Knowing where to start a journey through Upstate New York is no mean feat. It stretches from Manhattan far over the soft folding hills of the Hudson Valley and the superimposing gap of the Hudson River goes on for a while (all the way to Niagra Falls and the Canadian border). Then there’s a bit to the west and a bit to the east of the iconic city-surrounding river, filled with the blue mountains near the Catskills, the watery pools of the Fingerlakes, and a handful of charming old-fashioned towns (we’re looking at you Hudson) to get lost in.
Upstate NY can be a real adventurer’s playground with all the outdoorsy activities — there’s enough to jam-pack a few days with: from cool craft breweries, slick art centres, swish and stylish hotels and shops to splurge in, let's not forget about all the antique barns too. It’s not to be missed, so it’s worth making the time to tag on a trip after visiting the city.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Upstate New York — or what to stretch out over a long weekend. Firstly, rent a car, so you have the freedom to hop in and out at your own pace. Otherwise, it’s a bit scarce for transport and it can be a bit of a struggle exploring on foot for long stretches.
