Looking for a scenic escape or a cultural adventure? You’ve got to head to Upstate New York! Whether you're craving majestic mountains, beautiful waterfalls, or charming historic towns, this region is perfect for both relaxation and outdoor thrills. I highly recommend hiking the Adirondacks, sipping wine in the Finger Lakes, or simply exploring small towns—you’ll find something special no matter your interest.
Upstate New York Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Climb peaks in the Adirondack High Peaks Region – If you’re like me and love outdoor adventures, you’ll enjoy hiking forested trails, canoeing on peaceful lakes, or summiting Mount Marcy.
- For History Buffs: Explore Revolutionary War sites in Saratoga – The battlefields, historic homes, and museums here will transport you back to early American history. It’s a must for history lovers!
- For Shoppers: Browse Main Street in Hudson – Strolling through this walkable, artsy town is one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon. You’ll find art galleries, antique shops, and unique boutiques.
- For Couples: Sip and relax in the Finger Lakes Wine Region – If you’re into wine, this is paradise. I recommend enjoying vineyard tours, staying at a lakeside B&B, and indulging in romantic dinners with spectacular views.
- For Families: Visit The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester – If you’re traveling with kids, this museum is a great choice. The interactive exhibits, video game hall of fame, and fun activities make it a family favorite.
Best Time to Visit Upstate New York
Trust me, the best time to visit Upstate New York is from late spring to early fall (May to October). The weather is perfect for hiking, boating, and sightseeing. And if you can make it in the fall, the vibrant foliage from September to mid-October is simply breathtaking.
How to Get to Upstate New York
- If you are traveling by car: Getting to Upstate NY is easy via I-87, I-88, and I-90. Cities like Albany, Ithaca, and Syracuse are great entry points.
- By Air: There are several major airports, including Albany International, Greater Rochester, and Syracuse Hancock International. You’ll find regional service throughout the Northeast.
- By Train: I love the scenic Amtrak ride through the Hudson Valley. The train stops in cities like Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Niagara Falls, and the views are stunning.
Where to Stay in Upstate New York
- Recommended for Families: Mirror Lake Inn in Lake Placid – This lakeside spot is perfect for families, with indoor pools, boat rentals, and views of the stunning Adirondacks.
- For Couples: Geneva On The Lake – If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this Italianate resort on Seneca Lake is ideal. It’s perfect for wine-lovers and offers amazing sunset strolls.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: The Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga Springs – For a touch of elegance, this restored Gilded Age hotel mixes old-world charm with modern comfort.
Best Things to Do in Upstate New York
Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Baseball is an integral part of American history and culture, and the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of the sport. The Hall of Fame was first established in 1939, and it now pays homage to more than 300 of the world's greatest baseball players.
The hall's iconic red-brick building houses three floors of interactive exhibits, and a tour of all three floors is included in the price of admission. The museum is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
25 Main St, Cooperstown, NY 13326, Phone: 888-425-5633, Map
Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum
Located on a beautiful 35-acre property beside Willowemoc Creek in the Catskill mountain range, the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum was established to preserve the history of fly fishing and to share important knowledge with future generations of anglers.
The museum portion of the center offers a variety of interesting exhibits detailing the heritage of the sport over the years, while the education center is the perfect place to learn about fly tying, casting, and other aspects of fly fishing. The center is open throughout the year, but hours vary according to the season.
Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum , 1031 Old Rte 17, Livingston Manor, NY 12758, Phone: 845-439-4810
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
Fort Ontario
Owned and operated by the state of New York, Fort Ontario is an important historic site that was named for its location overlooking Lake Ontario. The original fort was built in 1755, but the building that stands today was constructed in the 1840s and upgraded during the 1860s and early 1870s.
Several structures are open to the public, including two officers' quarters, the storehouse, the powder magazine, and the men's barracks. Guided tours are available, but visitors are also welcome to explore the fort on their own and to enjoy the beautiful picnic areas on the grounds.
Fort Ontario , 1 E 4th St, Oswego, NY 13126, Phone: 315-343-4711
George Eastman House
George Eastman was the founder of the photography company Kodak, so it should come as no surprise that the George Eastman House is home to one of the world's largest collections of photography equipment. The home was built in 1905, and Eastman lived here until his death in 1932.
Many of the rooms still house their original furnishings and decorations, and Eastman's bedroom has been converted into an interactive mini-lab that allows visitors to see how photos used to be developed. Guided tours of the home are available Tuesday through Sunday, and tours of the grounds and gardens are offered during the summer.
George Eastman House, 900 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, Phone: 585-327-4800
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
George F. Johnson Carousels
Donated to the Greater Binghamton Parks by shoe manufacturer and philanthropist George F. Johnson, the six George F. Johnson Carousels are wood-carved masterpieces that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
The wood-carved George F. Johnson Carousels were all installed in the 1920s, and they can be found in six different parks throughout Greater Binghamton. Johnson came from a poor background and wanted his carousels to be accessible to everyone, so anyone who would like to go for a spin is asked to simply pick up a piece of litter instead of paying an admission fee.
Harriet Tubman Home
Situated on a 26-acre property in Auburn, New York, the Harriet Tubman Home is the place where the leader of the Underground Railroad lived and died in freedom. Tubman donated the home to the AME Zion Church in 1903, and it now stands as a memorial to her valuable life's work.
The home is open to visitors between 11am and 4pm from Monday to Friday, and visits can also be arranged on Saturdays by appointment. A small admission fee is charged to view the home, and a special event commemorating Tubman is held here every year on Memorial Day weekend.
Harriet Tubman Home, 180 S Street Rd, Auburn, NY 13021, Phone: 315-252-2081
Lester Park
As an outdoor exhibit of the New York State Museum, Lester Park offers the opportunity to view a fossilized sea floor that dates back to approximately 490 million years ago. The fossils in the park are known as stromatolites, and they were the first fossils of this type to be found in North America.
The land has belonged to the museum since 1914, and visitors are prohibited from taking any rocks or plants from the park. There is no admission fee, and visitors can learn more about the history of the area from educational panels placed throughout the site.
Lester Park, Lester Park Rd, Greenfield Center, NY 12833,
The Sembrich
Tucked away in the Adirondack foothills, The Sembrich is worth a visit even if you aren't a fan of the opera. The museum is housed inside the former studio of 19th century opera star Marcella Sembrich, and it features items like Sembrich's grand piano and other personal possessions, some of her photos and letters, and costumes and other souvenirs from many of her performances.
The property sits overlooking beautiful Lake George, and it boasts a number of inviting spots perfect for a picnic lunch. Admission is by donation, and the museum is open between mid-June and mid-September.
Marcella Sembrich Opera Museum, 4800 Lake Shore Dr, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, Phone: 518-644-2431, Facebook
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