Historic Driving Tours In New York

New York is rich in culture and history, and an enjoyable way to experience it is through a driving tour. Driving tours of historic sites and monuments can be tailored to each individual's particular interests, and can be conducted at your own pace. When it comes to touring historic New York on your own, try one of the following leisurely ideas.

Franciscan Historical Sites

This driving tour takes you from St. Bonaventure University to Ellicottville, the first home of the Franciscan friars. Also included in the tour is the Seneca Oil Spring, the first oil finding on the continent, which happened to be made by a Franciscan friar. The total distance of the tour is 94 miles, with an approximate driving time of 2 ½ hours. A detailed printout with directions and information on the historic sites can be found here.

Erie Canal Driving Tour

This interesting DIY tour takes you from the Naval & Military Park in Buffalo to the delightful Herschell Carousel Factory Museum. You'll also enjoy visiting the Amherst Museum, Erie Canal Museum and the Cobblestone Society Museum. For driving and destination information on this tour, visit PlanetWare.

Buffalo Architectural Historical Driving Tour

Through this tour, you will learn about the many historical architectural monuments which are a part of Buffalo's history. You will see the Ellicott Square Building, which was built in 1895, and the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. You'll also visit the Forest Lawn Cemetery and the Erie County Historical Society Museum. For driving and destination information, visit PlanetWare.

Numerous books have been written on the many driving tours available in New York, including itineraries and suggestions for food and accommodations. Some of these books include: Cobblestone Quest: Road Tours of New York's Historic Buildings ($19.95 - Amazon) and A Revolutionary War Road Trip On NY Route 5 ($12.99 - Revolutionary Day).