If you’re contemplating a trip to upstate New York whether for vacation or possible relocation, it’s best to do as much upfront research as possible so you can truly enjoy your experience while there. Too often visitors to a region spend time walking past important landmarks or places of historical relevance because they can at times be inconspicuous. Don’t let that happen to you. Take a look at some of these resources to make sure you get the best possible experience from your trip.Upstate New York Off the Beaten Path: A Guide to Unique Places (Susan Finch) is a handy 192-page paperback that features the things travelers (and locals) want to see and experience ranging from the best local dining to quirky cultural or historical attractions. Compact in size and scope it’s an easy essential to keep in your purse or backpack as you explore the region to uncover some unique finds along your journey.Fun with the Family Upstate New York: Hundreds of Ideas for Day Trips with the Kids (Mary Lynn Blanks) covers regions ranging from the Catskills to the Finger Lakes Region and everything in between (including Metro New York City). The book provides a handy ranking system/review based on pricing for attractions, accommodations and restaurants and identifies points of interest ranging from parks and animal viewing to museums and camping. This book (with its extensive index) is a handy resource for everyone, not just those with children.The Finger Lakes Book: Great Destinations: A Complete Guide (Katherine Delavan Dyson) provides a savvy and thorough insight that should be at the center of any regional guide, the author uncovers the where, how, and when to this most unique and compelling travel destination. From the smallest lakes east of Geneseo to the stunning villages of Cayuga, Watkins Glen, Ithaca, and Skaneateles to the numerous wineries and stunning gorges that add both sophistication and natural splendor, The Finger Lakes Book tells you how to get there, where to stay, where to eat, shop, and play.Finger Lakes Splendor (Derek Doeffinger) illuminates the splendor and beauty of the region in this gorgeous photography collection. From idyllic country scenes featuring whimsical roadside stands and small town festivals to magnificent images of the region’s spectacular waterfalls, gorges, and wineries, this visual journey through a western portion of the Empire State will charm and delight. The book contains a perfect balance of seasons, landscapes, people, and places of western New York.Cobblestone Quest: Road Tours of New York’s Historic Buildings (Rich Freeman and Sue Freeman) includes 17 self-guided tours for observing the history and diversity of unique cobblestone buildings. Learn why, during a mere 35-year span in the middle of the 19th century, approximately 700 cobblestone structures were erected within a 65-mile radius of Rochester, New York, and nowhere else. Many have endured the test of time and stand today as monuments to human ingenuity. On the tours you’ll view a diversity of cobblestone buildings, including homes, farmhouses, barns, stagecoach taverns, smokehouses, stores, churches, schools, factories, and more. Each cobblestone building is a unique work of folk art, created by local craftsmen. Enjoy the tours by car, motorcycle or bicycle.