gifts.
The Laundrette | 20 5th Street, Narrowsburg
This place is just the epitome of a delicious, colorful lunch spot upstate; it’s focused on pizza but has salads and homemade desserts, as well as some other menu items. The pizzas are wood-fired, sourdough pizzas, and all ingredients are local and organic whenever possible, according to its owners. It’s also overlooking the river, so the scene on a nice day is unbeatable.
Self-Guided Tour of the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail
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The Woodstock 1969 event took place in the Sullivan Catskills (and not in Woodstock, NY as many mistakenly think) at what is now known as Bethel Woods, and there’s a collection of 60+ dove sculptures perched in villages, towns, and at several tourism businesses. Each permanently mounted dove is hand-painted by a professional local artist and inspired by the legendary event held here in 1969. More info here.
Three Hammers Winery | 87 Welcome Lake Road, Hawley, PA
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This is where being right on the Delaware River in NY/PA comes into play. Three Hammers Winery is actually located across the river in Hawley, PA — producing wines using grapes from Washington, California, Pennsylvania, New York, and beyond.
See More: A Day Trip to Cold Spring, NY: A Hudson River Village
Buck Brook Alpacas | 12 Bestenheider Road, Roscoe
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If seeing alpacas is on your bucket list, then Buck Brook Alpacas is a stop to make. This is a family-owned farm in the Catskills that has an alpaca farm and specializes in fiber production from its own herd of Huacaya Alpacas.
There are so many more spots to enjoy, but these were a few of our favorites while visiting. We’ll be back soon, Narrowsburg! For more information on booking a spot at Blue Fox, click here.
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