Need an escape? Plan a day trip!

Wishing for a vacation? As the semester plugs along, you may be looking for a little get away from the library. A day trip is the perfect way to unwind and explore more of New York State. Here are some fun-filled trips you can take:

Little Town on the Lake

Both Cazenovia and Skaneateles (east and west, respectively) sit a short half hour drive from campus. Both towns have a beautiful lake and are full of activities and charm. In Skaneateles, shop your way down Genesee Street and stop for a tasting at Anyela’s Winery. In Cazenovia, visit the Stone Quarry Hill Art Park and grab a bite and drink at Meier’s Creek Brewing Company. Visiting either village will give you a relaxing day away!

  1. Wine & Dine

If bigger lakes are more your style, check out the Finger Lakes Region. Famous for its rolling hills of vineyards, there are many wineries, distilleries, breweries and restaurants, as well as hiking trails, farmers markets and lake activities. A drive through the small towns will present you with stunning scenery. 

  1. Gorgeous Gorges

Chase some waterfalls at Ithaca’s gorges. Check out Robert Treman State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park, and Cascadilla Gorge Trail. You can hike the trails and view the rushing waterfalls and rock formations. Follow your hike with a stroll through downtown Ithaca, and explore all the shops and restaurants this hip town has to offer.

  1. The Mountains are Calling!

Venture about an hour and forty-five minutes north-east to Old Forge, and you’ll find yourself in an Adirondack paradise. Outdoor activities are the best attraction: hike Bald Mountain, go kayaking, be on the lookout for moose and other wildlife, or start on your way to hiking the 46 Adirondack High Peaks. Take a breath of that fresh air and enjoy the mountain view.

  1. Oh Canada… almost 

Take a short hour and a half drive up to Alexandria Bay and the Thousand Islands. Take a boat ride on the Saint Lawrence River, which borders Canada, or bike ride through some of the quaint towns you come across. You can even take a boat to one popular attraction, historic Boldt Castle. Full of history and beauty, Alexandria Bay will ensure a great day.

Writer Katie Hopsicker
Katie Hopsicker

Katie Hopsicker is a graduate student in the arts journalism and communication program at the Newhouse School.