24 Coolest Places to Visit in Upstate New York

When most people hear “New York,” the picture of an urban metropolis with the iconic NYC skyscrapers immediately comes to mind. However, NYC is less than 1% of the State of New York. Drive up and beyond, and you’ll find flowing hills, lush rivers, breathtaking mountains, cute small towns, and even mighty waterfalls. We also have a rich history, from indigenous heritage to the abolitionist movement. And so many farms offering everything from alpaca hikes to BIPOC activism programs. Want to experience this for yourself? I travel extensively in New York, and here are some of the best places to visit in upstate New York for your next road (or train) trip up north.

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REGIONS OF NEW YORK

The places listed here will be divided into New York regions: Central New York, the Catskills, the Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, the Finger Lakes, the Thousand Islands, the Niagara Frontier, and Chautauqua-Allegheny. So you can choose the area that’s best for your Upstate New York Vacation!

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I. CENTRAL NEW YORK

1. Green Lakes State Park

Just 15 minutes east of Syracuse is one of the world’s rarest natural phenomena: Green Lakes State Park, home to not one but two meromictic lakes. Their layers of water rarely mix, creating a striking blue-green, crystal-clear color and allowing fragile, reef-like formations called microbialites to develop along the shoreline.

Here, you can hike miles of trails around the lakes, swim at the park’s designated beach, kayak, play a round at the golf course, or camp overnight. In winter, the park is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

You cannot swim in the lakes themselves (including the areas pictured above). It’s not just unsafe—there have been drownings due to steep drop-offs and cold, layered water, and it also damages the microbial reefs. These formations are extremely delicate and are a big part of what makes this place so unique, so avoid stepping on or disturbing them.

The trail around the lake is flat and easy, perfect for a soft-ground run or a relaxed walk. If you’re up for more, head to Chittenango Falls State Park, just 15 minutes away, to catch one of the region’s most impressive waterfalls.

2. Howes Caverns Tour AND Secret Caves ★

Located minutes from each other, these caves are both privately owned natural wonders. One is owned by a corporation, and the other by a local family. Both are well worth the visit, and here’s why!

Howe Caverns was discovered by farmer Lester Howe in 1842. Howe noticed his cows gathered near bushes at the bottom of a hill, where he found a cool breeze emanating from a hole. They say one cow fell in, which led to the discovery of the caverns. The caverns, estimated to be around six million years old, were opened to public tours in 1843.

Today, you can go on a guided tour of Howe Caverns through a 1.25-mile walk and a 0.25-mile boat ride through limestone corridors, impressive galleries, and a subterranean riverbed. For those seeking even more adventure, Howe Caverns offers specialty tours such as the Lantern Tour, where visitors explore the cave by lantern light, and the Signature Rock Discovery Tour, which delves into sections of the cavern that have been closed to the public for over a century. Tours start at $30.

Secret Caverns offers a more whimsical and family-owned caving experience. It is known for its 100-foot underground waterfall, discovered in 1928.

The tour at Secret Caverns involves descending a 100+ step stairway into the cave, which eventually leads to the impressive waterfall and through various stalactite and stalagmite formations. The tour is guided by humorous and educational commentary about the cave’s geology and history. This one is just $20 per person, and it’s cash only!

3. Herkimer Diamond Mines

If you’re a nerd about gemstones, crystals, and geology, this place is for you. Here, you can go mining for your very own treasure! Contrary to their name, Herkimer Diamonds are not really diamonds. They are 500,000 million-year-old surface quartz crystals and are abundant in this area. Native Mohawk people knew about these crystals and used them for jewelry, tools, and later trade. At Herkimer Diamond Mines, miners can keep anything they find.

Everyone here was SO incredibly friendly and nice, too. I think it was because we were all curious or nerdy people. We met solo travelers who came from out of state for a love of gemstones, and even crystal business sellers using specialized equipment to find gorgeous palm-sized herkimer diamonds.

Please Note! You can also visit tons of other nearby Herkimer diamond mines within minutes of each other. I didn’t have time to go, but there’s also Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground and Mohawk Valley Mineral Mining.

