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26 Hidden Places in Upstate New York you HAVE to see for Yourself

Impressive cliffs at Chimney Bluffs State Park, constrating with the blue water of the Ontario Lake and green forest
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Beyond the buzzing life of New York City lies a state of incredible nature wonders. Here are unreal hidden places in Upstate New York that you have to visit once in your life!

After sleeping in a bed at the top of a skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, the best area to stay in New York for the first time, you should definitely hit the road!

New York City is indeed pretty stunning to visit, from its DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View, to the banks of the East River at sunset, or the view from the titans of the skyline, the Empire State Building and Summit One Vanderbilt.

But the gems located in Upstate New York are absolutely surreal! National parks, small charming towns and vast lakes grow like hot cakes over there.

⭐ Here are the best 26 hidden places in Upstate New York, for a dreamy road trip.

What is New York Upstate?

Upstate New York is everything above New York City, in the state of New York. It extends from New York City (excluded) to the Canadian border beyond the Adirondack Mountains.

It then extends to Lakes Ontario and Erie, with the great city of Buffalo to the west, past the state capital of Albany to the east.

Precise Map of Upstate New York, with purple lines at the borders

26 Stunning Hidden Places in Upstate New York

Upstate New York is a state of thousands of wonders. A lifetime wouldn’t be enough to visit them all, whether they’re national parks, big cities or small villages… Here, then, is a subjective selection of the best that New York Upstate has to offer.

🍎 Before going on a road trip in the entire state, here is a New York one-day itinerary to see the highlights of the Big Apple!

Hidden Gems in Upstate New York: the Hudson Valley & Catskills Mountains

Let’s start in the region right above New York City: the Hudson Valley, and its mesmerizing Catskills Mountains! Here are the best hidden places in Upstate New York, to visit from the north of NYC to Albany.

1. Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from New York City
🌻 Best season to visit: Fall

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, located along the Hudson River, are two towns of historical and literary significance.

Firstly, Tarrytown dates back to Dutch colonial times and was founded in the 17th century. Many people learned of its existence from Washington Irving’s tale “The Headless Horseman”. Irving captured the folklore and energy of the region perfectly.

a black and white picture of a cemetery gate reading "strange" in Sleepy Hollow, one of the hidden places in Upstate New York

Sleepy Hollow, the neighboring town to the north, was made famous by another of Washington Irving’s books, entitled “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”. 

Today, visitors can explore sites such as the Old Dutch Church, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, which offer a glimpse into the area’s historic past. They can also take a stroll along the Hudson River at the end of the day.

TOP TIP: Many visitors flock to Sleepy Hollow, especially around Halloween, to attend the spooky events organized by the town.

2. Harriman State Park

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 50-minute drive from NYC
🌻 Best season to visit: Spring

Located less than one hour away by car from New York City, and one hour and a half from Albany, Harriman State Park is the 2nd largest state park in the United-States.

However, it’s not a park that gets talked about as much as Yosemite, Zion, Grand Canyon or Rocky Mountain… Harriman State Park is not on most tourist itineraries. 

But it’s a big mistake that locals don’t make. Having this absolute gem so close to the city is an incredible chance for New Yorkers. Many go there often when the sun is out.

Its 47,527 acres (192.33 km2) offer a variety of lakes and beaches, hiking trails with the most stunning views, and incredible wildlife.

Different layers of forest, with an autumnal coloring that mixes orange and green, and in the distance, the skyscrapers of NYC at one of the best hidden places in Upstate New York, Harriman State Park.

3. Walkway Over the Hudson

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 2-hour drive from New York City
🌻 Best season to visit: Fall

The famous Hudson River goes from the Atlantic Ocean in New York lower Bay to the Adirondack Mountains. There is a unique walkway that connects Poughkeepsie on the east with Highland on the west.

This iconic pedestrian bridge spans 1,28 mile across the river. It offers panoramic views on both the river and the beautiful nature on its banks.

A big walkway over the Hudson River, one of the best hidden places in Upstate New York

As many other large elevated walkways, such as the High Line in New York City or Coulée-Verte in Paris, were first built as railroads. The Walkway over the Hudson became a pedestrian walkway in 2009, 120 years after it was originally built.

It is today the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. The bridge length is not its unique attribute, as it also stands 212 feet above the water.

