Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from City of Kingston to City of Syracuse

If you're looking to take a road trip that offers scenic beauty and exciting attractions, look no further than the drive from the City of Kingston to the City of Syracuse. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours, depending on the route you take. It’s a perfect day-trip or for the weekend. There are plenty of rest stops, gas stations, and roadside shops to fulfill your travelling needs. In the following sections, the article highlights five unexpected places to stop and explore.

Halfway Point: Delanson, NY

Before getting to the list of five unexpected stops, it’s worth mentioning Delanson, NY, which is the midway point on the journey from Kingston to Syracuse. The village of Delanson, located in Schenectady County, offers a break from the highway and a chance to stretch your legs. It is easily accessible after a 90-minute drive and offers options such as the historic brick buildings or nature trails to enjoy the fresh air. Once refreshed, visitors can continue on the remaining journey without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Richfield Springs, NY

Located almost half an hour off the main highway, Richfield Springs is a charming town that provides the perfect respite during a long drive. Visitors to the town can explore the Fly Creek Cider Mill, where they can sample apple cider and delicious apple pie. Additionally, there are several unique shops and roadside attractions to explore. The town is quiet, friendly and a perfect stop to recharge your batteries. Our recommendation for food in Richfield Springs includes sampling the local draft beer selection at the Lake House Restaurant.

2. Chittenango, NY

Chittenango, NY, is known as the birthplace of the author of 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', L. Frank Baum. In honor of the famous author, the town hosts the annual Oz-Stravaganza festival, which celebrates the legacy of the classic book. Visitors can take a tour of the Baum house museum and explore the carousel museum. Dinosaur enthusiasts may want to visit the Dinosaur Gardens, a park with life-size dinosaur replicas. Visitors in Chittenango should try the locally sourced ingredients of ‘Windy Hill Farm’ which serves the best cheeseburgers in town.

3. Oswego, NY

Oswego, NY, sits on the shores of Lake Ontario and offers a picturesque stop with plenty of activities. Visitors can explore the vast shoreline and Pier, visit Oswego Harbor Lighthouse and cherish the marine life at the Oswego Maritime Museum. For history buffs, Fort Ontario is a great attraction with presentations and exhibits on NY military history. Foodies will find a range of dishes, but the must-eat food is the famous cheese pizza at Mark’s Pizzeria.

4. Skaneateles, NY

Those with a love for scenic beauty and small town charm will enjoy a stop in Skaneateles, NY. It is the perfect location for a leisurely stroll along the lake and its views. Visitors can sample the famous French macarons or a warm cup of tea at the local shops and enjoy the local arts at the gallery. Skaneateles is also home to numerous festivals throughout the year, including the annual Curbstone Festival and the Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show. The town's famous Blue Water Grill serves the best handcrafted sushi and cocktails around and is definitely worth a visit.

5. Utica, NY

Utica, NY, is the place to go for exciting attractions with a small-town vibe. The Adirondack Scenic Railroad offers a train ride through the beautiful landscape of Upstate New York. History lovers can visit the Utica Historic District and Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute. The town’s Best Western Gateway Adirondack Inn is the perfect choice to rest for the night or an early-morning start. For classic NY dining, Johnny’s Pizza is the recommended point of call with mouth-watering Italian delights!

Conclusion

The journey from Kingston to Syracuse offers not just a destination but a journey with stops and attractions along the way. The five towns mentioned are just a taste of what the route has to offer, and visitors are sure to discover even more unexpected surprises along the way. So, next time you're looking to take a scenic road trip, don't overlook this stretch of seemingly endless possibilities. It's a journey worth taking!