things to do in upstate new york

Upstate New York is a beautiful region with a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some things to do in Upstate New York:

Outdoor Activities

1. Hiking and Camping: Explore the Adirondack Mountains, the Catskill Mountains, and the Finger Lakes region, which offer numerous hiking trails, campsites, and scenic vistas.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at resorts like Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Belleayre Mountain.
3. Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the many lakes and rivers, including Lake George and the Hudson River.
4. Fishing: Try your luck at catching trout, bass, or salmon in the region’s many lakes, rivers, and streams.

Cultural Attractions

1. The Baseball Hall of Fame: Visit Cooperstown to learn about the history of baseball and see memorabilia from the sport’s greatest players.
2. The Farmers’ Museum: Explore the history of agriculture and rural life at this living history museum in Cooperstown.
3. The Fenimore Art Museum: Discover American art and culture at this museum in Cooperstown.
4. The Erie Canal: Take a boat tour or drive along the canal, which played a crucial role in the region’s history and development.

Food and Drink

1. Wineries: Visit the Finger Lakes region, which is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards.
2. Breweries: Sample local craft beers at breweries like Saranac Brewery in Utica and Ommegang Brewery in Cooperstown.
3. Apple Picking: Visit a local orchard to pick fresh apples and enjoy the scenic countryside.
4. Maple Syrup: Learn about the production of maple syrup and sample some of the region’s best at a local sugarhouse.

Other Attractions

1. Niagara Falls: Visit the American side of the falls for stunning views and hiking trails.
2. The 1000 Islands: Take a boat tour or drive through this scenic region, which features over 1,800 islands in the St. Lawrence River.
3. The Adirondack Scenic Railroad: Ride a vintage train through the Adirondack Mountains and enjoy the scenic views.
4. The Howe Caverns: Explore the stunning underground caves and rock formations in Cobleskill.

Cities and Towns

1. Albany: Visit the state capital to explore the Empire State Plaza, the New York State Capitol building, and the Albany Institute of History & Art.
2. Saratoga Springs: This charming town is known for its horse racing, spas, and cultural attractions like the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
3. Ithaca: Home to Cornell University, Ithaca is a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and culture scene.
4. Lake Placid: This Olympic village hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980 and offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Upstate New York. The region offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, so you’re sure to find something that suits your interests.