Vestal is located in the southwest of New York and is home to Binghamton University. Vestal first was settled in 1785, and at the time it was home to the Tuscarora native people. In the 20th-century, Vestal was home to a lot of emerging industries like Endicott Johnson and IBM. Today, Vestal is a great place to enjoy both culture and nature! This article will explore the best things to do in Vestal, New York!
1. Explore nature at Arnold Park
Arnold Park shows the best of this region of New York state! With plenty of activities, pavilions, and untouched nature, Arnold Park is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring. The best time to visit Arnold Park is during the fall when the leaves change color and deer and wild turkey can be spotted roaming the park.
Arnold Park
Address: Andrews Rd, Vestal, NY 13850
Website: Arnold Park
2. See local art at Binghamton University Art Museum
Vestal being home to Binghampton University has its perks, one of which is being able to visit the excellent University art museum. The art museum has rotating exhibits year-round showcasing local artists, student work, and faculty art. Visit one of the gallery openings for a chance to meet the artists and learn more about the Binghampton art program!
Binghamton University Art Museum
Address: Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY 13902
Website: Binghamton University Art Museum
3. Refabulous Furnishings
Refabulous Furnishings is an upscale consignment store that sells everything from furniture to accessories. There are so many different styles and items to choose from, you could spend hours browsing all the merchandise here! Thrifting lovers everywhere need to visit Refabulous Furnishings on their next trip to Vestal!
Refabulous Furnishings
Address: 2231 Vestal Pkwy West, 13850 Vestal, New York
Facebook: Refabulous Furnishings
4. Get a cone at Wolfie's Ice Cream
Wolfie’s Ice Cream is your classic hometown ice cream parlor. While they have all kinds of ice cream flavors and toppings, the best way to enjoy your treat is in a giant waffle cone! Bring your sweet tooth because you’ll want to eat everything at Wolfie’s!
Wolfie's Ice Cream
Address: 2305 Country Club Road, 13760 Endicott, New York
Facebook: Wolfie’s Ice Cream
5. PS Restaurant
PS Restaurant was first opened in 1984 by local Thai Chef Preecha Songprastit. Chef Preecha created a one of a kind menu that blends classic French cuisine with Thai flavors. A local couple purchased PS Restaurant in 1990, and in the past 27 years, the establishment has become a popular fine dining destination in the local community. There is always something new and exciting to try at PS Restaurant!
PS Restaurant
Address: 100 Rano Blvd, Suite 8, Vestal NY 13850
Website: PS Restaurant
6. Family fun at Chucksters Vestal
Chucksters Vestal is the premier family fun park of the region. Chucksters has a lot of fun activities to offer guests including mini golf, zip lining, batting cages, rock climbing, and jumping trampolines. You’ll never want to leave this fun place! They even offer unique attractions like aeroball which combines basketball and trampolines. Don’t miss out on family excitement for all levels of thrill seekers at Chucksters!
Chucksters Vestal
Address: 1915 Vestal Pkwy West, Vestal NY 13850
Website: Chucksters Vestal
7. Binghamton University Nature Preserve
The nature preserve was introduced to the state university campus in 1969 after protests broke out over the area being used for playing fields. Today, the wetlands are perfectly preserved in their original condition. This nature preserve is open to the public and to university students, and it is one of the largest preserves of any university in the country. Within the preserve are several different habitats including hemlock forests, oak woodlands, and even a beaver pond!
Binghamton University Nature Preserve
Address: Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY 13902
8. Step back in time at the Phelps Mansion Museum
Phelps Mansion allows visitors to step back into the American Gilded Age. The Phelps Mansion was originally built by Vestal banker and businessman Sherman David Phelps who wanted a location near his bank. The home was sold to different families before it was eventually turned into a museum for the public. Today, there are guided tours of the mansion which allow visitors to see antique furniture and artifacts from the Gilded Age.
Phelps Mansion Museum
Address: 191 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13901
Website: Phelps Mansion Museum
9. Learn at The Discovery Center
The Discovery Center is the Vestal children’s museum and it’s a great place for children of all ages to experience hands-on learning. The Discovery Center believes that the best way for children to learn is through play, and this is the basis for all of their exhibits. The exhibits change seasonally, and include things like Weis Market, ABC Bank, and Take Flight.
The Discovery Center
Address: 60 Morgan Road, Binghamton, NY 13903
Website: The Discovery Center
10. Ride the Recreation Park Carousel
The Recreation Park Carousel was installed in 1925 and it’s a Vestal staple. The carousel is located in the historic George F. Johnson Recreation Park which also has features like a reflective pond, Rod Serling Memorial, bandshell concerts, and tennis courts. The carousel is open throughout warm seasons and it’s great fun for the whole family!
Recreation Park Carousel
Address: 103 Laurel Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13905
Website: Recreation Park Carousel
See the best of Vestal, New York!
Vestal is a unique town in the south-west of New York! This small town has so much to see and do, and there really is something here for everyone! From Gilded Age mansions to natural beauty, Vestal is a special place that makes an impact on all visitors.