Grossinger’s Resort was one of the most well-known and prestigious resorts in the Catskills region of New York. It was a popular destination for celebrities, politicians, and families looking for a luxurious getaway.
However, in the 1980s, the resort began to decline and eventually closed its doors in 1986. So, what happened to Grossinger’s Resort?
History of Grossinger’s Resort
Grossinger’s Resort was founded by Asher Selig Grossinger and his wife Malke in 1919. The resort started as a small farmhouse that provided room and board to guests who came to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Over time, Grossinger’s grew into a massive resort that spanned over 1,200 acres with more than 30 buildings.
The Golden Age of Grossinger’s
The 1950s and 1960s were known as the golden age of Grossinger’s. During this time, the resort was at its peak with over 1,500 employees and more than 150,000 guests per year. The resort boasted amenities such as an indoor ice-skating rink, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, golf courses, and even its own airstrip.
The Decline of Grossinger’s
Despite its popularity during the golden age, Grossinger’s began to decline in the late 1970s. The rise of air travel made it easier for people to travel to other destinations such as Florida or the Caribbean for vacations instead of staying closer to home in New York. Additionally, other resorts in the area began offering more modern amenities that drew guests away from Grossinger’s.
As guest numbers declined, so did maintenance on the property. Buildings fell into disrepair and amenities became outdated.
In addition to declining guest numbers and lack of upkeep on buildings and amenities, Grossinger’s also faced internal issues. The resort was owned by the Grossinger family until the 1970s when it was sold to a corporation. This led to a shift in management and vision for the resort, which may have contributed to its eventual downfall.
The Legacy of Grossinger’s
Despite its closure in 1986, Grossinger’s Resort remains an important piece of New York history. The resort was not only a popular destination for vacationers but also hosted important events and meetings such as the famous 1967 meeting between President Lyndon B. Johnson and Soviet Premier Alexei Kosygin.
Today, the resort sits abandoned with only memories of its glory days remaining. However, there have been efforts over the years to revive Grossinger’s or redevelop the land for other uses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grossinger’s Resort was a beloved destination for generations of vacationers, but ultimately could not withstand changing times and internal issues. Despite its closure, it remains an important piece of New York history that will always be remembered by those who visited during its golden age.