places to visit new york state

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Best places to visit in new york state in 2024.

New York state captivates both domestic and international travelers with the most populated city in the United States, sprawling state parks and a few beach communities. Whether you want to visit New York City to see Times Square and go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or retreat to the mountains of upstate New York, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind vacation spots in the Empire State. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and the opinions of experts and readers to compile this ranking of the best places to visit in New York state. Read on for vacation inspiration, and don't forget to vote below for the destinations you think belong on this list.

Niagara Falls

Adirondacks, thousand islands, new york city, the finger lakes, the catskills, bear mountain state park, letchworth state park, long island, fire island, saratoga springs, cooperstown, shelter island.

The tumbling, frothy falls – more than 3,100 tons of water flows over the edge every second – are the star tourist attraction in this New York destination that borders Canada. The best way to see Niagara Falls is on a Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes poncho-clad visitors on an electric tour boat to the base of the falls. Or, more daring visitors can experience this natural wonder on a thrilling whirlpool jet boat tour. Just don't forget to check out the area's other unforgettable attractions, such as Niagara Falls State Park's hiking trails, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory or the nearby casinos.

The Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York span roughly 6 million acres and are home to hundreds of communities, lakes, valleys and trails. Water lovers can canoe or kayak on Saranac Lake or go boating on Tupper Lake; hikers can tackle the area's 2,000-plus miles of trails; and skiers can shred powder on Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid. Visitors will also want to save some time for checking out history-focused sights like the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and Fort Ticonderoga, as well as sampling regional beverages at local wineries and breweries.

Despite its name, the Thousand Islands region is composed of more than 1,800 islands. The best way to see this vast area, which also stretches into Canada, is during an open-air boat tour. A scenic cruise here will take you past lighthouses, mansions and castles and include commentary about the real-life pirates who used to roam the islands' waters and the Gilded Age magnates who once called the region home. When you're ready to return to land, hike the trails in Wellesley Island State Park or fish in Mary Island State Park, both on Wellesley Island.

A hub for culture, the arts, food and sightseeing, New York City is a must-visit on many travelers' bucket lists – and for good reason. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the Big Apple. You can see a Broadway show, visit the world-famous Empire State Building, walk the High Line, check out the dozens of museums, eat your way through Manhattan's distinct neighborhoods on a food tour or shop till you drop along Fifth Avenue. Don't forget to stroll through iconic Central Park and visit its can't-miss attractions, including the Central Park Zoo and Conservatory Garden.

A romantic New York getaway , the Finger Lakes region appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing retreat with lovely scenery. Skiing at the area's resorts, wine tasting at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail's wineries and boating and hiking at local state parks are all popular activities to enjoy in this part of northwestern New York. The Finger Lakes are known for their spectacular fall foliage, but with their wealth of charming towns and variety of seasonal attractions, the lakes are excellent to visit year-round.

With 98 peaks, southeastern New York's Catskill Mountains beckon to nature enthusiasts. About 40% of Catskill Park's 700,000-plus acres are designated as "forever wild," meaning you'll have access to sprawling spaces ideal for outdoor activities. In winter, the Catskills offer ample opportunities to ski and snowboard. Meanwhile, summer is perfect for hunting, hiking, boating and zip lining, among other activities. After a busy day outdoors, you can check out the region's art scene (the Catskills were home to America's first art movement – the Hudson River School) or enjoy the amenities at one of the area's top resorts .

Located on the western banks of the Hudson River in the Palisades region of New York, Bear Mountain State Park offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and the surrounding highlands. The forested park's trails (including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail) take hikers through lakes, gorges and valleys. What's more, Bear Mountain State Park features a zoo, a swimming pool, a hand-painted merry-go-round and a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, ensuring family fun both on and off the trails. (Note: Portions of this park are closed due to storm damage sustained in July 2023. Please check the park's website for the current operating status.)

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East because of its impressive gorge, Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem for travelers who love the outdoors. The park is home to three large waterfalls and dozens more on tributaries, many of which you can see as you trek some of Letchworth's 66 miles of hiking trails. Additionally, the park offers ample opportunities to go whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, biking and even hot air ballooning. If you prefer winter sports instead of summer pursuits, arrive when temperatures fall to go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

This 118-mile-long island is frequented by New Yorkers looking to escape the city to relax on white sand beaches with a glass of wine. Summer hot spots like the Hamptons and Montauk boast charming seaside allure and can't-miss stretches of sand, like Ditch Plains Beach, a popular place to surf. Meanwhile, family-friendly Jones Beach State Park is a more approachable option with a swimming pool, a mini-golf course and shuffleboard areas, among other amenities. Beyond beaches, Long Island boasts more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms, some of which are part of the island's North Fork Wine Trail.

The presence of two renowned institutions – Ithaca College and Cornell University – makes Ithaca a true college town. But this small town in New York's Finger Lakes region is also known for its stunning natural beauty, so much so that its slogan is "Ithaca is gorges." Ithaca is surrounded by more than 150 waterfalls, as well as gorges and dense forests with hiking and biking trails. What's more, the town overlooks the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, a superb spot for boating, fishing and swimming. For groups with budding naturalists, follow Ithaca's Discovery Trail to must-see attractions like the Sciencenter and the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

Those looking to get away from skyscrapers can travel about 60 miles southeast of New York City to reach this 32-mile-long, car-free barrier island. On Fire Island, you'll find several charming communities, including Ocean Beach (where most of the island's hotels, restaurants and shops are located) and Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines (two of the island's top LGBTQ-friendly areas). Plus, Fire Island is home to Fire Island National Seashore, a protected area that welcomes bird-watchers and campers in droves. If you'd rather spend your vacation swimming, surfing or sunbathing, head to Robert Moses State Park in summer to enjoy its beautiful beaches.

