24 Greatest Places to Visit in Upstate New York + Hidden Gems

When it comes to New York State, many only think of New York City’s immense urban metropolis. However, the vast State of New York also expands into flowing hills, roaring rivers, breathtaking mountains, cute towns, and rushing waterfalls. Beneath all its natural beauty also lies important facets of history, tied deeply to the land and its people. Want to experience this for yourself? I traveled the state extensively, and here are 24 of the uniquely best places to visit upstate New York. 

Upstate New York Getaways & Best Places to Visit

Our New York state is enormously vast and spans against several state borders. So, the places listed here will be divided by their New York regions: Central New York, the Catskills, the Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, Niagara Frontier, and Chautauqua-Allegheny. So you can choose the area that’s best for your Upstate New York Vacation!

I. CENTRAL NEW YORK

1. Green Lakes State Park (Hidden Gem)

Experience the sight of two beautiful glacial lakes at Green Lakes State Park in Central New York, near the Erie Canal Towpath. Hike some of the many miles of trails near Green Lake and Round Lake and enjoy beautiful views, especially in the autumn. In the summer, swim at the state park’s beach, practice your swing at the golf course, and go camping. When winter arrives, the park offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

You cannot swim in the areas pictured above. It’s not only unsafe (people have drowned) it’s also detrimental to the coral reef which makes this lake so divinely beautiful. Lastly, remember to leave no trace. That means no garbage, staying on the path, and being considerate of other visitors.

The trail around the lake is flat and easy, so if you’re still feeling adventurous, head over to Chittenango Falls (listed below) just 15 minutes away. For some local grub, consider the Dark Horse Tavern, which is just a 12-minute drive away from the state park.

If you want to spend the night nearby, consider staying right in Fayetteville (the town where Green Lakes State Park is located) at The Craftsman Inn which offers spacious apartment suites and a cute restaurant on site.

2. Howes Caverns & Secret Caves

Located minutes from each other, these caves are 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 when one cow fell in, it 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 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 more adventure, Howe Caverns offers specialty tours like the Lantern Tour, where visitors explore the cave by lantern light, and the Signature Rock Discovery Tour, which delves into sections of the cavern not open to the public for over a century​.
• Secret Caverns offers a more whimsical and less commercialized caving experience. It is known for its 100-foot underground waterfall, discovered in 1928. The tour here is more relaxed and features cute folk art.
  • The tour at Secret Caverns involves descending a stairway into the cave, leading to the impressive waterfall and various stalactite and stalagmite formations. The tour is guided by humorous and educational commentary about the cave’s geology and history.
  • Just $20 per person, and it’s cash only!

3. Herkimer Diamond Mines

For gemstone collectors, one of the most unique upstate New York getaways can be mining 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 abound 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. After, they can learn to craft jewelry and other gifts with the quartz. 

Herkimer Diamond Mines has partnered with KOA camping resorts to really make the mines a destination. After a day of mining and crafting, visitors enjoy dinner at the Canteen or the Miner’s Table. Then, they settle into tents or camping cabins along West Canada Creek. So you can easily make a New York weekend getaway out of this special experience.

• Note 1: You can also visit tons of other nearby Herkimer diamond mines within minutes of each other. Everyone here is so friendly and nice, too.
• Note 2: All New York land is private property or government-owned. Collecting any minerals from the government is illegal, and any private property requires permission in advance.

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 town of New Paltz is the perfect launching pad. From the artistic downtown vibe to the Dominican restaurant at the end of Main Street, New Paltz and the surrounding outdoors offer a plethora of attractions.

• Minnewaska State Park: Visitors can partake in several of the best hikes in New York, such as Awosting Falls + Minnewaska Lake Trail or on the other side of the park, the Sam’s Point + Ice Caves Trail + 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.

