Cooperstown, New York, most known for its historic connection with America's "national pastime"--the Baseball Hall of Fame and Doubleday Field--has much more to offer the health-conscious visitor. The modest, unobtrusive village of just under 2,000 residents is tucked in rural central New York, along the banks of Otsego Lake and the Susquehanna River, allowing almost endless opportunities for year-round recreation. The atmosphere is reasonably quaint and quite, but for those not keen on baseball or crowds, the summer months--kids are out of school--brings thousands, and occasionally tens of thousands, of visitors to the small village.
Park It
Engage in one of the many four-season outdoor activities offered at Glimmerglass State Park, just a hop-skip eight miles outside of Cooperstown's village center. Hike the two-mile Sleeping Lion Trail around Mount Wellington, known for its spectacular elevated views of Otsego Lake. Four other shorter trails are also avalable. Or, swim and build sandcastles with your children at the lake's beach front. Snow tubing, ice-skating and cross-country skiing are just a few of the winter months' heart pumping activities. A nominal fee is charged--per vehicle--for park entrance, but check the online calendar for free-entrance days and times.
Eat Local
Visit the Cooperstown Farmers' Market, the only year-round climate controlled indoor farmers' market in the Otsego County region. Every Saturday, close to 50 vendors present their locally produced fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses and baked goods, as well as artisan crafts. Local musicians are likely to play while you shop and watch cooking demonstrations. Check the Farmers' Market's online schedule for additional seasonal hours and holiday events.
Golf
Hit the links at the Otesaga Resort Hotel's Leatherstocking Golf Course. The Leatherstocking is an 18-hole, par 74 course that holds a few challenges around the western end of Lake Otsego, including an island "tee box" for the 18th hole. Non-hotel guests are welcome, but you will need reservations. If you're in Cooperstown for a few days--between May and September--try the hotel's three-day golfing school, complete with lessons from a PGA golf pro.
Water Sports
Kayak or canoe on the Susquehanna River, the 444-mile waterway that begins its northern branch journey at Otsego Lake, snakes along Cooperstown's east side and eventually feeds into the Chesapeake Bay. Fish the river and lake for some of the best freshwater sport angling in New York State, offering a wide variety of catch. Swim or splash your way to a refreshing aquatic workout; lifeguards are available in certain areas. Water sports equipment is available for rent at most marinas along the lake.
Tour Historic Culture
Walk the village center area and soak up Cooperstown's history and old-fashioned ambiance. Take part in a self-guided tour of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, then hop over to the famed Doubleday Field to watch a game or just to walk the grounds. Stroll along the side streets off Main St., adorned with 19th and 20th century architecture. Grab a bite to eat at the Farmers' Market, or sandwiches at one of the village's shops and head over to a nearby small park for a picnic. In October--celebrating Halloween--guided village walking tours are given, complete with Cooperstown ghost stories.
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