Ever since the Mohawk people came to Saratoga Springs and discovered its mineral waters, which were believed to have restorative properties, the town has blossomed into a popular vacation destination. Visitors can still drink from or soak in the town's mineral springs, 12 of which are located in Saratoga Spa State Park. However, many travelers now flock to Saratoga Springs to see one of the country's oldest racetracks, the Saratoga Race Course. Take a walking tour of the facility to learn more about its history and horseracing, or visit in August to attend the venue's premier event, the Travers Stakes.

Cooperstown may be small, but it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year thanks to its ties to America's pastime. Although most experts agree that baseball wasn't invented here, Cooperstown remains a mecca for sports lovers because of its must-visit sight, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. However, the village offers other kinds of attractions, too. Travelers can visit the Fenimore Art Museum to see impressive works of art or check out The Farmers' Museum's exhibits about local agriculture. Cooperstown also features beautiful neoclassical buildings, such as Hyde Hall, and a variety of breweries and wineries.

Situated between the North and South forks of Long Island, Shelter Island features a quiet, laid-back atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of New York City. One-third of the island is occupied by the Mashomack Preserve, a protected area with more than 200 bird species and hiking trails through meadows and salt marshes. The rest of Shelter Island boasts charming Victorian-era buildings that house boutiques and eateries, plus stunning stretches of sand with calm waves ideal for swimming, such as Crescent Beach and Wades Beach.

New York's capital city teems with culture and history. Visitors can admire the elaborate beauty of the New York State Capitol building on a tour and observe natural history exhibits at the New York State Museum (both of which are free), or explore Albany's Dutch heritage at Crailo State Historic Site and the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts can view landscape paintings from the Hudson River School at the Albany Institute of History & Art. Beyond the tourist attractions, travelers can stretch their legs in Washington Park, grab a local craft beer or catch a show at The Egg.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Governors Island

Rochester, NY

Lake George

Sleepy Hollow

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in New York State

Written by Shandley McMurray and Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

The task of choosing a handful of top attractions to represent the entire state of New York is not an easy one thanks to its nearly endless number of things to see and do. From the historic to the most contemporary, New York State overflows with interesting places to visit.

New York City is undeniably the state's most popular tourist destination, and it's packed with famous attractions, restaurants, and shops. The borough of Manhattan is home to many of the city's top destinations, like Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and much more.

Upstate New York, as locals call pretty much anything north of the city, offers year-round vacation possibilities. In summer, the many lakes and mountains, along with New York's charming small towns , are the main attractions.

Winter is also a popular time to visit due to the ski resorts and luxury hotels and lodges that make great getaways.

Plan the perfect escape any time of year with our list of attractions and places to visit in New York State.

1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

2. niagara falls, 3. central park, 4. times square, 5. finger lakes, 6. lake placid, 7. lake george, 8. storm king art center, 9. cooperstown, 10. thousand islands, 11. the adirondacks, 12. the catskills, 13. letchworth state park, 14. darwin d. martin house complex, buffalo, 15. watkins glen state park, 16. george eastman house and the international museum of photography and film, rochester, 17. kingston.

The Statue of Liberty is the nation's most iconic monument , a symbol of hope to millions of immigrants on their way to Ellis Island.

Tourists can visit both attractions via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park and runs continuous loops throughout the day.

The first stop is the statue, where visitors can enjoy views of both the monument and the New York City skyline at no charge. You can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or crown, although crown passes sell out at least six months in advance.

Be sure to wander through the museum in the base of the statue and check out the extensive educational signs, statues, and historic markers.

The ferry stops next at Ellis Island, where there is a museum on the first floor of the main building, an architectural masterpiece that once served as the main processing center and hospital from 1892 to 1954. On the upper level, tourists can wander the rooms of the quarantine wing and see some of the original bunks and facilities used by those hoping to start new lives.

Inside are poignant exhibits, with walls of photos, documents, and personal stories that capture defining moments in American history, one person at a time.

Tourists should plan at least a half day to enjoy sightseeing at both attractions, or if pressed for time consider hopping aboard the ferry and using the ride to get phenomenal views of these New York City landmarks from many angles.

Official site: www.nps.gov/stli

Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of North America, drawing millions of visitors each year. Located along the border of Canada and the United States, there are actually three waterfalls within the park: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the widest and tallest, dropping 167 feet from a 2,700-foot-wide ledge.

For the best panoramic view of all three falls, go up the observation tower, or take the famed Hornblower boat tour into the basin of Horseshoe Falls. It's one of the most popular things to do in Niagara Falls . In addition to park information and tour tickets, the visitor center has a gift shop, several dining options, and a theater that shows a 40-minute film about the history and legend of the falls.

The park also provides nighttime illumination of the falls and hosts spectacular fireworks shows on special occasions.

In winter, the falls transform into a frozen spectacle of massive icicles, freezing fog, and ice-covered trees and railings. On clear, calm days, the plume of mist rising off the falls stretches high into the sky and can be seen from as far away as the CN Tower in Toronto.

Official site: www.niagarafallsstatepark.com

Although it may appear on a map as a small patch of green within the grid of Manhattan streets, Central Park is an expansive space that contains enough sights and things to do to last for days, if not longer.

Central Park is home to a wide range of attractions , from impressive architecture and peaceful gardens to skating rinks.

Bethesda Terrace is known for its stunning Bethesda Fountain, and the Mall , an idyllic, broad pathway canopied by the arching limbs of centuries-old American elms, begins at the terrace. Tourists will find several peaceful spots to relax, like the formal Conservatory Garden , the Shakespeare Garden , or the famed Chess & Checkers House .

Kids will enjoy the Central Park Zoo , which features sea lions, penguins, and other animals, and the younger ones will want to ride on the historic Carousel . The park also has, of course, expansive green lawns and enough playgrounds to keep kids busy for days.

