Spring is finally pulling New Yorkers out of hibernation—and one of the most scenic (and affordable) getaways is officially rolling back into action!
The Catskill Flyer, a vintage train ride through the heart of the Catskills, is returning this May, offering a nostalgic, 90-minute journey for just $20.
And while it flies under the radar compared to its fall foliage train companions, this warm weather experience is arguably the best way to experience New York’s most beloved region.
A ride through some of New York’s most timeless landscapes
Departing from Kingston’s historic Stockade District, the Catskill Flyer rolls through landscapes that feel frozen in time.
One of the first highlights: the Hurley Flats, often referred to as some of the oldest farmlands in America.
hink rolling emerald fields lined with weathered stone walls dating back to the 1600s, grazing cows in the distance, and wildflowers swaying in the breeze—it’s pastoral New York at its absolute peak!
From there, the train crosses a scenic trestle over Esopus Creek, where the tracks hover just above sparkling trout waters. On warmer days, you might spot kayakers drifting below or herons standing still in the shallows as sunlight flickers across the surface.
Then comes the climb along Hurley Mountain, where the train chugs through a tunnel of oak and hickory trees. Sunlight filters through the leaves, mountain air rushes through the open cars, and glimpses of the Hudson Valley peek through the ridgelines in the distance.
Open-air views, mountain air, and vintage charm
Part of what makes the Catskill Flyer so special is how immersive it feels.
Pulled by a vintage 1951 diesel locomotive, the ride has that deep, rhythmic rumble you can feel in your seat as the train winds through the countryside.
Riders in the open-air cars get the full experience—wind in your hair, the scent of pine in the air, and the steady click of the tracks beneath you.
It’s slow travel in the best way possible—less about getting somewhere, more about soaking up every second of the journey.
One of the cheapest scenic train rides near NYC
At just $20 per ticket, this is easily one of the most affordable scenic excursions in New York State.
The round-trip ride lasts about 90 minutes, making it an easy addition to a full day exploring Kingston, grabbing lunch, or wandering along the Hudson River nearby.
How to get there from NYC
- By car: About 2 hours from NYC via I-87 N
- By bus: Direct routes from Port Authority to Kingston
- By train: Amtrak to Rhinecliff, then a quick taxi across the river
When to ride
The Catskill Flyer resumes service in May 2026, with rides running on select weekends through spring and summer.
The full dates can be seen below with each day offering departure times at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm:
May: 2, 9, 16, 23, 25, 30
June: 6, 13, 20, 27
July: 3, 4, 24, 25, 31
August: 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
September: 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 19, 20
Open-air seats tend to be the first to go—so booking ahead is your best bet, and tickets are live now!
🚂 For more information about the Catskill Flyer and book your tickets, head here!