The Thousand Islands-Seaway Region of New York State
The Thousand Islands-Seaway Region of New York State stretches along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Charming waterfront towns such as Alexandria Bay and Clayton provide quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants serving fresh local cuisine, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for visitors to the Thousand Islands-Seaway Region.
Syracuse: Inland, the region includes cities like Syracuse, known for its vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and festivals. One of Syracuse’s most iconic landmarks is the Erie Canal Museum, which celebrates the city’s vital role in the development of the Erie Canal. For outdoor enthusiasts, Syracuse offers plenty of opportunities for recreation. Onondaga Lake Park features scenic walking and biking trails, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas. Nearby, Green Lakes State Park boasts two stunning glacial lakes and miles of hiking trails.
Thousand Islands: Located along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, this region is known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Explore the Thousand Islands region, visit Boldt Castle, or go boating and fishing in the St. Lawrence River.
The Same
Growing up with Family in Watertown, NY, we spent a ton of time in this region visiting several times a year.
Watertown
Watertown, located in Jefferson County, New York, is steeped in history, dating back to its founding in the early 19th century.
- Historic Downtown District: Explore the city’s historic downtown district, featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and landmarks like the Paddock Arcade, one of America’s oldest shopping arcades.
- Thompson Park: Get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the area with a visit to Thompson Park, a sprawling green space in the heart of Watertown. Explore walking trails, picnic areas, and the scenic overlook at the park’s summit, offering panoramic views of the city and Black River Valley. In the winter, the park’s hills are perfect for sledding and tubing.
- New York State Zoo at Thompson Park: Within Thompson Park, visitors can explore the New York State Zoo, which features native species such as gray wolves, river otters, and black bears. The zoo offers educational exhibits and opportunities to learn about local wildlife conservation. We loved going here as kids.
- Salmon Run Mall: For indoor shopping and entertainment, Salmon Run Mall in Watertown offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater, providing a convenient spot to unwind after outdoor activities. As teens, we would spend hours here.
Alexandria Bay
Alexandria Bay, nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands region, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and scenic waterways. Explore the picturesque archipelago of the Thousand Islands, where emerald-green islands dotted with quaint cottages and historic landmarks dot the St. Lawrence River. My first memories of seeing Otters is here in the St. Lawrence River.
- Boldt Castle: Explore the magnificent Boldt Castle on Heart Island, a historic landmark with a tragic love story behind its construction. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored castle and its grounds, which include gardens and scenic views of the St. Lawrence River.
- Alexandria Bay Village Shops: Stroll through the charming village shops, boutiques, and galleries in Alexandria Bay. Discover unique gifts, artwork, and souvenirs while exploring the local culture and hospitality. Enjoy waterfront dining at one of Alexandria Bay’s charming restaurants, offering fresh seafood, regional specialties, and stunning views of the river.
- Outdoor Recreation: Engage in outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the St. Lawrence River. Alexandria Bay is a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation on the water.
- Pavilion Beach: Relax and unwind at Pavilion Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming with views of Boldt Castle in the distance. Relax and unwind on the sandy shores of Alexandria Bay’s beaches, where you can soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the river.
Syracuse
Both The Twins have spent a ton of time in the Syracuse Area with one of them attending college in the region and the other having in-laws who they visit frequently in the area. Syracuse combines a rich history with modern amenities, offering a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and vibrant entertainment options for visitors to explore and enjoy.
- Shopping: Shop at Destiny USA, one of the largest shopping malls in New York State, featuring over 250 stores, entertainment venues, and dining options. It’s a popular destination for shopping enthusiasts and families alike.
Local Cuisine
Local cuisine in Syracuse, NY, and the Thousand Islands region reflects the area’s rich agricultural heritage and proximity to fresh water resources. There are several things that I always pick up to take home including Hot Tomato Oil and Dinosaur BBQ Sauce.
- Salt Potatoes: A Syracuse specialty, salt potatoes are small, creamy potatoes boiled in heavily salted water and served with melted butter. They are a popular side dish at local restaurants and picnics.
- Hot Tomato Oil from Pastabilities: Pastabilities, a popular Syracuse restaurant, is known for its hot tomato oil, a spicy and tangy sauce made with olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s served with their signature pasta dishes, adding a unique kick to the dining experience.
- Half-Moon Cookies: A classic Syracuse dessert, half-moon cookies feature a soft cookie base half-dipped in chocolate and vanilla icing. They are a beloved treat available at bakeries and cafes throughout the city.
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Founded in Syracuse, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes, including ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, served with signature sauces and hearty sides like mac ‘n’ cheese and cornbread.