TOP TIP: you can visit the walkway several times without getting bored from it as the views change with the season! From snow-covered landscapes, to bloom or autumn foliage, it never gets old!

4. Kingston

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: anytime

On a map, Kingston looks like it’s exactly between the north of New York City and Albany, even though it’s closer to Albany. A perfect location, by the Hudson River, that made this town extremely likable and one of the best hidden places in Upstate New York.

Less than 25,000 people live there, making it a very nice place to visit away from the bustling cities. It used to be the capital of the state, which leads to having a rich history and stunning architecture.

When walking downtown, you’ll be stunned by the historic and colorful houses lined up. Kingston is a lively place that attracts many highly renowned cooks and creatives of all kinds.

Last but not least, Kingston is above all a riverside town. The town revolves around the river and its lively banks, full of restaurants and great water sports.

5. Woodstock

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: Summer or Fall

The town of Woodstock is known around the world. It became famous by the legendary 1969 music festival that shares its name.

To this day, Woodstock remains a symbol of counterculture and creativity. Yes, the festival was a one-time event, but it shaped the history and dynamic of this town forever.

Though it’s been decades since the festival, visitors still flock to the town to explore its eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and artisanal eateries, reflecting its bohemian spirit.

It still has a vibrant art scene, with daily street performances and cool venues, such as the Colony or Bearsville Theater.

Beyond its artistic allure, Woodstock offers a glimpse into its storied past through landmarks. To learn more about the town’s history, visit the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum or the historic Maverick Concert Hall.

You can also walk in Tinker Street or go to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, which is on the land where the actual festival took place in 1969.

TOP TIP: Aside from its artsy history, Woodstock also has stunning natural surroundings. There are many hiking trails and waterfalls around the town.

6. Catskills Mountains

📍 Region: Hudson Valley
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1.5-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: spring

West of both Kingston and Woodstock, you can find the remarkable Catskills Mountains. These mountains are absolutely legendary because of their beauty and size.

The Catskills offer more than 6000 square miles of pure nature. Some trails are famous, others are more out of the beaten path.

bird's view on the different layers of the green Catskills Mountains, one of the most iconic places in Upstate New York

TOP HIKE FOR VIEWS: We highly recommend the Slide Mountain Trail, where you can hike to the highest peak of the Catskills and have a panoramic view of all the area. It is a 6.3-mile (10 km) loop trail. Elevation gain is 547 meters, making it a moderate-level hike.
The paths get quite icy in winter, we recommend this hike in spring or summer.

TOP HIKE FOR WATERFALLS: The Kaaterskill Falls is another gem not to miss in the Catskills. This is a two-stage waterfall, 260 feet tall (79m). There is a good hike to get there that starts at Laurel House Road. It’s an accessible 1.6-mile trail (2,6km) with a small elevation gain.

7. Hidden Gems in Albany NY

📍 Region: Capital District
🌻 Best season to visit: anytime

It’s funny how most people think New York City is the capital of New York State. Well, it is named after it after all! But funnily enough, it is not… Albany is!

To learn more about the state, and the origin of its name, we recommend visiting the New York State Museum in Albany.

The city of around 100,000 inhabitants has a beautiful historic downtown. It is home to lots of stunning architectural wonders, such as the Empire State Plaza and Palace Theater.

Albany is located right by the Hudson River, not to be mistaken in photos with the reflecting pools in front of the classical buildings. This is such a genius installation, very suitable for street photography.

Hidden Gems in Cooperstown

Cooperstown is a favorite of many travelers! Not only does it have an incredible location by the fabulous Otsego Lake, it is also a 1.5-hour drive from both Albany and Syracuse.

8. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

📍 Region: Central New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1.5-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: Spring or Summer

Cooperstown is a charming town located in the middle of Upstate New York. It is known as the birthplace of baseball and home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

One of the best things to do in Upstate New York is to visit this iconic museum. It celebrates America’s pastime and honors the game’s greatest players, managers, and contributors.

baseball balls captured from up close at the famous Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown

Visitors to the National Baseball Hall of Fame can explore exhibits showcasing historic artifacts and interactive displays. The Hall of Fame gallery is a highlight, you can see the bronze plaques of all baseball legends.

TOP TIP: Beyond the Hall of Fame, there are a lot of cool experiences in the area of Cooperstown. After exploring downtown and its many cultural institutions, we highly recommend walking along Otsego Lake.

