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Top Things To Do in Saugerties with Kids

1. Saugerties Lighthouse

Built in 1869, the Saugerties Lighthouse is still operational. Today, it is fully automated, without the need for a lighthouse keeper. Rescued from deterioration by the not-for-profit Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy, it operates as a bed and breakfast and living museum. This popular spot books out six months in advance, so plan ahead.

Explore Esopus Creek from the land or water at Saugerties' Esopus Bend Nature Preserve. Photo by Daniel CaseCC BY-SA 4.0

2. Esopus Bend Nature Preserve

Nestled around the bend of the Esopus Creek, the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve offers 161 acres of creekfront to explore on a walk, family hike, or even a paddle. Join an occasional guided tour or explore on your own.

3. Kiwanis Ice Arena

Hit the ice at the local Kiwanis Ice Arena. Besides public skating hours, Kiwanis also offers drop-in hockey, figure skating, a pro shop, and party rentals.

4. Go to a Book Store

For the literary inclined, check out Our Bookshop and Inquiring Minds. Both are conveniently located in the middle of town, and Inquiring Minds includes a small cafe.

5. Kiersted House

If you would rather stay inside, the Saugerties Historical Society operates out of this charming 18th-century home. Visit on weekends, May-October, or attend an event on the grounds. Take a peek into its Dutch Barn, a popular site for weddings and parties.

 The Hudson Valley Garlic Festival draws throngs of garlic lovers to town each fall. Photo courtesy of the festival

6. Hudson Valley Garlic Festival

Saugerties regularly hosts some 50,000 garlic lovers from all over to enjoy garlicky food, shopping, music, and chef demonstrations. The Hudson Valley Garlic Festival is located at Catine Park, and runs in the early fall.

7. Sawyer Motors Car Show

The "Best Little Car Show in the Northeast," Sawyer Motors Car Show features more than 500 cars on display, plus live music, shopping, and eats at local restaurants. The show is FREE to the public.

8. HITS Hudson Valley Horse Shows

Saddle up and check out the Horse Shows In The Sun to watch world-class horse jumping competitions that run intermittently throughout the year.

9. Catskill Animal Sanctuary

The Catskill Animal Sanctuary has been rescuing animals for more than 20 years. Book a walking tour and meet the 200 rescued animals that call this special property home.

Opus 40 features monumental art and meditative paths. Photo by Niranjan Arminius CC BY-SA 2.0,

10. Opus 40

A short drive from town, you'll find Opus 40, one of our favorite outdoor art destinations. This monumental sculpture park, from artist Harvey Fite, is unforgettable. The sculptor built Opus on an abandoned quarry, inspired by Aztec and Mayan stonework.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Saugerties

11. Miss Lucy's Kitchen

Local favorite Miss Lucy's Kitchen serves comfort food for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Think fried Brussels sprouts, barbecue ribs, sandwiches, salads, and more.

12. Smoke House of the Catskills

Smoke House of the Catskills is a small butcher shop and specialty market that will get you set up with all the fixin's for an at-home feast.

13. Brine Barrel Deli

This conveniently located deli is the perfect place to go for subs, specialty groceries, and house-made pickles.

14. Krause's Homemade Candy

Head straight for dessert with the homemade confectioneries at Krause's, any time of day.

15. The Dutch Ale House

House-smoked barbecue, beer flights, burgers, and more are on offer at The Dutch Ale House, open daily for lunch and dinner.

16. Annarella Ristorante

Check out Annarella Ristorante for all your Italian favorites, from antipasto to pappardelle to cannolis and cheesecake.

17. Bluestone Coffee Roasting Company

Bluestone Roasting Co. offers brunch all day, sandwiches, smoothies, and, you guessed it: coffee in all its forms. Best yet? The frappe menu, only viewable in person.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Saugerties

18. Diamond Mills Spa Resort

Diamond Mills Resort and Spa is a luxury boutique hotel perched over the Esopus Waterfall. It's a splurge, surely, but fully loaded with both a spa and restaurant.

19. Village Inn

Located right in town, the Village Inn offers four cute rooms that are all family and pet-friendly.

20. Holiday Inn Express

For an inexpensive stay, the local Holiday Inn Express is located just outside of town and comes equipped with an indoor swimming pool and gym. On-site breakfast is included.

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Originally published in 2013.