Upstate New York, from Wineries to Castles

Since many of us are staying close to home this summer and the Northeast is in somewhat of a bubble compared to the rest of the country, I wanted to share some options for visiting upstate New York.  
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When you say New York most people will typically think you're referring to the city. However, there is much more to the state than its large metropolis. New York has played a significant role in American history, and throughout New York, you'll find historical landmarks, along with beautiful landscapes, and much more. So, to encourage you to think bigger than the confines of New York City, here are just a few of the places outside of the Big Apple that are worth a visit.  

Adirondack Mountain Region

The Adirondacks spread out across six million acres. It is one of the world's largest protected wilderness regions. Lake George, Lake Placid, and Saranac Lake are popular tourist stops. Saranac Lake is in the heart of the region. For those who love hiking and biking, the mountains here are referred to as the Saranac 6, and you can climb all 6 to join the Saranac 6er club. The area is excellent for nature viewing, whitewater rafting, military history, and many winter sports, from skiing to snowboarding.
  
Hudson Valley 

The Hudson Valley region is known for throwing exciting county festivals and fairs. These festivities are fun for all ages. While there are many held periodically throughout each year, the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival is one you must check out. If you are a wine lover, a visit to Clinton Vineyards in the rural Dutchess County is worth the trip.  Here you can sample Seyval Blanc and sparkling wines along with some sweet dessert wines.  Then take in a movie at the Amenia Drive-in.  

Finger Lakes Region

There are nearly 100 vineyards and wineries in the Finger Lakes region that spreads across 11 lakes and 14 counties. There are a lot of quaint villages with lakeside resorts and plenty of panoramic views to take in the scenery.  If you favor beer, you can take a road trip on the Finger Lakes and Rochester craft beverage trail where you can visit over 30 wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries all along the route.  

Albany & Saratoga Springs

Albany is the state capital. The churches and historic homes are beautiful here. Going on a river cruise is the best way to see the capital and all of its stunning architecture. After Albany, head to Saratoga Springs to soak in healing spring water, catch a horse race, or see a live ballet performance.
 
Thousand Island Region

The Thousand Island region is an archipelago made up of over 1800 islands in the St. Lawrence River between New York and Ontario, Canada. In addition to all of the water sports in this area, there are a few mansions and castles to visit that will have you thinking you are in Europe.  Taking a cruise along the waterways is the best way to see the area, and you can also enjoy The Shore Dinner while onboard, which dates back more than a century when the first fishing guides would take their clients out for the day and later treat them to a special meal known as The Shore Dinner.  The recipe is still the same today as it was 100 years ago and consists of the days catch cooked on a wood-fired grill, and the fresh filets are served sandwich style with Thousand Island Dressing accompanied with locally grown salt potatoes and fresh sweet corn.  Then for dessert, they serve French Toast with the areas locally made maple syrup.  It may not be the healthiest meal but it sounds tasty.  
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Are you ready to plan your next week-long getaway to New York?  As you can see, there are so many activities and adventures in upstate New York that it can be an excellent trip for the entire family.