For accommodation, Herkimer Diamond Mines has also partnered with KOA camping resorts. So after a day of mining and crafting, you can settle into tents or camping cabins along West Canada Creek. An easy New York weekend getaway.

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II. THE CATSKILLS AREA

4. New Paltz, Minnewaska State Park & Mohonk Preserve ★

Some of my favorite places in upstate New York are in the Catskills. And the cute college town of New Paltz is the perfect launching pad with its artistic downtown vibe and surrounding outdoor adventures. Here are my top two reccomendations here:

Minnewaska State Park: Visitors can partake in several of the greatest hikes in New York, such as the Awosting Falls ★ and Minnewaska Lake Trail (easy), or, on the other side of the park, the Sam’s Point, Ice Caves Trail ★, and Verkeerderkill Falls Trail combo.

Mohonk Preserve: You’ll see the luxurious Mohonk Mountain House resort, but also these are the grounds of epic natural wonders and hiking trails, such as the famous Labyrinth + Lemon Squeeze ★. Not an easy hike, but it’s “quick” (about an hour) and incredibly rewarding. Once in a lifetime experience. Make reservations ahead of time during busy times.

For hotel stays in the New Paltz area: This stunning lodge rental is surrounded by natural light, beautiful scenery, and riverwalks. There’s also the Inn at Bellefield, a nicer Marriott. But for top luxury, the Wild Flower Farms or the Mohonk Mountain House.

5. Woodstock & Kaaterskill Falls ★

The cute town of Woodstock still maintains its warm, hippie-welcoming reputation to this day! The first time I arrived in the gorgeous downtown area, I was greeted by a circle of local drummers who invited me to join them in making music.

Stroll up and down the walkable Tinker Street area to visit gorgeous restaurants like Silvia, shop at boutiques, and drop by museums and art galleries. You can even take artsy workshops here, like traditional woodworking or ceramics/jewelry at Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild. For some amazing tacos, stop by Oriole 9. And for dessert, Sweet Dreams Organic ice cream – were both quick and amazing.

Pair Woodstock with one of the greatest upstate NY attractions, just 20 minutes away, the gorgeous Kaaterskill Falls (pictured above), the highest cascading waterfall in New York. You can even legally swim at the bottom. Avoid weekends at Kaaterskill Falls; it gets way too crowded.

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III. THE ADIRONDACKS

ALL YEAR round, the Adirondacks region is brimming with things to do. These are my favorite towns in the Adirondacks to visit + things to do.

6. Lake Placid, NY ★

Lake Placid and the surrounding area offer endless cultural, historic, culinary, and outdoor activities. One trip here will not be enough. I recommend coming here both in the winter and summer/fall. There are 2,000 miles of marked hiking trails in the Adirondack Mountains, including Mt. Marcy – the tallest mountain in New York State!

First, of all the Adirondack hiking trails, don’t miss the spectacular views from Whiteface Mountain (you can drive up here). Second, for culture and history, you have to visit the Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center for local indigenous heritage and the John Brown Farm for abolitionist history.

Lastly, Lake Placid was once a site of the Olympic Games, so part of the culture revolves around winter sports. You can go snowshoeing, walk on a frozen lake, try out a toboggan chute, or even do the Lake Placid Bobsled Experience.

At the end of your day, enjoy one of the many amazing restaurants in Lake Placid. Top of the Park, Fiddlehead Bistro, and Whitebrook Dairy are my top 3 favorites.

There are SO many GORGEOUS places to stay in Lake Placid. I recommend The Stagecoach Inn, the oldest building in Lake Placid, which offers an incredible dining experience! The Whiteface Lodge is an absolutely gorgeous upscale resort offering a massive outdoor heated pool, a private beach area with canoeing, and other recreational activities. For a boutique experience, there’s Mirror Lake Inn Resort located smack dab in front of a gorgeous lake.

7. Lake George, NY

Coined the “birthplace of the American vacation“, Lake George, NY, is considered one of the most popular places in NYS for families and outdoor lovers. Especially in the summer.

