Oneida County: Utica, Rome, Verona & Sylvan Beach, New York

CENTRAL NEW YORK ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Located in the heart of Central New York, Oneida County is THE perfect group getaway from all of the metro Northeast. Oneida County is an easy drive to the Baseball Hall of Fame, a half day to the Thousand Islands and midway between New York City and Toronto. It is the perfect hub to explore the diverse group activities that Central NY has to offer. Need proof? Check out our 3 day itinerary below.

Central New York is home to great attractions

Enjoy These Great Oneida County Attractions and More:

Herkimer Diamond Mines
Prospect Falls Winery
Adirondack Railroad
Erie Canal cruise

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Adirondack-Scenic-RR

ONEIDA COUNTY DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: ENJOY SOME SPARKLE AT HERKIMER DIAMOND MINES

Why not start your trip with a little bit of sparkle? At the above-ground surface mines at Herkimer Diamond Mines you’ll have the opportunity to search for Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals hiding in the rocks. Admission fee includes all-day prospecting ticket, gem collection bags, use of a rock hammer and instruction prior to entering the mines. Once finished mining, take your haul to the artisan center, where you can choose from a variety of jewelry-making accessories to create your own masterpiece.

Show off your new bling with a visit to Munson, formally Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute. A regional fine arts center, the museum features an extensive collection of European and American art, including two original sets of Thomas Cole’s famous series of paintings titled “The Voyage of Life.” Rotating exhibitions have included works of art ranging from Monet to Matisse. Even the museum’s building itself is a work of art, with a model of it exhibited at the Brussels’ World’s Fair of 1958. Next door is a Victorian-era Italianate mansion that houses Munson’s decorative arts collection.

Getting thirsty? We thought so. Located at the foothills of the rolling Adirondack Mountains, Prospect Falls Winery is a charming family-run winery. Offering a full winery experience, including on-site production and retail, Prospect aims to please a variety of grape-lovers, featuring some 18 wines, ranging from dry to semi-dry and sweet to semi-sweet in both white and red varietals, as well as special blends. Works from local artists are also for sale, further connecting this winery to its unique surroundings.

DAY 2: VISIT THE HISTORIC ONEIDA COMMUNITY MANSION HOUSE

The Adirondack Railroad, formerly the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, is a heritage railway that offers a variety of one-of-a-kind train experiences. The High Peaks Limited train ride is an 11-hour round trip from Utica and 4.5 hours round trip from Thendara through the Adirondacks that includes incredible views of the famous mountains. Enjoy quality food and drinks from the café car or First Class and Diamond Class passengers will have menu selection.

Once the home of the Utopian Oneida Community (1848-1880), a religious-based socialist utopian group, the Oneida Community Mansion House is now a historic house and museum. The community’s progressive philosophy can be seen in the home’s design as well as the beautifully landscaped gardens, grounds and trails. A National Historic Landmark, Oneida Community Mansion House offers year-round tours, both self-guided and guided. Afterward, indulge in some retail therapy with a guided tour of Oneida Ltd.’s former factory, now the home of Sherrill Manufacturing and Liberty Tabletop (the only flatware manufacturer in the U.S). Get a behind the scenes look at how silverware goes from metal coil to finished product. Choose from a wide variety of designs from contemporary Annapolis to classic Kensington, to even some unique designs like Calavera.

Keep the tour love going with a stop at Saranac Brewery. Private tours are available by appointment. Learn the history of this legacy brewery—the first brewery in the nation to sell a beer at the end of Prohibition in 1933—which now has incorporated sustainability initiatives into every aspect of its operations. Head to the Biergarten for a taste of their hard work.

But don’t fill up as dinner is at Delmonico’s, a celebrated Italian-inspired steakhouse known for its generous portions and high-quality ingredients. Their Utica location features a number of private dining options, ranging from the 8-capacity Godfather Room to the Fireside Room, which accommodates 110.

Pay a visit to the legendary Stanley Theatre in Utica, which opened in 1928 with 2,963 seats. Constructed in just 13 months, it was designed by famous architect Thomas Lamb, who is considered one of the foremost designers of theaters and cinemas in the 20th century. Today, The Stanley Theatre is host to shows presented by Broadway Utica as well as several promoters. Recent acts include REO Speedwagon, Martina McBride, Tony Bennett, Jerry Seinfeld, Jackson Browne, the Goo Goo Dolls, Ragtime, Once, 42nd Street, and Jersey Boys.

DAY 3: RELAX ON BOARD AN ERIE CANAL CRUISE

For a bit of time traveling, opt for an Erie Canal cruise. The 90-minute cruise offers a journey through history on the calm waters of the Erie Canal while taking in the stunning scenery of New York’s beautiful Mohawk Valley. Experience the thrill of being raised and lowered 20 feet inside the lock as your U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain tells tales of the canal.

After all that fresh air, no doubt you will be hungry—and Chesterfield’s Tavolo is happy to oblige. Order the restaurant’s signature Greens Morelle (escarole, hot cherry peppers, prosciutto, Romano cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs) before moving on to pizza, housemade lasagna and other Italian dishes. Finish with tiramisu as you plan your next visit to Oneida County.

For more itineraries, see our Group Itinerary Ideas

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