Upstate New York offers a diverse array of destinations, from serene lakes to charming small towns, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Upstate New York has something to offer. Here are 20 of the best destinations you should consider when exploring this picturesque region.
Niagara Falls
No trip to Upstate New York is complete without visiting the majestic Niagara Falls. While the Canadian side is more famous, the New York side offers its own breathtaking views and attractions. Visit Goat Island inside Niagara Falls State Park for panoramic views, explore the Cave of the Winds, or take a ride on the iconic Maid of the Mist boat to experience the falls up close. The nearby Niagara Wine Trail, with its collection of over 20 wineries, is also a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Hudson Valley
Stretching along the Hudson River, the Hudson Valley is a haven for those seeking a mix of nature, history, and culture. Explore the historic towns of Kingston and Hudson, known for their chic boutiques, restaurants, and vibrant art scenes. Don’t miss Olana, a historic house with stunning grounds, and the contemporary art at Art Omi. The region is also known for its scenic hiking trails, including those at Bear Mountain and Breakneck Ridge.
Lake Placid and Adirondack Park
Lake Placid, famous for hosting two Winter Olympics, is surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re skiing at Whiteface Mountain, exploring the Olympic sites, or hiking in the expansive Adirondack Park, there’s no shortage of activities. The park itself is the largest protected wilderness area east of the Mississippi, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring.
Saratoga Springs
Known for its mineral springs and thoroughbred horse racing, Saratoga Springs is a charming town with a rich history. The Saratoga Race Course is one of the oldest in the country and is a must-visit during racing season. The town is also home to the Saratoga Spa State Park, where you can enjoy the rejuvenating mineral baths or explore the many walking trails.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its picturesque lakes, vineyards, and charming towns. Seneca Falls, believed to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is a significant historical site as the birthplace of the women’s rights movement. The area is also famous for its wine trails, particularly around Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, where you can taste some of New York’s best wines.
Ithaca
Home to Cornell University, Ithaca is a vibrant college town surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The area is known for its gorges and waterfalls, including the impressive Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls. The town itself offers a lively arts scene, excellent restaurants, and unique shops, making it a great place to explore year-round.
Letchworth State Park
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park features stunning cliffs and waterfalls along the Genesee River. The park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and even hot air ballooning, offering some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the state. During the fall, the park’s foliage is particularly breathtaking, making it a popular destination for leaf-peepers.
Saranac Lake
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Saranac Lake is a charming village known for its historic Great Camps, rustic yet luxurious compounds once owned by wealthy families like the Rockefellers. Today, visitors can explore the town’s boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, or enjoy outdoor activities like boating and fishing on the surrounding lakes.
Lake George
Located in the southern Adirondacks, Lake George is a popular summer destination known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, from boating to scuba diving, or explore the surrounding mountains through hiking and biking. In the winter, Lake George transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering ice fishing, snowshoeing, and a family-friendly winter carnival.
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park, located in the Finger Lakes region, is famous for its dramatic gorge with 19 waterfalls cascading over 200-foot cliffs. The park offers several hiking trails that take you through the gorge, providing stunning views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The nearby Watkins Glen International race track is also a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts.
Cooperstown
Cooperstown is a must-visit for baseball fans, home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The town itself is quaint and picturesque, with historic buildings, charming shops, and beautiful views of Otsego Lake. Cooperstown is also home to the Fenimore Art Museum and the Farmers’ Museum, offering a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.
Ellicottville
Ellicottville is a quaint village located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains. Known for its outdoor recreation, the area is popular with skiers, mountain bikers, and hikers. Holiday Valley Resort offers excellent skiing in the winter, while the village itself boasts well-preserved 19th-century buildings, charming shops, and a variety of restaurants.
Skaneateles
Skaneateles, located in the Finger Lakes region, is a picturesque town known for its crystal-clear lake and historic downtown. The town’s name means “long lake” in Iroquoian, and it is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and wine tasting. Each year, the town hosts a Dickens Christmas celebration, where visitors can enjoy live entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, and festive activities.
Chimney Bluffs State Park
Chimney Bluffs State Park, located on the shores of Lake Ontario, offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Upstate New York. The park is known for its massive spires and cliffs that rise dramatically from the lake, creating a unique and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can hike along the bluffs, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or simply take in the breathtaking views.
Peekamoose Blue Hole
Located in the Catskills, Peekamoose Blue Hole is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and serene setting. The swimming hole is a popular spot during the summer months, offering a refreshing escape from the heat. Visitors can swim in the cool waters, relax on the rocks, or explore the surrounding forest.
Saugerties
Saugerties is a charming town located along the Hudson River, known for its historic lighthouse and vibrant arts scene. The Saugerties Lighthouse, built in 1869, now serves as a museum and bed-and-breakfast, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. The town is also home to a variety of art galleries, shops, and restaurants, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway.
Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities year-round. In the summer, visitors can hike the park’s numerous trails, go fishing, or enjoy a picnic with views of the Hudson River. In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even an outdoor ice-skating rink.
Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is home to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, with the falls plunging 215 feet into a gorge below. The park offers several vantage points for viewing the falls, including a scenic overlook and a hiking trail that leads to the base of the falls. The park is also a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and camping.
Cold Spring
Cold Spring is a charming village located in the Hudson Valley, known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and scenic views of the Hudson River. The town is a popular destination for hiking, with several trails offering stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. Cold Spring’s historic downtown is also worth exploring, with its quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Jamestown
Jamestown, located at the southwestern end of Chautauqua Lake, is best known as the hometown of Lucille Ball. The town is home to the National Comedy Center, a museum dedicated to the art of comedy, as well as the Chautauqua Institution, which hosts a variety of cultural and educational programs each summer. Jamestown’s charming downtown, with its historic buildings and unique shops, is also worth exploring.
These destinations showcase the diversity and beauty of Upstate New York, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant towns, soaking in the natural wonders, or delving into the region’s rich history, you’re sure to find something memorable on your journey through Upstate New York.
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