Some of the many activities to consider include: Dinner cruises on Lake George, hiking trails throughout the region (most notably on Prospect Point), relaxing on the lake beach, diving to 3 submerged heritage preserved shipwrecks.

In the fall, Lake George hosts the Adirondack Balloon Festival with hot air balloon rides!

Winter in Lake George offers winter-wonderland festivals, the Gore Mountain Ski Center, and ice fishing on Lake George itself.

8. Saranac Lake & Lake Clear (Lil’ Hidden Gem)

Saranac Lake is a hidden gem region in the Adirondacks, located just a 15-minute drive from Lake Placid. Here you can enjoy several hikes, visit the Laboratory Museum ★, go on lake excursions, and bounce between some of the best breweries in the Adirondacks.

In the winter, walk on a frozen lake, go ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and most popularly? Snowmobiling at Charlie’s Inn!

Don’t miss Lake Clear Lodge & Retreat for the perfect winter getaway filled with dinners, horse-drawn sleds, and speakeasy experiences. This lodge alone is worth the trip up to this stunning New York hidden gem.

You could also stay at the Saranac Waterfront Lodge, which is located within walking distance of the Laboratory Museum and the Saranac Lake Riverwalk.

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IV. HUDSON VALLEY/CAPITAL AREA

9. Saratoga Springs, NY

One of the most special cities in Upstate New York! Saratoga Springs is more than its famous horse races. There is also the rejuvenating Saratoga Springs Spa State Park (and Spa), Yaddo Gardens, and the Saratoga Winery. You can also hop on a cruise at the Adirondack Cruise and Charter Company. On Sundays, stop by the Saratoga Farmers’ Market for local shopping.

For foodies who love flavorful cuisine and a good cocktail, grab dinner at Boca Bistro. And, Caffe Lena is the longest continuously operating folk music venue in the United States. 

10. Kingston, NY

As New York’s original capital, Kingston is one of the upstate New York places you don’t want to miss. The town was a battleground during the American Revolution. Traces of this heritage are found throughout the town via Dutch colonial influence. 

This quaint New York getaway is divided into three sections:

• Uptown, where tourists and locals alike enjoy the Kingston Farmer’s Market every Saturday from May to November. We also highly recommend Rough Draft Bar and Books, which offers draft beer, baked goods, and books to read while indulging.
• Midtown has a distinctive creative vibe and is home to the Ulster County Center for the Performing Arts, or as the locals say, UPAC. 
• Lastly, the Rondout, or waterfront area, hosts the Hudson River Maritime Museum. The museum has a special feature- a boat building school, where students can learn how to build and restore wooden boats.
• You can also enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Hudson River, where you sail south towards Hyde Park and can enjoy views of the Catskill Mountains, historic lighthouses, and more sights. During the boat ride, your tour guide will teach you about the region’s history and culture.

While you visit Kingston, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, check out Village Coffee and Goods for breakfast (and grocery needs!), Opa! Gyros Greek Restaurant, and the Kingston Bread and Bar (be sure to arrive early).

If you’d like to stay in Kingston, consider this Historic Kingston 1800s Waterfront Townhouse? The townhouse has 3 bedrooms and is within walking distance of the Hudson River Maritime Museum and only a few minutes’ drive from Kingston Point Beach.

11. Beacon, NY ★

Beacon, New York sits in the Hudson Highlands, one of the upstate New York places to visit along the Hudson River by train. This makes Beacon the perfect day trip from NYC. Or, if you visit for a New York getaway weekend, be sure to book a room with mountain views at the Roundhouse. When you’re not enjoying the view, stroll the cute main street and enjoy the distinctive art scene of Beacon. Stop into one of the many local restaurants and boutiques. 

Enjoying the beauty of the area is simple here, too. A short drive will take you to Hudson Highlands State Park, where you can catch a glimpse of some gorgeous waterfalls on different hiking trails. Similarly, kayak to Pollepel Island to view the breathtaking Bannerman Castle. Don’t forget to visit the Dia: Beacon Museum (a MUST and by the downtown area), or the Hudson Beach Glass glassblowing studio and museum. 

