We can't go without giving credit to our friend and local, best-selling author Cat Johnson. If it wasn't for her, her books, and 10+ years of friendship with Nikki, this relationship would not have happened. Her Small Town Secrets and Cadaver Lab series are both sweet romance novels and based on Unadilla (aka Mudville).
A must see for all baseball fans, or even if you are just a big sports fan. It's a really cool place, Nikki is partial to the baseball in the movies exhibit!
Cute shops, cafes, and the Cooperstown Distillery.
Try the Spitball! It's their version of Fireball but much better!
A must stop for those who have enjoyed their amazing TikTok! It has a large collection of Native American and folk art, as well as a tremendous black and white photography exhibit.
Formerly known as the Fenimore Farm Museum, it recreates rural life from the 19th century through exhibits and interactive workshops. There are more than two dozen authentic, historic buildings on the grounds, including a tavern, a farmstead, a printing office, a pharmacy, a blacksmith's shop, a doctor's office and a general store.
Located in the Otesaga. Reservations are advisable and weather permitting, you'll want to sit on the patio!
Where Nikki had her first birthday dinner in the area! The crostini is a must have.
One of the largest vintage furniture stores you will ever walk into. Three stories and a basement and so many great finds.
One of the most well-know New York breweries. Rare Vos and Neon Rainbows are their two biggest selections, Neon is usually found in Yard Houses across the country. We are hazy IPA people and although Neon is good, Juicy Blooms is even better, despite the fact it is somehow classified as a lager. The brewery and its grounds are gorgeous. Nikki loves it since it looks like a Scottish whisky distillery!
This was formerly Red Shed Brewery, their closing night party is one of the first times we hung out. Now a Northway, we suggest the Albatross. As both a hazy IPA and Taylor Swift song.
Cute shops, cafes, and many bars (it's a college town).
Great Sunday brunch. And no matter the day of the week, all baked goods are made by our friend Ashley!
Not necessarily somewhere you need to stop to visit, as it's a basic library, but a fun drive by if you are visiting from LA. This was the childhood home of Henry E. Huntington. The same man for whom Huntington Beach is named and who built what is now the beloved Huntington Library, Museum, and Gardens in San Marino. CRAZY coincidence, right?
Where we first met! Really great craft cocktails and all the food is delish, but we suggest the wings (which says a lot since there are wings everywhere in NYS).
All day brunch! Huge coffee selection.
Quintessential small town coffee shop, and of course it's connected to a bookstore.
One of our favorite places, a vintage shop down the street from our house. Huge selection but Nikki highly suggests the top floor. Fashion from every decade imaginable.
Very popular local cidery with a large, constantly rotating selection. Although they are tasty, they do tend to be quite sweet. Mike likes the Apples & Pears, as it's one of the few on the drier side. October means all the fall flavors will be on tap!
This is a bit of a drive but a requisite journey for coffee aficionados. And Gilbertsville has wonderful, historical Tudor architecture.
A historic town with a charming village, beautiful mountain roads, and eclectic shops. Super hipster so when people from the City think of Upstate, this is the type of place they picture. There is also a cute Turkish café, The Tulip & the Rose.
Adorable little store with local crafts, art, and beauty/skincare products.