10 Things to Do in Central New York
When many people think about New York, they picture the big city. However, New York is America's 27th largest state with 10 different regions to explore. Central New York is one such area that's particularly underrated. Central New York has idyllic towns and wide-open rural spaces for travellers who prefer less bustle. Central New York is a hidden gem for visitors seeking a relaxing, yet exciting trip away from the concrete jungle.
When many people think about New York, they picture the big city. However, New York is America's 27th largest state with 10 different regions to explore. Central New York is one such area that's particularly underrated. Central New York has idyllic towns and wide-open rural spaces for travelers who prefer less bustle. Even Syracuse, the region's largest city, has less than 150,000 residents. Central New York is a hidden gem for visitors seeking a relaxing, yet exciting trip away from the concrete jungle. There are plenty of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Here are 10 things you can do to make the most of your Central New York vacation.
1. Mine for Treasures in Herkimer
Diamonds are everyone's best friend! In Herkimer, travelers can become prospectors and dig for magnificent gemstones. The Herkimer Diamond Mines have bedrock pockets with large quartz crystals up to eight inches long. You'll swing your hammer in search of shiny gems more than 500 million years old. Admission costs $14 for adults, but you can keep anything you find.
2. Walk the Yellow Brick Road
Chittenango is the birthplace of author L. Frank Baum who wrote "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." This small Central New York town honored his memory by painting the sidewalk yellow. Pretend you're Dorothy and walk your ruby red slippers down Main Street. Stop by the new Yellow Brick Road Casino to press your luck at the slots. Visit Chittenango in June for the OzStravaganza festival.
3. Pay Tribute to Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman, the famous Underground Railroad conductor, called Central New York home. After escaping slavery and guiding hundreds of others to freedom, Tubman settled in Auburn. The Harriet Tubman Home has been a national historic landmark on South Street since 1974. You can tour the property, plus the nearby Zion Church, for $4.50 from Tuesday to Saturday.
4. Hike Gorgeous Ithaca Gorges
Ithaca, the home of Cornell University, is renowned for its rugged gorges. Central New York visitors can hike 10 miles of pristine trails and view more than 150 waterfalls. The Cascadilla Gorge Trail and Taughannock Falls Trail are local favorites. Take a swim at Robert H. Treman State Park. Then, slow things down with a quaint picnic at Buttermilk Falls State Park.
5. Cheer On the Syracuse Orange
The Carrier Dome, aka the "Loud House," is the Northeast's largest domed stadium. Owned by Syracuse University, the Carrier Dome gets rocking during ACC basketball, football, and lacrosse games. Hall of Fame Coach Jim Boeheim's team consistently draws record-breaking crowds over 30,000. Orange fans can't forget to grab a Dome dog and some Salt City popcorn.
6. Get Wet at Thunder Island
Imagine Six Flags with fewer people. That's what you get at Thunder Island. This small, family friendly water park in Fulton only costs $21.99 per person. Central New York travelers can slide down the exhilarating Thunder Rush or take it easy in the Kiddie Mini River. Zoom around the track in speedy Formula 1 go-karts. You can also play miniature golf, play arcade games, and try zip lining.
7. Brush Up on Boxing History
Canastota is the birthplace of middleweight world champ Carmen Basilio. In 1989, this Central New York town memorialized Basilio by founding the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Million of avid boxing fans have made the pilgrimage here to honor the sport's greats since. You'll learn more about Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Robinson, Smokin' Joe Frazier, and more. New Hall of Famers are also inducted each June.
8. Tour a Revolutionary War Fort
Step back in time by visiting the Fort Ontario State Historic Site. First built in 1755, this Oswego fort was notably where Pontiac's War ended. Afterward, it was occupied by the British during the American Revolution. Fort Ontario also saw military action in the War of 1812 and housed Jewish refugees during World War II. Take time to enjoy the panoramic view of Lake Ontario and the West Pierhead Lighthouse.
9. Attend the New York State Fair
Each August, the New York State Fair rolls into Syracuse for 18 days of entertainment. By Labor Day, more than 1 million people pass through the gates. Get ready for free live music, fried food, flying amusement rides, and farm animals galore. In 2019, Governor Cuomo officially opened the Expo Center for hundreds of vendors. The Amphitheater across I-690 also attracts big-name artists like Luke Bryan and Janet Jackson.
10. Hit the Slopes on Song Mountain
Central New York is a winter sports haven. After all, the region accumulates 123.8 inches of snow on average. Song Mountain in Tully is one of the best-kept secrets for downhill skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers 24 trails with ranging difficulty levels and pristine powder. Season pass holders receive access to the equally enjoyable Labrador Mountain in Truxton too.
