The City of Watertown offers many activities and options for resident and visitors. Here are a few ideas:
Enjoy the great outdoors at our historic Thompson Park which offers scenic views, children's playground, splash pad, ADA-compliant pool, Zoo New York showcasing native animals, picnic areas, tennis courts.
Take a stroll on one of the City’s many Biking and Walking Trails and enjoy waterfront views along the Black River or scenic overlooks within Thompson Park.
Tee it up at one of the several local 9-hole and 18-hole golf courses within the City or a short drive away.
On Wednesdays from May to October, the Watertown Farm & Craft Market transforms Washington Street into a vibrant urban street festival that has become a favorite destination among area residents. Boasting vendors from throughout the North County Region, the market offers everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, wine, baked goods, jewelry and crafts.
Cheer on the Watertown Wolves Hockey and Watertown Minor Hockey or lace up your own skates for public open skate at the newly renovated Municipal Arena. Visit the arena year-round for other various community events, including home shows, career expos, concerts, etc.
Support the Watertown Red and Black, the oldest semi-professional football team in the country, at the Alex Duffy Fairgrounds, or get on the field yourself by joining a Youth or Adult Recreation League/Program organized by our Parks and Recreation Department.
In the winter, skiing and tubing are offered at Dry Hill Ski Area, located on the southern outskirts of the City.
Immerse yourself in Watertown’s history at the Flower Memorial Library, which Emma Flower Taylor donated to the City in 1904 in memory of her father, former Governor Roswell P. Flower, and recently restored to its original beauty.
Journey through several eras of American architectural history just by walking down the street. The City’s neighborhoods and downtown offers a wealth of historic homes and other buildings, such as the Jefferson County Historical Society located in one of the earliest settler’s mansion. A self-guided Walking Tour is available.
Shop or dine in our revitalized Downtown area, home to the Paddock Arcade the longest continuously operating indoor mall in the United States. Salmon Run Mall, adjacent to Interstate 81, offers additional shopping opportunities.
For a whitewater adventure, ride a raft down the Black River rapids with one of the local rafting companies.
There are many exciting daytrips within driving distance of Watertown, such as The Thousand Islands; Boldt Castle; St. Lawrence River tour boat rides; Cape Vincent Tibbetts Point Lighthouse; Historic Sackets Harbor Battlefield; Old McDonald's Farm; New York State Parks and beaches; Winery Tours; boating and fishing on Lake Ontario or along the St Lawrence River, or visit our friends in Kingston, Ontario located within an hour’s drive across the Thousand Islands International Bridge.