Heckscher Playground lies mid-park between 61st and 63rd streets and boasts an extensive sprinkler area to help little ones cool off on a hot summer day. It dates to 1926 and also has slides, a giant sandbox, and climbing structures, as well as lots of open space to run around.

The Billy Johnson playground near the zoo features a stone slide beloved by kids. Be sure to bring a newspaper, or better yet, the lid of a pizza box to sit on while sliding, as it makes the ride faster.

Several ponds are also on hand to enhance the ambience. Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal with a side of people-watching.

Central Park can be toured by horse-drawn carriage for the ultimate romantic sightseeing experience.

Official site: www.centralparknyc.org

There are weeks' worth of attractions and things to do in and around Times Square, but even a brief visit to experience the bigger-than-life excitement is worth the trip. The heart of Times Square is at the junction of Broadway and 7th Ave, where you will be mesmerized by the massive screens that announce everything from the newest films and shows to special presentations.

The pedestrian areas are full of artists, performers, and tourists taking in the cacophony of the city and the enticing smells wafting from the food trucks that line the streets. While in the neighborhood, a visit is not complete without dinner at Sardi's Restaurant and a show in the world-famous Theater District .

Traveling with the kids? You'll find plenty of family attractions, including Madame Tussauds , which has not only amazing waxworks and interactive exhibits but also offers a new perspective from the glass-walled viewing platform that protrudes over the sidewalk.

Times Square is also home to a staggering number of stores, big and small, and no visit is complete without a stop at M&M World where you can't help but smile. The Empire State Building , another NYC icon, is within walking distance of the square and is open until 2am for breathtaking views of the city below.

According to Iroquois legend, the long, narrow lakes in the landscape west of Syracuse were formed by the impression of the fingers of the Great Spirit. The numerous lakes that make up the Finger Lakes region offer a range of outdoor opportunities in a visually stunning landscape.

Cute towns and Finger Lakes resorts are dotted along the lakeshores of the main lakes, most of which are particularly busy during the summer months. Some interesting ways to explore the area are on the Cayuga Trail, the Seneca Lake Trail, and the Keuka Trail.

The town of Corning is home to the living history museum Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes , as well as The Rockwell Museum , which features a variety of artwork. Auburn is also home to several attractions, including the Harriet Tubman House , the Seward House Museum , Willard Chapel, and the Fingerlakes Mall. Additional attractions include the Finger Lakes Museum in Branchport and the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Park.

Seeing the falls at Watkins Glen State Park ; riding in a hot air balloon over Letchworth State Park , and having an adventure at Greek Peak Mountain Resort are among the best things to do in the Finger Lakes .

The world-famous winter sports resort of Lake Placid, at the foot of Whiteface Mountain , has twice hosted the Winter Olympics (1932, 1980). Today Lake Placid is a major tourist center , located in beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and hills.

While it is perhaps best known internationally for its winter recreation, particularly skiing, the town is a popular summer destination as well. All kinds of unique shops and restaurants line the main tourist strip in Lake Placid. Beautiful resorts are found along the shores and in the rolling landscape.

In addition to the actual body of water named Lake Placid, there is also the incredibly scenic Mirror Lake , which is a centerpiece of the town. The setting for this lake makes it one of the most beautiful lakes in New York State .

The town of Lake George is located at the southern end of a 32-mile-long lake of the same name. The town is a major tourist destination in the summer, and the lake itself is the main attraction.

Many of the islands on the lake have been developed for camping, and the area is particularly popular with motorcyclists.

Million Dollar Beach , on Beach Road, provides swimming, picnic facilities, and volleyball courts. Sightseeing cruises are also a fun way to see the lake. Prospect Mountain offers a high scenic point for a view out over the lake and surroundings.

Historical points of interest around Lake George include Lake George Battlefield Park and the Fort William Henry Museum .

Wear comfortable shoes when you visit Storm King Art Center, which was named for the nearby mountain overlooking the Hudson River. This magnificent outdoor sculpture gallery set among 500 acres of bucolic landscape is by far one of the most captivating attractions in New York state – and you'll want to walk around it all.

Not a walker? No worries. There's a tram on-site to take you past most of the massive sculptures, but you'll want to download the site's app to get the most detailed information about each piece. Also, since this is an open-air attraction, plan your visit for a nice day to get the most out of your trip.

Many of the ambitious works on display throughout the fields and hills of this unique exhibition change frequently, and the art looks different in every season. That means you're in for a new experience with every visit. And trust us, going once really isn't enough!

Storm King is open Wednesdays to Mondays from 10am to 5:30pm. Last entry is at 4. It will take at least two hours to explore the area, more if you'd like to stop and appreciate the impressive works, so plan your trip accordingly. There's a café on-site offering healthy lunches, drinks, and snacks to help ward off hunger pangs during your journey.

Address: 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, New York

Official site: https://stormking.org/

Cooperstown sits at the southern tip of Otsego Lake in central New York state. It is best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum , where baseball aficionados can admire the sport's legends and view memorabilia.

The Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum is a fun follow-up to the Hall of Fame, and although it is on the smaller side, it is fun to pose with baseball's greats in a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy their "baseball bloopers" film in the small theater.

Cultural attractions in Cooperstown include the Fenimore Art Museum and the Alice Busch Theater , which hosts the Glimmerglass Festival, an annual international opera event. There are also historic sites like Hyde Hall , once a sprawling colonial estate, as well as The Farmer's Museum , where life on Lippitt Farmstead and a historic village is brought to life.

Dotted all over a 50 mile stretch of the St. Lawrence River are thousands of little islands. They are located along a granite shelf extending from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States, with the boundary actually running between the islands. It is an area of great scenic beauty any time of year, but especially vibrant in autumn during foliage season.

