Skip to Content

Top 8 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Upstate New York

Share The Article

Last Updated


Upstate New York, loosely defined as the portion of the state north of New York City, offers visitors beautiful expanses of nature, charming small towns, and countless things to do. If you’re looking to explore this region, here are 8 off-beaten-path things to do.

Top 8 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Upstate New York

1. Green Lakes State Park

Head out to Fayetteville, New York, to spend some time exploring Green Lakes State Park. This beautiful state park is home to 10 miles of hiking trails and features two gorgeous glacial lakes. There’s also no shortage of activities – from the usual camping to the less usual 18-hole golf course, Green Lakes state park has something for everyone.

Green Lakes State Park, new york

2. Venture Into Howe Caverns

Howe’s Caverns are a series of limestone caves located in Upstate New York. Guests can see the cave for themselves by going on a 90-minute tour. The classic tour takes you through countless winding passageways, as well as a short boat ride on an underground river. For those looking for a more personalized way to see the caverns, booking a private tour is also a possibility.

Venture Into Howe Caverns in  new york

3. Find Quartz At Herkimer Diamond Mines

Located about 4 hours from New York City, Herkimer Diamond Mines isn’t home to any actual diamonds, but it is home to a kind of stunning quartz crystal known for its diamond-like appearance. Its main draw is allowing visitors to try their hand at mining crystals, which can be both a one-of-a-kind experience and a great way to bring something unique home with you. Admission rates include the use of a rock hammer and all-day access to the mines.

Herkimer Diamond Mines

4. Storm King Art Center

Storm King Art Center isn’t home to just any outdoor sculpture garden, but one of the largest in the country. Located in New Windsor, New York, about 2 hours from NYC, this is a great option for those looking for a day trip to get out of the city for a bit (or simply dip their toes into upstate New York). Tickets for Storm King Art Center are available online.

Storm King Art Center

5. Visit The National Bottle Museum

If you’re looking for a quirky stop to add to your itinerary, consider stopping by the National Bottle Museum. While many museums collect and showcase art or natural history, this museum’s collection is a bit more niche – antique bottles. The museum hosts around 2,000 bottles, many of which were individually crafted before the industrialization of the industry. Tickets are available online.

Visit The National Bottle Museum

6. Explore Watkins Glen State Park

This beautiful state park is home to not one, but nineteen different waterfalls. The Stunning cascades aren't all the park has to offer, though. Other reasons to visit include exploring the hiking trails, taking in the towering cliffs, and enjoying the peacefulness of nature.

Explore Watkins Glen State Park

7. Explore Montgomery Place Historic Estate

See a gorgeous historical estate up close by visiting Montgomery Place. Located in Red Hook, New York, this 380-acre estate can be a great place to spend a day learning more about its interesting history or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery. The estate grounds are open daily to the public however, tours of the inside of the house are currently suspended.

Explore Montgomery Place Historic Estate

8. Mohonk Mountain House

This resort doesn’t only offer all manner of luxury, including spa packages and fine dining, it also offers guests unique decor and architecture. Styled like a Victorian castle, the Mohonk Mountain House overlooks Lake Mohonk. For those not looking to spend the night, the resort also offers a few Day Guest Packages as well.

Mohonk Mountain House

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Why Fall Is The Best Time To Book Your Trip To New York City

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!


SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.


Chuck Kennedy

Saturday 1st of October 2022

Where's No. 8? Chuck Kennedy

Josh

Monday 3rd of October 2022

@Chuck Kennedy, no. 8 is Mohonk Mt House