Cooperstown is a village in central New York State best known for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the Fenimore Art Museum, and the Farmers’ Museum showcasing 19th-century farm life. The town sits at the foothills of the Catskill Mountains and is about 195 miles from New York City. Abner Doubleday Field, a 9,000-seat ballpark owned by the Village of Cooperstown, is another famed attraction there, which hosts Legends of Baseball Tournaments for families to enjoy. Whether you go for a day trip, or a nice long weekend or more, there are plenty of exciting things to do.
Situated in Otsego County, Cooperstown is noted for its idyllic allure and top-notch attractions. The Cooperstown historic district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Walking or driving through the historic neighborhood will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Observe architecture from the late 19th and 20th Century to include homes styled in Greek Revival, Italianate, Colonial Revival, and other styles. Take a tour of Hyde Hall, a country mansion that represents the finest example of neoclassical design. Then head to Main Street, a street lined with quaint stores and steeped in charm, where folks can enjoy numerous dining and shopping options. And, of course, a visit to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (25 Main Street) is a must for all. The Fenimore Art Museum is another essential destination and features landscape paintings, American Indian artifacts, folk art, and more, fantastically showcased in a 1930s neo-Georgian mansion.
Cooperstown is often described as a truly American town and a fun family vacation destination. And many visitors return regularly to enjoy all the town has to offer. Cooperstown boasts many wonderful overnight accommodations, from bed & breakfasts to lovely inns and historic rentals. A local favorite is The Inn at Cooperstown, with distinct character and featuring Second Empire architecture. It is also a great romantic destination. There is never a shortage of fun things to do in the area, including hiking, camping, golfing, boating, and more. For a leisurely afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking dreamy Otsego Lake. Then, take an adventurous railbike ride on a Milford Track Tour, traveling over bridges and past rich farmlands and bountiful forests along the Susquehanna River. There is also an abundance of breweries and wineries in the region that host special events year-round.
Cooperstown presents a lovely mix of adventure, culture, and history and offers something special to offer to each visitor. The town’s museums are designed to engage and educate the community. And, each season, there are new adventures to be had. If you’re searching for a fun fall getaway, especially during peak leaf season, look no further, Cooperstown is a great place for you to observe autumnal splendor, see beautiful, covered bridges, and enjoy time outdoors. Not only are there numerous farms and markets, along with cider mills, but there are also many orchards featuring ripe apples ready for picking. If you’re longing for a nostalgic and fun-filled vacation, Cooperstown’s activities, environment, and scenery are second to none!
Traveler tip: Due to the changing status of COVID-19 regulations, please plan your itinerary carefully and visit the websites or call for special hours and/or to obtain the latest health safety guidelines.
