10 Things to Do in Upstate New York

Upstate New York is a wonderful destination for someone who enjoys exploring, history, and sightseeing.   When most people think of New York State, New York City comes to mind, however there is much more to see and do outside of the limits of New York City.  Our list of 10 things to do in Upstate New York is chocked full of variety, so there is something for everyone. 

For example, you can visit the scenic Adirondack Mountains for a hike or whitewater rafting, take a boat ride on picturesque Lake George, or explore the cool and unique Howe Caverns.  There is certainly no shortage of things to do and see and we hope you enjoy some of our picks on your next adventure to Upstate New York. 

The Adirondack Mountains 

Spanning more than 6 million acres, the Adirondack Mountains are compromised of valleys, cliffs, mountains, and many lakes.  There are many things to do and see in the mountains and depending upon the time of year you visit; your opportunities may vary. 

Visiting in the fall, this is a great location to see the fall foliage and do some hiking.  Visiting in the winter, you will find great opportunities for skiing and snowmobiling in the mountains.  

If you are the type of person who enjoys visiting breweries or wineries, then the Adirondack Mountains are full of many unique and fun things to do and experience them first hand.  This destination also offers many opportunities to play golf, go biking, and even whitewater rafting. 

Lake George 

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is a destination which offers many attractions.  During your visit to Lake George, you can take a dip in the clear and refreshing water, soak up some sun on the Million Dollar Beach, explore on a rented Jet Ski, or even camp out on a private island.  

Looking to do a little shopping, the village shops offer a good variety of items for everyone as well as a chance to grab some ice cream or frozen yogurt.  While visiting Lake George, you can stop into Fort William Henry Museum which stands in place of the original fort which dates to 1755 and was utilized during the French and Indian War.  Due to the vast number of things to do here, this is one of our top things to do in Upstate New York. 

Lake Placid 

Set in the Adirondack Mountains, the alpine village of Lake Placid is where the 1980 Winter Olympic Games were hosted and is still home to the ski jumps which are still used for training today.  Want to try cruise down a real bobsled track, you can also do that while visiting Lake Placid. 

If you enjoy hiking trails, ice skating or even snowshoeing, then this location will give you the opportunity to fulfill your desires.  Take a stroll down charming Main Street or a ride along the Adirondack Scenic Railroad before sampling the area fine dining fare.  

Saratoga Springs 

Saratoga Springs New York is primarily known for the Saratoga Race Track where you can experience live betting and horse racing from July until September.  If horse racing is not your thing, you can visit the Saratoga Casino Hotel which contains over 1700 slots and electronic game tables.  Downtown Saratoga is a great location to walk and explore the local culture of the area. 

Make sure you take advantage of visiting Downtown Saratoga’s many unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.  If you are visiting on a weekend, take advantage of the live music or open mics that take place at many of the unique restaurants that line the streets of downtown Saratoga Springs or even check out a concert by your favorite artist at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center which holds just over 25,000 people.     

Howe Caverns 

Located in Schoharie, New York, Howe Caverns is an educational adventure which is appropriate for solo travelers and family adventurers alike.  You start your tour above ground and take an elevator ride 156 feet below the surface of the earth into the caverns. 

You can take advantage of one of their several different tour options, and experience mother nature’s beauty first hand.  While you are there, feel free to explore How Hight Adventure, which has activities for everyone to include activities such as zip lining and rock wall climbing.   

Cooperstown 

If you are a baseball fan, then you should make this one of your things to do in Upstate New York.  Cooperstown, New York is a small town that is brimming with sports history, culture, and more that is waiting for you. 

The top attractions at this location include The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, The Farmers Museum, Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, and Ommegang Brewery.  If you are into nature, then explore the nearby Glimmerglass State Park which has activities such as swimming and camping. 

The Corning Museum of Glass 

The Corning Museum of Glass is one of the most unique things to do in Upstate New York as it houses a collection of almost 50,000 objects that span more than 3500 years of history. 

This museum hosts nearly half a million visitors per year from around the world.  Experience live glass working demonstrations, hands on exhibits, and even participate in a make your own glass experience.  There is no shortage of things to do and see at the Corning Museum of Glass.   

Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls State Park is open 365 days a year and if you find yourself in New York State this is a stunning location to see.  This is a very well-known thing to do in Upstate New York as the breathtaking falls span between the United States and Canada. 

Enjoy a bite to eat at the Top of the Falls Restaurant which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the falls or visit the Discovery Center and hiking trails to explore the ruins of the Schoellkopf Power Plant.  If you don’t mind getting a bit wet, step out onto the “Hurricane Deck” where you are almost close enough to touch the falls and you get to experience the true power of Niagara Falls. 

Albany

Believe it or not Albany, New York is the Capital of New York State, not New York City as people often mistake it for.  Originally a small Dutch settlement, Albany has grown over the past several hundred years into the Capital and a great travel destination. 

Albany has several museums to offer, a number of theaters where you can catch a performance, as well as the Hudson River which runs right through the city.  Take a ride down the Hudson River with Dutch Apple Cruise or walk/jog along the several miles of scenic trails which parallel the Hudson River.  There are plenty of places to grab a meal, to shop, and to stay at this hub of the capital region. 

The Finger Lakes 

Known for producing some world-renowned Rieslings, Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail, and its 11 glacial lakes, the Finger Lakes of New York is made up of 9,000 square miles.  For these reasons alone, this destination is one of the things to do in Upstate New York.  Here you will find a family friendly destination that includes ziplining, hot air balloon rides, fishing, swimming, and skiing/snowboarding. 

If you are an active traveler, you will find 75 trails to explore via hiking or biking.  If you find yourself craving a drink, enjoy exploring the many breweries, wineries, and distilleries across the region.  As far as accommodations go, choose from a resort, hotel, camping, or even glamping as a trendier way to spend some time relaxing and taking in the sights.   

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