Summer roadtrip ideas: These are the 20 best places in Upstate NY to visit this year

Endless adventure awaits in Upstate New York.

There are mountains to conquer, from the towering High Peaks of the Adirondacks to the dramatic Shawgunks of the Hudson Valley. There are waterfalls to chase, from the world-famous Niagara Falls along the Canadian border to the locally-beloved Taughannock Falls outside of Ithaca.

Upstate offers unforgettable stays, from treehouse cabins to a themed motel worthy of a movie set. And you can thank Upstaters for creating some of your favorite foods, from Buffalo wings and potato chips to half moon cookies and Jell-O.

But with so many road trip-worthy places above the Big Apple, where should you start? We have a suggestion…or 20.

Here are the best places to visit in Upstate New York this year:

Adirondacks

Saranac Lake

Attention, hikers: Saranac Lake is calling. The village — which was recently voted one of North America’s Strongest Towns — is nestled among three lakes and surrounded by six mountains, making it an ideal base for travelers looking to conquer a mountain or enjoy a lakeside stroll. Bikers, boaters, skiers and snowboarders will also find plenty to do in the four-season village.

After exploring the great Adirondack outdoors, you’ll need to fill your hungry belly. Get coffee and a great meal from the quaint Blue Moon Cafe. Then catch a live show at Waterhole and spend the night at White Pine Camp, the Adirondack Great Camp that President Calvin Coolidge used as his summer White House.

Tupper Lake

A hidden gem of the Adirondacks, the village of Tupper Lake is a great place to spend a getaway. Discover the renowned Wild Center and its Wild Walk, where you can explore swinging bridges 40 feet in the air amidst towering trees. Hikers will enjoy conquering the scenic…