9. Otsego Lake

📍 Region: Central New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Albany 
🌻 Best season to visit: spring

Sightseeing in Upstate New York is so easy because there is a natural gem near every town. Speaking of, the Otsego Lake is a veritable treasure trove of Upstate New York.

That is a big 4,046-acre (16.37 km2) lake surrounded by a forest on most of its banks.

Every now and then, there is a town, village or other natural wonder. Otsego Lake is an ideal place for fishing, with a variety of species like trout, yellow perch, carp and sunfish.

You can also do birdwatch, kayaking or paddleboarding! The activities on the lake are endless, and the views of it never get old. You can access it from Cooperstown, but also from the Glimmerglass State Park.

photo of cracking ice on Lake Otsego at the beginning of spring

10. Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad

📍 Region: Central New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1 hour and 15 minute drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: anytime of the year

Always dreamt of riding in an old vintage train? Well, this is your shot! This train may be a beautiful beast, but the upper Susquehanna Valley it takes you through is just as stunning!

These old-school trains are a true American tradition that locals want to perpetuate. From time to time, they organize fun and historic events, such as train robberies or scenic rides.

Hidden Gems in Finger Lakes Region and Beyond

It’s safe to say the Finger Lakes region is one of the best places in Upstate New York naturewise. As you can tell by its name, this region boasts around 12 finger-shaped lakes.

11. Oneida Lake

📍 Region: Finger Lakes
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 25-minute drive from Syracuse
🌻 Best season to visit: summer for swimming or winter for frozen lake activities

Oneida Lake is not one of the finger-shaped lakes of the Finger Lakes region. It is nonetheless a very important one as it is the largest lake of Upstate New York.

It is a 80 square miles (207 km2) lake, located north of Syracuse. Because of its impressive size, it’s home to dozens of different human – and animal, of course – communities along its shores.

Some shores offer incredible cottages for rent, charming restaurants and souvenir stores. Sylvan Beach, for example, is a very vacationer-friendly town.

Oneida Lake is a famous place for fishing, but also boating or swimming. It might be big, but it is not deep! Contrary to popular belief, Its average depth is 22 feet (6,7m). It means the water gets warm in the summer months, and freezes easily during winter!

12. Green Lakes State Park

📍 Region: Central New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 15-minute drive from Syracuse
🌻 Best season to visit: spring and summer

When road tripping through all the hidden places in Upstate New York, you could easily visit one state park a day. Green Lakes State Park is one of those unique parks you just cannot pass. 

This almost 2,000-acre national park is made up of large millennial forests and two rather unique lakes. Not only are they an absolutely incredible blue-green, but their history and composition is just as unique.

Green Lakes State Park's forest perfectly mirroring on the blue lake, making it one of the prettiest hidden places in Upstate New Yorl

They are what are known as meromictic lakes, meaning that the water on the surface and at depth do not mix. This phenomenon makes the landscape simply sublime.

We highly recommend hiking one of the 20 miles of trails to discover the stunning beauty of the Green Lake State Park.

13. Syracuse

📍 Region: Finger Lakes
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1.2-hour drive from Rochester
🌻 Best season to visit: 

Syracuse is one of the biggest towns of New York Upstate. It borders the Finger Lakes region to the northeast, while Rochester borders it to the northwest.

Its location is ideal for those looking to explore the Finger Lakes and some of the best places in Upstate New York, like Watkins Glen State Park or Taughannock Falls State Park. 

However, the city itself is worth a visit as well! Syracuse’s main focus is education through all its forms: universities, museums… We especially recommend visiting the Erie Canal Museum and witnessing Broadway pieces at the historic Landmark Theater.

Last but not least, Syracuse hosts famous annual events, such as the Great New York State Fair and the Syracuse International Film Festival.

14. Ithaca

📍 Region: Finger Lakes region
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Syracuse
🌻 Best season to visit: anytime of the year

Ithaca is located at the southern tip of the Cayuga Lake, one of the Finger Lakes of Upstate New York. This is one of the cute towns that you arrive to one day and without noticing, you’ve been there for two years.

Jokes aside, Ithaca is truly one of the hidden places in New York.Its streets are so charming, its people very nice, and natural surroundings… Exceptional.

