Best Things to do on a Road Trip from City of Gloversville, New York and Town of Rotterdam, New York
Gloversville, NY and Rotterdam, NY are two charming cities nestled in Fulton and Schenectady County respectively. The two cities are only separated by a 25-minute drive, and both offer an array of exciting opportunities for visitors and locals alike. A road trip from Gloversville to Rotterdam and back offers an opportunity to explore the interesting places and hidden gems on and off the beaten path. This article highlights the five best things to do on a road trip from Gloversville to Rotterdam.
The halfway point between Gloversville and Rotterdam is the charming city of Amsterdam, NY. This historic city is an excellent place to take a break and stretch your legs. Visitors can explore the city's historic downtown area and enjoy some shopping and dining. The Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook pedestrian bridge provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Mohawk River and the Mohawk Valley.
1. Johnson Hall State Historic Site
The Johnson Hall State Historic Site is a must-visit landmark located in Johnstown, NY. This 18th-century home was the residence of Sir William Johnson, a significant colonial figure in the Mohawk Valley. The historic home is a wonderful piece of architecture that showcases the colonial style of the past. Visitors can tour inside the rooms and explore the lush gardens surrounding the mansion.
Interesting Fact: Johnson Hall was built-in 1763 and was designated as a state landmark in 1906, amidst efforts to preserve the unique heritage of the Mohawk Valley.
2. Howe Caverns Adventure Park
Located in Cobleskill, NY, the Howe Caverns Adventure Park is a surreal natural wonder that every road trip enthusiast should check out. The park boasts the largest underground lake in America, limestone formations that are millions of years old, and beautiful underground waterfalls. As if that wasn't enough, the park has a mini-golf course, escape rooms, and a ropes course.
Interesting Fact: Howe Caverns was discovered by Lester Howe in 1842. The attraction was opened to the public in 1843, making it one of the oldest tourist sites in New York State.
3. Upstate Distilling Company
The Upstate Distilling Company is a fantastic destination located in Saratoga Springs, NY, that provides an opportunity for visitors to try craft spirits that are unique to the region. Visitors can explore the distilling process, learn about the different grains used in crafting the spirits, and taste some of the best whiskeys, rums, and vodka that Upstate New York has to offer.
Interesting Fact: The Upstate Distilling Company was established in 2016 by three friends with a love for craft spirits. The company's flagship whiskey is Rye Knot, which is a nod to the knots used by sailors to keep ships anchored.
4. Via Aquarium
The Via Aquarium is a hidden gem located in Rotterdam, NY. The aquarium has an impressive collection of aquatic life from around the world. Visitors can explore the different sections of the aquarium, learn about the animals, and watch some of the live demonstrations. The Via Aquarium has a touch tank where visitors can interact with the sea creatures, including stingrays and sea urchins.
Interesting Fact: The Via Aquarium was opened in 2017 and has a capacity of 25,000 gallons of water that accommodate 2,000 animals.
5. Central Park Rose Garden
The Central Park Rose Garden in Schenectady, NY, is a beautiful place to relax and unwind after a long road trip. The garden has hundreds of different types of roses that bloom during the summer and fall months. Visitors can take a stroll through the various sections of the garden and enjoy the enchanting scents of the roses.
Interesting Fact: The Central Park Rose Garden was established in 1920 and has over 4,000 rose bushes with more than 500 varieties of roses.
In conclusion, a road trip from Gloversville, NY to Rotterdam, NY, and back offers an incredible opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the Mohawk Valley region. The trip offers both historical and modern-day attractions that are sure to appeal to everyone. The journey can take around 3-4 hours, depending on how much time one dedicates to each attraction. Visitors, however, must remember to take their time and enjoy the beautiful scenery as they embark on this exciting road trip.