The Local Hostel
A social hostel in Watkins Glen with a full bar, live events, and a terrace
A lodge in Watkins Glen
The Local Hostel sits in Watkins Glen, New York, a short walk from several restaurants, a cafe, and Point Lookout viewpoint. It has a 4.5/5 guest rating across 41 reviews. The property runs a full bar and an on-site coffee house, and regularly hosts live music, stand-up comedy, movie nights, and temporary art exhibitions. Rooms have private bathrooms and premium bedding. A shared kitchen, games room, sun terrace, and 24-hour front desk round out the practical side.
Who this stay suits
A socially active hostel with a bar, regular events, and clean rooms that all have private bathrooms — better suited to guests who want something to do in the evening than those looking for a quiet base.
Best for
- Solo travellers who want a social atmosphere
- Budget-conscious guests near Watkins Glen
- Groups looking for live-event programming
- Travellers who need accessible accommodation
Less suited to
- Guests who prefer a fully private hotel experience
- Those with no interest in communal spaces
Bar, café, and evening events
The bar runs all day and into the evening, with NY State draft beers among the options. From 7am it doubles as a café serving Paloma Fair Trade Organic coffee, espresso, and pastries. Live music, stand-up comedy, and movie nights happen regularly on the premises.
Terrace and outdoor space
A sun terrace with outdoor furniture gives guests a place to sit outside. The rooftop is also accessible, which is a draw in warmer months when the surrounding area is at its most active.
Art, games, and community programming
Temporary art galleries cycle through the property. There is a games room with board games and puzzles, and the first floor can be booked for private parties. The hostel also broadcasts live sport events.
Accessible rooms and facilities
Ground-floor accessible rooms have doors and floor clearance of 32 inches or more, a shower with grab bars and a removable showerhead, and lowered towel racks. The bar and first floor are wheelchair accessible.
Standout features
Inside The Local Hostel
Amenities at The Local Hostel
Great for your stay
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Free WiFi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Stand-up comedy
- Live music/performance
- Movie nights
- Luggage storage
Bathroom
- Private bathroom
Bedroom
- Linen
Outdoors
- Outdoor furniture
- Sun terrace
- Terrace
Kitchen
- Shared kitchen
- Cleaning products
Room amenities
- Socket near the bed
On the map
Things to do nearby
- Point Lookout viewpoint 0.42 km
Where to eat
- Great Escape fast food 0.04 km
- Burger King fast food 0.06 km
- Dunkin' fast food 0.12 km
- Holy Cow Meat Market and Deli restaurant 0.24 km
- Walkins Glen Cafe cafe 0.26 km
- Subway fast food 0.4 km
Cleanliness is the standout theme: all 13 mentions were positive. Service also came back entirely positive across 11 mentions. The property itself drew 8 positive mentions out of 8. Location scored 7 from 7. Sleep quality was positive in 7 of 9 mentions. Kitchen drew 5 positives from 6 mentions.
- Things to do4.8
- Restaurants4.5
- Public transit4.6
- Airport access4.3
Share of positive mentions per theme, from Google reviews.
Good to know
Frequently asked
Where exactly is The Local Hostel in Watkins Glen?
The hostel is in Watkins Glen, New York. Guests cite the location positively for things to do, transit links, and nearby restaurants. Great Escape fast food is 40 metres away and Point Lookout viewpoint is under half a kilometre.
What room types are available?
Three room types are available: an Accessible ground-floor room, a Private Quad with two bunk beds, and a Double/Twin private room. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms and premium bedding.
Do all rooms have private bathrooms?
Yes. Every room at The Local Hostel includes an ensuite private bathroom, regardless of room type.
Is there food and drink on site?
The on-site bar serves NY State draft beers, wines, and cocktails. It operates as a café from 7am to 3pm, serving Paloma Fair Trade Organic coffee, espresso, pastries, and teas. A shared kitchen is also available for guests.
What events happen at the hostel?
The hostel regularly schedules live music performances, stand-up comedy nights, movie nights, and temporary art exhibitions. Live sport events are broadcast, and happy hour is a regular fixture at the bar.
Is the hostel accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. Ground-floor accessible rooms have 32-inch-clearance doors, grab bars, and a removable showerhead. The bar and first floor are also wheelchair accessible.
Is there parking at The Local Hostel?
Parking is not listed among the hostel's facilities. Guests should check local parking options in Watkins Glen before arrival.
What is the check-in arrangement?
The hostel has a 24-hour front desk, so arrival at any hour is covered. Multilingual staff are available and can give advice on the neighbourhood.
Is the hostel suitable for families?
The Private Quad, with two bunk beds and an ensuite bathroom, is the most practical option for families. The hostel also runs board games and a games room. Pet mentions in reviews were mostly positive, though check the current pet policy directly.
What is the Wi-Fi situation?
Free Wi-Fi is included throughout the property. Guest computers and printers are also available on site.
Is there laundry available?
Yes, coin laundry is available on site. Luggage storage and lockers are also provided for guests who need them.
How do I get a discount on booking?
Booking directly through the hostel's official website with the promo code STAYLOCAL gives a 5% discount off the standard rate.