As a tourist, you’re used to visiting all the top sights and attractions. These tend to be interesting and often busy, but they may not give you an authentic feel of the destination. Hidden gems are attractions tucked away in places locals know well, but tourists often overlook them.
For those who have a trip planned to Vestal, New York, we’ve got some great suggestions that will take you off the beaten path. Vestal has a vast selection of parks, local haunts, eateries, and shops that shouldn’t be missed. There’s no need to take our word for it though. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to explore in Vestal.
Vestal Rail Trail
Nature lovers are some of the most prolific travelers. They are constantly looking to explore new sights, revel in the flora and fauna, and get incredible pictures of the local wildlife. If that’s right up your alley, then exploring the Vestal Rail Trail is a must. You can do so on foot or by scooter, bicycle, or inline skates. If you happen to have your four-legged family member with you, dogs are also welcome on the trail.
Vestal Rail Trail East spans 2.1 miles with a smooth 12-foot-wide paved path. This makes it perfect for walkers and hikers of all experience levels since there’s uneven terrain to worry about. The trail traverses between North Main Street and African Road and provides stunning vistas on all sides. There is also a second trail called Vestal Rail Trail West. This one is a little shorter at 1.75 miles and runs between Castle Gardens Road and Main Street.
If you plan to explore either trail, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wear supportive shoes with good grips.
- Dress in layers so you remain comfortable.
- Make sure to wear adequate sunscreen with SPF protection.
- Wear a hat.
- If you have a dog, keep it leashed at all times.
Vestal Town Parks
While we’re on the topic of the great outdoors in Vestal, it’s also worth mentioning the rather large number of town parks. Vestal has 20 parks, each with its own unique features and amenities, such as picnic areas, a playground, shaded pavilions, walking trails, a serene atmosphere, and sports facilities.
To add to the vibe and charm of Vestal’s parks, some even have manmade or natural water features. If you plan on driving to a park, be warned that not all have on-site parking. It’s wise to check in advance so you can plan accordingly.
Some of the most amenity-packed parks in Vestal include:
- Barlow Park
- Arnold Park
- DEC Flood Fields
- Fuller Hollow Park
- Jones Park
- Harold Moore Park
Vestal Museum
Like many towns, Vestal boasts its own unique museum, rich with local history. Located on Vestal Pkwy E., the Vestal Museum is unique, especially in its appearance. The building was the train station in Vestal from 1881 to 1959. Depending on when you visit, it might still be in its current location, but there are plans to relocate it to the Vestal Rail Trail.
In its original location and form, the station was on a passenger rail line that connected Buffalo to New York City. As you can imagine, this was an extremely important rail line. If you’re a train enthusiast, you might be thrilled to learn that the iconic Phoebe Snow train made regular stops at the Vestal station.
Historical Landmarks in Vestal
Vestal has three types of historical designations: local historical landmarks (like the Vestal Museum) and districts, the New York State Register of Historic Places, and the National Register of Historic Places. No matter which kind of historical landmark you visit, expect to be wowed by how well they have been maintained. A few notable landmarks are Rounds House (1895), Drovers Inn (1844), Rounds Coal Company (1908), and Rivercrest District with 32 properties.
Vestal Eateries
One of the best parts about discovering a new destination is sampling the local cuisine. And whether they’re grabbing a bite at a tucked-away diner or playing their favorite games on casinos.com in a quaint coffee shop, Vestal locals frequent several standouts worth mentioning.
Some of these may not be in your tourist guide, but that shouldn’t stop you from exploring them. Local eateries such as Copper Top Tavern Vestal, Pete’s Legacy Diner, Skylark Diner, CAFFÈ del CORSO, Spiedi & Rib Pit, and The Ale House all give tourists an authentic take on regional cuisine.
The variety of dining styles is also noteworthy. You’ll find quick snacks, quick meals, and sit-down restaurants. Ultimately, it comes down to the type of cuisine, atmosphere, and budget you’re craving.
Vestal Will Surprise You With Its Offerings
Explore these hidden gems in Vestal and you’ll gain a more authentic sense of what this small town in New York state truly has to offer. If you run out of time because there is so much to see and do, don’t fret—it just means you’ll need to return one day.
