Cooperstown Isn't Just for Baseball Fans
Upstate New York is idyllic, picturesque, and filled with fun sites and attractions. You can spend a day on Lake Placid, visit Watkins Glen, or go to Finger Lakes Wine Country. You'll be awed by the natural beauty and sophistication. Here are 20 places to visit in Upstate New York.
1. Lake Placid
Situated in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is the perfect marriage of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. A popular destination for Olympics buffs, Lake Placid offers year-round fun and recreation. You can ski, hike, or kayak.
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2. Saratoga Springs
Famous for its horse racing and natural mineral springs, Saratoga Springs is elegant and offers tons of excitement. You can visit the Saratoga Race Course, unwind at Roosevelt Bath & Spa, and check out the downtown dining scene.
3. Ithaca
Home to Cornell University and over 150 magnificent waterfalls, Ithaca is ideal for nature lovers and intellectuals alike. Take a pleasant walk through the Ithaca Commons, hike Buttermilk Falls, and visit a local winery for a glass or two of wine.
4. Cooperstown
This charming small town is famous for being home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Cooperstown is more than a living baseball encyclopedia. There are lovely farmers' markets, the Fenimore Art Museum, and the scenic Glimmerglass State Park.
Marcbela (Marc N. Belanger) on Wikimedia
5. Adirondack Park
This park covers over six million acres and is one of the largest protected areas in the country. Its vast and idyllic wilderness includes mountains, trails, and lakes. It's perfect for a weekend camping excursion.
6. Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen is renowned around the world for its 19 waterfalls and stunning gorges within Watkins Glen State Park. The Gorge Trail winds around cascading falls and stone bridges. The village is the gateway to Seneca Lake wine country, which is like stepping into another world.
7. Hudson
Only two hours north of New York City, Hudson is a mecca for art, design, and fine dining. Visit Warren Street, which bursts with galleries, antique shops, and upscale restaurants. It's close to the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains, so you'll be spoiled for choice for perfect weekend retreats.
8. Fingers Lake Wine Country
The Finger Lakes region features over 100 wineries, mostly around Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes. If you're not into wine, you can explore waterfalls, lakeside towns, and eat at one of the many fantastic restaurants.
9. Lake George
Referred to as the "Queen of American Lakes," Lake George has crystal-clear waters surrounded by the Adirondacks. You and your family can spend a lovely day boating, parasailing, or lounging on a beach. It's lively, scenic, and you'll get your fill of panoramic views.
10. Kingston
Kingston was New York's first capital and drips with colonial history and stunning riverfront beauty. The Rondout District offers next-level charming brick architecture, local shops, and waterfront dining. Stop by the Maritime Museum or take a scenic cruise.
11. Saranac Lake
West of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake delivers a more relaxed Adirondack experience. It's home to a creative community and is filled with cozy lodges and calm lakes.
12. Letchworth State Park
Have you ever visited the "Grand Canyon of the East"? This state park lets you feast your eyes upon dramatic cliffs and powerful waterfalls. You can walk miles of trails or take a hot-air balloon ride. The views are spectacular, making it a haven for photographers.
13. Albany
As the state capital, Albany is flush with political history and a thriving cultural scene. You and your family can tour the New York State Capitol, the Empire State Plaza, or the Albany Institute of History and Art. The downtown area was revitalized and features trendy restaurants and live music.
14. Catskill Mountains
One of the country's most iconic summer escapes is to visit the Catskill Mountains. You can hike, camp, ski, or spend time at one of the upscale resorts. There's nothing like a stroll through a charming town like Tannersville.
15. Corning
You should spend a pleasant day at the Corning Museum of Glass. This Southern Tier town lives at the intersection of innovation and art. You can view live glassblowing, tour the Rockwell Museum, and walk through the Gaffer District's boutiques.
16. Skaneateles
Situated on the sparkling Skaneateles Lake, this quaint village delivers a luxury lakeside experience. Spend a weekend shopping in the boutiques, staying at a historic inn, and eating an elegant meal while on the waterfront. The entire area has a cozy atmosphere. If you visit during the summer, you can go on a boat tour or attend an arts festival.
17. Tupper Lake
Tupper Lake is a hidden gem nestled within the Adirondacks. It's home to the Wild Center, an interactive natural history museum with a treetop walkway. While here, you can kayak the Raquette River and then spend the night stargazing.
18. Chautauqua Institution
Founded in 1974, this lakeside community is the perfect marriage of arts, education, and spirituality. During the summer, the area hosts world-class lectures and concerts. It's a peaceful and engaging place to visit any time of the year.
19. Alexandria Bay
Alexandria Bay is located in the Thousand Islands region and is your gateway to Boldt Castle, a romantic mansion on Heart Island. The turquoise waters are picturesque, and the harbor is charming and makes a great backdrop for photos. This is the perfect summer escape.
20. Ellicottville
In Western New York, you can visit this village that's popular for the Holiday Valley Resort, which is one of the best ski and mountain biking destinations in the country. You'll love the cozy lodges, food, and music festivals.
