Located 2.5 hours from NYC, the hamlet of Narrowsburg sits on the Delaware River between the Catskill Mountains and the Pocono Mountains. Thanks to an influx of new shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, Narrowsburg is known by locals as the pioneer “hotspot” in Sullivan County — and it’s long held its own for years now as one of the coolest getaways from NYC.
From the moment you hit the road, the fun begins because the drive is part of the magic of a visit to Narrowsburg. Expect lots of peace signs and doves painted on the sides of barns — not far away is the original site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival at Bethel Woods. On the journey home, make sure to route your drive to Route 97 through Barryville and along the Delaware River; a portion of this drive is called The Hawk’s Nest and it’s considered one of the most scenic drives in New York State. From there, the road dumps you into Port Jervis, where you stop to shop and eat, then can catch Route 23 though New Jersey all the way home on back roads though High Point State Park.
Where to Stay in Narrowsburg: the Moonriver Inn
The newly opened Moonriver Inn is nestled in the heart of Narrowsburg, steps away from the Delaware River. One of the oldest buildings in Narrowsburg, the historic farmhouse was built in the 1860s on farmland that lined Bridge Street. Formerly the Nest Inn, the new owner has added additional rooms, plus a cozy lobby where breakfast is served with goodies from local favorite, Beach Lake Bakery.
The Inn offers four total hotel rooms, each uniquely decorated with a mix of modern and antique furnishings and artwork. The Escape Brooklyn favorite is the Sunrise Room, with its beautiful clawfoot soaking tub. It’s the perfect spot to take in the colorful sunrises from bed, or zen out in the tub while admiring the neighboring ivy wall, which changes colors with the seasons. Other options include the Stillwater Suite, with a kitchenette and dining area; the Overlook Room, also with a clawfoot tub; and the downstairs Ivy Room, overlooking a stone patio and neighboring ivy wall.
Outside, the new owner has made major improvements to the property, with beautiful landscaping and even adding a stone patio that overlooks the river. Keep an eye out for wildlife here: it’s not uncommon to spot a soaring bald eagle, gazing deer, or a meandering heron on the river shore. Speaking of animals, the inn has a very-friendly pet policy.
Last, the location is super ideal – the Moonriver Inn is walking distance to Main Streets boutiques, galleries, antique shops, award-winning restaurants, and of course, the river. Read on for our picks!
What to Do: Hiking, Tubing, and Antiquing Along the Delaware River
Whether you’re looking for a super active getaway, or a low-key weekend of shopping, or even a bit of both — you’re in luck here. Narrowsburg was one of the first of many towns in Sullivan County to see a recent spike in business openings and a lively full-time community keeping things interesting with arty events.
Those looking for a not-too-challenging hike with big rewards should head to the Tusten Mountain Trail, where a 1.5ish mile loop trail offers some awesome views of the Delaware River. And speaking of the river, a kayak, tube, raft or canoe down the Delaware River is a must– check out Landers River Trips for rentals, or take its the views during the summer with Lou’s Tubes for an unbeatable $6 per day. For a swim, hop in the Delaware right in town, or head to Skinners Falls for an epic swimming hole experience. Those looking for a more mellow, but active experiences can sign up for yoga, pilates, meditation, or just use the gym at the nearby Chi Hive. (It’s worth noting here that Moonriver Inn guests get 50% discount.)
Bad weather? No problem. Hit Main Street and go shopping, perusing the many antique and boutique shops. Next door to Moonriver Inn, the beautiful Maison Bergogne walks the line of showroom/museum/shop, with its lovely collection of antiques and oddities. Nest is another must-see while in town; opened by ex-Vogue and W design director, Anna Bern, this boutique was inspired by her travels around the world. It’s packed with beautiful clothing and accessories, kitchen supplies, taxidermy and home goods in one perfectly curated space. Also check out lifestyle boutiques Sunny’s Pop and Velvet Maple; eco-conscious clothier Mayer Wasner, and One Grand Books — not to mention, all the antique shops.
Last, though it’s nice to relax and unwind, if something is going on in town – and it will almost certainly be arty — be sure to check it out! In September, Narrowsburg hosts the Big Eddy Film Fest, showcasing indie films from around the world. Another place to check for events is Mildred’s Lane, an art community that frequently hosts open houses, art shows and epic bonfires. Last, check the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance website for event listings at the Tusten Theatre in town including the film festival, jazz nights, plays and more — or the all-encompassing community calendar.
Where to Eat & Drink in Narrowsburg: Farm to Table Restaurants Overlooking the Delaware River
Begin your day at the Tusten Cup for breakfast staples, including their delicious breakfast burrito. For brunch, lunch or dinner, check out The Heron one of our favorite restaurants in the entire region, with some really amazing farm-to-table fare. The menu is very southern-inspired, with comfort food favorites like buttermilk biscuits and fried chicken. Weather permitting, grab a seat on the outdoor terrace overlooking the big eddy, the deepest part of the river—otherwise, soak in the atmosphere of the beautiful and intimate dining room. Also great for dinner is new pizza joint The Laundrette, serving up wood-fired sour-dough pizza. It’s also right on the river, with a large patio overlooking the Delaware River and the Narrowsburg bridge.
Last, there are two amazing options just outside Narrowsburg worth the short drive. The first is Henning’s Local, where Norwegian chef Henning Nordanger has a serious love for fish — going so far as dividing his menu between “fish” and “not fish.” It’s nondescript location above a gas station is both surprising and charming. The second option is the Cochecton Fire Station, whose menu was also created by the same chef, Henning Nordanger. The Fire Station has more of an day-drinking/lunch vibe though, serving up craft cocktails alongside a completely wood-fired food menu, inside an old fire station. This menu is separated between $5 items, and not $5 items. Year-round, it’s the perfect place to hang out and kill a few hours: in summer, the fire station doors open up to let in the fresh air; in winter, guests can curl up by a wood stove.
