Want to explore waterfalls, military history, and upstate charm? Head to Watertown! Located near the Thousand Islands and Lake Ontario, Watertown is a scenic and historic town offering riverfront beauty, outdoor adventures, and access to Fort Drum. Whether you're visiting family, road-tripping, or seeking nature, Watertown makes a perfect Northern New York stop.
Watertown, NY Highlights:
- For Nature Lovers: Hike and admire the waterfalls at Thompson Park – Enjoy wooded trails, scenic overlooks, and the city’s most beloved green space.
- For History Buffs: Explore the Jefferson County Historical Society Museum – Discover exhibits on the Erie Canal, early settlers, and local legends.
- For Families: Visit the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park – A small, charming zoo with native species like black bears, owls, and beavers.
- For Couples: Stroll along the Black River Trail – A peaceful riverside path ideal for walking, biking, or a scenic picnic.
- For Shoppers: Explore Salmon Run Mall – Shop national chains, grab a bite, and enjoy an indoor break from the cold.
Best Time to Visit Watertown, NY
The best time to visit Watertown is from late spring to early fall (May–October) for comfortable temperatures and outdoor activities. Winter brings heavy snow—great for skiing and snowmobiling but less ideal for sightseeing on foot.
How to Get to Watertown, NY
- If you are traveling by car: Watertown is off I-81, about 1 hour north of Syracuse and 30 minutes south of the Thousand Islands.
- By Plane: Watertown International Airport (ART) offers limited commercial flights, with more options via Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR).
- By Bus: Greyhound and Trailways provide service to downtown Watertown from major cities in New York State.
Where to Stay in Watertown, NY
- Recommended for Families: Hilton Garden Inn Watertown – Family-friendly hotel with a pool, restaurant, and easy highway access.
- For Couples: The Inn at 81 – Cozy, affordable lodging with a welcoming vibe and quick access to Fort Drum and downtown.
- For Budget Travelers: Days Inn by Wyndham Watertown – Basic accommodations near shopping and dining with free breakfast and parking.
Best Things to Do in Watertown, NY
1. Take the kids to Zoo New York
Rating: ★★★★★
Zoo New York encompasses thirty-two acres of Watertown’s Thompson Park and is the world’s only zoo dedicated to the wild animals of the state of New York, as well as wild places with animals that were at one time native to the state.
Visitors can get up close to black bears, climb an authentic Adirondack fire tire, view the rare wolverines and their playful antics, and much more. Along with the ecosystems in the New York State Zoo built around these native New York State animals, the grounds also include a Butterfly House and the Olmsted Pond surrounded by wildflowers.
Zoo New York, 1 Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601, Phone: 315-782-6180, Map
2. Stroll through the historic Public Square
The Public Square in the town of Watertown, New York is an open area located in the center of the town, designated on the National Register of Historic Places as the Public Square Historic District. The square is where the town began, stretching outward from the site, with many of the establishments and buildings surrounding the Public Square dating back more than one hundred years. There is also a historic, well-maintained small park featuring a number of historic statues, offering a great place to relax for a while, and is a particularly beautiful spot during the holidays.
1200 Franklin St, Watertown, NY 13601, Phone: 315-785-7775, Map
3. Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument
The Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument is located within the Public Square in Watertown and was built back in 1891 to honor the residents of North Country who fought during the Civil War. This historic monument stands at fifty feet in height and was constructed out of granite. On top of the column is an “allegorical figure of Victory.” The monument also features commemorative bronze plaques along the west and east elevations and a bronze sailor and soldier on the south and north sides. The Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument was repaired, stabilized, and cleaned in 2012.
Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument, Watertown, NY
4. Stop by the Honor the Mountain Monument
The Honor the Mountain Monument is a centerpiece of the beautiful and historic Thompson Park, constructed in Tower Square. The monument was designed, built, and then unveiled on July 1st of 2016 to serve as a lasting statement by the community of North Country of connection and gratitude towards the service and sacrifice of the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, as well as their family members, along with the Fort Drum Civilian Workforce. Since it was reactivated in 1985 at Fort Drum, the Tenth Mountain Division has been the United States Army’s most deployed unit.
Honor the Mountain Monument , 34 Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601
5. Have lunch at The Crystal Restaurant
The Crystal Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in Watertown, New York, opened back in 1925. The locally owned and operated dining establishment replaced the early saloons that once occupied the town’s Public Square during the turn of the 19th century. Originally owned by Jerry and Dennis Valanos, the Dephtereos family bought the restaurant in 1943, continuing the belief of offering good meals at fair prices to everyone. Today, The Crystal Restaurant is still a thriving part of the old Watertown.
The Crystal Restaurant , 87 Public Square, Watertown, NY 13601, Phone: 315-782-9938
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Ski at Dry Hill Ski Area
Enter a winter wonderland of skiing, night skiing, snowboarding, and even snow-tubing at the Dry Hill Ski Area. This affordable family winter sports destination is conveniently located just a quick drive to the south of Watertown and offers a tremendous amount of fun for all of those looking to get have a great time in the snow.
Dry Hill features three beginner runs, three intermediate runs, and one advanced run with a vertical drop of 300 feet, ensuring that there’s something for every skill level. Onsite lodging is available for guests who want to make a weekend out of their trip to Dry Hill, along with an onsite restaurant and food and bar kiosks.
Dry Hill Ski Area, 18160 Alpine Ridge Road, Watertown, New York 13601, Phone: 315-782-8584, Facebook
7. Dine at Art's Jug Restaurant
Art's Jug Restaurant in Watertown, New York is another one of the Sboro family’s restaurants and has been a part of the local community since 1933. Four generations of this restaurant family have carried on the same business principles and traditions that have helped Art’s Jug become a popular destination for dining in northern New York. The restaurant’s menu has expanded over the years, specializing in Italian cuisine and including pizza, prime rib, veal, chicken, seafood, and steaks.
Art's Jug Restaurant , 820 Huntington St, Watertown, NY 13601, Phone: 315-782-9764
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