Why Did Grossinger’s Catskill Resort Close?

By Anna Duncan

Grossinger’s Catskill Resort was once one of the most famous vacation destinations in the United States. Located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains in New York, it attracted thousands of visitors each year.

However, after decades of success, Grossinger’s finally closed its doors for good in 1986. So why did this iconic resort shut down? Let’s take a closer look.

History

Grossinger’s Catskill Resort was founded in 1919 by Asher Selig Grossinger and his wife Malke. The resort began as a small boarding house with just a few rooms, but over time it grew into a sprawling complex that included multiple hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Throughout the mid-20th century, Grossinger’s enjoyed incredible success. It was known as a luxurious retreat where guests could relax and enjoy a wide range of activities such as golfing, swimming, skiing, and ice-skating. The resort also played host to numerous celebrities including Milton Berle, Joan Rivers, and Eddie Fisher.

The Decline

Despite its early success, Grossinger’s began to struggle financially in the 1970s. One factor was the rise of air travel which made it easier for people to vacation in other parts of the world. Additionally, other resorts began to spring up throughout the country offering similar amenities at lower prices.

As Grossinger’s fell out of favor with tourists, it also suffered from internal problems including poor management and financial mismanagement. The resort struggled to keep up with maintenance costs and renovations needed to keep its facilities up-to-date.

The End

By the early 1980s, Grossinger’s was on its last legs. In 1986 it finally closed for good after more than six decades in operation.

In the years since its closure, much of the resort has fallen into disrepair. However, there have been efforts to preserve and restore some of its most iconic buildings.

Conclusion

In the end, the closure of Grossinger’s Catskill Resort was a combination of factors including changing travel trends, poor management, and internal financial problems. While it may be gone today, it remains an important part of American history and a reminder of a bygone era when resorts like Grossinger’s were the ultimate vacation destination.