Nestled in the heart of the Mohawk Valley, Utica is one of Upstate New York’s most underrated destinations. This vibrant city blends rich history, diverse cultural influences, and natural beauty to create a surprisingly rewarding experience for visitors. From world-class art museums to legendary local cuisine, Utica offers authentic experiences that larger tourist destinations often lack. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through on an Upstate New York road trip, these 15 attractions showcase the best of what Utica has to offer.
Utica’s charming skyline showcases its blend of historic architecture and natural beauty
Plan Your Utica Adventure
Ready to explore the best of Utica? Use our interactive map to locate all attractions, download our free visitor’s guide, or contact the Oneida County Tourism office for personalized recommendations.
Local’s Tip: Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals like Saranac Thursdays and the Boilermaker Road Race. Fall (September-October) offers spectacular foliage and harvest events. Winter visitors can enjoy nearby skiing and cozy brewery tours.
Cultural Gems & Historic Sites
The striking modern architecture of Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute houses world-class art collections
1. Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute
Address: 310 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13502
This internationally recognized fine arts center houses an impressive permanent collection featuring works by Picasso, Dali, Pollock, and O’Keeffe. The museum’s striking modernist building, designed by Philip Johnson, is itself an architectural masterpiece worth admiring.
- Explore the extensive collection of European and American paintings spanning several centuries
- Visit Fountain Elms, the restored Victorian-era mansion with period furnishings
- Check out rotating special exhibitions featuring contemporary and historical artists
Visitor Tip: Admission is free on Thursdays from 5-8pm and all day on the first Sunday of each month.
2. Stanley Center for the Arts
Address: 259 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13501
This historic 1928 movie palace has been beautifully restored to its original Mexican Baroque glory. Today, the Stanley hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and performances by the Utica Symphony Orchestra in a truly spectacular setting.
The Stanley Theatre’s breathtaking interior showcases its Mexican Baroque architectural style
- Marvel at the ornate ceiling, grand chandeliers, and intricate architectural details
- Catch a Broadway touring production or concert by national acts
- Take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s fascinating history and restoration
Visitor Tip: Check their event calendar before your visit and book tickets in advance for popular shows.
3. Oneida County Historical Society
Address: 1608 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13502
Housed in a beautiful historic building, this museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Utica and the surrounding Mohawk Valley. Exhibits cover everything from the area’s industrial past to its diverse immigrant communities.
- Discover artifacts from Utica’s industrial heyday as a textile manufacturing center
- Learn about the waves of immigration that shaped the city’s unique cultural identity
- Explore the extensive research library for genealogical and historical research
Outdoor Adventures & Natural Beauty
The Utica Zoo is home to over 200 animals across 40 acres of naturalistic habitats
4. Utica Zoo
Address: 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica, NY 13501
Set on 40 acres in scenic Roscoe Conkling Park, the Utica Zoo houses over 200 animals from around the world. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education makes it both fun and informative for visitors of all ages.
- Visit the popular African Lion exhibit, one of the zoo’s newest attractions
- See endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard
- Enjoy special events throughout the year, including Brewfest and Spooktacular
Visitor Tip: The zoo is open year-round (except Christmas and New Year’s Day). Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals.
5. Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area
Address: Barnes Ave, Utica, NY 13502
This 213-acre wetland preserve offers a surprising wilderness experience right at the edge of the city. A network of trails and boardwalks allows visitors to explore diverse habitats while spotting numerous bird species and other wildlife.
The boardwalk trails at Utica Marsh offer immersive wetland experiences minutes from downtown
- Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities (over 200 species have been spotted)
- Walk the elevated boardwalk for panoramic views of the marsh ecosystem
- Visit at dawn or dusk for the best wildlife viewing opportunities
6. Erie Canalway Trail
Address: Harbor Lock Road, Utica, NY 13502
Part of the Empire State Trail, this historic pathway follows the route of the original Erie Canal. The flat, paved trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying scenic views and learning about the canal’s crucial role in American history.
- Cycle along the canal on a section of the 360-mile trail that connects Albany to Buffalo
- Stop at interpretive signs explaining the canal’s engineering and historical significance
- Enjoy picturesque views of boats navigating the waterway during summer months
Culinary Delights & Brewing Heritage
The historic F.X. Matt Brewing Company offers tours showcasing its 135+ years of brewing tradition
7. F.X. Matt Brewing Company
Address: 830 Varick St, Utica, NY 13502
Founded in 1888, this historic brewery is one of the oldest family-owned breweries in America and home to the popular Saranac brand. Tours offer a fascinating glimpse into both brewing history and modern craft beer production.
- Take the brewery tour to see historic copper kettles and modern brewing facilities
- Sample a flight of Saranac beers in the tasting room
- Attend Saranac Thursdays in summer for live music and community gatherings
Visitor Tip: Tours run Thursday-Saturday and often sell out, so book in advance through their website.
8. Utica’s Culinary Landmarks
Utica boasts several unique regional specialties that food enthusiasts shouldn’t miss. The city’s diverse immigrant history has created distinctive dishes you won’t find elsewhere.
Utica’s famous tomato pie features a thick crust topped with seasoned tomato sauce, typically served at room temperature
- Try authentic tomato pie at Napoli’s Italian Bakery or Roma Sausage & Deli
- Sample chicken riggies (chicken and rigatoni in spicy cream sauce) at Ventura’s Restaurant
- Taste Utica greens (sautéed escarole with prosciutto, hot peppers, and breadcrumbs) at Aqua Vino
“Utica’s food scene is a direct reflection of its immigrant history—Italian, Polish, Lebanese, and more recently, Bosnian and Burmese influences create a unique culinary landscape you won’t find anywhere else.”