Let’s talk about the town itself first. Ithaca is a town of 32,000 residents. It’s a dynamic city, where young people don’t desert. In fact, Ithaca boasts two major universities, which have produced a wealth of intellectuals and creatives.

The latter contribute to the city’s flourishing, creating beautiful colorful murals or restaurants with unique dishes and drinks.

Every good city starts with good food. We recommend a trip to the market to discover the friendliness of the locals and their delicious products.

15. Ithaca waterfalls

In terms of nature, Ithaca’s location on the shores of Cayuga Lake means there’s plenty to do, but you don’t have to leave town to see nature’s wonders. 

First of all, Ithaca Falls are almost as big as they are tall. The water rolls over numerous rocks, creating different levels. A little further along Fall Creek, there’s also Triphammer Falls.

These are actually taller than they are high! Both are very impressive, and some of the best attractions in Upstate New York.

Hidden Places in Upstate New York - Itacha Falls rolling down rocks, surrounded by nature

16. Buttermilk Falls State Park

📍 Region: Finger Lakes region
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Syracuse
🌻 Best season to visit: spring or summer

At the south of Ithaca, another cool place in Upstate New York hides under the name of Buttermilk Falls State Park. It is a 811-acre wonder where you can find 11 multi-level waterfalls, natural pools, and cool wildlife. 

Aside from the usual squirrels and birds, you can see wild coyotes, deers and foxes if you are really paying attention.

Cool hiking trails include Lake Treman loop, a 1.5 mile (2.4 km) easy hike, and the Buttermilk Falls Gorge and Rim Trail Loop, a moderate 1.6 mile (2.6 km) trail.

multi-level waterfall at Buttermilk Falls State Park, surrounded by a forest, in the shade

17. Corning Museum of Glass

📍 Region: Southern Tier
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1.5-hour drive from Rochester
🌻 Best season to visit: Fall

Located in Corning, south of Rochester, The Corning Museum of Glass is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the art, history, and science of glass.

The museum houses over 50,000 objects spanning over 35 centuries of glassmaking. It truly is one of the most comprehensive collections of glass in the whole world.

From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works by renowned artists, it really showcases glass as an eternal art form.

One of the highlights of a visit to this museum is watching live glass blowing demonstrations by skilled artisans in the Hot Shop Amphitheater. Visitors can witness firsthand the incredible process of creating beautiful glass creations, from delicate vases to elaborate sculptures.

TOP TIP: The Corning Museum of Glass also offers workshops for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in learning how to blow glass yourself or simply want to learn more about it, there are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience at the museum.

18. Middle Falls at Letchworth State Park

📍 Region: Central New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Rochester
🌻 Best season to visit: spring, summer and autumn

Located west of the Finger Lakes area and south of Rochester, Middle Falls at Letchworth State Park is one of the hidden spots in Upstate New York that locals would like to keep to themselves. 

The park itself is famous for its large gorge through which the Genesee River flows. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous, but what makes Letchworth State Park so unique in our opinion are its waterfalls.

Middle Falls are so large and powerful that they look like a small version of Niagara Falls. It stands over 100 ft (30m) tall, and is even a little wider than it is tall.

super large and tall waterfall at Letchworth State Park, rolling down rocks into a canyon, and surrounded by a green and yellow forest

There are a dozen different trails to see them, from 4 miles (7km) to 15 miles (25 km). For beginners and occasional hikers, we recommend the Lower Falls via Portage Bridge trail.

It is a 4.7 miles (7,7 km) moderate hike, out-and-back. There is an elevation gain of 300 meters and the hike takes about 3 hours. You will see the Portage Bridge, Upper, Middle and Lower Falls!

19. Rochester Public Market

📍 Region: Finger Lakes
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Buffalo
🌻 Best season to visit: Spring

Rochester, about midway between Buffalo and Syracuse, is one of the best towns in Upstate New York.

It is a must-visit town especially thanks to its market. The Rochester Public Market is one of the oldest and most beloved public markets in the United States.

Visitors can wander through the vibrant stalls, sampling locally sourced fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, international cuisine and handcrafted items.

The market also hosts special events, like live music performances and cooking demonstrations. It is a place locals will go even when they have nothing to buy in their minds.

Keep in mind the market is open year-round but only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

TOP TIP: Rochester has a second highlight… A big waterfall, called High Falls! That’s a pretty uncommon sightseeing, that you would expect to run into after a hike and not in the middle of the town.

