From stunning natural landscapes to fun road trip adventures, New York State is full of adventure. Here are some things to do in upstate New York: explore a unique museum, get behind the wheel of a car racetrack, scuba diving, and more.
Hike the Empire State Trail
The 750-mile Empire State Trail is the country’s longest multi-use state trail. It spans from New York City to Canada and includes sections of bike paths, jogging trails, walking tracks, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
It’s a hiker’s paradise, even in winter. Whether strapping on some skis or snowshoes (Amtrak allows them on the train) or simply bundling up to walk, you’ll find the trail ideal for a day of serene exploration in the Great Outdoors.
Away from the trail, you’ll find plenty to do in charming towns and villages. Explore world-class museums, breweries, wineries, creameries, and historical sites.
Visit Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs is a historic spa town famous for horse racing, but it has much to offer foodies. There are over 100 restaurants (the most in any downtown), plus farmers’ markets, cooking classes, and wine experts.
The mineral springs are the town’s main draw, leading to Saratoga becoming a health resort in the 19th century. The 122 springs are now part of the Saratoga Spa State Park, and you can visit pools, bathhouses, and massage rooms.
The pools at Saratoga Springs Resort are amazing, especially High Rock Spring Pool with its rock-work play area and gurgling water feature. The quieter pools are just as well done, too. The only downside is that the resort is large and can take a long time to get around without internal transportation.
Explore the Adirondacks
The Adirondacks is a massive park and natural wilderness constitutionally protected as “forever wild.” This incredible park features hiking trails, camping sites, mountain peaks, and climbing crags. It is larger than Yellowstone, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Parks.
Take in the stunning scenery by driving around scenic towns and exploring quaint shops. You could try wines from the local vineyards or brush up on your history at a museum. You could also go brewery hopping to get an in-depth experience of the area’s wine, beer, and spirits culture.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Embark on a romantic journey in the sky with a hot air balloon ride. See the beauty of Upstate New York from a unique perspective and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
With various ballooning packages available, you will surely find the right experience for your group. Float over the gorgeous countryside, skim over corn tassels, and see deer scurrying around as you enjoy the view from above.
Learn about the region’s history on a historic walking tour, or discover its thriving art scene. Whether searching for the perfect souvenir or reinventing your artistic aesthetic, this is an ideal location to explore.
Go Scuba Diving
New York is full of scuba diving adventures, from historic shipwrecks to underwater nature parks. The state also has several experiences uniquely New York, including bungee jumping, skydiving, and even sailing!
Discover another world under the sea on your next vacation in Upstate New York. The crystal clear waters of Lake George are ideal for scuba diving and offer bounteous opportunities to explore natural formations and various wrecks.
In LeRoy, NY, you can visit the Jell-O Gallery Museum and learn everything there is to know about the jiggly treat that was invented in the city! Kids will love a scavenger hunt, and adults will appreciate learning more about the history of this popular snack. The museum also makes a great way to break up a long car trip.