Finally, stop by the local flea market. However- plan ahead. Beacon’s flea market tries to support local businesses by not offering food and drink; if you need refreshment, you must leave the market and visit a local cafe or restaurant. The Roundhouse Restaurant overlooks a beautiful waterfall (pictured above).

12. Soul Fire Farm

Located 30 minutes east of Albany in Petersburg, NY, Soul Fire Farm is a “BIPOC-centered community farm committed to ending racism and injustice in the food system.” At their farm, they offer hands-on workshops and courses on farming, as well as volunteer opportunities. This is one of my favorite farms in Upstate NY to visit!

When I went, we spent the day learning how to weed, forage, and tarping fields to reduce tillage. During their activities, they make an active effort to foster community, reflection, and decolonized education. All very important things in our American society, where most farm owners are white and most farmworkers are brown due to American history.

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V. The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York comprises 11 long lakes in the shape of skinny fingers; hence their name. There are thousands of special things to see in this region. Here is a guide for first-time visitors going to the Finger Lakes. Below are the top attractions you can’t miss.

13. Corning, NY★

Love small towns, good food, and museums? Wondering where to go upstate New York? Look no further than this town in the Finger Lakes. Corning is one of the classic upstate New York getaways, as it offers many museums, galleries, restaurants, and also boutiques. All this and more is set along the picturesque Chemung River. A few attractions to pop into while in Corning are:

1. The Corning Museum of Glass is the biggest glass museum in the world. Dedicate at least several hours to explore the exhibits, historical wings, workshops, and much more. This is one our favorite museums in Upstate New York!
2. Rockwell Museum houses unique multicultural American art. As an artist, the Rockwell Museum is personally, one of my favorites in the world due to the diverse representation of American art. Visitors shouldn’t miss the classic paintings and sculptures by Robert F. and Hertha Rockwell (the museum founders).
3. Downtown Corning where you can visit boutique shops like Connor’s Mercantile and Pip’s Boutique.
4. Dippety Do Dahs, where you can purchase extremely unique desserts, including beer and wine ice cream. 
5. Nickel’s Pitt BBQ – for some class American food with a southern twist. A must-visit for meat lovers. As a “chicken wing connoisseur”, I can personally attest to their Parmesan Buffalo chicken wings!
6. Take part in a historic walking tour of downtown Corning. During the walking tour, you’ll get to see the public artworks, and landmarks, and learn about Corning’s history and about glassmaking in Corning. You’ll also get to learn about Corning’s artistic community and discover the best places to eat.

During your stay, book a yoga class at Crystal Heart Yoga, and relax after a long day of touring. This is one of the most meaningful and best things to do in Upstate New York!

14. Ithaca, NY★

Ithaca, NY, home of Cornell University and Ithaca College, is a liberal, progressive small town on Cayuga Lake. While you visit, have a glamping adventure at Firelight Camps on La Tourelle Resort and Spa Grounds. Hike or bike the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, or crawl the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.  

Additionally, we loved visiting the Ithaca farmer’s market, where you can purchase a wide variety of local goods. While shopping, keep an eye out for Handwork, Ithaca’s Artisan Cooperative. Here, find unique creations for purchase by talented local artists. The perfect way to support the local community while sprucing up your home interior with art, flowers, and other decors.

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Ithaca, then you should check out this psychedelic body painting journey. You’ll start the journey with a shamanic guided meditation, and then get to experience the ancient art of body painting with modern UV paint. Your hosts, will paint you with vibrant colors for 60-90 minutes. After, they’ll take photographs of you which will be emailed to you and can also be made into prints.

15. Buttermilk Falls State Park ★

The Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of our favorite places to go upstate NY. Many lovely hiking trails lead to natural pools, streams, unique rock formations, gorges, and waterfalls. Visitors can even swim at the bottom of Buttermilk Falls; but only when a lifeguard is present. Be sure to pay attention to any notices regarding trail conditions, Covid-19 restrictions, and other important news when you enter the park. 

