The Old Game Farm is a completely reinvented property sitting right on the site of the former Catskill Game Farm.
After sitting abandoned for years, nature has slowly reclaimed the grounds. Now, visitors are invited to explore the massive property and sleep under the stars.
A historic piece of New York nostalgia
Originally opened in 1933, The Catskill Game Farm wasn’t just any roadside attraction. It was the first privately owned zoo in America, and it eventually grew to become the largest.
During its incredible 73-year run, the zoo housed over 2,000 animals, including lions, rhinos, elephants, and kangaroos. It was even the birthplace of the famous YouTube sensation, “April the Giraffe,” back in 2002!
Due to dropping attendance, the legendary zoo closed its doors in 2006. The property was left completely abandoned, with its paved walkways, infrastructure, and animal enclosures sitting empty.
Sleep inside the old giraffe barn
Thankfully, this historic slice of Americana wasn’t lost forever. The property was purchased and carefully renovated to preserve its nostalgic magic.
Today, you can book a stay at The Long Neck Inn, a state-of-the-art boutique hotel built directly inside the zoo’s old giraffe barn. The inn features 5 luxury rooms, a cozy common area, a full kitchen, and an outdoor hot tub to relax in after a long day of walking.
If you prefer to really connect with nature, you can also book one of their 4 private upscale campsites.
What to expect when you explore
When you stay at the property, you are highly encouraged to roam the grounds. All guests get full access to safely explore the 200+ mountainside acres.
You can hike along 3.5 miles of paved walkways and witness over 100 original zoo buildings and pens that still remain intact today. It is a completely surreal experience to see how nature is taking back this massive American landmark.
Exciting new plans for the future
The property was purchased by a new group of investors in November 2020, and they have massive plans to keep the legacy alive.
Spearheaded by General Manager Shawn Johnson, the team is working hard to provide a relaxed and inviting environment. The new owners are also planning to add adventurous new activities to the property, like mountain biking, archery, and miniature golf.
They are even working on bringing a relaxing litany of animal life back to the mountain, including horses, peacocks, poultry, and bovines.
📍 400 Game Farm Road, Catskill, NY 12414
