Forestburgh General Store, Forestburgh NY

Now I feel I should mention I’m a little biased about this store because I’ve known the family that runs it practically my whole life… but this special shop is so incredible, it deserves to be sung from the treetops!

Tucked away in the Catskills is a sweet, small town called Forestburgh. With a population of about 800 people (and, as the residents joke, your vote actually counts here!) if you’re not paying attention while riding along route 42, you’ll miss it. Forestburgh is home to a few hidden gems like the Forestburgh Playhouse which is the oldest continuously operating summer theater in New York State, and the eccentric Forage Pizza known for using locally-sourced and foraged ingredients. However, my favorite hidden gem is the Forestburgh General Store.

Owned and operated by Tyler Jagel, this small, country store is known for great sandwiches, homemade cookies, and an amazing selection of happy home goods. Tyler has been running this store for almost 10 years, and it has become a staple not only to the Forestburgh community but the towns surrounding it.

There’s always a hint of Christmas at the general store and around every corner is a new slice of magic for you to explore. Ornaments, candles, and clothes are just the tip of the iceberg. I recommend the ‘Rachel’ (turkey Ruben) sandwich, a homemade chocolate chip cookie, and a long browse through the many trinkets this place has to offer.

The energy in the shop is unlike any other. Walking through the door immediately brings an energetic excitement! You feel just like a local, ordering your food with road workers, teachers, and 5th generation Forestburgh residents. Next time you are passing through the Catskills, make sure you add the Forestburgh General Store to your itinerary … it’ll bring you just the right amount of joy on your journey!