Broome County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, activities to do, and tips to know in Broome County, New York through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Broome County

Broome County is a picturesque region nestled in the Southern Tier of New York, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America. The county is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history and cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Broome County offers diverse experiences to all its visitors, ranging from outdoor adventures and culinary delights to cultural discoveries and events.

List of Places to Visit in Broome County

There are a plethora of attractions and places to visit in Broome County. Here are some highlights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Roberson Museum and Science Center - It is a unique museum showcasing exhibits on natural science, local history, and art. It is located in downtown Binghamton.
  • Bundy Museum of History and Art - It is a historic landmark that houses exhibits on the contributions made by the Bundy family to transportation and time-recording devices.
  • Phelps Mansion Museum - It is a beautiful mansion that has been converted into a museum, showcasing the history and architecture of the 19th-century era.
  • Kopernik Observatory and Science Center - It is a premier observatory in the northeast region, known for its state-of-the-art astronomical telescopes and immersive exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Broome County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chenango Valley State Park - It is a perfect destination for hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. It has over 1,100 acres of dense forests and scenic trails.
  • Greenway Trail - It is a 22-mile trail that runs alongside the Chenango River, offering various recreational activities for visitors.
  • Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park - It is a zoo located atop a hill in Binghamton, featuring a wide range of animal species, including lions, tigers, and bears.
  • Waterman Conservation Education Center - It is a nature preserve that has over 400 acres of diverse landscapes, including marshes, forests, and ponds. It offers educational programs, hiking trails, and bird-watching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Broome County

Broome County has some of the most beautiful and scenic hiking and biking trails in New York. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Link Trail - It is a 40-mile-long trail that connects Binghamton to the Catskill Mountains, passing through diverse landscapes and towns.
  • Vestal Rail Trail - It is a 3.3-mile-long trail that runs along the former Erie Railroad bed, providing a safe and scenic route for biking.
  • IBM Glen Trail - It is a moderate-level hike that is about 1.75 miles long with beautiful views of a gorge, waterfalls and the surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Broome County: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Broome County has plenty of fun activities and tours to offer. Here are some recommendations:

  • Brewery Tour - Broome County has several breweries offering tours and tastings, including the North Brewery, The FarmHouse Brewery, and Water Street Brewing Co.
  • LUMA Projection Arts Festival - It is an annual festival featuring amazing light installations and 3D projections that light up downtown Binghamton in a spectacular way.
  • First Friday Art Walk - It is a monthly event that showcases local artists and musicians in downtown Binghamton.
  • Broome County Veteran’s Memorial Arena - Attend the local concerts, sporting events, family shows and events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Broome County

Day 1: Visit Roberson Museum and Science Center and Kopernik Observatory and Science Center.

Day 2: Explore Chenango State Park, have a picnic, go on a hiking trail or rent a boat.

Day 3: Take a brewery tour and enjoy some local beers and bites.

Day 4: Visit the Bundy Museum of History and Art and the Phelps Mansion Museum.

Day 5: Take a stroll at Greenway Trail, or visit the Binghamton Zoo.

Day 6: Attend the LUMA projection arts festival.

Day 7: Relax at a local Cafe or attend a theater production at the Roberson Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Broome County

Broome County has a vibrant and growing culinary scene that offers fresh and unique dining experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Spiedies - A local delicacy of marinated grilled meat that is often served on a sandwich. You can try them at Lupo’s S and S Restaurant and Sharkey’s Bar and Grill.
  • Chicken French - A dish made with chicken breast dipped in egg batter, sautéed in lemon, and butter sauce, it’s a must-try at Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar.
  • Friday Fish Fry - A popular dish in Upstate New York is fried fish, usually served with fries. Enjoys it at Sharkey’s Bar and Grill.
  • Tomato Pie - A local savory pie that has a pastry crust, tomato sauce, and cheese. You can try it at Consol’s Family Kitchen.

Local Beverages

  • Beer - Broome County has an excellent craft beer scene, and some of the best breweries to try are Water Street Brewing Co., the North Brewery, and the FarmHouse Brewery.
  • Wine - Broome County has some of the best vineyards in the state, with notable ones like Chateau Renaissance, Black Bear Winery, and Fulkerson’s Winery.
  • Cider - If you are a cider fan, try Fly Creek Cider Mill or Critz Farms.

Where to Stay in Broome County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Broome County has a wide range of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Some options include:

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Binghamton - A full-service hotel located in downtown Binghamton. It offers amenities like an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant and bar.
  • Tru by Hilton Vestal Binghamton - A budget-friendly hotel with a modern aesthetic that features keyless room entry, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Rosemont Inn Bed and Breakfast - A charming bed and breakfast located in Binghamton, featuring cozy rooms and European-style breakfast.

What to Buy in Broome County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local products to bring home, Broome County has plenty of options, such as:

  • Spiedie Sauce - Bring home a bottle of spiedie sauce made from a secret family recipe dating back to 1920.
  • Local Wine or Beer - Grab a bottle of your favorite local brew or wine from one of the many wineries or breweries in the area.
  • Broome County T-Shirts - Pick up a T-Shirt to remember your amazing experience in Broome County.

Local Culture and Customs of Broome County

In Broome County, people are friendly, welcoming and passionate about preserving their history and traditions. Respect the local customs and behaviors of the place where you stay and enjoy their unique insights.

Best Time to Visit Broome County

The best time to visit Broome County is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Broome County

Do:

  • Do take a hike or go biking on the numerous trails in the area.
  • Do savor the delicious spiedies, chicken French and other local cuisines of Broome County.
  • Do visit the museums and historical attractions to learn more about the history of the region.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks or any natural areas.
  • Don’t forget to follow the rules and regulations of the state and federal parks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Broome County

Broome County is a safe place to visit, but always be cautious when traveling to new places. Take appropriate safety measures like keeping your valuables in a safe place and locking your car.

Health in Broome County

Broome County has excellent health facilities and emergency services, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Tourists should carry adequate travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Broome County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Broome County

The Greater Binghamton Airport serves the region and is the primary commercial airport.

Bus Stations Near Broome County

Grayhound offers bus services between Broome County and other locations in New York, Pennsylvania, and other nearby states.

Other Options

Many visitors arrive by car, and there are many rental car companies in the area.

How to Get Around in Broome County

The best way to get around Broome County is through a car, cab, or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Broome County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Broome County is located in a region with plenty of exciting things to see and do. Some nearby destinations include:

  • The Adirondack Mountains: Explore the scenic mountain range located in the northeastern part of New York state.
  • Niagara Falls: Visit the breathtaking waterfalls that straddles the US-Canadian border.
  • Finger Lakes: Tour the award-winning wineries and natural beauty of the region.

Conclusion

Broome County is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and excellent food and drink. Plan your trip, taking into consideration the recommendations and advice in this comprehensive travel guide, and enjoy a memorable vacation in Broome County, New York.



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