Operating between mid-May and mid-October, boat tours among the maze of islands show ever-changing vistas and include glimpses of holiday homes that range from the plainest of log cabins to the most luxurious of summer villas. One of the most amazing sights in the Thousand Islands is the stunning Boldt Castle dating from 1900.

The Adirondacks are a scenic range of forest-covered hills in northern New York state, with numerous lakes and recreational opportunities. The hills are part of the Canadian Shield and reach a height of over 5,000 feet.

The highest peak is Mount Marcy at 5,345 feet. The Adirondacks are a favorite holiday destination for New Yorkers. People come here to enjoy hiking, canoe on the extensive waterways, and relax at lakeside cottages and resorts in the Adirondacks .

This is a beautiful area to photograph in the fall, with an incredible display of New York autumn colors .

Another popular destination to experience nature in New York State is the Catskills. The rugged countryside of rolling hills and peaceful lakes is perfect for recharging your mental batteries. You can be as active as you like by undertaking activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking; or as lazy as you like by sitting by the pool, snoozing, or visiting the spa at one of the many top resorts in the Catskills.

In the winter, the Catskills transform into a snowy wonderland and draw skiers from far and wide to some of the finest ski resorts in New York .

Letchworth State Park is home to three sets of waterfalls along the dramatic Genesee River Gorge. Steep cliff walls line the gorge, which is surrounded by forest, and it is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East."

Middle Falls is the largest, with a 107-foot drop, and is illuminated at night from May through October. It's dubbed one of the best waterfalls in New York for good reason! Upper Falls is just as captivating, but only drops about 70 feet. It is surrounded by stunning rock cliffs and crossed by the photo-worthy Portage High Bridge.

The park offers a full range of facilities, from campsites and cabin rentals to trails, swimming, a playground, and concessions. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and designated snowmobile trails.

One of the most memorable experiences in Letchworth State Park is definitely the hot air balloon rides that soar high above the phenomenal landscape, offering views that truly can't be beat. Book one during fall for the most impressive display of Mother Nature's best color show.

Darwin and Isabelle Martin commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build a multi-structure complex in 1904, which he did at the height of his Prairie House era. It is considered by many to be his finest such work.

One of the top things to do in Buffalo , the house is open to the public and can be toured on either a Basic Tour or an In-Depth Tour, with guides who can direct viewers to the details and enhance visitors' understanding of the structure. Portions of the estate that were torn down over the years are being reconstructed.

Address: 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, New York

Official site: www.darwinmartinhouse.org

Watkins Glen is located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake within the Finger Lakes State Parks . The glen extends for two miles, dropping a total of 400 feet over 19 waterfalls, past 200-foot cliffs that were carved by the water.

In addition to admiring the gorge from its rim trails, visitors will find many things to do, including fishing, hiking, and even swimming in the park's Olympic-sized pool. The park has campsites for both tents and RVs, as well as picnic areas for day visitors. Guided tours of the gorge are available in season.

Official site: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/142/

The 50-room George Eastman mansion was completed in 1905 and originally included a stable, garage, barn, five greenhouses, and many gardens. Located in Rochester, the house has been restored to its appearance in the early 1900s, with photographs made by Eastman, as well as letters and notes that assisted in the restoration.

The outstanding International Museum of Photography and Film is located on the grounds and will be of interest to anyone with a passion for photography. The museum also showcases a number of traveling exhibits and movies on a regular basis. Be sure to check their website to see what's coming up.

Address: 900 East Avenue, Rochester, New York

Official site: https://www.eastman.org/

Kingston is a quaint waterfront town that lies on the outskirts of the Catskills, about two hours north of Manhattan. It's a popular place to spend a weekend in New York , with a slew of fun things to do, especially during summer.

When the warm sun shines, this unassuming town really comes to life–in the form of outdoor concerts, festivals, and other fun events. Grab a bite on an outdoor patio by the Hudson River, hop on a cruise, or tour one of the area's multiple museums.

The Hudson River Museum is particularly interesting if you're a fan of all things nautical, while train lovers could spend hours in the Trolley Museum of New York .

Save time to practice a little retail therapy in the boutique shops Uptown , but do not miss a wander along the streets of the Stockade Historic District . This region is comprised of eight blocks of fairy-tale worthy buildings and so much charm, you'll want to stay longer.

More on New York

The top 15 things to do in New York State beyond NYC

Oct 3, 2023 • 7 min read

Get out of the city and enjoy one of the many unique experiences to be had in New York State © MundusImages / Getty Images

New York City may lure travelers with its gleaming lights and non-stop excitement, but step outside the five boroughs and a more relaxed agenda awaits in the  Empire State . 

Art lovers can find immersive outdoor museums and themed gardens, while adventure seekers can go for an Olympic-sized thrill ride or hike well above the tops of the tree canopies. Those looking for the high life can pop into castle-like mansions, while the more chill can kick back at the site of a famous music festival. 

And the curious – whether it’s a love for baseball, an appreciation for glass or a penchant for chicken wings – will also find ways to fulfill those desires. After all, the activities here are as varied as the regions, ensuring everyone leaves with a New York state of mind.

1. Enjoy art sculptures at Storm King Art Center 

Storm King Art Center  – a 60-mile drive north of New York City  – is as much about its dramatic sculptures as it is about its topography. Nearly 90 works are displayed on the outdoor museum’s 500 acres, spread across woods, fields, meadows and hills – the setting playing as much a role in the site-specific displays as the oversized art pieces themselves. 

2. Celebrate women’s rights at national parks

New York State has a strong connection to the women’s suffrage movement. Seneca Falls was the site of the 1848 Women’s Rights Convention, and the town's  Women's Rights National Historical Park  is a testament to these American pioneers' hard work and sacrifice. 

Other noteworthy sites include the Harriet Tubman National Historic Park , which includes the abolitionist icon's home, church and grave, and Hyde Park’s Val-Kill , aka the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, where guests walk the very grounds the First Lady strolled every day.