If you want more than a day trip to this beautiful spot, camp here in a tent or in a cabin. Buttermilk Falls State Park has both historic and modern cabins to choose from.

16. Watkins Glen State Park ★

If it’s your first time visiting the Finger Lakes, then the small upstate New York town of Watkins Glen is likely the best town to stay in, due to its perfect proximity to major attractions. Watkins Glen also has many fantastic restaurants, craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Should you try a glass of wine in this region, be sure to try a Riesling; the area is renowned for it!

If you’d like to stay in Watkins Glen, consider The Blackberry Inn Bed & Breakfast. This cute B&B includes access to an outdoor pool, free self-parking and a free breakfast. The B&B is in a great location, with Watkins Glen State Park being only 6 minutes walk away. Plus you’re only a few minutes walk away from many great restaurants and bakeries.

Nearby Watkins Glen State Park has 19 waterfalls, gorges, hiking, and more natural wonders. Its most iconic attraction is the Rainbow Bridge (pictured above), which is a relatively flat walk about a mile from the entrance. Additionally, more adventurous hikers can walk the North and South Rim of the glen. We recommend the South Rim trail, as you can look down at the creek as you hike.  Keep in mind, there is no alcohol or pets allowed on the Gorge Trail.

While in Watkins Glen, you could also go kayaking on Seneca Lake and go on a waterfall & nature tour of the lake. During the tour, you’ll kayak 2.5 miles and see the beautiful cliffs and waterfalls around the lake. The tour also includes instructions on kayaking, so if you’re a new to kayaking you can still take part.

17. Skaneateles, NY ★

Just 30 minutes from Syracuse, Skaneateles is the perfect lakeside destination. This small town hidden gem offers iconic places to stay such as the Skaneateles Suites Boutique Hotel, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles, or consider renting a waterfront vacation home. The walkable downtown area is located at the foot of Skaneateles Lake and offers cute restaurants, boutique artisan shops, historic sights, and much more.

Additionally, the John D. Barrow Art Gallery shows historical paintings of the area. You can even “borrow” a painting from this art gallery to showcase in your home.  Biking is also popular here, with a 32-mile road circuit.  Finally, Last Shot Distillery offers a number of award-winning spirits you will definitely want to try.

While in the Skaneateles area, you can head to Carpenter Falls, a massive 90-foot waterfall with a dramatic drop. Or head to Harriet Tubman National Historical Park and Harriet Tubman’s home, just 15 minutes west, for an educational tour of her powerful history. Harriet Tubman used her home as a safe haven for family, friends, and others seeking refuge in the North.

18. Letchworth State Park

Known as the Grand Canyon of the east, the Genessee River flows through three waterfalls, as high as 600 feet. In addition to waterfalls, the park has 66 miles of trails, horseback riding, biking, skiing, guided tours, white water rafting, kayaking, and hot air balloon experiences.

Camp here in the summer, or stay in a winterized cabin during colder months. You could also stay in a countryside home bordering the state park, that includes a pool table, ping pong table and foosball in the basement. Snowmobiling is also popular here in the wintertime. Remember: before exploring Lake Letchwork State Park, check their website for any alerts.

19. Canadaigua + Ganondagan State Historic Site

In the western edge of the Finger Lakes, 30 minutes from Rochester is the lesser-known town of Canandaigua, NY. Here are the most popular things to do here:

• ★ Ganondagan State Historic Site, a Native American community and cultural center
• Sonnenberg Gardens for its gorgeous gardens and palatial architecture.
• Canandaigua Wine Trail with award-winning wineries. You can book a tour of the wonderful wineries.
• Ontario Pathways Trail, a scenic route perfect for hiking and biking.
• Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park for boating and fishing enthusiasts. 
• A night at the Lake House on Canandaigua for a luxurious lake-side stay.

