Upstate New York is a vibrant and diverse region that comes alive in the fall. As the air turns crisp and the leaves change, the landscape becomes a patchwork of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. The region offers various activities for nature lovers, history buffs, foodies, and adventurers.
Whether you want to explore the great outdoors, indulge in seasonal treats, or enjoy the scenery, Upstate New York has something for everyone. Here are 23 exciting things to do in Upstate New York this fall.
Hike In The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains are a must-visit in the fall. With miles of hiking trails, this region offers stunning views of fall foliage. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail for you. Try hiking Mount Marcy, the highest peak in New York, for a challenging trek with breathtaking views.
Visit Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a charming village known for its Olympic history and stunning natural beauty. In the fall, the area around Lake Placid is ablaze with color. Stroll around Mirror Lake, visit the Olympic Museum, or take a gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain for panoramic views.
Explore Letchworth State Park
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is a breathtaking destination in the fall. The park’s deep gorge, towering waterfalls, and lush forests create a stunning backdrop for fall foliage. Don’t miss the Middle Falls, the park’s most iconic feature.
Take A Scenic Drive Along The Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway
The Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway offers a picturesque drive through the Mohawk Valley. ‘You’ll pass historic sites, charming villages, and vibrant fall foliage as you wind along the road. Stop at the Erie Canal for some history, or take a short hike in nearby nature preserves.
Attend The Adirondack Balloon Festival
The Adirondack Balloon Festival in Glens Falls is a magical event perfect for fall. Watch as colorful hot air balloons fill the sky, creating a vibrant contrast against the autumn backdrop. The festival also features food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Pick Apples At An Orchard
Apple picking is a quintessential fall activity in Upstate New York. Head to one of the region’s many orchards, such as Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont or Beak & Skiff in Lafayette. Wander through the rows of apple trees, pick your favorite varieties, and enjoy a crisp, juicy apple right off the tree.
Visit The Finger Lakes Wine Country
The Finger Lakes region is famous for its wineries, and fall is the perfect time to visit. The vineyards, set against the backdrop of colorful foliage, are a sight to behold. Take a wine tour along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail or the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Explore Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Upstate New York. The park features a series of stunning waterfalls and deep gorges, which are even more impressive in the fall. Walk along the Gorge Trail to experience the park’s natural beauty up close.
Take A Boat Tour of the Hudson River
A boat tour on the Hudson River is a relaxing way to take in the fall foliage. Cruises depart from several towns along the river, including Kingston, Poughkeepsie, and Albany. Gliding along the water, you’ll enjoy views of historic estates, charming riverside villages, and vibrant fall colors.
Visit The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in the Hudson Valley is a must-see event in the fall. This spectacular display features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins arranged in elaborate scenes. The pumpkins are lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere for the whole family.
Tour A Historic Mansion
Upstate New York has several historic mansions, many of which are open to the public. Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, the Olana State Historic Site in Hudson, or the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. These grand estates offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history, and their gardens and grounds are lovely in the fall.
Go Leaf Peeping In The Catskills
The Catskill Mountains are a prime destination for leaf peeping in the fall. The region’s winding roads, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails provide endless opportunities to admire the fall foliage. For a unique perspective, take a ride on the Catskill Mountain Railroad, which offers fall foliage train rides.
Attend The Harvest Festival At Bethel Woods
Bethel Woods, the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, hosts an annual Harvest Festival in the fall. The festival features live music, craft vendors, a farmers’ market, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to celebrate the season while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Explore The Cooperstown Farmers’ Museum
The Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life in Upstate New York. The museum’s historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on exhibits make it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In the fall, the museum hosts special events, such as harvest festivals and Halloween-themed activities.
Visit The Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands region, located along the St. Lawrence River, is a stunning destination in the fall. Take a boat tour to explore the islands, visit Boldt Castle, or enjoy the views from one of the area’s many parks and nature preserves. The region’s vibrant foliage and crystal-clear waters create a picture-perfect scene.
Hike The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail passes through Upstate New York, offering some of the most scenic hiking in the region. In the fall, the trail’s forests are ablaze with color, making for a truly unforgettable hike. Whether you’re looking for a short day hike or a longer trek, the Appalachian Trail has something for every level of hiker.
Visit The Corning Museum of Glass
The Corning Museum of Glass, located in the Finger Lakes region, is a unique and fascinating destination. The museum’s exhibits showcase the history and art of glassmaking, with demonstrations and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. The museum’s glass pumpkin patch is a popular attraction.
Go Pumpkin Picking
Pumpkin picking is a classic fall activity, and Upstate New York has plenty of farms where you can find the perfect pumpkin. Head to places like the Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence or the Pumpkin Hollow in Stuyvesant. After picking your pumpkin, enjoy some of the farm’s other activities, such as corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos.
Explore The Saratoga National Historical Park
Saratoga National Historical Park is the site of the 1777 Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the American Revolution. The park’s rolling hills and forests are lovely in the fall. Take a self-guided tour of the battlefield, visit the park’s visitor center, or hike one of the park’s scenic trails.
Go Ziplining In the Catskills
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, try ziplining in the Catskills. Hunter Mountain offers one of North America’s longest and highest zipline tours. As you soar through the treetops, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the fall foliage below.
Attend The Cider Week Celebration
Cider Week is an annual celebration of New York’s craft cider industry, with events held throughout Upstate New York. At participating venues, you can sample a variety of ciders, learn about the cider-making process, and enjoy live music and food pairings. It’s a great way to experience the flavors of fall.
Explore The Ausable Chasm
Ausable Chasm, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” is a spectacular natural attraction. The chasm of towering cliffs, rushing waters, and lush forests is particularly stunning in the fall. You can explore the chasm on foot, by raft, or on a guided adventure tour.
Relax At A Cozy Bed And Breakfast
Upstate New York is home to many charming bed and breakfasts where you can unwind and enjoy the beauty of fall. Stay in a historic inn in the Hudson Valley, a lakeside retreat in the Finger Lakes, or a cozy cabin in the Adirondacks. Many B&Bs offer fireplaces, hot tubs, and gourmet breakfasts, making them the perfect place to relax after exploring.
Embrace The Beauty Of Fall In Upstate New York
Upstate New York is a treasure trove of fall activities. From hiking in the mountains to exploring charming villages, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Upstate New York has something to offer everyone this fall. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the magic of autumn in this beautiful region.