With fall in the air, families across Central New York will be making their annual trek to events big and small. There are plenty of options for things to do with kids on a budget-however there’s no need to skimp when it comes anywhere near Halloween time!.
Central New York is a great place for fall family fun. The leaves are falling, pumpkin patches and hayrides abound in the area, and there’s still time to enjoy some of our favorite activities before winter sets in.
The “fall festivals upstate ny 2020” is a list of fall family fun events in Central New York.
Leaf peeping, harvest festivals, road vacations, and apple orchards have all become associated with autumn.
What better way to take in all of the celebrations than by visiting an area renowned for its stunning autumn colors, welcoming people, and plenty of outdoor activities?
My daughter and I recently traveled to Central New York to take advantage of all the family-friendly activities Albany and Utica had to offer.
Albany, New York’s capital building (Photo courtesy of Lauren Bowman)
Albany, New York’s capital building (Photo courtesy of Lauren Bowman)Albany
Albany is the state capital of New York, yet it has the atmosphere of a big little town. The Hudson River runs through the city’s east side, with the Corning and Riverfront Preserves providing enough green space for tourists to spend a peaceful day by the river.
When compared to other capital towns, such as Atlanta, Georgia – my hometown – where farmlands and state parks are less than 20 miles away, driving about the city is a breeze.
The Tru by Hilton Albany Crossgates Mall was an ideal location for viewing all the city and surrounding region had to offer.
Ice Age Exhibit at the New York State Museum (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
Must-See Landmarks and Attractions in Albany
If you’re visiting New York outside of New York City for the first time, the NY State Museum is a must-see. This free museum features exhibits from the Ice Age, including a recreation of a Mastodon and her calf, an Iroquois longhouse, minerals from the area, Adirondack wildlife, New York City’s uniqueness and how its neighborhoods came to be, and a moving 9/11 exhibit about the Rescue, Recovery, and Response to the World Trade Center Towers.
There’s a lot to see and do outside in the region, particularly at this time of year. The Albany Pine Bush Preserve Discovery Center is located inside municipal boundaries, and visitors can enjoy walking, biking, and even storytelling paths that showcase the area’s natural vegetation. With interactive elements that youngsters will enjoy, the Discovery Center offers a hands-on study of the area’s creatures and plants.
John Boyd Thacher State Park, located near Voorheesville, is a great place to go for an autumn picnic. Enjoy miles of paths, including one that leads to the backside of a waterfall, as well as playgrounds, picnic tables, event space, a nature center, and other amenities. There’s so much to see and do at the park that it’s easy to lose track of time. There is an observation area with parking close to the stunning views for people who wish to enjoy the lovely autumn colors but are unable to walk.
Indian Ladder Farms is located west of Albany, New York (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
On your way back into town, you must stop at Indian Ladder Farms. It’s the ideal background for autumn family fun and photos, with tasty apple cider doughnuts, pumpkins, tons of apples, and even the opportunity to harvest your own apples in their orchards. After a long day of wandering around, there’s even a Cidery and Brewery with delectable culinary delights like bao buns and pork tacos to savor.
End the night with a visit to the Altamont Fairgrounds’ Hollowed Harvest, where visitors may view illuminated jack-o-lantern sculptures such as a tropical Hawaiian setting, Halloween figures, and zoo animals.
Stop by Stuyvesant Plaza or Crossgates Mall if you like shopping. While the mall has several well-known brands, the Plaza has many unique retail shops. Stop by Billy Beez Indoor Play Area if you’re looking for a way to burn off some excess energy with your kids.
Iron Gate Cafe’s chicken quesadillas in Albany, NY (Photo courtesy of Lauren Bowman)
Albany’s Restaurants
Cafes and bistros that serve fresh, farm-to-table food are a must-visit.
Iron Gate Cafe, located in the eccentric old house of James Holroyd in downtown Albany, offers substantial servings. At Stuyvesant Plaza, Bountiful Bread serves substantial quantities of soul-warming soups, delectable sandwiches, and full bowls.
Utica
Utica is a must-see jewel of the Mohawk Valley in Central New York, and it’s just an hour and a half away. With a variety of delicious eateries, cultural events, and a wealth of activities for those interested in the arts, the city has transformed into a real melting pot.
