Oneida County Tourism (OCT) is proud to announce the release of its 2025 Destination Guide. A key resource for visitors and a go-to reference for locals, the guide showcases the very best Oneida County has to offer. Created in partnership with Sentinel Media, the annual guide features special events, Erie Canal Bicentennial highlights, a seasonal bucket list, family-friendly attractions, agritourism activities, and more.
Inquiries and requests for guides continue to grow year over year. OCT increased its print run from 35,000 in 2024 to 40,000 in 2025 to meet requests from partners like Mohawk Valley Health Systems, local colleges, Collins Aerospace, and others who use it for recruiting purposes. Additionally, the guides are being used through OCT’s What’s Update partnership. They’re distributed across the Northeast at welcome centers, used at over 30 consumer shows through co-op programs, sent to people through online requests via the website, and were delivered in the mail to over 7,000 Daily Sentinel subscribers.
“The 2025 Oneida County Tourism Destination Guide is a thorough reflection of everything that makes Oneida County exceptional—from our rich history and cultural vibrancy to our thriving small businesses and natural beauty,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “As we celebrate milestones like the Erie Canal Bicentennial and continue to grow as a destination for visitors and residents alike, this guide serves as an invaluable resource that highlights the heart and soul of our community.”
“This is truly my favorite guide we’ve ever produced,” said Sarah Foster Calero, President of Oneida County Tourism. “Our team put in countless hours—rethinking the layout, reimagining content, and studying dozens of other tourism guides to ensure ours stands out. It’s the product of deep collaboration and a love for our region. And while we use the piece as a way to inspire people to visit Oneida County, it’s still a great resource for locals. Even if you’ve lived here your entire life, I promise you’ll learn something new.”
What’s Inside
“We were also so excited to include local voices in this year’s guide—people who live, work, and explore here every day,” said Calero. “Their perspectives add authenticity and heart to what we do.”
The 2025 edition features guest contributions from three well-known community members who share what makes Oneida County so special to them. Alecia Pendasulo, a local history buff, reflects on the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal and its lasting legacy on the region. Chris Lawrence, born and raised in Utica, shares his personal connection to the city, offering a list of places that are “hidden gems,” and includes meal recommendations and historical insights about Union Station. Morgan Mielnicki, known locally by just about everyone for her dedication and love of the area, highlights her favorite places to sip, shop, and dine—spotlighting businesses like So Sweet Candy Shoppe in Clinton and Rio Grande Tex-Mex in New Hartford. Oneida County Tourism thanks each guest contributor for their time and perspective.
In addition to these local spotlights, the guide includes new additions like a seasonal bucket list, agritourism experiences, event highlights, Erie Canal Bicentennial features, and local photography that captures the essence of the County through stunning images as well as words. This 2025 edition underscores the diversity and appeal of Oneida County’s attractions, people, history, and culinary scene.
Where to Get a Copy
Printed copies are free and available to the public at Oneida County Tourism’s Visitor Center located inside the historic Union Station in Utica. You can also view or request a guide online at oneidacountytourism.com, and download it digitally.
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