By Laura Smith
It’s everyone’s favorite time of year. No, I’m not talking about the holidays. It’s the time when the frost melts, the flowers bloom and temperatures are finally bearable again.
Springtime in the northeast U.S. brings in an influx of travelers looking for a getaway in weather that is warm enough to be comfortable but not overbearingly hot. For those travelers, New York state is a perfect option for a springtime vacation.
While New York City may be to many the epitome of a “get away from it all” vacation, the state is more than just Rockefeller Center and Broadway. Below are some areas of the state to consider when planning a trip to the Empire State.
Albany: While in Albany, check out the Howe Caverns, the New York State Museum, or the USS Slater. Fun fact: Albany is home to 57 listings on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fulton County: This county is home to 44 different lakes and 74,832 acres of forest. While here, check out the great skiing on Royal Mountain or the Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center. Go golfing at one of the seven golf courses in the county or hike any of the popular trails, including Northville-Lake Placid Trail, Nine Corner Lake Trail and the Willie Wildlife Marsh trail.
Cayuga County: You’re just in time to check out the Lake Ontario Counties’ Spring Fishing Derby this June, or visit the many premium wineries and wine trails or the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail.
Chautaugua: While in Chatauqua, take a cruise on the Chatauqua Lake on the Chatauqua Belle steamboat or visit the Audubon Center & Sanctuary, a 600-acre wildlife sanctuary with five miles of hiking trails, woods and wedlands. I Love Lucy fan? Check out the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center and Museum.
Oneida County: Go back in history in Oneida County. Visit the Erie Canal Village, a reconstructed 19th century settlement, or visit the Fort Stanwix National Monument. The reconstructed 18th century fort played a major role in the American Revolution.
Cooperstown: If you’re going to visit Cooperstown, a trip to the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum is imperative. If you’re into the arts, spend a night out at the Glimmerglass Opera or during the day, check out the New York State Historical Association.
Wayne County: Check out: Upstate BMX Track, The Lake Ontario Wine Trail and the Heritage Square Museum.
Dutchess County: Check out Art Along the Hudson, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
Big Bear Ziplines or take a hot air balloon ride with Blue Sky Balloons.
Long Island: Don’t let the strong accent and the coffee addictions fool you. Long Island offers beautiful beaches and an assortment of golf courses to choose from. Hike or bike in one of the Island’s many parks or take a nature cruise.
Lake George area: Visit the Lake George Historical Association and Museum or check out the Adirondack Winery Tasting Room. Or for more thrills, check out the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course with six courses, 120 obstacles, zip lines, rope bridges and more.
Ulster County: The Huguenot Path Nature Sanctuary, Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, or experience all the arts and culture of the Hudson River Valley.
Hudson Valley: Carnegie Library, Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, bird watching and wildlife sanctuaries.
Saratoga County: Into horse racing? Head out to the Saratoga Racetrack. Also check out the Saratoga National Historical Park.
Westchester: Check out the Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art, Hudson River Museum and Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts.