Escape New York City In A Nearby Hidden Town With Mountain Views And River Floats

Anyone living in a big city knows what a grind it can be. This is especially true for somewhere like New York City, also known as the city that never sleeps. For those looking for a reprieve away from all the hustle and bustle, but maybe don't have the time to plan a whole two-week vacation, there's a great little vacation spot located 2.5 hours from NYC. Narrowsburg, NY is a quaint hamlet in New York State that sits along the Delaware River. Located between the Catskill and Pocono Mountains, it's a fabulous getaway into the great outdoors.

Known by the locals as "the pioneer hotspot in Sullivan County," this cute area is chock-full of fun for the whole family. Narrowsburg, like many of the little towns in Sullivan County, has recently seen an influx of new businesses, and the community here keeps things interesting with artsy festivals and ongoing. In the summer, visitors can enjoy river activities such as fishing, tubing, and hiking. For those who prefer a more casual vacation, the downtown is filled with great shopping featuring many local artists' products and delicious eateries.

For outdoor lovers, places in the East Coast like Narrowsburg, offers a fantastic retreat into nature. Those who enjoy hiking should look to the Tusten Mountain Trail, a moderate three-mile trail that winds alongside the Delaware River and offers stunning mountain views. A trip to Narrowsburg would also be incomplete without spending a day out on the water. Luckily there are many options here for summertime fun. Visitors can kayak, tube, canoe, or raft down the Delaware, taking in the beautiful scenery around them. Multiple companies such as Lander's River Trips or Lou's Tubes offer both tours and rentals to satisfy everyone's inner adventurer. 

For an additional fee, Lander's River Trips even allows your furry friends to join you on your choice of floating device. Multiple campsites are also available along the river for those who want to make the most of their time outdoors. For those looking to spend the night in a comfortable setting, Narrowsburg has numerous lodging accommodations, such as the Mtn. Laurel Cabin, a stunning two-bedroom cabin surrounded by forest terrain. Even in its surrounding areas, there are plenty of stunning overnight-stay options, like The Rowley House, a three-bedroom cabin nestled in the woodlands just a 20 minute drive from Narrowsburg, or Beaver Brook, a stunning property featuring modern finishings next to a babbling brook just 22 minutes outside Narrowsburg.

For those looking for a more relaxing vacation, downtown Narrowsburg is a great spot to unwind and enjoy some local fares. Antique and boutique shops line Main Street, while restaurants beckon patrons with their delicious meals. One fan-favorite eatery is The Heron, known best for its incredible farm-to-table dishes. Although Narrowsburg is more of a relaxation destination, there are times throughout the year when the town experiences an influx of visitors arriving for specific events. 

In July, the town hosts the Riverfest Street Festival, an event that celebrates art, music, and ecology. September sees the annual Honey Bee Fest, an event that promotes information regarding, what else, the honey bee! Come in October for beautiful foliage and Logging Days, a wood-chopping competitive event with live music, food, and beard competitions. Also in October, the Big Eddy Film Fest, a fantastic festival for those who enjoy an eclectic selection of indie films.

The Delaware Valley Arts Alliance website is also a great source to check for local events happening year-round, with things like retro cinema, jazz concerts, plays, and art exhibitions. Whether you're looking for an escape into nature or a way to unwind from city life, Narrowsburg has you covered for a relaxation vacation.