Central New York
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Central New York
Between the world-famous waterfalls and the world-class city, travellers find themselves at the centre of it all in Central New York state. From its designation as “America’s Craft Brew Destination” to its kilometres of countryside and the meandering Erie Canal, Central New York lays claim to the ultimate American experience. Here you’ll find the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, countless Main Street USAs and historic villages that reflect classic small-town life in the U.S.
Central New York’s legendary hop yards produced 90 percent of the nation’s hops in the late 1800s and the state is a top five beer producer in the U.S. today. Known as Brew Central, this region brings together the stories, traditions and tastes behind a growing constellation of breweries, craft-centric pubs, cideries, distilleries and wineries in Central New York.
Visitors to Brew Central can get a taste of history at F.X. Matt Brewing Company, a four-generation legacy brewery, or explore the more contemporary stylings of Brewery Ommegang, producer of the Game of Thrones beer for the popular HBO series.
In addition to farm-to-table meals steeped in our rich agricultural heritage, you can also pick a bounty of apples or pumpkins at any one of Central New York’s numerous family farmsteads like Critz Farms during harvest season. Binghamton’s signature dish, spiedies (marinated skewered meat), are supreme Central New York fare. Other regional specialities include chicken riggies (pasta), tomato pie, half-moon cookies and Utica Greens (escarole), which have been featured on national television.
From the southern tip of New York’s famous Adirondack Park to the peaks of the Catskill Mountains, Central New York unfolds in rolling hills, stunning lakes and state forests. Hike or backpack 560 kilometres of trails to explore the varied landscape, discovering waterfalls and tucked-away watersheds as you go. Climb aboard the Adirondack Scenic Railroad for amazing views of stunning vistas and pristine forestlands.
The Herkimer Diamond Mines feature phenomenal gemstones believed to be close to 500 million years old and exclusive to the area. You can unearth them as unique souvenirs. Visitors can explore a “newer” piece of history at Fort Stanwix National Monument, a reconstructed 18th-century post known for its critical role in the American Revolution. Add a modern touch to your trip with Turning Stone Resort Casino, which offers a gorgeous getaway featuring luxurious accommodations, fine dining, celebrity entertainment and Las Vegas-style gaming.
Suggested Itineraries
Suggested Accommodation
Rosemont Inn B&BUticaModerateFrom £115 per room per night
This period-style B&B, housed in an Italianate Victorian property, is an 8-minute walk from Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute and 13 minutes' walk from the Stanley Theater.
The 19th-century inspired guestrooms are warmly decorated with antiques and floral bedspreads, and all feature private bathrooms (with claw-foot tubs and showers), WiFi and hair dryers. Some rooms have 4-poster beds, fireplaces and TVs. Irons and ironing boards are available on request.
A complimentary gourmet 4-course breakfast is served in an elegant dining room with a fireplace. There's also a refined living room and a porch with rocking chairs.
Holiday InnUticaModerateFrom £112 per room per night
Located in the Utica Business Park in New Hartford, just minutes from downtown and I-90 and 45 minutes from Syracuse International Airport.
Guest rooms have free high-speed Internet, a 32-inch flat panel TV with Pay-Per-View movies and a work desk. A microwave and refrigerator are available for an additional fee. Children 18 and under stay for free. Complimentary coffee is available in reception.
There is a swimming pool and fitness centre.
Distillery image: Copyright Mitch Wojnarowicz www.mitchw.com