These are just 10 ideas for your Central New York trip. There are hundreds of activities to add to a fun-filled itinerary. Paddle your kayak down the legendary Erie Canal. Shop until you drop at Destiny USA. Pet the animals at Rosamond Gifford Zoo. See an off-Broadway show at the Landmark Theatre. Pig out on epic donut creations at Glazed & Confused. Go birdwatching at Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville. Trek down the steep trail to Chittenango Falls. Learn African-American history at the National Abolition Hall of Fame. Sample supreme seafood at Rudy's in Oswego. The list is virtually endless with great things to do in Central New York.
13 Things You Should Not Miss in New York
New York is not called the city that never sleeps for nothing. Whatever the time of the day, there is something to do on every street corner of this i
New York is not called the city that never sleeps for nothing. Whatever the time of the day, there is something to do on every street corner of this incredible city. With thousands of towering skyscrapers, vast parks, picturesque neighborhoods, and countless museums, you will not run out of things to do in New York.
Without a doubt, NYC is one of the most bucket list-worthy places to go to. However, it can be quite overwhelming to choose which activities to do in a city that is brimming with possibilities. You can spend your whole life in New York and have a different adventure each day. To help make your NYC trip easier, you will find the ultimate list of things to do in the Big Apple here.
Go to the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic structures in New York. It was built in 1883 and soars more than 1,500 feet across the East River. This bridge connects Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan and is the world's longest suspension bridge.
Watch a Broadway Show
New York has a booming theater scene. Near Times Square, you can see thousands of tourists flocking to watch some of the best Broadway shows. Just make sure to buy tickets in advance.
Visit the Met Museum
New York is home to several world-class museums. If you want to witness some of the finest art pieces across the globe, head over to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, here, you can immerse yourself in over 5,000 years of history that ranges from contemporary art to ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Visit Times Square
If you want to be part of the beautiful chaos of New York, visit Times Square. As you gaze on its giant billboards, which are larger than the average apartments in New York, and neon lights at night, you can feel the energy of the city. As a first timer to New York, a visit to Times Square is a must.
Go to the Empire State Buildin
New York's skyline is unlike any other view you will see in the world. A visit to the Empire State Building will give you an astounding view of the city. The Empire State Building is one of the most photographed buildings in the world. If you visit its observatory early in the morning, you even the see the sunrise. Just buy tickets early because this experience is limited to 100 people every morning.
Discover Brooklyn
If you love streets beaming with life, you will absolutely enjoy Brooklyn. If you make it up to the Bushwick neighborhood, you can see thousands of graffiti murals that stretch around the area's walls. Additionally, this part of New York has thousands of must-visit cafes and restaurants.
Go to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
If you want to have a lasting experience when visiting New York, make sure not to miss Ground Zero. The 9/11 museum will give you a new perspective on the tragedy. To have the full experience, rent the audio guide narrated by Robert DeNiro.
Additionally, make time to see the Oculus - a train station that replaced the previous version destroyed during the terrorist attack. This amazing structure made from steel and glass looks like a dove taking flight - a real architectural wonder.
Explore Central Park
Known as one of the most popular green spaces in America, Central Park is pretty hard to miss given its gargantuan size of approximately 422 football pitches. It even has space for theater, open-air concerts, and even picnics. Without a doubt, visiting Central Park is one of the most memorable things you can do in the city.
Eat Pizza
Italy is not the only mecca for pizza-lovers. New York pizza is one of the most sumptuous foods you can try in the city. If you want a taste of authentic pizza, visit Patsy's. The pizzeria has been making pizza since the 1930s and its recipe has been passed down through generations.
Governor's Island
If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of New York, Governor's Island is the place to be. Situated near lower Manhattan, this small island has tons of parks, art exhibitions, and bike trails. Furthermore, there are festivals held on the island every summer.
Watch the Sunset in West Street Highway
New York is one of the most incredible cities to watch the sunset. The 9A West Street Highway is a favorite spot among locals. Here, you can watch the sun go down on the Hudson River Greenway. You can even organize a picnic with your friends as you watch the magnificent view.
Visit Grand Central Station
You may have already seen Grand Central Station in your favorite movie. However, seeing it in person is even better than seeing it on screen. This train station is filled with architectural wonders such as giant shimmering gold chandeliers and bare light bulbs.
Visit New York
The Big Apple is one of the leading places for fashion, art, food, and Broadway. Although it does not boast pristine beaches like the Bahamas, or ancient ruins such as Greece, it is beautiful in its own way. Truly, New York is a city you should visit at least once in your life. Make your adventure in this beautiful concrete jungle count by not missing out on the activities listed above.