20. Chimney Bluffs State Park

📍 Region: north of Finger Lakes
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 50-minute drive from Rochester
🌻 Best season to visit: spring

Let’s head to one of the VERY cool places in Upstate New York now. If you are a fan of cliffs and dramatic rock formations, Chimney Bluffs State Park will probably be your favorite spot.

Located off the coast of the Lake Ontario, this place is made of several rock formations looking like chimneys. They are about 150-foot-tall and were formed by the eroding wind, ice and water of the lake.

Their ochre color is due to their components: clay, sand and stone. These rocks and its contrast with the blue waters on the lake on a sunny day are out of the world.

Impressive cliffs at Chimney Bluffs State Park, constrating with the blue water of the Ontario Lake and green forest

This place is constantly changing, but its current form is very impressive. You can venture out on the hiking trails. Be careful not to leave the hiking trails, as the rocks are eroding and there is a risk of collapse.

The East-West, Drumlin, Bluff and Meadow Trail Loop is an easy 2.4 miles (4 km) hike. This is a good hike when the area is dry; don’t go if it rained recently as it gets very, very muddy.

Hidden Gems in Buffalo and Beyond

21. AKG Art Museum, Buffalo

📍 Region: Western New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Rochester
🌻 Best season to visit: Summer

The AKG Art Museum in Buffalo traces its origins back to 1862, making it one of the oldest public art institutions in the United States.

It has known many forms, renovations, and even names, but the building still stands out in the middle of Buffalo; right by the Delaware park.

The AKG Art Museum is renowned for its diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. It is home to pieces by notable artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, and Frida Kahlo, among others.

the black silhouette of a woman in front of a work of art made up of purple, pink and yellow neon lights, in the AKG museum

It mainly displays works from movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and Minimalism.

This museum offers visitors a comprehensive overview of 20th and 21st-century artistic innovation. Over the years, it gained international acclaim for its exceptional exhibitions and innovative programming.

TOP TIP: In addition to the AKG, Buffalo has a thriving art and culture scene. It has many art galleries, but also many bookstores, street art, music venues, or the famous Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House and The Roycroft Campus.

22. Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls

📍 Region: Western New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 25-minute drive from Buffalo
🌻 Best season to visit: Spring or Summer

Niagara Falls is hardly a hidden gem. It’s safe to say it is one, if not the most famous sightseeing of Upstate New York. However, there are some ways to visit it that are less conventional than others.

Most people watch them from the border in Canada or the State Park in New York, but they don’t know that you can get much closer to the falls.

That’s when we step in… With the incredible Maid of the Mist! This scenic boat tour takes you to the very bottom of the falls. It can’t really get more immersive than that, right?

Maid of the Mist boat getting very close to the Niagara Falls

The company has operated since 1846. Lucky visitors get an unparalleled view of the falls from below and feel the powerful spray of the water to better understand its power and majesty. 

You can go on this Maid of Mist boat tour both from the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls. Its departure points are conveniently located near the falls’ observation decks.

23. Chautauqua Institution

📍 Region: Western New York
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1.5-hour drive from Buffalo
🌻 Best season to visit: Fall

Founded on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York, the Chautauqua Institution is a non-profit education center.

What may sound crazy to believe today, is that it was initially established as a summer retreat for spiritual and intellectual enrichment in 1874.

The Chautauqua institution has become a community meeting place, renowned for the diversity of its programming. You can attend great lectures, concerts, plays or art exhibitions there. It’s a unique place of learning, for all ages!

They also take advantage of their lakeside location to offer boating, swimming, golfing and hiking activities. 

TOP TIP: This is a place to visit for all ages and all weathers, thanks to the diversity of activities it offers, from cultural enrichment to intellectual stimulation and outdoor recreation.

LGBTQ+ and United-States flags at Chautauqua, one of the hidden cities in Upstate New York

Hidden Gems in The Adirondacks

The northern region of Upstate New York is called The Adirondacks. It was named after the mountains of the area. Many people travel to the northern part of the state to visit Niagara Falls… But on the other side of the state’s north, the Adirondack region shouldn’t be overlooked.

24. Lake George

📍 Region: The Adirondacks
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: anytime

A tourist could think Lake George is like all the other lakes of Upstate New York: vast, with a multitude of water sports and entertaining shorelines.

