Place you can visit in Watertown
1. Thompson Park Zoo, Watertown New York
Thompson Park – A Historic Retreat in Watertown, NY
Perched on a scenic hilltop in Watertown, New York, Thompson Park is more than just a city park—it's a landmark of natural beauty, historic design, and year-round recreation. Established in 1899, the park was gifted to the city by industrialist John C. Thompson and later designed in part by John C. Olmsted, the adopted son and nephew of Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed landscape architect behind New York City’s Central Park.
Covering over 600 acres, Thompson Park has served as Watertown’s green centerpiece for well over a century, combining elegant landscape architecture with open space, panoramic views, and family-friendly attractions.
A Park Steeped in History
- 1899: John C. Thompson donates the original land to the city.
- Early 1900s: John C. Olmsted helps shape the park’s layout with scenic drives, open lawns, and naturalistic woodlands.
- 1920s–1950s: The park expands to include recreational features like golf, tennis, and picnic areas.
- 1980s–Present: Ongoing city investment maintains the park as a major regional destination, including a renovated zoo and upgraded recreational facilities.
What You Can Enjoy at Thompson Park
🌲 Breathtaking Scenic Views
Thompson Park sits on one of the highest points in Watertown, offering stunning views of the Black River Valley and the city skyline. The overlooks make perfect spots for photography, quiet reflection, or romantic sunsets.
🐾 Zoo New York (Formerly Thompson Park Zoo)
Opened in 1920, Zoo New York is one of the few zoos in the country focused entirely on native North American species.
Highlights include:
- Black bears, bobcats, bald eagles, and river otters
- Interactive exhibits and educational programs
- Seasonal events like “Boo at the Zoo” and “Holiday Lights”
Zoo New York has become a favorite destination for families and school groups visiting the park.
⛳ 18-Hole Golf Course
The Thompson Park Golf Course, opened in 1909, is a public 18-hole course offering a relaxed but scenic round of golf.
- Designed with rolling terrain and views of the countryside
- Open from late spring to early fall
- Clubhouse and pro shop available on-site
🚶 Walking, Hiking & Biking Trails
Thompson Park offers a mix of paved paths and nature trails, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.
- Popular for dog walking and family strolls
- Wooded trails provide opportunities for birdwatching and photography
- Benches and picnic spots along the way
🎉 Events & Picnicking
- Multiple pavilions and picnic shelters are available to rent for birthdays, family reunions, and company picnics.
- The park hosts community events throughout the year, including summer concerts, Easter egg hunts, and seasonal fireworks.
- An updated playground area with modern equipment makes it perfect for families with young kids.
❄️ Winter Recreation
During the snowy season, Thompson Park transforms into a winter playground.
- Popular for sledding on the park’s wide hills
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on trails
- A cozy atmosphere for winter walks and seasonal photo ops
Why Visit Thompson Park?
Whether you're visiting in spring to see the trees bloom, enjoying a summer day at the zoo, taking in autumn’s vibrant colors, or sledding in the snow, Thompson Park offers year-round activities for all ages.
It’s more than a city park—it’s a piece of Watertown’s identity, with over a century of history, community events, and natural beauty. For visitors and locals alike, Thompson Park remains a peaceful yet vibrant space that reflects the character of Watertown itself.
Quick Facts for Visitors
- 📍 Location: Thompson Blvd, Watertown, NY 13601
- 🕒 Hours: Open year-round, typically from sunrise to sunset
- 🚗 Parking: Free, multiple lots available
- 🐶 Pet-Friendly: Leashed dogs welcome on trails and open areas
2. Downtown, Watertown New York
Explore Downtown Watertown, NY: History, Culture & Community
Downtown Watertown, New York, is the historic and cultural heart of Jefferson County. Founded in the early 1800s and officially incorporated as a city in 1869, Watertown quickly became a major industrial and commercial hub in northern New York State, thanks to its location along the powerful Black River. Today, Downtown Watertown blends historic charm with local flavor, offering visitors a rich mix of architecture, shopping, dining, events, and cultural experiences.
A Walk Through History: Public Square & Beyond
At the center of Downtown is Public Square, a broad oval-shaped plaza that dates back to the early 1800s. Once the site of public markets and political speeches, it remains the focal point of city life today. In 2006, Public Square underwent a major revitalization project to improve walkability, beautify public spaces, and restore historic buildings.
What you’ll see:
- Paddock Arcade (Built in 1850): One of the oldest continuously operating indoor shopping malls in the United States.
- Historic architecture: 19th-century brick facades, stone churches, and the iconic Roswell P. Flower Monument, honoring the Watertown native and 30th Governor of New York (1892–1894).
- Beautiful fountains and green spaces perfect for relaxing or people-watching.
What You Can Enjoy in Downtown Watertown
1. Local Shops & Boutiques
Stroll through the square and surrounding streets to find locally owned shops offering everything from handmade jewelry and vintage clothing to books, gifts, and home décor. You’ll find:
- Freeman’s Coffee & Vintage – A favorite for coffee lovers and treasure hunters alike.
- Black River Ventures Marketplace – Supporting local artisans and food vendors in a community-centered environment.
2. Dining Experiences
Downtown Watertown offers a growing selection of independent restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a locally brewed beer, options include:
- The Spokes Craft Beer & Tapas Bar – Housed in a renovated 19th-century building, offering local beer and creative small plates.
- Vito’s Gourmet – A local deli with Italian specialties and sandwiches.
- Cam’s Pizzeria – Known for New York-style pizza with a local twist.
3. Arts & Culture
Downtown is also home to a small but passionate arts scene. Highlights include:
- Dulles State Office Building Art Gallery – Showcasing regional artists with rotating exhibits.
- Creative Spirits Art Studio – Offers painting classes and community art events for all skill levels.
- Live music at the square during summer weekends and First Fridays, when shops and galleries stay open late.
4. Events & Seasonal Activities
Downtown Watertown hosts numerous events throughout the year that bring the community together and attract visitors:
- Watertown Farm & Craft Market (June–October): Held weekly in Public Square since the early 1980s, featuring local produce, baked goods, art, and live music.
- Snow town USA (February): A city-wide winter festival that includes ice sculpting, parades, and fun in Public Square.
- Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December): A beloved local tradition, featuring music, lights, and family-friendly fun to kick off the holiday season.
5. Historical Attractions
Learn about Watertown’s past by visiting:
- Jefferson County Historical Society (Paddock Mansion, built in 1876): Located just off Public Square, this museum features exhibits on local history, Civil War relics, and Victorian-era life in Watertown.
- The Flower Memorial Library (Built in 1904): Funded by Emma Flower Taylor in memory of her father, Governor Roswell P. Flower, this beautifully preserved library is known for its Beaux-Arts architecture and stained-glass dome.
Revitalization and the Future
Since the early 2000s, Downtown Watertown has seen an ongoing effort to attract new businesses, improve infrastructure, and celebrate its historic identity. The Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), launched in 2019, brought state funding for sidewalk repairs, street lighting, building restoration, and small business support—making downtown even more walkable and welcoming.
Why Visit Downtown Watertown, NY?
Downtown Watertown offers a rich blend of history, local culture, small-town hospitality, and unique attractions. Whether you’re exploring 1800s architecture, attending a seasonal festival, shopping local, or enjoying a relaxing meal, Downtown Watertown invites you to slow down and experience the best of upstate New York charm.
