Best Things to Do in Upstate New York – An Insider’s Guide

As a proud New Yorker, I’m always excited to explore all that my beautiful home state has to offer. From the bustling city life of New York City to the more laid-back atmosphere of Upstate New York, there’s something to experience for everyone. For those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of urban living, Upstate offers a wealth of activities and attractions to explore. In this guide, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite things to do in Upstate New York, in an effort to help you make the most of your trip.

Explore the Natural Beauty of Upstate NY

One of the best things about Upstate New York is the abundance of natural beauty. From gorgeous mountain ranges to picturesque lakes, Upstate NY is full of breathtaking landscapes that are definitely worth exploring. Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Upstate NY, with trails suitable for all skill levels. The Adirondack Mountains offer some of the best hiking trails in the region, and the Catskills offer plenty of challenging climbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try heading up to the Finger Lakes region for some of the best views in the state.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to explore Upstate NY, there are tons of lakes and rivers to explore. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding are popular activities in the summer months, and many of the rivers and lakes offer great fishing opportunities.

For those looking for a more leisurely way to explore the natural beauty of Upstate NY, consider taking a scenic drive. The Adirondack Byway is a great option, with plenty of stops along the way for photo opportunities and sightseeing. The Catskills also offer some of the best drives in the state, with winding roads that take you through stunning mountain passes and forests.

Experience the Unique Culture of Upstate NY

Upstate NY is home to a variety of unique and interesting cultures. From the Amish of western New York to the Mohawk Nation of the Adirondacks, Upstate NY is full of diverse cultures that are definitely worth exploring.

The Amish are a religious group that has been living in western New York since the late 1700s. The communities are centered around farming and the traditional Amish lifestyle, and visitors are welcome to observe and learn about their culture. There are several Amish communities in Upstate New York, and many offer tours and other activities for visitors.

The Mohawk Nation is a group of indigenous people that have been living in the Adirondacks for centuries. Visitors can learn about their culture and history by visiting the Akwesasne Mohawk Museum and the Akwesasne Cultural Center. The Akwesasne Mohawk Casino is also a popular destination for visitors, with a variety of gaming and entertainment options.

Upstate NY is also home to a variety of other cultures, including Italian, Irish, and German. Many of these cultures have left their mark on the region, and visitors can explore the unique cultural offerings of each area.

Go Shopping in Upstate NY

Upstate NY is home to a variety of unique shopping opportunities. From small boutiques to larger chain stores, there’s something for everyone. The Finger Lakes region is a great place to shop, with a variety of small boutiques and specialty stores. The Adirondacks are also home to some great shopping opportunities, with a variety of outdoor stores and art galleries.

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, consider heading to Cooperstown, which is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum offers a variety of unique gifts and souvenirs for baseball fans, as well as plenty of other interesting items.

For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the cities of Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse all offer plenty of shopping opportunities. From large malls to small boutiques, there’s something for everyone in these three cities.

Visit the Historical Sites of Upstate NY

Upstate NY is full of historical sites and attractions that are definitely worth visiting. The Finger Lakes region is home to several historical sites, including the Harriet Tubman House and the Seneca Falls National Historic Park.

The Adirondacks are also home to several historical sites, including the Fort Ticonderoga National Historic Site and the Saratoga National Historical Park. Both of these sites offer a wealth of information about the region’s history, and are definitely worth a visit.

The cities of Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse are also full of historical attractions. From the Erie Canal Museum to the Corning Museum of Glass, there’s plenty of history to explore in these cities.

Enjoy the Festivals and Events of Upstate NY

Upstate NY is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Finger Lakes region is particularly popular for its festivals, with events such as the Finger Lakes Wine Festival and the Finger Lakes Beer Festival drawing in thousands of visitors each year.

The Adirondacks also host several popular events throughout the year, including the Adirondack Balloon Festival and the Adirondack Wolfman Festival. The cities of Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse also host several popular events, such as the Rochester International Jazz Festival and the Syracuse International Film Festival.

Conclusion

Upstate New York is full of activities and attractions that are sure to please any traveler. From exploring the natural beauty of the region to experiencing the unique culture and history of Upstate NY, there’s something for everyone in this part of the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure of a lifetime, Upstate NY has something to offer.