Tours/The Catskills/Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Viator · Private tour

Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

3.9(9)The Catskills1 hour
VIATOR4.0(1)TRIPADVISOR3.9(8)

Description

Explore the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway with this self-guided tour. Only two hours from New York City, this 52-mile journey along State Route 28 takes you through charming villages and lush landscapes, showcasing spectacular mountain views and vibrant fall foliage. Each stop offers its blend of natural beauty and quaint rural charm, ensuring a picturesque and enjoyable adventure through the heart of the Catskills. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Tour Options

Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Itinerary

10 min

Andes Welcome marks the gateway to Boston’s vibrant South American community. It’s a lively spot that celebrates culture, connection, and the rich traditions of the Andes region. The tour is over 53 miles long, with more than 30+ audio stories, and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

Admission not included10 min

Palmer Hill Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rolling Catskill Mountains and lush valleys, making it a perfect spot for scenic relaxation and photography.

Admission not included10 min

The Catskill Watershed Center promotes the protection and sustainable use of the region’s vital water resources. It serves as a hub for education, conservation, and community programs supporting the Catskill-Delaware watershed.

10 min

Fleischmanns is a charming village in the Catskills, known for its rich history, Victorian architecture, and welcoming small-town vibe. It’s a great spot for exploring local shops, dining, and nearby outdoor adventures.

Admission not included10 min

Belleayre Ski Center is a popular year-round destination in the Catskills, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, plus hiking, biking, and scenic gondola rides during the warmer months.

Admission not included10 min

Belleayre Beach is a family-friendly spot at Pine Hill Lake, offering swimming, kayaking, picnicking, and relaxing on sandy shores surrounded by the beauty of the Catskills.

10 min

Rochester Hollow is a peaceful hiking trail in the Catskills, featuring serene forests, gentle streams, and historic stone walls. It’s perfect for a quiet nature walk and exploring the area’s rich history.

10 min

Phoenicia is a charming Catskill Mountain town known for its artsy vibe, local eateries, and outdoor adventures. It’s a gateway for hiking, tubing on the Esopus Creek, and exploring nearby trails.

Admission not included10 min

Phoenicia Diner is a beloved retro-style eatery in the Catskills, serving up classic comfort food with a modern twist. It’s a favorite stop for hearty breakfasts, local ingredients, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Admission not included10 min

Bread Alone Bakery is a cozy, organic bakery and café known for its artisan breads, pastries, and farm-to-table meals. A local favorite in the Catskills for fresh, wholesome fare.

Admission not included10 min

The Ashokan Rail Trail is a scenic, flat pathway along the Ashokan Reservoir, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains.

10 min

The Ashokan Reservoir is one of New York City’s largest water sources, surrounded by stunning mountain views. It’s a peaceful spot for walking, cycling, and soaking in the natural beauty of the Catskills.

10 min

The Town of Woodstock is a vibrant arts community famous for its creative spirit, eclectic shops, galleries, and rich music history. Surrounded by the Catskills, it’s a perfect blend of culture and natural beauty.

10 min

West Hurley is a quiet hamlet in the Catskills, known for its proximity to the Ashokan Reservoir and outdoor recreation. It offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature and nearby historic towns.

Highlights

Text transcripts of audio narration & Self-paced format (start/pause/resume anytime)
Pre-recorded audio commentary (downloadable or streamable)
This is a GPS-powered, self-guided audio tour that works through an app
Lifetime access (no expiration) with Customer support (chat/email)
This tour is NOT a ticket to any attraction or site
Suggested walking/driving itinerary with stop-by-stop directions
Offline GPS-enabled route map
NO in-person guide or physical equipment (bring your own device & headphones)

What's included

Included
Text transcripts of audio narration & Self-paced format (start/pause/resume anytime)
Pre-recorded audio commentary (downloadable or streamable)
This is a GPS-powered, self-guided audio tour that works through an app
Lifetime access (no expiration) with Customer support (chat/email)
This tour is NOT a ticket to any attraction or site
Suggested walking/driving itinerary with stop-by-stop directions
Offline GPS-enabled route map
NO in-person guide or physical equipment (bring your own device & headphones)
Not included
Entrance fees, in-person guide, headphones, transport, parking, food,Wi-Fi or cellular data, rentals

Traveller Ratings

3.9
9 reviews
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3
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1
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Important Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.
  • How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.
  • Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
  • Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you
  • Savings tips: Driving tours: purchase just one tour for everyone in the car
  • New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
  • Audio Setup: Connect your phone to your car's stereo system using Bluetooth, USB, or AUX. For the best experience, consider using headphones for walking tours. Audio playback is compatible with Apple CarPlay, with navigation features coming soon. Support for Android Auto is also on the way.
  • The tour requires a supported mobile device for navigation. Please use an iPhone with iOS 15 or later, an Android device with Android 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular service.

Reviews(9)

W
W4334RHlorig
October 10, 2025
Scenic Drive Not to Be

Our experience was not good. The audio didn't make it clear where we were and when we should expect to see the next sight. After driving for miles with no audio telling us anything, we have up and went back to the hotel. Very disappointed.