3. Ride a coaster along an Olympic bobsled track in Lake Placid

Fortunately, no Olympic training is required to experience the bobsled track used in both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. 

In 2020, the nation’s longest mountain coaster, the Cliffside Coaster , debuted at Mt Van Hoevenberg, and now visitors can strap into a vehicle and speed through the twists and turns of the course, while an audio system blasts commentary on what it was like to be an Olympian coasting down that very same cliffside path.

And if that’s not enough of a thrill, the Olympic Sports Complex also offers a bobsled experience along a half-mile track that hits speeds of up to 55mph. 

4. Make your own glass at the Corning Museum of Glass

Situated in the Finger Lakes , the Corning Museum of Glass has put glass in a class of its own. Not only is it the world’s most extensive collection of glass, with more than 50,000 objects spanning 3500 years of history, it’s also the leading library on the material – and one of the best glassworking schools. Visitors can get in on the action with options to  make their own glass , whether it’s a glass-blown ornament or a sandblasted sculpture. 

5. Mansion hop along the Gatsby Gold Coast on Long Island’s North Shore

Tucked among the suburban sprawl of Long Island is a world of opulence, if you know where to look. In Huntington, tour  Oheka Castle ’s French-style estate and gardens (which will be immediately recognizable from several movies and celebrity weddings), then explore the Vanderbilt Mansion’s museum and planetarium in Centerport or marvel at the Guggenheim Estate on the Sands Point Preserve  – better known as East Egg from F. Scott Fitzgerald's book  The Great Gatsby .

6. Spot the converging tides from Montauk Point Lighthouse 

If Montauk is truly The End, as it's called, then  Montauk Point Lighthouse  – the oldest one in New York State, dating back to 1796 – gives a glimpse of what’s beyond. Sitting on the very eastern tip of Long Island, the view from the top encompasses both the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound, showcasing the converging tides of the two bodies of water, a natural phenomenon. 

7. Tour Cooperstown’s National Baseball Hall of Fame

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum sits in a Central New York town with just one stoplight – which is fitting, as the museum has more than 40,000 three-dimensional artifacts, not to mention all the baseball cards, harkening back to a slower pace of life, and the simplicity with which the sport began. 

For fans who want to explore their favorite team's history, the museum offers the  Starting Nine scavenger hunt, which leads you to the most surprising objects from your team's past.

8. Get a read on herbs at the Cornell Botanic Gardens

With more than 500 acres of gardens and natural environments in the Cornell Botanic Gardens  – all free to visitors – the Ivy League campus has a whole second persona under its private school facade. One delightful find is an herb garden with themed beds, including one  organized by literary references  in poetry, prose, myth, folklore and drama, like The Scarlet Pimpernel . 

9. Dine on international cuisine at the Culinary Institute of America 

There's only one way for the Culinary Institute of America students to practice their craft – by serving it up to eager diners. Set alongside the Hudson River on a 170-acre campus in Hyde Park are restaurants for every taste: the locally sourced American Bounty , the French contemporary Bocuse Restaurant , the Italian regional Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici  and the comfort food of  Apple Pie Bakery Café .

10. Wander over Opus 40’s earthwork sculpture in Saugerties

Dubbed the Stonehenge of North America by some, the 6.5-acre earthwork sculpture Opus 40 , created by artist Harvey Fite over the course of nearly 40 years, strikes a balance between enchanting and slightly mysterious. Harvested from the local quarry’s bluestone and designed to honor the stonework of ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures, the site – a sculpture park and museum – also hosts concerts, theatrical events and nature walks.

11. Take a bike tour through the buffalo wing history of Buffalo 

The story is the stuff of legends: Anchor Bar co-owner Teressa Bellissimo’s son Dominic was working the bar one Friday night in 1964 when his friends came in, starving. 

So Teressa took leftovers from the kitchen and whipped up some snacks, using parts of the chicken usually saved for the stock pot – the wings. After deep-frying, she topped them off with a secret sauce, making her Buffalo restaurant the self-proclaimed home of the original Buffalo wing. 

That's the story most commonly told, but it may not be the whole story! Black entrepreneur John Young already had a thriving restaurant on Buffalo’s east side in the 1960s called  Wings and Things , featuring his own secret mambo sauce. It was popular among the late-night crowd, and even Buffalo Bills football players.

Though the restaurant is no longer there, Buffalo Bike Tours offers a  Wing Ride from May through October to learn about the city’s secret chicken history, with tastings at several local wing spots.

12. See a frozen Niagara Falls 

Mother Nature’s power roars over Niagara Falls  as 3160 tons of water flow over the natural wonder every second. (Yes, second.)

The only thing more magical than beholding that strength is seeing it all come to a standstill – or at least the illusion of one. During particular weather events, the surface water and mist falling through the air turn to ice, and the ice chunks collect below, stacking up to 40ft thick. Water is technically still flowing, but it sure makes for some stunning photos. 

13. Sail along the Canadian border through the Thousand Islands

Uncle Sam Boat Tours has been sailing through Canada’s Thousand Islands from Alexandria Bay, New York, for nearly 100 years. The cruises meander along the St Lawrence River between the US and Canada, taking in views of everything from historic castles to modern mansions, with an optional (but highly recommended) stop at the unfinished 120-room Boldt Castle , complete with a drawbridge and Italian garden. For the more outdoorsy among us, you can also paddle the river.  

14. Complete the Fire Tower Challenge in the Adirondacks

On various summits throughout the Adirondacks are 25 fire towers  once used by forest rangers to scout out wildfires. No longer in use, they’ve been upcycled into aerial viewpoints for hikers to get an even higher perspective of the sprawling mountain panoramas. And those who check them all off their list will earn a coveted patch. 