Family-Friendly Attractions
The Utica Children’s Museum offers four floors of interactive exhibits for young explorers
9. Children’s Museum of History, Natural History & Science
Address: 311 Main St, Utica, NY 13501
Located in Utica’s historic Bagg’s Square district, this family-friendly museum offers four floors of interactive exhibits designed to engage curious minds. Kids can explore everything from dinosaurs to space travel through hands-on activities.
- Let kids explore the “Exploration Station” with hands-on science experiments
- Visit the “Utica Train Station” exhibit to learn about local transportation history
- Enjoy the “Creation Station” where children can express their creativity
10. Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Address: Union Station, 321 Main St, Utica, NY 13501
Departing from Utica’s historic Union Station, these scenic train rides offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the Adirondack region. Seasonal themed excursions make this attraction enjoyable year-round.
The Adirondack Scenic Railroad offers breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty
- Take the Fall Foliage Tour for spectacular views of autumn colors (September-October)
- Experience the magical Polar Express ride during the holiday season
- Enjoy beer and wine tasting excursions for adults during summer months
Visitor Tip: Book tickets well in advance for popular themed rides like the Polar Express, which often sells out months ahead. Check their schedule for current offerings.
More Must-See Attractions
11. Utica Memorial Auditorium (“The AUD”)
Address: 400 Oriskany St W, Utica, NY 13502
Home to the Utica Comets AHL hockey team, this historic arena was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The unique cable-suspended roof design influenced Madison Square Garden and other famous venues.
- Catch an exciting Utica Comets hockey game during the season
- Attend concerts, shows, and other sporting events year-round
- Admire the innovative architectural design that made engineering history
12. Sculpture Space
Address: 12 Gates St, Utica, NY 13502
This unique artist-in-residence program hosts sculptors from around the world. Visitors can tour the studios, meet working artists, and see innovative contemporary sculpture being created.
- Attend the annual CHAIRity fundraiser featuring artist-designed chairs
- Visit during open studio events to meet international artists
- See works in progress and learn about contemporary sculpture techniques
13. Irish Cultural Center
Address: 623 Columbia St, Utica, NY 13502
Celebrating Utica’s strong Irish heritage, this center features an authentic Victorian-style Irish pub that was built in Dublin and reassembled on-site by Irish craftsmen.
- Enjoy traditional Irish music sessions and cultural performances
- Sample authentic Irish cuisine and beverages at Five Points Pub
- Explore exhibits on Irish-American history in the Mohawk Valley
14. Valley View Golf Course
Address: 620 Memorial Pkwy, Utica, NY 13501
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, this 18-hole municipal golf course offers challenging play and beautiful views of the Mohawk Valley at surprisingly affordable rates.
- Play a round on the well-maintained 18-hole course
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley and hills
- Visit the pro shop and clubhouse restaurant for a complete experience
15. Oneida County Public Market
Address: Union Station, 321 Main St, Utica, NY 13501
Housed in the historic train station, this year-round farmers market showcases local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods from throughout the region.
- Sample local cheeses, baked goods, and seasonal produce
- Purchase handcrafted items from local artisans
- Enjoy the historic architecture of Union Station while you shop
Visitor Tip: The market runs Saturday mornings year-round, with expanded hours and vendors during summer months.
The annual Boilermaker Road Race attracts thousands of participants and spectators each July
Annual Events Worth Planning Around
- Boilermaker Road Race (July) – One of America’s premier 15K races
- Utica Monday Nite (Summer) – Weekly arts and cultural events
- Saranac Thursdays (May-September) – Popular concert series at the brewery
- Utica Music Fest (September) – Multi-venue music festival
Planning Your Visit to Utica
Interactive map of Utica’s top attractions
Day Trip Itineraries
For Culture Lovers:
- Morning: Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute
- Lunch: Try Utica greens at Aqua Vino
- Afternoon: Stanley Theatre tour
- Evening: Dinner at Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar
For Families:
- Morning: Utica Zoo
- Lunch: Tomato pie and half-moon cookies at Florentine Pastry Shop
- Afternoon: Children’s Museum
- Evening: Adirondack Scenic Railroad ride (seasonal)
For Food & Drink Enthusiasts:
- Morning: Oneida County Public Market
- Lunch: Chicken riggies at Ventura’s Restaurant
- Afternoon: F.X. Matt Brewing Company tour
- Evening: Dinner and drinks at Irish Cultural Center
Practical Information
Getting There:
- By Car: Utica is located directly off the New York State Thruway (I-90)
- By Train: Amtrak service to Union Station in downtown Utica
- By Bus: Greyhound and Trailways service to Utica
- Nearest Airports: Syracuse Hancock International (60 miles) or Albany International (95 miles)
Getting Around:
- Downtown attractions are walkable
- Centro bus system serves the city and surrounding areas
- Rideshare services and taxis are available
- Rental cars recommended for exploring beyond the city
Best Photo Spots:
- Union Station’s grand concourse
- Stanley Theatre marquee at night
- Overlook at Valley View Golf Course
- F.X. Matt Brewery’s historic facade
- Utica Marsh boardwalk at sunset
Experience Utica’s Unique Charm
From world-class art and historic architecture to unique culinary traditions and natural beauty, Utica offers authentic experiences that showcase the best of Upstate New York. Start planning your visit today!
As the sun sets on Utica, the city’s historic charm and vibrant culture continue to captivate visitors
Utica may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning an Upstate New York getaway, but those who take the time to explore this resilient city are rewarded with authentic experiences, friendly locals, and attractions that rival those of more famous destinations. Whether you’re passing through on a longer journey or making Utica your primary destination, these 15 attractions provide a perfect introduction to one of New York’s most underappreciated gems.