Cooperstown, NY may be best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, but for travel nurses, it offers something even better: a peaceful, picturesque place to recharge between shifts. In spite of its small-town charm, Cooperstown also has plenty of ways to make your days off memorable. Nestled on the southern tip of Otsego Lake, this village blends cultural attractions, great food, outdoor adventure, and uniquely local events. If you’re starting an assignment in or around Otsego County, here are the must-see spots and experiences to make the most of your stay.
Restaurants to try
Nicoletta’s Italian Café
A cozy, classic Italian spot known for its hearty pasta dishes, seafood specials, and warm hospitality. Perfect for a comforting, post-shift dinner.
Mel’s at 22
Modern American cuisine with a fresh, seasonal menu. Their craft cocktails and elevated comfort food make it a popular pick among locals and visitors.
Hawkeye Bar & Grill
Located inside The Otesaga Resort, this lakeside restaurant delivers great views, refined dishes, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Doubleday Café
Casual, friendly, and right in the heart of the village—this café is ideal for brunch, burgers, and simple comfort classics.
Cooperstown Diner
A tiny (literally—you’ll see!) and iconic local diner with huge portion sizes. A fun, quintessential Cooperstown experience.
Things to do
National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this is a must-visit attraction that draws tourists from all over the country—and the world. If you’ve heard of Cooperstown, chances are the Hall of Fame is the reason why.
The Farmers’ Museum
A living history museum showcasing 19th-century rural life complete with knowledgeable guides, farm animals, and restored buildings.
Fenimore Art Museum
Overlooking the lake, this museum features American folk art, Native American art, and rotating seasonal exhibitions.
Otsego Lake Views
Take a walk along the shore, enjoy a picnic, or catch a sunset at Lakefront Park.
Glimmerglass State Park
Just a short drive away, this scenic state park offers hiking, swimming, picnic areas, and winter activities like cross-country skiing.
Recreation
Hiking & Biking
Trails like Sleeping Lion Trail and Fairy Spring Park offer easy-to-moderate routes perfect for quick outings between shifts.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Rent gear on Otsego Lake to get a fresh, serene perspective of the region.
Golfing
The Leatherstocking Golf Course at The Otesaga is celebrated as one of the best resort courses in the Northeast.
Fishing & Boating
Otsego Lake and the Susquehanna River provide excellent fishing for trout, bass, and walleye.
Entertainment
Cooperstown Concert Series
Live performances—ranging from folk to classical to indie—take place throughout the year.
Glimmerglass Festival
A nationally recognized opera and musical theater festival offering world-class performances each summer.
Brewery Ommegang
A Belgian-inspired brewery with tours, tastings, seasonal events, and concerts on the outdoor lawn in the warmer months.
Main Street Shops
Boutique stores, antique shops, bookstores, and baseball-themed specialty stores make for an enjoyable afternoon stroll.
Where baseball, history, and Americana meet
For travel nurses, Cooperstown offers the best of both worlds: peaceful small-town living and engaging things to explore during your downtime. Whether you’re savoring dinner by the lake, taking in a world-class performance, or soaking up baseball history, you’ll quickly see why many travelers fall in love with this charming upstate gem.
Whether you’re an experienced travel nurse or just beginning your adventure, Prolink connects you with top assignments at sought-after facilities around the country. Whether you’re looking for the small-town feel of Cooperstown or interested in flying south for the winter, we’ve got you. Connect with a recruiter today or browse our open jobs to get started.