Operator response

Lori, I’m really sorry to hear about your experience with the Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. Did you start from the designated start point and follow the route? If so, the audio should play automatically once you reach the start point. If this weren’t the case, more details about the issue would help me understand what went wrong. Please feel free to reach out—I’m available daily from 9 to 6 EST, and I’d be happy to offer a replacement tour or process a refund if needed.

B
barbaral404
September 3, 2025
Definitely worth the price!

Downloaded the tour to my phone ahead of the trip. It played very well. The area is beautiful and there were lots of suggestions for getting out and exploring. As it was so hot, I did not take advantage of that, though.

Operator response

Barbara, I’m glad my Catskills audio tour downloaded easily and played smoothly for you. Downloading it in advance is a great tip for future travelers. It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed the beautiful Catskills scenery and the exploration suggestions—maybe next time, when it’s cooler, you can fully take advantage of them, since my tour is valid for a year after booking. Check out my NYC Must-Sees at Your Pace: Self-Guided Walking Tour Bundle for more NYC adventures. Explore Midtown Manhattan, Wall Street, and more at your own pace. Happy exploring!

M
MzDisney
June 28, 2025
Perfect companion!

What a perfect way to see the Catskills! It was so fun listening to the information at each stop and also the stories in between. I would absolutely recommend this auto tour when driving the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway.

Operator response

I'm so glad you enjoyed my Catskills Scenic Byway tour. It’s great to hear that the stories and information at each stop enhanced your experience. Check out my NYC Must-Sees at Your Pace: Self-Guided Walking Tour Bundle for more NYC adventures. Explore Midtown Manhattan, Wall Street, and more at your own pace. Happy exploring!

D
David_L
May 18, 2025
Nice tour. Had a little bit of trouble getting started.

Getting started was a little hard. GPS took us to starting point and ap began speaking, but since we had no experience with the ap, we didn't realize we were going the wrong direction. Spent half an hour driving back and forth before we figured it out. Apart from that, everything was great.

Operator response

David, I’m glad you enjoyed the Catskills Scenic Byway tour once it started. The initial setup was confusing—I appreciate you sticking with it. The good news is, once you’re heading in the right direction, the audio takes care of the rest. If you’re planning more adventures around the state, check out my Ultimate New York Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Bundle—it features iconic spots like Niagara Falls, Grand Central Terminal, Wall Street, and more!

O
O4200YSwilliamc
April 12, 2025
I wouldn’t recommend this auto guide tour

I took auto guide , Friday, and I did GPs where the address starts. I followed 555 NY, 28 A West Hurley Kingston snack shop. Know Kingston snack shop, it was private residence. No signs where Kingston snack shop anywhere. I went back to the visitor center the temper hills and told about the situation and they told in gas station, never saw it! I wouldn’t recommend this tour,

Operator response

William, I'm sorry to hear about the confusion. My self-guided audio tour works by following the map and route provided in the app after download—there’s no need to visit any private property, and local visitor centers may not have information about the tour. If you need help, I’m always here to assist. Since you've left the area now, I’m happy to refund or replace the tour. Please reach out and let me know what you prefer.

S
seann954
February 16, 2025
Fun in any season!

This was an amazingly informative tour. I never did a self-guided tour before but this was easy to follow and we found some awesome places we would've never went like this bakery, Bread Alone, and the worlds largest kaleidoscope! Highly reccomend in the summer but it's great in the winter too!

Operator response

Hi there, I'm thrilled you had a great time with my Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. It’s always fun to stumble upon hidden gems like Bread Alone and the world’s largest kaleidoscope along the way. Check out my NYC Must-Sees at Your Pace: Self-Guided Walking Tour Bundle for more NYC adventures. Explore Midtown Manhattan, Wall Street, and more at your own pace. Happy exploring!

H
hilak713
November 24, 2024
Great way to experience the region

We did it on a cold winter day, and it will be even nicer if the weather is warmer and you have all day, as there are great short trails and many fun stops along the way. We heard many interesting anecdotes, and we learned much about the region's history! I was very impressed by the reservoir - don't skip this off-road stop.

Operator response

Hila, I’m glad you enjoyed my Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour! It’s great that you discovered the reservoir and learned so much about the region’s history. For more scenic adventures with the same flexibility and convenience, check out my collection of 100+ self-guided tours. Happy exploring!

C
Camper17338009407
October 16, 2024
Worth skipping music for an audio tour! Fun experience.

Very helpful that it played the points automatically as I drove. I tried the app before heading out, which I would recommend everyone to do. Glad I purchased this tour. Absolutely worth the price and content.

Operator response

Sheryl, I’m glad you found my Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour helpful and worth it. Previewing the app before heading out is always a great idea to ensure a smooth experience. If you’re ready for more, check out my collection of over 100 self-guided tours offering the same flexibility and convenience across unique destinations. Enjoy your next adventure!

L
lorrieh391
October 10, 2024
Worth the money!

Very informative and easy to follow. Will definitely do more of these tours in the future. Only problem we encountered was with the starting point. When we put the address given in the GPS, we ended up in the middle of nowhere. We figured it out but you had better check that address.

Operator response

Lorrie, I’m so glad you enjoyed my Catskills Scenic Byway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour and found it informative and easy to follow. I have already fixed the issue with the starting point for future travelers. If you're ready for more adventures, my 100+ self-guided tours offer the same flexibility and convenience for exploring beautiful places at your own pace. Happy travels!

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