Upstate Uncovered : 100 Unique, Unusual, and Overlooked Destinations in Upstate New York

The Cardiff Giant. Lucille Ball’s grave. A motel made of cabooses. The place that inspired “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Covered bridges and tiny chapels and boats that deliver the mail. These are the undiscovered treasures of New York tourism, all lurking upstate from that iconic city.

Upstate Uncovered explores one hundred tourist spots that run the gamut from historical landmarks to kitschy rest stops, from shopping destinations to photo-op hot spots. This is the kind of insider-tourism knowledge that can only come from someone who loves a particular area and has spent a good portion of their life enjoying and exploring it. This is homegrown tourism done right, with enthusiasm, humor, and heart.

D’Imperio’s affection for the subject matter is undeniable. Each entry is accompanied by photos, personal experiences, and the little hideaway highlights that only a rabid fan or regular would know. It’s immensely charming, like a friend excitedly showing you around town. Except, instead of one town, it’s half a state.

Upstate Uncovered is my favorite kind of guidebook, one that goes off the beaten path and focuses on the weird and wonderful, knowing that both are very, very worthwhile.