"Upstate"

Filed in archive Hidden Gems on July 10, 2007

If you pay attention to the media enough, you may begin to think that New York City is the center of the universe. Who would blame you? The T.V. shows and movies, the history and the sheer number of people combine to make certain that New York City retains its status as the world's most famous urban center.

Less known, but equally enticing, is the area of New York State known as "Upstate." The natural beauty and the aura of history make this area of north-central New York one of the most attractive tourist destinations outside Manhattan. With houses dating back as far as 1800, the architecture of this land is a living piece of history.

The natural beauty of the Adirondack mountains, as well as the valleys, streams, and lakes that lie below these mountains, means that visitors will not be disappointed. With numerous opportunities for fishing, swimming, hiking, and bicycling, even a serious outdoor enthusiast will be left breathless by the innumerable options.

This area can be reached from cities like Syracuse and Albany, though the six to seven hour drive from NYC is a pleasant and scenic one. There are hotels in major towns, but a better option might be the small bed-and-breakfast establishments in some of the smaller towns.