We’ve all had those moments where we are sitting at home bored out of our minds. We want to do something, or go somewhere, yet we use the excuse that there’s nothing to do in Upstate NY.
Maybe you feel you’ve done it all, you don’t feel like being basic and driving to Lake George for the 50th time this summer or Malta to see another Drive-in movie, but don’t worry, I have done the work for you. Here are ten unique and non-basic things to do this summer in Upstate NY.
1. GLAMPING
Photo Credit: Image Gallery: Extreme Glamping
There are many places in Upstate NY that offer the glamping experience. Imagine all your favorite parts about camping, without the annoyance of a thousand bug bites, that tree root stabbing you in the side while you sleep, or the nastiness that is the public campground bathrooms, and showers. “Glampgrounds” come equipped with luxury items such as king and queen size mattresses, along with full bath and hot showers. Most sites have full menus for dining, and some places even have air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Choose your Glampsite Here.
2. WALKWAY OVER THE HUDSON
Need plans for the 4th of July? What about watching the fireworks above the Hudson River? Walkway over the Hudson is a great place to bring the whole family. Tickets are on sale now, but you should get them soon, this event has sold out in previous years.
3. FINGER LAKES WINE COUNTRY
Okay, so this one may be a little basic, but who doesn’t love wine? How about exploring Finger Lakes Wine Country? There are three wine trails including Cayuga, Keuka, and Seneca Lake. Food and wine pairings are offered year round and the events range in theme. Some themes include the obvious cheese and chocolate, while more unique are herb and harvest. *Stay tuned for my review of Stoutridge Winery in Marlboro, NY.
4. HARRIET TUBMAN HOUSE
Help children avoid “brain drain” this summer with something historical and educational. Check out the house of Harriet Tubman, located in Auburn NY. Here, tour guides will take you back in time, and give you a glimpse into the 19th century effort to gain freedom for slaves in the south.
5. STORM KING ART CENTER
Photo Credit: Real Estate Hudson Valley NY
Ever been to a sculpture park? The Storm King Art Center is a 500-acre landscape of fields, hills, and woodlands. Located in Lower Hudson Valley, this park exhibits more than 100 large-scale sculptures, giving a whole new experience to the way we view art.
6. MAGGIE’S BROOK FARM
How cool would it be to go to an Alpaca farm?! Well, you can! Maggie’s Brook Farm is located in Rensselaer County. The farm is family owned since May of 2000. The farm also has a specialty shop where they sell items made from Alpaca fibers such as vests, sweaters, and scarfs.
7. WILD WALK
Experience the Adirondacks as if you were an animal in Tupperlake, NY. Wild Walk takes you up a series of bridges to the treetops of the Adirondacks. This interactive way of viewing nature lets you stand in a giant bald eagle’s nest, lay or walk across a giant spider web woven above, or climb up a staircase inside a huge tree trunk.
8. STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING
Photo Credit: New York Upstate
At Lake George Kayak Company in Bolton Landing, they offer three different types of stand up paddle boards depending on if you want relaxation, a workout, or speed! They also offer lessons and allow you to “try before you buy”.
9. THE ROLLING HILLS ASYLUM
Photo Credit: New York Upstate
For all you thrill seekers out there, there are plenty of haunted places to visit and tour in the area. Might I suggest The Rolling Hills Asylum? This was home to many such as orphans, widows, paupers, and the disabled. Guests have their choice of many ways to ghost hunt including guided tours, bus tours, and movie nights.
10. ’76 HOUSE RESTAURANT
Photo Credit: ’76 House
The ’76 House is located in Tappan, NY. The restaurant is New York’s oldest tavern. This 300 year old structure is a national landmark. Some popular guests include George Washington and Benedict Arnold.
So, next time you’re bored this summer and convince yourself that Upstate NY has nothing to offer, take a look at this list. Personally, I already have a few places I cannot wait to visit this summer. Let me know what places you’re most interested in visiting, or if you have already been there. I would love to hear about your experiences!
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