In the heart of town, the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica provides a pleasant respite. The structure, which was recently restored, dates from 1912 and was a favorite of Judy Garland, Amelia Earhart, and even FDR.
At the Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo, there are capybaras (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
Must-See Landmarks and Attractions in Utica
The Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo is a great place for kids to visit. The fifty-year-old zoo, which is half petting zoo and part exotic animal preserve, has just undergone renovations with new cages. The zoo is home to the world’s oldest living spider monkey, Gummy, who is 59 years old, as well as emus, bison, capybaras, wolves, and other animals. In addition to being so near to the animals, kids will enjoy the playground, pillow bounce, and water balloon game.
Explore the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, which is a wonder in and of itself. Built with a glass-bottomed first floor and concrete above, the edifice gives the impression of floating. The exquisite works of Isabelle de Borchgrave, who made famous items of fashion from the past 500 years entirely out of paper, are now on exhibit. The institution takes pride in its community outreach, which includes children’s programs, its own School of Art, and a variety of seminars.
Energy Zone of New York (Photo courtesy of Lauren Bowman)
Children and adults alike will learn about the history of energy and how power is being harvested in the region, from wind turbines to hydroelectric dams along the Erie Canal to solar panels, at the New York Energy Zone. This interactive facility follows the state’s school curriculum while providing activities for children of all ages.
The Herkimer Diamond Mines are a must-see attraction in the region. Families may spend the day searching for their own gems in the minefields. Those who are short on time may buy a gem bag and pan through the silt for assured gems or Herkimer diamonds, depending on the bag they choose. You may have your valuables turned into jewelry right here.
Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort’s Aries Astrology Lodge (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
The KOA resort is next to the property and is well kept. Small glamping units to luxurious cabins with world-class telescopes are available to guests. Even staying in a treehouse is an option.
In Utica, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from.
DiCastro’s Brick Oven is a must-visit for the area’s renowned greens and wood-fired brick oven pizza. Fresh escarole is combined with Italian spices, bread crumbs, and capicola to make the greens. Garlic and parmesan cheese are sprinkled over top. It’s incredibly delectable, and it’s no surprise that Guy Fieri has returned to the region many times for the famed Utica greens.
Visit Cafe Daniele if you want to experience a genuine Italian deli, where you’ll be amused by the employees and given a great lunch. Another regional favorite is tomato pie, which my kid couldn’t get enough of. If you want to make your own Italian masterpiece, there are plenty of deli products and handmade pasta sauces to take with you.
Osso Bucco at Herkimer Diamond Mines’ Miner’s Table (Photo via Lauren Bowman)
The sophisticated dishes served casually at Miner’s Table in the Herkimer Diamond Mines are guaranteed to wow. Choose from dishes like Osso Bucco or dry-aged Delmonico steak, while the kids will enjoy wood-fired pizzas and s’mores cooked over an open fire. Enjoy the delicious Italian cannoli cake or handmade drinks presented with a Herkimer diamond to round off the evening.
Yummilicious Café & Bakery will make you feel at ease. The café specializes on Bosnian cuisine as well as typical brunch favorites, and is known for its breakfast and brunch offerings. It’s difficult to select among their baked goodies, but anything you choose may be paired with your favorite coffee or tea. The proprietor has a knack of making everyone feel welcome, and he exemplifies the beauty of Utica’s transformation into a refugee center.
Fall is the perfect time to explore Central New York. There are so many fun things to do with your family in this beautiful season. Whether you’re looking for a day out, or just want to stay home and play, there is something for everyone in Central New York. Reference: fall activities new york.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do in New York in the fall?
A: In the fall you can go to a farmers market and buy pumpkins. In New York City, people do not plant their own vegetables or fruits because of high costs in rent for farmland.
What is there to do in the Hudson Valley in the fall?
A: There are many great things to do in the Hudson Valley in the fall, such as apple picking and pumpkin picking. You can also attend festivals like the Olde Tyme Fall Festival or enjoy a performance of The Nutcracker at Covent Garden Theater.
What is there to do in upstate New York in September?
A: The best thing to do in upstate New York in September is enjoy the many different festivals that take place. Some of these include Brevard, Saratoga Springs Jazz and Blues Festival, Apple Harvest Days in Poughkeepsie, Troys Maple Syrup Festival.
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