Autumn in New York
09 Dec 2017
The flaming red, burnt orange and bright yellow leaves of New York State are truly a sight to behold as you drive from town to town.
When you think of New York City, you probably imagine the constant hustle and bustle and frenetic pace, the awe-inspiring cityscape, the bright lights, the late nights, the wonderful neighbourhoods, and the distinctive yellow taxicabs (even if they are more often than not sitting in traffic).
And while the capital city is certainly a thrilling holiday destination, it’s also worth hitting the road to explore the rest of the state. Venture just a couple of hours beyond the city to charming country towns, great green rolling hills and stunning woodlands.
There are the enchanting winery trails of the Finger Lakes region to get lost in, the state-of-the-art museums of Rochester, and the lovely coastal villages of Wayne County.
Here are some highlights to add to your to-do list.
THE GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST
From vast, yawning canyons to spectacular waterfalls and beautiful forests, Letchworth State Park in Castile is worth a road trip alone. You could spend hours walking, cycling or driving your way around the meandering pathways, soaking up the park’s magnificence. Keep an eye out and you may even spot some deer on the side of the road or a vulture in the trees. There’s no shortage of activities either, including hiking, horse riding, kayaking and hot air ballooning.
VISIT MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
If you’re under the impression that the finest galleries and museums are only located in New York City, you are seriously mistaken. View the jaw-dropping modern pieces at the Corning Glass Museum, or check out the fascinating FDR Home and Library Museum in Hyde Park. Beautiful Rochester in particular has some amazing museums, including the George Eastman Kodak Museum, The Strong National Museum of Play, and the Memorial Art Gallery.
INDULGE IN AUTHENTIC BARBECUE
A national institution, founded almost40 years ago to feed hungry bikies on the road, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Syracuse is a rollicking, down-to-earth joint where you’ll be served giant servings of hot chicken wings, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, West Texas rib-eye, brisket, ribs and more. If your only experience of fried chicken is KFC, you cannot miss Hattie’s in Saratoga Springs. Hattie herself was born in Mississippi and opened her iconic restaurant in 1938. Hattie’s fried chicken recipe has not changed since then. The menu also includes biscuits and gravy, fried chicken and waffl es, and slow cooked BBQ spare ribs.
SHOOT THE BREEZE WITH LOCALS
There’s no better way to really get in touch with a town than to indulge in a cheeky tipple with the locals and have a good ol’ chinwag. From off the beaten track wineries in picturesque Hammondsport and beautiful orchards in Syracuse, to warm and cosy cideries in Williamson and family-run craft breweries and distilleries in Sodus, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a beverage and the generous hospitality of locals.
SINK INTO A SPA AT SARATOGA SPRINGS
When you’re on the road and your days have been filled with non-stop action, sometimes you just need a long, hot bath to refresh and rejuvenate. Saratoga Springs is famous for its 21 mineral springs. It’s believed the Mohawk and Iroquois tribes once drank and bathed in the waters, and now visitors can indulge at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, and enjoy a delightful hydrotherapy experience and a sneaky massage, body wrap or facial.
TOP TIPS
If you prefer fine dining, head to the Culinary Institute of America in Poughkeepsie. Guests are welcome to take a tour of the stunning 170-acre school, set on the east bank of the Hudson River, and take a peek into classes that range from pastry making to cake decorating. Conclude your tour with a delicious meal at the on-campus French restaurant Bocuse, where you will be served by graduating students. Who knows? You could enjoy a meal crafted by a future Michelin-starred chef.
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