Town: Bethel
Artists: Susan Pantaleone & Staff
About: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located in Bethel, New York, is a renowned cultural and concert venue on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival. It features a large outdoor amphitheater, a museum dedicated to the 1960s, and the Woodstock Monument. The center is also home to “The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts dove”, one of the artistic doves in the Dove Trail, symbolizing the enduring spirit of peace and music that defines this iconic location.
Address: 200 Hurd Road
Bethel, NY 12720

Location: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a cultural and concert venue located in Bethel, New York. It sits on the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, making it a landmark destination for music and history enthusiasts. The center offers a wide range of events, including concerts, festivals, and educational programs, all set within a picturesque rural environment.
The venue’s main attractions include:
- The Pavilion Stage: An outdoor amphitheater with seating for approximately 15,000 people, hosting concerts by popular artists across various genres.
- The Museum at Bethel Woods: Dedicated to the history and impact of the 1960s, particularly focusing on the Woodstock festival. It features exhibits, interactive displays, and artifacts from the era.
- The Event Gallery: A more intimate setting within the complex, used for smaller performances, lectures, and community events.
- Woodstock Monument: A commemorative area marking the location of the original 1969 festival, where visitors can reflect on the historical significance of the site.
Bethel Woods is not just about music; it also offers arts education programs, workshops, and community initiatives aimed at preserving the spirit of the 1960s and encouraging creativity.
For more information and event schedules, you can visit their official website: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
For history buffs, the museum’s page provides details on the exhibits and upcoming events: The Museum at Bethel Woods
You can also learn more about the historic Woodstock site here: Woodstock Monument
1. Places to Eat in Bethel, NY
- Yasgur’s Farm Café: Located within the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, offering farm-to-table cuisine.
- The Dancing Cat Saloon: Sister restaurant to the Catskill Distilling Company, known for its Cat Reuben sandwich and homemade gnocchi.
- Bethel Market Café: Offers delicious baked goods and local products.
- Woodstock Oasis: Offers pizza, deli sandwiches, and convenience store items.
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: Various dining options, including Concert Classics and Handsome Devil BBQ, available during concerts and events.
2. Places to Explore in Bethel, NY
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: Explore the site of the historic 1969 Woodstock festival, visit the museum, and enjoy live music and events.
- Lake Superior State Park: Enjoy swimming, boating, and outdoor activities.
- Stray Cat Gallery: Discover local art and crafts.
- Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Explore the surrounding Catskill Mountains for hiking, biking, and nature trails.
- Nearby Towns: Visit nearby towns like Narrowsburg for unique shops, restaurants, and charming atmosphere.
3. Places to Stay in Bethel, NY
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: Offers camping options at Yasgur Road Campground.
- Vacation Rentals: Explore various vacation rental options in the area, including houses, cabins, and apartments.
- Hotels and Inns: Consider staying at nearby hotels or inns in towns like Kenoza Lake or Goshen.
- Camping: Enjoy the great outdoors by camping at Yasgur Road Campground or other nearby campgrounds.
- Nearby Towns: Expand your search to nearby towns for a wider range of accommodation options.
Photos by Paul Henshaw