10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Utica, New York (Oneida County)
If you’re looking for an easy weekend getaway in upstate New York,
Utica in
Oneida County is a great pick. It’s about halfway between Syracuse and Albany, right off the New York State Thruway, and it has that perfect mix of city energy and small-town charm.
Whether you’re into food, history, nature, or family fun, there are plenty of things to do near Utica, NY. Let’s walk through 10 ideas to help you plan your trip.
1. Tour the Famous F.X. Matt / Saranac Brewery
If you enjoy a good craft beer or just like learning how things are made, you’ll want to stop at the
F.X. Matt Brewing Company, home of
Saranac beers and soft drinks.
This historic brewery has been part of Utica since the late 1800s. A typical visit includes:
- Guided tour through the brewing and bottling areas
- Tastings in the 1888 Tavern (for adults 21+)
- Non-alcoholic Saranac sodas for kids and non-drinkers
It’s an easy walk from downtown, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. On summer evenings, the brewery often hosts outdoor events and live music, so you can grab a drink, listen to a band, and just hang out.
Looking for an easy “first stop” after checking into your hotel? This is it.
2. Explore the Utica Zoo
The
Utica Zoo is a nice surprise in a small city. It’s not huge, so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed, but there’s still a good variety of animals to see.
You’ll find:
- Lions, zebras, and red pandas
- Camels and alpacas
- Farm animals kids can get close to
The zoo sits on a hill with walking paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Plan for about 2–3 hours, which makes it perfect for a half-day outing.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the top things to do in Utica. They’ll burn off energy, and you’ll enjoy the views over the city from the higher paths.
3. Step Back in Time at the Munson (Museum of Art)
Art lovers (or anyone who enjoys quiet, beautiful spaces) should make time for
Munson, formerly known as Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute.
Inside this modern, glass-and-steel building you’ll find:
- American and European paintings and sculptures
- Rotating exhibits featuring contemporary and local artists
- A peaceful, open layout that’s easy to wander
Right across the street is the historic
Fountain Elms mansion, which showcases 19th-century furnishings and decorative arts. Walking between the sleek museum and the old mansion feels like stepping between two different eras.
If you hit a rainy day in Utica, this is an ideal indoor thing to do.
4. Ride the Adirondack Railroad
If you’ve ever wanted to sit back and watch classic upstate scenery roll by, the
Adirondack Railroad is for you.
Trains leave from Utica’s beautiful
Union Station (worth a visit on its own) and head north toward the Adirondack foothills. Depending on the season, you may find:
- Fall foliage rides with bright red and gold leaves
- Winter and holiday-themed trains
- Special event rides with snacks or local drinks
The trip is more about the experience than the destination. You just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. If you’re visiting with parents or grandparents, this makes a fantastic multi-generational activity.
5. Walk and Dine Your Way Through Historic Bagg’s Square
If you’re wondering where to go in Utica for a mix of history, food, and local flavor, head to
Bagg’s Square, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.
Here you can:
- Check out old brick warehouses and historic buildings
- Grab coffee or a craft beer at a local café or taproom
- Walk over to Union Station and admire the grand architecture
Bagg’s Square has a cool, slightly gritty feel—old railroad vibes mixed with new small businesses. It’s a great spot for a late-morning stroll, followed by lunch.
Tip: If you love photography, the mix of trains, tracks, and brick buildings makes for great shots.
6. Eat Your Way Through Utica’s Unique Food Scene
Food is a big part of visiting Utica. The city is known for its strong Italian and Bosnian communities, and it has several dishes you’ll mostly find only here.
When you’re planning what to do in Utica, make time to
just eat. Look for:
- Utica greens – escarole sautéed with hot peppers, garlic, prosciutto, and cheese
- Chicken riggies – rigatoni in a creamy, spicy tomato sauce with chicken and peppers
- Tomato pie – a thick, airy crust topped with tangy sauce and sprinkled with grated cheese, served at room temperature
- Half-moons – Utica’s answer to the black-and-white cookie, with half chocolate, half vanilla frosting on a soft cake-like cookie
Many local restaurants proudly serve these dishes, and each has its own version. You could easily plan a whole afternoon just “tasting” your way around town.
