Things To Do in Utica
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Utica Attractions
One of Utica's treasures is the Philip Johnson-designed Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute, 310 Genesee St. (tel. 315/797-0000), with more than 20,000 works of art, including paintings by Picasso, Kandinsky, Dalí, Mondrian, and Thomas Cole. Art and history buffs alike will be pleasantly surprised by the collection at Canajoharie's little Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Blvd. (tel. 518/673-2314). Opposite the old Beech-Nut factory, the Arkell features artwork by Winslow Homer, Childe Hassam, and Georgia O'Keeffe, along with some exhibits on Mohawk Valley history.
Especially For Kids -- Right on the shores of Oneida Lake is Sylvan Beach Amusement Park, on Route 13 in Sylvan Beach (tel. 315/762-5212), home of central New York's largest roller coaster. Granted, that's not saying much, but this is a fun little park, especially for younger kids, with bumper cars and boats, a slide, and plenty of games. Best of all, admission is free -- you just pay for your activities. A smaller spot for summer fun is the Peterpaul Recreation Park, 5615 Rome New London Rd., Rome (tel. 315/339-2666). At the Fort Rickey Children's Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome New London Rd. (tel. 315/336-1930), kids can touch a python or a porcupine. Speaking of zoos, Utica has the popular Utica Zoo, 99 Steele Hill Rd. (tel. 315/738-0472), along with the well-regarded Children's Museum, 311 Main St. (tel. 315/724-6129).
- Historic Site
Erie Canal Village
This reconstructed 18th-century settlement makes for an enjoyable half-day outing for the family. Built on the site where the first shovelful of earth was turned for the Erie Canal on July 4, 1817, there's now an entire village full of Colonial buildings staffed by costumed players.… - Historic Site
Fort Stanwix
Surrounded by an imposing palisade, this hard-to-miss landmark is a fun stop for history buffs and families alike. Built in 1758, the fort protected the region back when it was an essential link between the waterways to the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes. Later, this militia… - Natural Attraction
Howe Caverns
Farmer Lester Howe graciously credited his cow Millicent with the 1842 discovery of this passage to New York's underworld. Inspired by Kentucky's considerably larger Mammoth Cave, Howe began the business of guiding curious visitors down to the cavern, but things didn't really take… - Winery/Brewery/Distillery
Matt Brewing Company
Best known for its fine selection of Saranac brews, the Matt Brewing Company is worth a visit for the excellent tour -- and tasting, of course. Founded in 1888, the brewery is now run by the third and fourth generations of the Matt family. In addition to good beer, they are also…
Utica Nightlife
While Utica is not exactly brimming over with nightlife, there are some decent options for drinks or entertainment. The historic Stanley Theater, 261 Genesee St., Utica (tel. 315/725/1113), stages anything from Broadway to hip hop shows. Lavishly refurbished in "Mexican Baroque" style, the theater boasts the largest free-hanging chandelier in the world, lit entirely with LEDs. For food or drink before or after the show, head around the corner to Thornberries, 1011 King St., Utica (tel.315/735-1409). The Brewery District is home to some decent bars and occasional live music -- The Electric Company, 700 Varick St., Utica (tel. 315/792-9271), displays the work of local artists, hosts local bands, and serves up local (and national) brews. For a homey bar that's been around forever, head to Griffin's Pub, 226 Genesee St., Utica (tel. 315/724-5792), or for more upscale drinks at a more upscale spot, try Space 26, 26 Bank Place, Utica (tel. 315/735-4407). Had enough booze? Check out the Tramontane Cafe, 1105 Lincoln Ave., Utica (tel. 315/732-8257), for live music in a coffeehouse setting. And, of course, there's Turning Stone Casino, just off I-90's exit 33 (tel. 800/771-7711), with slots, tables, restaurants, and some of the biggest stars to be found in this part of New York State.
