Places to Go During Trip from Ottawa -> New York City?

Question

we are planning to take a road trip to new york city from ottawa, canada to NYC. Since 8 hours is a long drive, we plan to stay someplace along the way overnight to take a break. Any suggestions of interesting places along the way or not too far off?

Answer 1

It depends on what route you are taking. Most people follow the Google Maps / Mapquest route down 81. That actually isn't the fastest route but it is easier and you're less likely to get lost.

Assuming you take this route I'd suggest staying in Syracuse. There is good shopping at the Carousel Mall. There is a casino (Turning Stone just outside the city limits in Rome near the site of the original Woodstock). The nightlife is pretty good with University of Syracuse. Turning Stone just opened a club called Lava which is suppose to be good. I haven't been yet.

Once you pass Syracuse there really isn't much until Scranton. I've never taken that route so not sure if Scranton is worth visiting. By then you are almost in NYC so not worth stopping

Before Syracuse.there is Watertown which some outlet stores. It is a little too early to stop though as it would break you trip into 2 hours and 6 hours. Maybe if you want to take a break and do a little shopping.

I've done the drive a few times and unless you have children it is fairly easy to do. Also depending on how many people are going I'd look at flying. For a family obviously driving is cheaper but for 1 or 2 people flying is about the same price and since you won't need a hotel for the trip  you might actually save money.

Answer 2

How about going via Kingston and taking the ferry to Wolfe Island and then the US ferry to Cape Vincent?  A bit out of the way, but a fun adventure.