Have you ever planned a trip mainly around food? Utica is a great place to start.
7. Enjoy Nature at the Utica Marsh and Erie Canalway Trail
Utica isn’t just museums and restaurants. If you want a quick dose of nature without driving deep into the Adirondacks, try the
Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area and sections of the
Erie Canalway Trail.
At Utica Marsh, you’ll find:
- Easy walking paths and boardwalks over wetland areas
- Plenty of bird-watching opportunities
- Quiet spots to sit and relax
Nearby, the
Erie Canalway Trail offers miles of flat trail along the historic Erie Canal. It’s perfect for:
- Casual bike rides
- Family walks
- Jogging or running
On a warm afternoon, this is a simple way to slow down, stretch your legs, and see a different side of Oneida County.
8. Visit Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome, NY
About 20–25 minutes northwest of Utica, in the city of
Rome, you’ll find
Fort Stanwix National Monument—a full reconstruction of an 18th-century fort that played a key role in the American Revolution.
Here you can:
- Walk along the fort walls and through the barracks
- Talk with rangers and reenactors in period clothing
- Learn about local Native American history and early trade routes
It’s run by the National Park Service, and the visitor center has helpful displays and films. If you have kids, they can often do a Junior Ranger activity, which makes history a lot more fun than a textbook.
This is one of the best day trips from Utica if you enjoy American history.
9. Play and Learn at the Children’s Museum & Local Parks
Traveling with younger kids and wondering what to do in Utica that keeps them busy? A good combo is the
children’s museum area (check current status and location, as exhibits have been in transition) along with some of the city’s parks.
Options include:
- Local children’s exhibits – hands-on play, science, and creativity-focused activities
- Proctor Park & T.R. Proctor Park – classic green spaces with room to run
- Playgrounds scattered around the city for quick breaks
A simple day plan: morning at the museum-style activities, lunch downtown, then an afternoon at a park while the kids run around and you relax on a bench with a coffee.
10. Take a Day Trip into the Adirondack Foothills
One of the best things about Utica is its location. In less than an hour, you can be in the
Adirondack Mountains, surrounded by lakes and forests.
Some easy day trip ideas from Utica include:
- Old Forge – about an hour north, with water activities, shops, and mountain views
- Kayaking or canoeing on a nearby lake in season
- Short hikes to scenic overlooks in the Adirondack foothills
Think of Utica as your base camp: you can enjoy city comforts at night (restaurants, breweries, comfy hotels) and nature adventures during the day.
Planning Your Visit to Utica, NY
To make the most of your time in Utica and Oneida County, here are a few quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor activities; winter if you enjoy snow and cozy indoor spots.
- Getting around: A car makes it easier to explore places like Rome, the marsh, and the Adirondacks.
- Trip length: A weekend works, but 3–4 days lets you try more food, visit a few museums, and squeeze in a day trip.
Final Thoughts: Is Utica Worth a Stop?
Utica, New York may not be the first city that pops into your head for a getaway, but that’s part of its charm. It feels real, affordable, and welcoming, with:
- Local food you won’t find everywhere else
- Easy access to nature and the Adirondacks
- Historic sites, a solid arts scene, and family-friendly attractions
If you’re driving along the New York State Thruway or planning a short upstate escape, consider giving Utica a spot on your list.
Share Your Utica Experience
Have you tried chicken riggies or Utica greens? Ridden the Adirondack Railroad? Or discovered a hidden gem in Bagg’s Square?
I’d love to hear about your favorite things to do in and around Utica, NY.
Drop a comment with your tips, stories, or questions—your ideas can help other travelers plan their trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who might be planning a visit to upstate New York!
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