- Hoffman Hot Dogs: Hoffman hot dogs are a local favorite, known for their quality and snap. They are often served with toppings like mustard, onions, and relish at diners and food trucks across Syracuse.
- Fresh Seafood: With its proximity to the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, the Thousand Islands region offers abundant fresh seafood options. Enjoy dishes like pan-seared walleye, grilled salmon, or lobster rolls at waterfront restaurants.
- Cheese Curds: A nod to nearby Wisconsin, cheese curds are a popular snack in the Thousand Islands region. These squeaky, fresh cheese bites are often served fried or alongside poutine.
- Local Wines: Explore the region’s wineries and vineyards, such as Thousand Islands Winery, where you can sample a variety of local wines, including crisp whites and robust reds, paired with stunning river views.
- Maple Syrup: Visit local farms and sugarhouses in the region to experience the production of pure maple syrup. Enjoy it drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or as a sweetener in regional dishes.
The DINK
Growing up Capital District, attending College near Syracuse, and with family still in Upstate NY, we have spent and still spend a ton of time in the state.
Syracuse
Le Moyne College: I went to undergraduate school at Le Moyne College. It is a private Jesuit college known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and beautiful campus setting. The college emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty, fostering a supportive learning environment. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of academic excellence, social justice, and ethical leadership, Le Moyne College encourages students to engage in community service, global awareness, and critical thinking. The Le Moyne College campus is situated on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Onondaga Lake, providing scenic views and a peaceful environment for study and recreation. For me it was a perfect fit allowing me to enjoy everything Syracuse has to offer.
Syracuse University: Syracuse is also home to Syracuse University a prestigious institution known for its academic programs and Division I athletics. Visitors can explore the university’s campus and attend sporting events at the Carrier Dome. I went to every home basketball and football game my freshman year and while that frequency dwindled the remainder of the time in Syracuse, I always enjoyed games at the Dome.
Marshal Street: Is where we would pre-game, hop for Syracuse attire or enjoy a night out during college. A lot of the places changed names over the years with one exception being Faegan’s Cafe & Pub. A popular spot for college students and locals, Faegan’s offers a wide selection of beers on tap and pub-style food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Armory Square: Whether you’re looking for a casual pub, a lively bar scene, or a gourmet dining experience, Armory Square in Syracuse have plenty to offer. Keep in mind most of my time here was during college and the same applies as most of the bars I frequented have changed names and several others I just would not recommend as an adult. The one exception is Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub. A traditional Irish pub offering hearty pub fare, live music, and a wide selection of Irish beers and whiskeys.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: A Syracuse institution, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que serves up delicious, slow-smoked barbecue in a fun and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss their famous pulled pork sandwiches and ribs.
Cultural Events: Attend cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival or the Great New York State Fair, which showcases agriculture, entertainment, and food from across the state.
- The Great New York State Fair is an iconic event held annually in Syracuse. It’s a massive celebration of New York’s agricultural prowess, featuring livestock exhibits, agricultural competitions, and educational displays. Beyond agriculture, the fair boasts a lineup of entertainment that includes concerts with renowned artists. I took my cousin to her first real concert at the New York State Fair, where she saw performances by pop sensations like Britney Spears and 98 Degrees, as well as her first rock concert featuring the Goo Goo Dolls. (Yes, I am aging myself.)
- St. Patrick’s Day: In addition to these major events, Syracuse hosts a lively St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebration. The parade winds through downtown Syracuse, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and enthusiastic participants decked out in green. The festivities continue with live music, Irish dancing performances, and traditional Irish fare served at local pubs and restaurants. It’s a beloved community event that brings people together to celebrate Irish culture and heritage in a festive and inclusive atmosphere.
The Family
Rosamond Gifford Zoo: Visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to see animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and lemurs. The zoo offers educational programs, events, and seasonal attractions for families and animal lovers.
Summary
Comparing the experiences of The DINKs and the Family in Syracuse and the Thousand Islands region of New York State reveals two distinct yet enriching perspectives. The twin in the DINKs, having spent her college years in Syracuse, cultivated deep connections with the city’s culture, cuisine, and community. On the other hand, the Family’s ties to Syracuse through extended family visits allowed them to explore the city’s familial warmth. Each group’s unique background and experiences contributed to their own meaningful encounters with these New York State gems, making it a matter of personal preference rather than a comparison of who did it “better.” Ultimately, both perspectives illustrate the diverse and rewarding experiences awaiting visitors to Syracuse and the Thousand Islands, showcasing the region’s blend of cultural richness, natural splendor, and warm hospitality.
Leave a Reply