15. Find peace, love, and music at Woodstock

Now known as the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts , the Catskills  site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival is actually located a 58-mile drive southwest of its namesake town, in Bethel. Look back on the tumultuous decade's events at the festival-themed museum, or experience your own musical bliss in the 16,000-person outdoor amphitheater. 

This article was first published Feb 27, 2022 and updated Oct 3, 2023.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Upstate New York

From waterfalls to wineries, there's plenty to see in the Empire State beyond the Big Apple.

Wendy O'Dea has worked as a travel journalist and content strategist for two decades. Her work has appeared in USA Today, Travel + Leisure, 10best.com, Robb Report , and many other outlets. 

New York might be best known for the city that never sleeps, but there's a whole state beyond the Big Apple to explore. Upstate New York boasts majestic mountains, an abundance of lakes, and charming small towns. There's also a plethora of festivals, history museums, eclectic art offerings, and trendy wineries to visit, not to mention iconic sites like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and, of course, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls.

For those who haven't yet visited, or want to see more of it, here are 20 of the best places to visit in upstate New York.

Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake is the westernmost of the 11 Finger Lakes, drawing crowds every year for its "Ring of Fire" tradition on July 3, when thousands of flares are lit along its periphery as fireworks explode overhead. Nearby, the tiny hamlet of Lakeville is home to the Little Lake Brewing brewery, one of the stops along the Livingston Libation Loop, which maps out wineries, cideries, and craft microbreweries around the county. While in the region, don't miss the colorful street murals and art scattered among nine villages along the 90-mile self-guided Inspirations Trail.

Cooperstown

The National Baseball Hall of Fame is just one of the notable attractions worth visiting in this quaint village. The Fenimore Art Museum , built on land once owned by novelist James Fenimore Cooper (the town is named for the author's father, William), features an impressive collection of American works. The Glimmerglass Festival , held each summer, lures opera lovers from far and wide. Visitors to nearby Howe Caverns (about 38 miles east), can go caving or spelunking at New York state's second-most-visited natural attraction.

Letchworth State Park

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park features an impressive gorge carved out over centuries by the Genesee River. You'll find dozens of camera-ready waterfalls where the river dramatically crashes down along shale, limestone, and sandstone cliffs that rise 550 feet at their highest point. An Autism Nature Trail , the first in the country designed for people on the autism spectrum, includes eight marked sensory stations spread across a one-mile loop.

Niagara Falls

In addition to the iconic Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is worth a stop to learn more about the important role the village of Niagara Falls played in the Underground Railroad because of its accessibility and proximity to the border. The center is set in an 1863 Customs House near the old International Suspension Bridge, where heroes like Harriet Tubman led people to freedom across the border in Canada. The museum's permanent exhibit, " One More River to Cross ," received the 2019 Award of Excellence from the American Association for State and Local History.

Located at the southwestern end of Chautauqua Lake, Jamestown is best known as the hometown of comedienne Lucille Ball. Visitors with an appreciation for the art should pop by the National Comedy Center museum. For something more intellectual, the renowned Chautauqua Institution is just under a half-hour's drive up the lake, and each summer features speakers, performers, and programs focused on the "exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life."

Ellicottville

About an hour south of Buffalo by car, this quaint village in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains exudes charm, as witnessed by the well-preserved and restored homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century. It's also where western New York sports enthusiasts and skiers go to mountain bike, hike, or slalom down the 60 slopes and trails at neighboring Holiday Valley Resort .

Seneca Falls

Situated at the north end of Cayuga Lake, this historic spot is believed to be the inspiration for the town of Bedford Falls in Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life." (There's even a museum dedicated to the film .) Most notably, though, is the important role it played in the women's rights movement — it hosted the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848. The town's Convention Days each July attract crowds, and the Women's Rights National Historical Park is worth visiting, too. You can also toast to the suffragettes while wine tasting along one of the many nearby Finger Lakes wine trails.

Skaneateles

This affluent town whose name means "long lake" in Iroquoian is another central New York destination known for its wine tasting and fall foliage. It's also a favorite among avid cyclists who come to pedal the 32-mile trail around the lake. Each year, starting Thanksgiving weekend, the town hosts its Dickens Christmas celebration with live entertainment, horse and wagon rides, and a cast of Dickensian characters.

Lake George

Few lakes around New York state are known for scuba diving, so visitors are often surprised to discover that certified divers can explore 18th-century shipwrecks at the bottom of Lake George, including the oldest intact warship in North America. Vacationers flock to this town in the Adirondack region each summer — the crowds can get thick, but there's also plenty of winter fun to be had, including snowshoeing and a family-focused carnival every February.

Saranac Lake

The Adirondack Mountains have beckoned city dwellers for centuries, including tycoons like the Guggenheims and Vanderbilts, who owned rustic yet luxurious compounds known as the Great Camps. The Point , once a Rockefeller Great Camp, still welcomes guests with all-inclusive stays that hearken back to that time, complete with black-tie dinners. The resort is near the village of Saranac Lake, nestled between the mountains and lakes and filled with inviting boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Not only is Ithaca a top-notch college town but it's also a natural wonderland with breathtaking gorges, parks, and Taughannock Falls, which is three times the height of Niagara Falls. There's an abundance of activities around the city, too, including a botanical garden, boat tours, wine trails, and a self-guided Discovery Trail that highlights local history, astronomy, and earth science. Rumor has it that it was also the birthplace of the ice cream sundae .

Watkins Glen and Montour Falls

In upstate New York, many destinations are defined by their proximity to one of the state's lakes — and so it is with Watkins Glen, on the southern end of Seneca Lake. Best known for its legendary auto-racing history, the Watkins Glen International track has played host to countless races, from the Grand Prix to NASCAR to Formula One. It's also a good jumping-off point to hit the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , which stretches along the length of the lake and is the largest wine trail in the Finger Lakes.

