Things to Do in Watertown
Explore this 19th-century town tucked away in the northern corner of New York
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Watertown. In its quaint 19th-century downtown, you’ll find a grassy public square, old-fashioned streetlamps and Victorian buildings filled with mom-and-pop shops. The town is tucked away in the northern corner of New York, dotted with tranquil lakes and lush forests. The Black River’s energy-generating currents drew settlers to Watertown in 1800, but today the waterway—as well as the city’s 600 acres of parkland—is a source of recreational fun. Enjoy a small-town feel with big energy when you visit Watertown, New York.
Splash or Ski
Soak up the great outdoors from May through October as you white-water raft down the Black River. Adirondack River Outfitters offers guided tours up to four hours long through eight miles of rapids, where you can paddle past waterfalls and even swim in the gentler regions. Test your skills on the slopes at Dry Hill Ski Area, just 10 minutes south of downtown. The complex includes seven skiing and snowboarding trails ranging from beginning to advanced levels. Grab the whole family and head to the snow-tubing park for downhill fun.
A Bit of History
Make your way through the city center, complete with a visit to the Paddock Arcade, Watertown’s beloved shopping complex from 1850. Sunshine filters through the glass roof of the four-story structure, lighting the way as you explore shops and cafes inside. History is also on hand at the Thomas Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, founded in 1870 by a former slave. The prominent African American church features an extensive exhibit on the Underground Railroad in the attached fellowship hall.
Family Fun
Pay a visit to the Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library, an ornate, two-story building built in 1904 with stunning artwork and a dazzling rotunda. In addition to special sections dedicated to teens and kids, the library hosts story-time sessions, arts and crafts workshops and family-friendly film screenings. Enjoy a variety of seasonal attractions at Watertown’s iconic Historic Thompson Park, including an outdoor swimming pool, skating areas, cross-country skiing trails, sledding hills and tennis courts. Stop by the Thompson Park Zoo and view roaming elk, soaring eagles and splashing otters.
Comfort Food
Grab a slice or a whole pie at Cam’s Pizzeria in the heart of downtown. The counter-service restaurant serves thin, New York-style pizza, including innovative creations such as white garlic, cheeseburger and Buffalo chicken wing. The oldest eatery in town, Crystal Restaurant first opened its doors to the public in 1925. Munch on comfort foods like meatloaf, corned beef and cabbage and French toast in this old-fashioned establishment, complete with mahogany booths, coat racks and a vintage cash register.
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