It's always nice to use our free time to enjoy a weekend away or nice road trip that takes out of town. But there's certain adventures that you can take in the Empire State that will have you discovering local restaurants and leave you feeling far from hungry. Taking you from the southern Finger Lakes up and out to Central New York past Syracuse, this quick little two-hour scenic drive is mapped out and ready for you to explore for yourself!
To take a look at the entire mapped out adventure on Google Maps, click here.
First stop on this delicious adventure? Viva Taqueria in Ithaca! This city is one that's filled with a ton of amazing places to eat, making it extremely difficult to choose just one place to dine. But if you're only visiting the area briefly and are staying for just one meal, then take your tastebuds on an adventure to this local Mexican restaurant.
To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
After starting off your trip at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, you'll make your way north to the city of Auburn just north of Owasco Lake. Featuring two other locations in New York (Fairport and Camillus), it's their Auburn location that makes for a great stop while you're enjoying a scenic drive through the Finger Lakes. A casual spot that you won't have to worry about dressing up for, Mesa Grande Taqueria will have you feasting on freshly made menu items like their unforgettable tacos.
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To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
After enjoying a meal of casual dining in Auburn, you'll head just a bit further north to the town of Elbridge. Here in town you'll come to the amazing realization that this place features an underrated and absolutely scrumptious Mexican restaurant. A newer dining destination to this area, Tres Primos has made a lot of positive noise since planting its roots in New York State.
To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
Once you make it to the town of Camillus, the driving on this trip will become much shorter and easier. Just west of Syracuse, Azteca Mexican Grill is a popular place to visit around dinner time. The Mexican restaurant's large and drool-worthy menu will make you wish that you could stay longer to try all of it out for yourself!
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To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
A vibrant spot that's one of our absolute favorites on the list, Syracuse's The Mission will rescue you from any hunger. Set inside of an old church from the 1800s, this Mexican restaurant is a loved by locals. Cooking up amazing tacos that will make you want to eat dinner and lunch here each and every day, The Mission is a place you'll be happy you crossed off of your dining bucket list.
To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
Waiting for you in the small town of Fayetteville in Onondaga County is a Mexican restaurant that's wonderful to visit while New York is experiencing beautiful warm weather. At Papa Gallo's you can bring your empty stomachs and sit outside while you enjoy the summer weather with their outdoor dining set up. Pairing up their menu items with an amazing drink selection, this restaurant is one of our favorite places to dine at in Central New York.
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To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
Last but not least, La Cocina! While most may associate the small town of Chittenango with The Wizard of Oz, local residents know that one of the town's best attractions is their Mexican restaurant - La Cocina! A scenic town that you'll love ending this trip in, the restaurant can be found along the town's Yellow Brick Road sidewalk on Genesee Street.
To find out more information and to view their menu, click here.
In New York, we love stumbling upon a new restaurant we've yet to try. To top it off, it's all the more special once we uncover a great breakfast spot that gives us the perfect start to our day. Right within the beautiful small town of Smithtown, Maureen's Kitchen NY will have you saying, "Holy Cow!" A place you'll come to visit time and time again, this whimsical restaurant undoubtedly belongs on your dining bucket list. After all, it's one of the best Long Island restaurants for breakfast and lunch.
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A family-run business that many of us have been visiting for nearly 30 years since it first opened in 1985, this Suffolk County Gem has a unique theme. As soon as you arrive, you'll notice that this restaurant carries out its cow theme in every charming way imaginable.
And you'll also be quick to notice that the playful restaurant wants to make you feel at home in the best ways possible. In fact, it's one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Smithtown that kids and adults alike absolutely love.
Cow enthusiasts who are looking to take a piece of Maureen's home with them can check out the ceramic cows that they have for sale and other merchandise. And from the seats to the mugs, you'll find that most of Maureen's decor is made up of cow-print and rustic charm.
Only open during the first half of the day starting at 7 a.m., Maureen's fills up quickly (especially on weekends) with loyal customers and returning friendly faces.
So what are some famous dishes that have captured the hearts of those who have eaten here? Let's suggest the decadent Pistachio Pancakes for starters!
Any time of the year, you can find seasonal and holiday dishes added to the menu. For example, if it's around St. Patrick's Day why not kick things off with the unusual green food items on the menu? While green pancakes may not have been what you originally had in mind for breakfast, you won't regret trying this unique breakfast item!
Another dish that wins over the bellies of Maureen's customers? The perfected homemade baked oatmeal! What better way to start off your day than with a dish of scrumptious homemade oatmeal and a glass of warm milk? The baked oatmeal recipe has been in the family for several generations and has long been a favorite to those who have made Maureen's their second home. Served in either a cup or a bowl, I suggest you order a bowl because it's that good!
And if you still haven't been won over yet with these amazing menu items, you'll absolutely love feasting on the Croissant French toast! The Croissant French toast comes in a variety of flavors, like cream cheese and raspberry preserves, which will have your stomach rumbling. Oozing with unforgettable flavors that you'll wish you could eat every morning, these croissants are unlike anything you've ever tasted.
Those who have never been to Maureen's and are looking to try something a bit more classic and simple can try diving into their amazing pancakes that you can top off with treats like Oreos, blueberries, chocolate chips, and more.
While Maureen's is always adding new items to their menu and there are daily specials offered, it's the unforgettable and unique dishes that always keep people coming back for more. Those dining in the restaurant will be able to see their homemade dishes coming to life from behind the bar area where you'll find customers eating at the tabletop taking everything in.
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Who's ready to head out to Suffolk County to enjoy a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience that you'll fall head over heels for?
The theme of Maureen's Kitchen NY comes from the family's heritage of owning a cow farm up in the town of Callicoon which is one of the region's most beloved restaurants. The restaurant moved to its current location back in 1997 and has continually been drawing in crowds ever since. With friendly service, homemade food, and a whimsical theme that brings a smile to customers' faces, it's hard not to see why people love this place so much. It's truly one of the most whimsical restaurants in NY.
Keep in mind that Maureen's is a cash-only restaurant, so make sure you visit an ATM before you arrive. To view the menus, see additional Maureen's Kitchen photos, and for updates, follow the official Facebook page of Maureen's Kitchen.
Do you have a whimsical restaurant that you love to visit and would love for us to write about it? Tell us all about it when you fill out this nomination form!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