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a popular vacation destination for good reason. There's something classically old-school about spending a day at the famous Saratoga Race Course or at Saratoga Spa State Park , a National Historic Landmark. The art scene is solid, too, with impressive productions at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center , the Spa Little Theater , and other venues.

Thousand Islands

The U.S.-Canadian border snakes along the St. Lawrence River, zigzagging through the spectacular Thousand Islands where the river meets Lake Ontario. The archipelago consists of about 1,800 islands, from small and craggy to large and lush. Visitors converge here each summer and fall to soak up views of picture-perfect lighthouses and dramatic mansions, including the never-inhabited Boldt Castle. On the nearby mainland, check out towns like Clayton and Cape Vincent. Or stop by Sackets Harbor, which has been designated a New York State Heritage Area.

An affluent upstate New York community, idyllic Pittsford is set on the banks of the Erie Canal. Come summer, visitors and locals hit historic downtown for its antiques stores and boutiques. Dine at Schoen Place overlooking the canal, then line up for homemade ice cream at Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery after a day of perusing the shops. Other attractions include neighboring Mendon Ponds Park and The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, about 15 minutes away by car.

Ausable Chasm

In the eastern Adirondacks, not far from Lake Champlain and the Vermont border, Ausable Chasm is a two-mile-long sandstone gorge carved out 500 million years ago. It's another ideal destination for chasing waterfalls (particularly the cascading Rainbow Falls) and exploring the Adirondacks on its many hiking and adventure trails. It's also a stone's throw from the North Star Underground Railroad Museum , which tells the stories of slaves seeking freedom at the Canadian border, located about an hour north by car.

Dia Beacon , a celebrated collection of contemporary art, brought a lot of attention — and visitors — to this city on the banks of the Hudson River. And with that attention came more appreciation for the many other galleries, shops, cafés, breweries, and antiques stores that have taken up residence on its magnetic Main Street. Trek to the top of Mount Beacon or book a boat tour to Pollepel Island (known locally as Bannerman Island), which Indigenous communities believed was haunted by hostile spirits.

About a three-hour drive from New York City, this mountain town welcomes adventurers with its multitude of endorphin-producing activities, including skiing or snowboarding peaks like Windham Mountain . There's a charming Main Street in this "gem of the Catskills," with inviting boutiques, bistros, and galleries. The Wylder Windham hotel features a pickleball court, heated pool, and wine tastings every weekend.

Don't write off Buffalo just because of its infamous winter weather. The city continues to evolve as a tourism destination, with the restoration of Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House , a historic carousel on the Buffalo Waterfront, and a big expansion of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (previously known as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery).

Sylvan Beach

Since we're highlighting towns around New York's Finger Lakes, Oneida Lake and the village of Sylvan Beach deserve a shoutout, too. It's a great option for a classic upstate summer vacation, where visitors can spend the day at the town's old-timey amusement park, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relaxing lakeside with a bottle of local vino. Another way to while away the day is on the water: Rent a cottage at the Cove at Sylvan Beach , where each one includes a private pontoon boat.

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10 Best Places to Visit in New York State

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 5, 2024

New York is a large and diverse state, but many visitors only visit the Big Apple. While New York City is undoubtedly exciting, there is far more than the state has to offer. Gorgeous lakes, charming college towns upstate and even world-famous waterfalls beckon outside of NYC’s five boroughs. Check out the best places to visit in New York state.

10. Buffalo

In Upstate New York, the hub of culture and education is undoubtedly Buffalo . You might know of Buffalo’s sports teams, snowy winters and association with chicken wings, but there is a lot more to this Niagara Frontier city. Buffalo is steeped in history, and a great place to start is at the Buffalo & Erie County Historical Society Museum.

Dig a little deeper by exploring the Nash House House, a home associated with early civil rights movements and even the founding of the NAACP. Then, take a walking architectural tour of the Allentown Historic District or head to the Buffalo Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the entire country.

9. Lake Placid

In Essex County, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, is the village of Lake Placid . Despite its small population, Lake Placid is well known thanks to serving as the host of the 1980 Winter Olympics. More specifically, Lake Placid was the site of the now famous Miracle on Ice, the hockey game held between the USA and the USSR.

Sports are still a major draw to Lake Placid, and your visit could include mountain biking in the summer, hiking some of the 46 peaks of the Adirondacks, or Nordic skiing in the winter. Whatever the season, check out the Adirondack Equine Center for horseback or sleigh rides.

The college town of Ithaca is located in New York’s Finger Lakes Region, where it sits at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake. Ithaca is best known for two things: Its higher education campuses and its surrounding landscape of gorges and waterfalls.

If you are lucky enough to visit Ithaca, you’ll definitely want to make time to tour Ithaca College and Cornell University. On Cornell’s campus, spot the iconic clock tower and tour the collection at the Johnson Art Museum. Then, head downtown to Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian mall lined with restaurants and local shops. Spot some of the gorges and waterfalls in the area with a hike like the stone staircase that leads to Cascadilla Creek Gorge.

7. Catskills

Just an hour’s drive north of New York City are the Catskills Mountains. This destination is an incredible juxtaposition to city life, which is why the region is so popular among city dwellers in search of nature. In the Catskills, you’ll find the Catskill Forest Preserve. This preserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, hiking trails and winter sports opportunities.

If you’re searching for culture, check out the Hudson River School Art Trail, where stops include famous landmarks and landscapes painted by local artists. Woodstock might be the most famous town in the Catskills, cue to the iconic music festival of the same name.

6. Watkins Glen State Park

Also in the Finger Lakes Region, located at the southern end of Seneca Lake, is Watkins Glen State Park. If you want to get outdoors and experience some phenomenal views, then this is the perfect destination. A narrow gorge cuts through the park, creating amazing vistas from the trails on the rim.

