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PALMYRA, N.Y. —
Every summer in Western New York, the village of Palmyra is thronged by tourists from across the country and around the globe to witness the majestic Hill Cumorah Pageant. For about about two weeks, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints flock to this part of upstate New York to not only enjoy the pageant, but also to see where the church began — from the Sacred Grove, the rebuilt Joseph Smith home and the restored site of the Book of Mormon's first printing.
However, if you are making the trek to see the pageant and have an extra day or two to spare, here are just a few of the area's best-kept secrets that you may want to experience. All are within a couple hours' drive of Palmyra.
Watkins Glen
Take a drive south through the beautiful Finger Lakes region to Watkins Glen, but don't forget to pack walking shoes. Not only is this town known as an international speedway by NASCAR fans, but it is also known for the Watkins Glen State Park — a beautiful gorge that will leave any outdoor enthusiast in awe. The park features a two-mile-long trail through a river gorge and waterfalls.
Those who would like an easier walk can park at the lower parking lot, take a shuttle to the top and hike down. For those wishing more of a challenge, park at the top and begin your hike up the gorge from the bottom. The trails are well-carved and paved, but there are steep stairs as well.
On the trail, you will be able to walk behind a waterfall! With each step, you will be able to hear the river babbling along. Each time you stop to look back, the view just gets better. Watkins Glen is 60 miles south of Palmyra, but the drive will take about 90 minutes. Campgrounds are available, but often fill up fast during the summer months. For more information, visit nysparks.com/parks/142/details.aspx.
Old Fort Niagra
American history buffs would enjoy a self-guided tour through Old Fort Niagara. It is located just outside Youngstown, N.Y., about 30 minutes north of Buffalo. You can visit the fort built by the French that would later be claimed by the British and Americans. You will be able to see the French Mansion, the oldest still-standing stone building on the great lakes.
For a nominal entrance fee, you can explore each building and walk on the land berms that once served as part of the defense system. Look across the Niagara River to the Canadian side and learn about the skirmishes between the Americans and Canadians during 1812. Throughout the summer, there are various re-enactments depicting the periods of the fort's history. On hand are workers dressed in period clothes who share the area's history.
Be sure to make your way into the museum and look at the huge flag that was taken by the British as a war trophy but returned in the mid-1990s. Once you have completed your tour, pull out that picnic lunch at the day park. You can also take advantage of the swimming pool and nature center.
Syracuse
About an hour to the east of Palmyra, off I-90, is the city of Syracuse. Known as Salt City, Syracuse was once the biggest producer of salt. Stop by the salt museum located on Onondaga (pronounced On-non-dog-uh) Lake. Shop in an expanding mall called the Carousel Center and a completely smoke-free environment (including the parking lot).
Be sure to ride on the carousel originally built in the mid-1800s that still includes many of its original horses. Be sure to look up and watch as groups of finches fly above from rafter to rafter. It seemed a bit odd to me as well, but it's great to see!
If your shopping spree leaves you feeling hunger pangs, consider one of the many eateries. The mall offers everything from typical fast food to the '50s-style burger joint Johnny Rockets.
Downtown Syracuse is the home of the popular restaurant Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, reputed to be the best barbecue in New York State. It is often packed during dinner hours and the setting tends to be a bit loud, but you will enjoy the eclectic collection of decorations that seem to fit the atmosphere.
The official New York website is ILoveNY.com.