But what they would not know is that Lake George is one of the clearest and cleanest lakes in the world. Clear water can be easy for a small mountain lake, but this one has depths of up to 200 feet, which is very impressive!

With its crystal-clear water, watersports and hiking opportunities, this peaceful lake is one of the best Upstate New York vacation spots for nature lovers.

Hidden Places in Upstate New York - Lake George in Adirondack seen from the shore

25. The Adirondack Mountains

📍 Region: The Adirondacks
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 1-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: April to October

If the region is named after them, it must be for a reason. The Adirondack Mountains have over 200 lakes and 100 peaks, including the highest of the New York state: Mount Marcy.

They have so many peaks that locals created a list of 46 peaks over 4,000 feet (1,200m) for experienced hiking lovers. Most trails are not accessible to beginners, due to the elevation gain and difficulty of the hike. 

If you are an experienced hiker, we recommend the Indian Head and Rainbow Falls Hard. It is a 10-mile (17 km) loop taking you through epic fabulous paths with lake views and waterfalls. The elevation gain is 600 meters. Pack a lot of food and water!

two forest cabin houses located on the shores of a lake in the Adirondack Mountains, some of the best hidden places in Upstate New York, with an incredible forest with autumn colors behind

26. Valcour Island

📍 Region: The Adirondacks
🚗 Closest big city and distance to it: 2.5-hour drive from Albany
🌻 Best season to visit: Summer or Fall

Located in the Adirondack State Park on Lake Champlain, Valcour Island is a living testament to America’s revolutionary past. It is one of the few hidden places in Upstate New York that you just cannot pass.

Valcour Island is the site of a big pivotal naval battle that took place during the American Revolution in 1776. Today, visitors enjoy the natural wonders of this historic island.

The list of things to do there just never stops, from hikes in its forest and mountains, to the quiet shores and incredible views of the lake.

Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, or even swimming along the island’s beautiful beaches… On the other side, history buffs will run into historic markets and interpretive displays everywhere on the island.

TOP TIP: you can rent a kayak and explore the coastline of Valcour Island, passing by its historic lighthouse!

Hidden Places in Upstate New York: FAQ

What is the most beautiful part of Upstate New York?

That is a hard one. We would say the Catskills and Finger Lakes regions because of their incredible natural wonders, from waterfalls to national parks and mesmerizing lakes.

What is Upstate New York best known for?

Tourist attractions in Upstate New York include Niagara Falls, the Catskills Mountains and the big cities of Hempstead town, Brookhaven, Islip, Oyster Bay and Buffalo.

What is the best time to visit Upstate New York?

It depends on the kind of activities you wish to do. If you are into national parks, baths in lakes and waterfalls, spring is ideal. The waterfalls are at full power as the snow is melting after the winter season, and nature is in full blossom.

September is also a great time of the year both to explore nature and cities of Upstate New York. They are animated while not being too touristy. Here are the coolest things to do in Brooklyn in September if you start your road trip in NYC.

Things to do in Brooklyn in September - Manhattan Bridge seen at sunset from Domino Park on a sunny day

Is Upstate New York colder than NYC?

Yes, Upstate New York is usually colder than the city itself, which is southern. The state experiences more snow than NYC, as well as stronger winds and colder temperatures.

What is Upstate New York known for food?

Upstate New York trips have to include good local food. You must try local dishes, such as the utica greens, which is escarole sauteed with garlic, hot cherry peppers, pecorino cheese, bread crumbs and prosciutto. 

Another must try dish is a Garbage Plate, basically a mix of all the junk food you could find: cheeseburger, hot dog, sausages, french fries…

Hidden Places to Visit in Upstate New York: final thoughts

As you can probably tell, Upstate New York offers a huge catalog of activities, which even locals won’t be able to do them all!

We’ve deliberately shared a wide range of activities and hidden places in Upstate New York. From national parks to towns and villages, you can choose the ones that best fit your dream itinerary.

After visiting Upstate New York, we highly recommend going on a New York to Maine road trip. You will understand the true beauty of an Atlantic American coastal town or peninsula, like Cape Cod or Boston.

Last but not least, you cannot leave the United-States without visiting its capital city, Washington DC. Here are the best things to do in Georgetown DC at night, the coolest district of the city.