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VI. NIAGARA FRONTIER

20. Buffalo, NY

Buffalonians are proud of where they’re from, and we can see why. There is so much more to Buffalo, NY than wings! Firstly, Buffalo has an impressive museum scene. Some of the top upstate NY tourist attractions are: 

• Buffalo Museum of Science
• Buffalo History Museum
• Albright-Knox Art Gallery
• Burchfield Penney Art Center
• Children’s Museum
• Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
• The Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tour

Furthermore, Buffalo has some exceptional breweries. Some of our picks include Big Ditch Brewing Company, Buffalo Brewing Company, and Froth Brewing Co. While you indulge, be sure to travel along the Buffalo Wing Trail, and enjoy the local flavor from where it originated. You can also discover Buffalo Wings as part of The Wing Ride; a bike tour that involves sampling some of the best buffalo wings available.

If you’d like to stay in Buffalo, consider the historic Mansion on Delaware Avenue. This hotel is within walking distance of many of the best attractions in Buffalo including the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. Or consider the beautiful Reikart House perfectly situated alittle outside of the city, to go fun day trips from Buffalo.

21. Niagara Falls, NY

Another one of the best upstate New York getaways is to Niagara Falls. Guests are able to experience the Falls in a variety of ways; hiking, boating, biking, or even while dining. Maid of the Mist takes tourists as close to the falls as possible. We’ve dedicated an entire article to fun and unique things to do in Niagara Falls (both sides). But real quick – Niagara Falls State Park, encompasses many great options and much more. Once you’ve explored the American side, you can also cross to the Canadian side, so bring your passport. Here are the top cute boutique hotels in Niagara Falls to choose from!

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VII. THE THOUSAND ISLANDS ARCHIPELAGO

22. Alexandria Bay, NY

The Thousand Islands Archipelago is made up of 1,864 islands! These islands, all varying in size, lie along the St. Lawrence River between the US-Canadian border. Located on the mainland, across from these islands, the village of Alexandria Bay has a tradition steeped in maritime history. One of the best ways to experience this is to book a boat tour. The crystal clear water allows you to see down to 80 feet in some places, which reveals shipwrecks below the depths. You can get even more up close and personal to these shipwrecks through diving excursions.

Alexandria Bay has many properties on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the most notable, a 120 room mansion on Heart Island, is a replica of a Rhineland castle. Visitors can only access Boldt Castle by boat, so be sure to plan ahead by booking a tour or bringing your own personal watercraft. This unique property is also one of the must-see places in upstate New York!

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VIII. CHAUTAUQUA-ALLEGHENY

23. Chautauqua Lake, NY

Beautiful Chautauqua Lake is perfect for boating excursions, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, or sailing. Visitors can also enjoy a Jamestown historical tour of the Chautauqua Belle. In addition, this historic steamboat is a wedding and special event venue. 

After a day on the water, visitors can refresh at the Southern Tier Brewery. The brewery has distinctive offerings, like a Nitro coconut truffle imperial milk stout, or a strawberry dream milkshake IPA.

Another one of the best upstate New York tourist attractions nearby is the National Comedy Center in Jamestown. This museum celebrates the art form and craft of comedy. It also shows off important artifacts and writings from important comedic national treasures, like Lucille Ball- whose hometown is Jamestown! After, you could visit the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, to learn more about the lives and careers of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

Finish your day at the many amazing Chautauqua wineries!

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From the top of a 46 High Peak to the depths below Buttermilk Falls, the best of upstate New York is hidden in its natural wonders and small towns. So, experience the best places to visit upstate New York on your next trip.

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IX. What is Upstate New York?

Please note: the exact definition of Upstate New York varies depending on who you ask. According to the dictionary, it means “whatever is north of you”.

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X. Read More UPSTATE NY Travel Guides

• 17 Best Hikes from New York City
• A First Timer’s Guide to the Majestic Finger Lakes in New York
• 27 Refreshing Day Trips from New York City
• 17 Best Spots to Go Glamping in New York
• 31 New York Waterfalls to Explore
• Gorgeous Lake Vacations in Upstate New York
• Charming Small Towns to Visit in Upstate New York
• 24 Wonderful Things to Do and Places to See in Upstate New York in the Fall
• NYC Weekend Getaways

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XI. Pin Me For Later!

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