When this Village got its start in the mid 1800’s it had two general country stores, a harness shop, a blacksmith shop and a hotel (the Tremper House). Today Phoenicia has grown to be the largest village in Shandaken (still tiny with just 300 residents!). It is considered to be the gateway to plenty of outdoor adventure in this area of the Catskill Mountains. A stroll through modern day Phoenicia will take you by plenty of shops, restaurants, and places to stay. Depending on the time of year that you visit, you might happen upon any number of artistic and cultural events that are going on. During Spring and much of the summer the Esopus Creek flows vigorously (white water) through the area making for fun and exciting tubing along this storied waterway.