Central New York: Craft Brews and Scenic Views

Central New York’s legendary hop yards produced 90 percent of the nation’s hops in the late 1800s, and the state was the No. 1 beer producer in the U.S. for decades. Known as Brew Central, this region brings together the stories, traditions and tastes behind a growing constellation of breweries, craft-centric pubs, cideries, distilleries and wineries in Central New York. Visitors to Brew Central can sample the toast of U.S. beer competitions, sip the winners of international awards or stroll through a hop yard in “America’s Craft Brew Destination.”

From the southern tip of New York’s famous Adirondack Park to the peaks of the Catskill Mountains, Central New York unfolds in rolling hills, stunning lakes, waterways and state forests (144 of them, to be exact). Hike or backpack 560 kilometers of trails to explore the varied landscape, discovering waterfalls (there are five here) and tucked-away watersheds as you go. Fish the West Canada Creek – loaded with trout – or cast a line into Oneida Lake to reel in largemouth bass. Paddleboard or kayak Cooperstown’s Otsego Lake, or just relax on Verona Beach. Go rustic-style camping at over 3,500 public and private sites. Head to any one of 14 state parks, or challenge yourself with a round of golf; with 60 places to play here, you’ll never have the same experience twice.

Central New York delivers something for every taste, especially flavors of the culinary variety. Be prepared to enjoy a meal made exclusively from local ingredients at one of many restaurants serving up recipes steeped in the local agricultural heritage. Tap in to the New York farmers’ market scene, where growers proudly sell local produce. When summer exits, fall leaves emerge, providing color and signaling the harvest season. Hand-pick a bounty of apples or pumpkins at any one of Central New York’s numerous orchards and patches.