Best Places To Travel In Upstate New York
Upstate New York is a region filled with natural beauty and charming small towns, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Upstate New York. Here are some of the best places to travel in Upstate New York:
1. Lake Placid
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The town hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, and visitors can still visit the Olympic facilities, including the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. In addition to outdoor recreation, Lake Placid has a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York. The park features a series of cascading waterfalls and gorges, which can be explored via hiking trails. Visitors can also go camping, fishing, and swimming in the park.
3. Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs is a picturesque town known for its natural mineral springs and horse racing. Visitors can take a stroll through Congress Park, which features a beautiful rose garden and a historic carousel, or catch a race at the Saratoga Race Course. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and performance venues.
4. Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands region of Upstate New York is a group of islands located in the St. Lawrence River. Visitors can take boat tours of the islands, which offer stunning views of the river and lush foliage. There are also numerous historic sites to explore, including Boldt Castle and Singer Castle.
5. Cooperstown
Cooperstown is a charming small town located in central New York, best known for being the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Visitors can tour the museum and learn about the history of baseball in America, or take a stroll through the town's picturesque streets, which are lined with quaint shops and restaurants.
6. Rochester
Rochester is a vibrant city located in western New York, known for its thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore the George Eastman Museum, which features exhibits on photography and film, or visit the Strong National Museum of Play, which is dedicated to the history of toys and games. The city also has numerous parks and gardens, including Highland Park and the Rochester Lilac Festival.
7. Ithaca
Ithaca is a college town located in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, known for its natural beauty and intellectual atmosphere. Visitors can hike to the top of Taughannock Falls, one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, or explore the Cornell University campus. The town also has a thriving food and wine scene, with numerous farm-to-table restaurants and wineries.
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, small town charm, or urban sophistication, Upstate New York has something for everyone. Plan your next getaway to this beautiful and diverse region of the United States.
