History Between a Fort and a Battle

Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome was reconstructed in 1976 and largely reflects its appearance during the American Revolutionary War. The Battle of Oriskany, fought on August 6, 1777, is considered a significant turning point in the war and is described as one of its bloodiest battles. These two subjects offer different perspectives: the reconstructed fort on the one hand, and the historical context of a specific battle on the other.

The fort’s visitor center has a museum area and living history programs. Alongside the architectural reconstruction, visitors can also explore ways of interpreting the history.

Landscapes and Birdlife

On the eastern shore of Oneida Lake, Verona Beach State Park features lake, stream, marsh and floodplain forest habitats. Delta Lake State Park offers a different landscape: it lies on a wooded, mostly flat peninsula that extends into the Delta Reservoir. When comparing the two descriptions, the variety of lakeshore habitats contrasts with the shape of a wooded peninsula.

The Rome Sand Plains Unique Area is included in the New York State Birding Trail route for Oneida County. It is a rare inland pine barrens ecosystem with sand dunes, wetlands and forest; grassland birds, owls and woodpeckers can be found there. This makes both a distinctive ecosystem type and several groups of birds points of interest.

Museums with Different Areas of Focus

Several exhibitions run concurrently at the Oneida County History Center in Utica. Weekly programs and special events complement the offerings; the center also has a research library. If you plan to attend a special event, check the current schedule.

The Canastota Canal Town Museum is next to the Old Erie Canal and uses two floors to showcase the history of the Erie Canal, as well as local folklore and history. Authentic artifacts, art and other exhibitions explore Canastota’s contributions to the canal, commerce, industry and agriculture.

The NY Energy Zone explores the history, present and future of electricity. A 3D theater and interactive, hands-on exhibits offer different ways to engage with the subject.

Art, Market and More to Discover

At MUNSON, admission to the Museum of Art is free year-round unless otherwise noted for special exhibitions or events. Art Odyssey gives children of all ages the chance to create an exhibition, draw, build and read art books. You can visit MUNSON individually or in a group, with several ways to shape your museum visit.

The Oneida County Public Market is a year-round farmers market behind Union Station in Utica. If you plan a visit, check the latest market details. The Utica Zoo is home to more than 200 animals from around the world across eight animal areas; the animal population may change.

Old Erie Canal State Park includes a 36-mile section of the 363-mile Old Erie Canal, which is designated a National Recreational Trail. The mileage figures distinguish the park section from the canal as a whole.

Discover more destinations: Utica, Oriskany, Rome, Whitesboro, Sherrill, New Hartford, Clinton, Verona, Sylvan Beach.

Return to the main travel overview: New York.