Travel northwest of New York City to the state’s capital. Explore cultures of multiple exciting cities and natural attractions of a beautiful region.
A world apart from bustling New York City, Upstate New York offers opportunities for weekend getaways or longer stays in gorgeous surroundings. Come year-round for seasonal activities.
As the state capital, Albany is a great starting point. See legislators at work at the New York State Capitol Building and visit the New York State Museum for the history of the region and its native wildlife. Attend performances at the 1930s-era Palace Theatre or more modern venue, The Egg. Heading west, follow the Erie Canal, built between 1817 and 1825 as an important transportation link between the Atlantic Ocean and Great Lakes.
Syracuse is known for prestigious Syracuse University and its stellar athletes. Watch a game at the Carrier Dome and join thousands of orange-dressed fans cheering for a ‘Cuse win. Syracuse’s cultural centers include the elegant Landmark Theatre with touring Broadway shows, Clinton Square’s numerous festivals and the Everson Museum of Art, with I.M. Pei architecture and an outstanding collection of American art.
Continue west to Rochester, known as the Flower City, with its annual springtime Lilac Festival at Highland Park. Learn about photography at the George Eastman House. Rochester was the home of Kodak for its more than 100 years of domination in photographic manufacturing. Bring the family to the unique Strong National Museum of Play.
Buffalo is home to the NFL Bills and NHL Sabres pro sports teams as well as the Anchor Bar, where Buffalo wings were invented. The tall McKinley Monument honors the president assassinated here in 1901. Marvel at nearby Niagara Falls at the Canadian border.
Visit in summer for farmers markets and arts and crafts festivals. Autumn brings colorful leaves and apple harvesting. In winter explore numerous ski areas in the Finger Lakes Region.
Drive to Albany, 3 hours north of New York City, to start your visit to Upstate New York. Each of the major cities has an international airport, as well as train and bus service from Atlantic Coast hubs.