You’ve probably seen the photos. That moody, Victorian-style bar with the emerald green walls and the kind of lighting that makes everyone look like they’re in a 1940s noir film. It’s Vanderbilt Lakeside Bar Room & Guesthouse. Located in Philmont, New York, it sits right on the edge of Summit Lake. It isn’t just another boutique hotel in a region that's currently exploding with "A-frame" aesthetics and overpriced espresso. Honestly, it feels different. It’s a bit gritty, very stylish, and surprisingly approachable for a place that looks this good.
Philmont is an interesting choice for a getaway. It’s not Hudson. It’s not Woodstock. It’s a former mill town that still feels like a real town where people actually live and work. When owners Kasada and Henry first opened the doors, they weren't trying to build a generic resort. They restored a 1860s house. They kept the soul of the building. You can feel it in the floorboards.
The Vibe at Vanderbilt Lakeside Bar Room & Guesthouse
Walking in feels like stepping into a friend's very cool, very old estate. The Bar Room is the heart of the operation. It’s dark. It’s intimate. There is a massive focus on local spirits and a menu that changes because, well, the seasons change in Upstate New York. Most people come for the drinks but stay because the atmosphere is thick enough to cut with a knife. It’s the kind of place where you can spend four hours talking to a stranger about fly fishing or the best record shops in the Hudson Valley.
The guesthouse part? It’s small. Only a few rooms. This isn't a Hilton. Each room is curated with vintage finds and high-end linens. You won't find a massive TV or a mini-fridge stocked with $10 Snickers bars. Instead, you get a view of the lake and the sound of the wind through the trees. It’s quiet. Really quiet. If you’re looking for a party scene, go back to the city. This is for decompression.
What to Expect From the Food and Drink
The kitchen doesn't overcomplicate things. They use what’s around. You might find locally sourced trout or a burger that actually tastes like beef. It’s elevated tavern food. The cocktail program is where they really flex, though. They do the classics perfectly, but their seasonal rotations are where the creativity shines. They use bitters and syrups made in-house. It’s impressive.
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The lakefront deck is the spot in the summer. Seriously. Sitting there with a cold drink while the sun hits the water is basically therapy. In the winter, the Bar Room becomes a cave of warmth. It’s a year-round destination, but the "vibe" shifts significantly with the weather.
Why Philmont?
Most travelers skip right over Philmont on their way to Hudson or the high peaks. That’s a mistake. Philmont has this quiet, creative energy. By staying at Vanderbilt Lakeside Bar Room & Guesthouse, you're positioned perfectly to explore Columbia County without the crowds. You're twenty minutes from the Amtrak station in Hudson, but you might as well be on another planet.
There’s a sense of community here. You’ll see locals at the bar. It isn't a tourist trap. That’s an important distinction because so many "curated" experiences in the Catskills feel like they were built specifically for Instagram. This place was built for people who like good booze and a comfortable bed.
Realities of Staying in an 1860s House
Let's be real for a second. Old houses have quirks. The stairs are a bit steep. The walls aren't soundproofed like a modern Marriott. If you’re the kind of person who complains about a slightly squeaky door or the lack of a 24-hour fitness center, this isn't for you. But if you value character and history, you'll love it. The renovation was handled with a lot of respect for the original architecture. They didn't "modernize" the soul out of the place.
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Planning Your Trip to Vanderbilt Lakeside
If you're coming from NYC, it’s a straight shot up the Taconic. It’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive, depending on how bad the traffic is getting out of the Bronx. If you’re taking the train, grab a cab or a rideshare from Hudson. It’s a short hop.
Pro-Tip: Book the Bar Room for dinner ahead of time. It fills up fast, especially on weekends when the locals and visitors collide.
You should also check their calendar. They occasionally host events or live music that brings the whole place to life. It’s not a nightly occurrence, which makes it feel more special when it happens.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
While the Vanderbilt is a destination in itself, you’d be crazy not to explore.
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- High Falls Conservation Area: It’s a short drive and features the tallest waterfall in Columbia County. It’s a relatively easy hike.
- Hudson, NY: Go for the antiques and the shopping, then retreat back to the quiet of Philmont when the crowds get to be too much.
- Local Farms: There are dozens of farm stands nearby. Grab some local cheese and cider to take back to your room.
The Vanderbilt Lakeside Bar Room & Guesthouse serves as a home base. It’s a place to return to after a day of wandering. The transition from the bright, airy Hudson Valley landscape to the dark, cozy Bar Room is one of the best parts of the experience.
The Verdict on Vanderbilt Lakeside
Is it worth the trek? Yes. Especially if you’re burnt out on the "polished" version of the Catskills. It’s authentic. It’s run by people who actually care about hospitality. It’s beautiful without being pretentious.
The rooms are comfortable, the food is honest, and the drinks are some of the best in the region. It’s a specific kind of magic that you only find when someone takes a gamble on a forgotten building in a quiet town.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check Availability Early: Since there are only a handful of rooms, they book out months in advance, particularly for autumn foliage season.
- Pack for the Outdoors: Even if you plan on lounging, the proximity to the lake and local trails means you'll want boots and a good jacket.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service in parts of Columbia County can be spotty. Philmont is generally okay, but if you’re heading out to the falls, you'll want your directions saved.
- Engage with the Staff: The people working here know the area better than any blog. Ask them where they go for coffee or where the best "secret" swimming holes are.