Gorgeous Hotels in the New Paltz Area

• This stunning lodge rental surrounded by natural light, beautiful scenery, and riverwalks.
• The Minnewaska Lodge, right by Shawangunk Mountain and surrounded by over 25,000 acres of beautiful scenery. Each morning you can enjoy a continental breakfast which is included with all rooms, and after a day of hiking, you’ll be able to unwind next to a firepit in the lodge’s gardens.
• For top luxury, check out Wild Flower Farms or the Mohonk Mountain House.

5. Woodstock & Kaaterskill Falls ★

Woodstock maintains its warm hippie reputation to this day. Upon arriving, you may be lucky enough to hear some live music in the downtown area as we did. Travel along Tinker Street to view museums and galleries, or take classes at Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild. 

You can also take a class in traditional woodworking, where you’ll learn how to use traditional hand tools such as planes, saws, and chisels at a professional shop in Woodstock.

For some amazing tacos, stop by Oriole 9. And for dessert, Sweet Dreams Organic is a must. Both are in the downtown area and within walking distance from each other.

Some of our favorite upstate NY tourist attractions are around here, like Kaaterskill Falls (pictured above). The falls are the highest cascading waterfall in New York. The bottom of the falls are typically crowded, so arrive early to avoid crowds. However, the top of the falls also has a beach area and is often missed by tourists. Also, visit Overlook Mountain, a challenging uphill journey with ruins to explore and a museum at the summit.

Gorgeous Hotels in Woodstock, NY:

• The Herwood Inn: charming bed and breakfast with rustic yet elegant decor. The perfect tranquil retreat where guests can unwind in a peaceful ambiance.

III. THE ADIRONDACKS

Whether it’s summer or winter, the Adirondacks region is brimming with things to do. Here are my favorite towns in the Adirondacks to visit + things to do.

6. Lake Placid, New York ★

On the hunt for fresh mountain air and majestic views? Lake Placid and the surrounding area have 2,000 miles of marked hiking trails in the Adirondack Mountains. Additionally, the region boasts 46 High Peaks, including Mt. Marcy – the tallest mount in New York State!

Some of these Adirondack hiking trails include driveable peaks which offer a spectacular view from the top; such as Whiteface Mountain. This view is even better in the fall, so be sure to check the foliage report. If you’d like to explore this region for a day trip, we suggest reading our Lake Placid: Things to Do Year-Round Guide.

Lake Placid was once an Olympic site, so part of the culture surrounds winter sports. So the winter is a lot of fun here! 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.

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

There are SO many gorgeous places to stay in Lake Placid. Here are my top favs:

• The Stagecoach Inn – the oldest building in Lake Placid!
• Placid Bay Hotel
• The Whiteface Lodge
• Mirror Lake Inn Resort

7. Lake George, New York

Coined the “birthplace of the American vacation“, Lake George, NY is considered one of the most popular places to visit upstate New York for families and outdoor lovers. Especially in the summer. Here are some of the many activities to consider:

• Dinner cruises on Lake George
• Hiking trails throughout the region, most notably on Prospect Point
• Relaxing on the beach
• Diving to 3 submerged heritage preserved shipwrecks

Fall: In the fall, this region attracts a multitude of “leaf peepers”. This affectionate name is given to the tourists who visit to catch the height of autumn foliage colors. There are many ways to experience the fall colors, but one of the most unique is taking a white water rafting trip through the forest. In addition, other fall activities in Lake George include the Adirondack Balloon Festival and the Adirondack Film Festival.

Winter: There are also many epic winter things to do in Lake George! Plan ahead for the fun mountain snow and winter wonderland festivals. You can still enjoy this beautiful area at Gore Mountain Ski Center, an indoor waterpark, or ice fishing on Lake George itself.

If you’re looking for something more unique to do, consider a flight over Lake George and its surrounding areas, including the Adirondacks, Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the Hudson Valley. You’ll get to see some amazing sights from thousands of feet in the air.

