Discover Phoenicia

When planning a stay in Phoenicia, you can choose between different interests: the seasonal Farmers Market, railroad history, community theater and activities on Esopus Creek. The offerings also differ in practical ways: the market runs during a clearly defined period on Sundays, while group and bus tours at the railroad museum are available by appointment. This lets you choose activities that suit you without overlooking their different requirements.

Visit the market between May and October

The Phoenicia Farmers Market takes place on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parish Field, from the third Sunday in May through the last Sunday in October. If you want the market to fit into your stay, plan your visit within this seasonal period and check the specific market dates before traveling. You can put together a picnic from the goods on offer there. The selection may vary from week to week, so consider the picnic a flexible option rather than a set menu.

Railroad history in two forms

The historic Phoenicia Station was built in 1899; visitors can tour its three interior rooms. The station focuses on the historic building. At the Empire State Railway Museum, group and bus tours are available by appointment. They include access to the train shed, which houses full-size railroad equipment in various stages of restoration, including Steam Locomotive No. 23. The distinction is clear when choosing an activity: tours at the station focus on its interior rooms, while the museum offers a tour by request that includes the train shed. You can choose between them based on your interests and the arrangements required.

Phoenicia Playhouse: Building history and community theater

The theater at Phoenicia Playhouse was built in 1887 by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The Playhouse is home to the Shandaken Theatrical Society, a nonprofit organization that has been operating for 50 years and is dedicated to community theater in Shandaken and the surrounding communities. Workshops for youth and adults provide educational opportunities; individual workshop dates may vary. The Playhouse’s cultural offerings thus range from the theater’s building history to educational programs for different age groups.

On Esopus Creek: River Run and tubing

The Rail Explorers River Run begins at the Rail Explorers Depot in Phoenicia and heads east along Esopus Creek. Along the way, the route offers views of the Catskills’ forests and river landscapes; you can also watch for bald eagles. Tubing on Esopus Creek is also available in Phoenicia. The two activities offer different experiences: the River Run focuses on the route and scenic views, while tubing is an activity on the creek.

Coordinate your travel dates and activities

The relevant conditions are key to planning your schedule. The Farmers Market runs during the season from the third Sunday in May through the last Sunday in October; check the specific date before traveling. Appointments are required for group and bus tours at the Empire State Railway Museum, and individual Playhouse workshop dates may vary. This gives you a seasonal market day, a tour by appointment and a cultural offering with dates that vary.

Discover more destinations: New Paltz, Kerhonkson, Clintondale, Shandaken, High Falls, Lake Katrine, Stone Ridge, Wallkill

See the broader travel guide: Ulster.