Watertown

Olympic Byway, County Rt. 3, in Jefferson County

The historic City of Watertown, on the Black River near Lake Ontario, is close to the western end of the Olympic Scenic Byway.

Watertown has a long history as an industrial town. Today it's a burgeoning urban center where you'll find the modern conveniences of national chain stores, restaurants, and hotels, as well as the flair and friendly atmosphere of local shopping and dining.

Watertown can also be your front step to the great outdoors. From downtown Watertown you can have the thrill of guided whitewater rafting trips on the paddlers' favorite Black River. From easily accessible trails you can bike, hike, or fish along the Black’s shoreline.

Today Watertown has lots of attractions and events for travelers. Be sure to visit beautiful Thompson Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the famous landscape architect who also designed Central Park in New York City. The park, which overlooks downtown, the Black River and eastern Lake Ontario, is home to the New York State Zoo, the world’s only zoo specializing in the animals of New York State. In winter the park's rolling hills and peaceful trails are great for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.

The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway route starts near Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, moves through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, and ends near Lake Ontario at Sackets Harbor in the west. As you travel this byway, you’ll experience some of New York State’s most historic and scenic waterways. In the towns, villages, and hamlets along the way, learn about the determination of early settlers to make the most of the natural resources in this often-challenging environment.

Whether you're an armchair sports fan, or have dreams of Olympic-style challenges, you'll find a wide variety of recreation opportunities in every season. Take time to enjoy local events and get to know the women and men who live, work, and proudly call the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.

• Jefferson County, 1000 Islands Area Information