8. Saranac Lake & Lake Clear (Hidden Gem)

Saranac Lake is a hidden gem region in the Adirondacks, located just a 15-minute drive from Lake Placid. Its location makes it the perfect destination to add to your Adirondacks itinerary. Here you can enjoy several hikes, lake excursions, go fishing, boating, cycling, paddling, and some of the best breweries in the Adironacks.

In the winter, this Upstate New York area turns into a blissful winter wonderland where the powdery snow piles up several feet in the area. You can 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 in Saranac Lake, within walking distance of many of Saranac’s sights including the Laboratory Museum, Saranac Lake Riverwalk, and Adirondack Carousel. Plus this hotel has an indoor swimming pool, and restaurant for you to enjoy. So why not book a lake view room at this hotel?

For delicious eats, grab a bite at The 1892 Bar & Grille and Charlie’s Inn.

Read More: The Best Museums in Upstate New York to Visit

IV. HUDSON VALLEY/CAPITAL AREA

9. Saratoga Springs ★

This is one of our favorite cities in Upstate New York! Saratoga Springs has many more upstate NY tourist attractions than just horse races. There is also the rejuvenating Saratoga Springs Spa State Park, Yaddo Gardens, the Saratoga Winery, and the Saratoga Farmer’s Market. Visitors can also charter a cruise at the Adirondack Cruise and Charter Company, or take part in a floating classroom experience. Additionally, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is also located here in Saratoga Springs.

For foodies who love flavorful cuisine and a good cocktail, grabbing dinner Boca Bistro is a must; it is one of the best restaurants in Upstate New York! Finally, Caffe Lena is a true hidden gem. Catch live music or take music classes here, at the longest continuously operating folk music venue in the United States. 

10. Hudson, New York

Hudson, New York, is often considered the Brooklyn of Upstate New York. For many, it’s a once historic port town turned expensively hip and a little snobby. And for some, it’s a sweet respite from the hustle and bustle of living in New York City, just two hours away. Go, and you decide where you fall along that line!

While visiting Hudson, visitors can stroll through the downtown restaurant scene on Warren Street, Hudson’s main street. Stop at Hudson Wine Merchants for wine tasting, and WM Farmer and Sons for steaks and seafood. You’ll want your camera to capture the beautiful 100+ year old buildings as you stroll. 

Hudson also offers many museums and art galleries, like:

• Carrie Haddad Gallery
• Riverfront Antiques and Design Center
• John Davis Gallery
• Basilica Hudson, a nonprofit arts and culture center in a reclaimed industrial factory
• Hudson Underground Gallery
• FRG Objects and Design/Art
• Rose Gallery Fine Art

Don’t miss taking a ferry boat tour to the Hudson/Athens Lighthouse. In the summertime, the experience is picturesque, especially as the sun sets in the summertime.

11. Kingston, New York

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 and 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.

12. Beacon, New York ★

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).

13. Soul Fire Farm (Hidden Gem)

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.

V. The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of New York is comprised of 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.

14. Corning, New York (Hidden Gem) ★

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!

15. Ithaca, New York ★

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.

16. Buttermilk Falls State Park (Hidden Gem) ★

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.

17. Watkins Glen State Park & Town ★

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.

18. Skaneateles, NY (Hidden Gem) ★

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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

VI. NIAGARA FRONTIER

21. Buffalo, New York

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.

22. Niagara Falls, New York

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!

VII. THE THOUSAND ISLANDS ARCHIPELAGO

23. Alexandria Bay, New York

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!

VIII. CHAUTAUQUA-ALLEGHENY

24. Chautauqua Lake, New York

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!

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.

IX. What is Upstate New York?

Please note: we realize that the exact definition of Upstate New York varies depending on who you ask. According to the dictionary, it means “whatever is north of you”. So for the sake of simplicity, we’re following the New York City definition: which is literally everything “up the state” and above NYC.

Keep scrolling if you don’t want to see places closer to the city; we’ve included every region of New York State!

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

XI. Pin Me For Later!

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