BY MEGAN KINEALY

Along the banks of the Delaware River, the thriving hamlet of Callicoon in far western Sullivan County seamlessly blends historic charm, a thriving social scene and stunning views of the surrounding rolling hills and generational farmland, with convenient access to outdoor pursuits. Long established as a hub of local culture, Callicoon offers a wide range of attractions and conveniences, for full-time residents and visitors alike.

FOOD + DRINk scene

Stocking your pantry has never been tastier. Callicoon offers a variety of markets and grocers to set you up with all the necessities (plus an indulgence or two!). The Callicoon Pantry offers package free goods at bulk prices that include all the staples with a community and values-based focus so you can eat well and feel good about your purchases. Stock your bar with expertly curated wines from Callicoon Wine Merchant and locally distilled spirits from Catskill Provisions, and pick up complementary cheeses and charcuterie from the Callicoon location of Spruce Home Goods to really impress your guests. Make sure to save your Sunday mornings for a visit to the Callicoon Farmers’ Market offering a wide variety of fruits, veggies, proteins and prepared goods year-round.

When you can’t be bothered with cooking, you’ve got a ton of great options for dining out. To start your day, pop into Callicoon Caffé, with an all-day diner vibe, serving breakfast with a side of river views, or The Kitchen Table Caffe for house-baked pastries and bubble tea in addition to the usual breakfast and lunch staples.

Lunch options include Local Pizza, which in addition to delicious pies offers globally inspired dishes like bulgogi beef tacos and birria ramen, and Ollie Grey’s, a not-your-average hot dog and ice cream stand where specials might include falafel waffles or beef sancocho. When you’re in the mood for a visual feast, head up to Seminary Hill’s tasting room for delicious proprietary ciders and tasty small bites, while overlooking the dramatic tableau of the hillside orchard, the winding Delaware River and the hills of Pennsylvania beyond. 

For a night on the town, consider Spanish-style tapas at Callicoon Wine Merchant (the salt cod croquettes are can’t miss) or opt for classic Italian from Peppino’s. For a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, be sure to check out Creek House Grill. If you’re looking for a date night spot with more sultry vibes, head over to the speakeasy-esque Black Walnut bar, nestled at the back of the Farmhouse Project’s main street storefrontdining room. Warm summer nights call for a burger on the terrace at The Western Hotel, frequently accompanied by live music. Rafters Tavern’s packed entertainment calendar means there’s always good tunes to enjoy alongside a cold brew in a casual environment.

RETAIL THERAPY

Callicoon Marketplace is home to a few of our favorite local retailers, including Litt Home and Books and Catskill Vintage Art. Litt offers a wonderful selection of curated books and whimsical games and homewares. Catskill Vintage Art features found and refurbished hanging art and figurines with a heavy nature and upstate focus. A stone’s throw away, Spruce Home Goods offers luxe home accessories, from textiles to tabletop and lustworthy gifts, while Farmhouse Project’s showroom and shop feature exclusive artisan-made homewares you won’t find anywhere else. 

Vintage lovers will find a lot to enjoy on and off Callicoon’s Main Street. Lee Hartwell Antiques offers an eclectic array of jewelry, furniture and artwork.

Callicoon Vintage’s shop has a decidedly fun, funky and campy vibe, filled with designer pieces and interesting finds for your Upstate home. 

One-of-a-kind fashion can be found at vintage destinations PAO!, La Garconne Boutique, Ragtime Clothing Exchange, and handmade originals designs are the draw at Pip-Squeak Chapeau.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE

With so many options for food and beverage, first you’ll want to work up an appetite. When you’re ready to head out on the water, Lander’s River Trips is ready to gear you up and send you out for a fun and relaxing float down the Delaware, whether it’s on tubes, kayaks or canoes. Honor your commitment to self-care at Barn Swallow Pilates, offering private sessions with two experienced instructors, or with a massage and a facial at River Family Wellness. 

Callicoon Theater, the small-but-mighty cinema on Main Street, is the oldest continuously operating theater in Sullivan County and offers a great rotating selection of current box office hits, thoughtful documentaries and independent films, as well as fun theme nights throughout the year (the Dolly Do was a personal favorite).One of our favorite things about small town living are the yearly events that evoke the local character. Unsurprisingly, Callicoon’s don’t disappoint.

One of our favorite things about small town living are the yearly events that evoke the local character. Unsurprisingly, Callicoon’s don’t disappoint.

The Tractor Parade, always the second Sunday in June, is the unofficial kick off to the summer season. As the name suggests, tractors of all ages and sizes motor up the main drag to be admired, with vintage models being center stage.

Toward the end of September, Porchfest is a weekend long festival ‘commemorating the spirit of Woodstock ‘69’ with dozens of musicians performing at various venues and stages over two days. In December, Dickens on the Delaware transports you into a Victorian-era Christmas village, complete with costumes, readings, and a holiday parade. Start shopping for your muffs and cravats now!

Once you’ve explored all that Callicoon has to offer, don’t forget to check out the rest of the neighborhood; nearby Narrowsburg, Jeffersonville, and Livingston Manor are all within a 30 minute drive.