When most people think of New York State, they think of the City. You know, Time Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Yankee Stadium. However, there is more to life in New York than The Big Apple. If you really want to get into a New York state of mind, you have to expand your horizon—and maybe your coordinates. Think Adirondacks, horse racing, wholesome food and Niagara Falls. Think…Upstate New York.
1. Niagara Falls
A true North American natural wonder, Niagara Falls flows directly through the Niagara Falls State Park, located in western New York. With millions of gallons of water spilling over every minute, the Falls are a sight to see. There are plenty of hotel options and site seeing opportunities. The town of Niagara Falls is filled with sparkling scenery, thrilling attractions, family-friendly and interactive exhibits, and miles of hiking trails. Just don’t forget to bring your passport; the Rainbow Bridge to the Canadian side is just a short walk away.
2. Lake Placid
This quaint city that’s tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains has hosted two Winter Olympic Games. Acclaimed for its cold-weather charms, Lake Placid offers a variety of winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, ice climbing and much more. Located on the shores of Mirror Lake, this Update New York town is great for kayaking, boating, and water skiing. This alpine village also offers many savory restaurants, enriching events and outdoor recreational activities. Lake Placid’s accommodations include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds, even full-service resorts and private rentals.
3. Saratoga Springs
Home to the oldest horse racing track in the country, Saratoga Springs is a great place to spend some car-free time. Spend the summer betting on the world’s most prestigious thoroughbreds at the Saratoga Race Course, or attend a concert at the infamous Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Ride around on a cute trolley, while enjoying exquisite food, endless shopping and much more. As for outdoorsy activities, take a bicycle ride through the mineral springs at Saratoga Spa State Park, a 2,000 acre verdant oasis. Saratoga Springs offers a wide range of accommodations. However, be warned. Once you arrive you may never want to leave!
4. Cooperstown
Home to the National Bas
eball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown has much more to offer getaway seekers than rich baseball history. With four state parks, Cooperstown is located in the rolling foothills of the northern Catskills. During the winter, you can snow shoe, ice skate, or just enjoy the solitude of the season. If the outdoors isn’t your thing, your can enjoy tastings and tours at Brewery Ommegang and Cooperstown Brewing. This western New York village also offers plenty of shopping, interactive art exhibits and workshops, as well as a botanical garden.
5. Jamestown
The birthplace of Lucille Ball, Jamestown is home to Komedy Kollege, which aims to foster new comedic talent. Come and hone your skills in stand-up, slapstick and other comedic disciplines. With a mid-western flair, the food is tasty and wholesome. Take a tour around downtown Jamestown to see giant wall paintings of Lucy and her Latin-lover husband Desi Arnaz. And don’t forget to visit the legendary Lucy-Desi Museum. If you’re looking for a laugh and a little down home cooking, visit Jamestown!
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’][/author_image] [author_info]Amy Richards is a freelance writer born and raised in Saratoga Springs, New York. She is proud of her small city and she thinks more people should visit these special little cities and towns. She loves to give tourists gift baskets New York style.[/author_info] [/author]