In one two mile stretch, you’ll pass 19 different waterfalls! In the summer, there are outdoor swimming opportunities, and tour fishing is also a popular pastime. Backcountry camping is available, but many visitors prefer to relax at a local inn after a day of hiking and sightseeing outdoors.

5. Hudson River Valley

As the name suggests, the Hudson River Valley extends along the Hudson River all the way from Troy and Albany in the north down to Westchester, just north of New York City. Much of this area is agricultural, boasting rural views and a bucolic landscape. Lots of farms mean that the Hudson River Valley can be a foodie’s dream destination.

Organic farms, local wineries and artisan cheesemakers abound, and farmer’s markets are a staple throughout the region. Lots of NYC chefs are opting to head to the Hudson River Valley to open farm-to-table eateries, so you won’t have to go far to find a great restaurant in stunning rural surroundings.

4. Fire Island

Just off the coast of Long Island is a thin, long barrier island called Fire Island. Much of the island is made up of the Fire Island National Seashore, a former whaling base that is now a popular seaside getaway destination.

A combination of the beaches and the outdoor recreation makes this an amazing place to visit in New York State, but keep in mind that much of Fire Island is seasonal, and attractions often close down in the winter. On Fire Island, you’ll definitely want to see the Fire Island Lighthouse, and you can also stroll along the boardwalk through the incredible Sunken Forest.

3. Thousand Islands

Close to the Canadian border is Thousand Islands, a scenic spot created where the St. Lawrence River meets Lake Ontario. This collection of islands is known as a place where the rich and famous vacation, but it is an accessible spot for all types of travelers.

You can see how the one percent live with a tour of Boldt Castle, a stunning castle located in Alexandria Bay. Make time for a boat tour that winds along the river and allows you to see some of the amazing mansions overlooking the water, many of which are only visible to the public by boat.

2. Niagara Falls

Known as the Honeymoon Capital of the World, Niagara Falls is absolutely a romantic destination. However, travelers of all types will want to check out this magnificent natural attraction. Niagara Falls is located on the border with Canada. In fact, views of the falls can be enjoyed on either side of the international line.

While views from Canada are considered the most impressive, American visitors will be able to get closest to the roaring waters, and there is an option to take a boat ride at the base of the falls. If time permits, head to the Cave of the Winds, where an elevator ride takes you down to the base of the Bridal Veils Falls and puts you close to the action!

1. New York City

Known as the Big Apple, New York City is arguably one of the most important cities on the planet. Diverse and always buzzing, there is an unlimited number of attractions to explore in the city. Most of the biggest landmarks are found in Manhattan.

If you’re on a whirlwind tour, then the highlights might include a visit to the Museum of Modern Art, a trip to the top of the Rockefeller Center, a view of the Empire State Building and the New York Public Library. Throbbing with flashing neon lights and glittering billboards, Times Square is the city’s dazzling entertainment district where tourists can catch a Broadway performance and shop for souvenirs.

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15 Best Things to Do in New York State + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | 15 Best Things to Do in New York State + MAP

As one of the most-visited states in the U.S., you can bet that there are lots of cool things to do in New York state . Sure, everyone knows about NYC and Niagara Falls – and those places are well worth visiting – but there are other hidden gems that you must see.

During our three years living in Philadelphia, we had plenty of opportunities to explore some of the best places in New York . The different regions have their unique characteristics and charm, from the Catskill Mountains to the northern Thousand Islands, to the beautiful shoreline down south.

If you want to see the best that this state has to offer, here is a guide to the 15 best places to visit in New York . Perhaps you’ll enjoy a luxurious mountain getaway, or maybe you’re looking to do a waterfall hike to some of NY’s lesser-known falls. Whatever it is, I’m sure you’ll have a tough time deciding which New York activities to try!

1. New York City, one of the best places to visit in New York

Without a doubt, the best place to visit in New York is New York City . If you’ve never been to the Big Apple before, all the sights and attractions here might be overwhelming. We have a complete guide about things to do in New York City , but for now, I’ll tell you some of the highlights.

The Brooklyn Bridge , Central Park , and Times Square are a few New York tourist attractions you must see. For entertainment, go watch a show on Broadway or a concert at Madison Square Garden . If you want the best views of the city, check out the observation decks at the Empire State Building , the Statue of Liberty , or the Rockefeller Center .

NYC is also full of historical places and superb museums, and each of its five boroughs has a distinct vibe. If you want more ideas, our guide has everything you need to know.

• Recommended accommodations : The Doubletree by Hilton New York Times Square West has a rooftop lounge and well-equipped rooms with blackout curtains, so you can get a restful night’s sleep. Pod 51 is a cheaper alternative in the same area. I also recommend reading our guide on where to stay in NYC if you want to stay in a different neighborhood.

2. Ithaca and the Finger Lakes, two lovely places to visit in upstate New York

If you’re looking for attractions in upstate New York , make Ithaca one of your stops. This city is part of the Finger Lakes region of 11 narrow lakes in northwestern New York. Cayuga Lake is the closest one to Ithaca, and it’s the longest of the lakes, at 39 miles. The lake is also part of the American Viticultural Area, a designated wine grape-growing region, so you can find dozens of vineyards, wineries, and distilleries here.

Moreover, Ithaca is a college town, so it’s home to some great cultural institutions, including the Sciencenter, the Museum of the Earth, the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, and the Cornell Botanic Garden.

Nature lovers also appreciate the wealth of parks and hiking spots in the area. For example, the Finger Lakes Trail branches into secondary routes, and Buttermilk Falls State Park has ten waterfalls, including its namesake falls, as well as a beach, campground, playing fields, and nature trails. Nearby, are the Robert H. Treman and Taughannock Falls State Parks, two other famous places in New York I’ll talk about later.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Ithaca , a pet-friendly hotel with a hot tub, breakfast buffet, gym, and indoor pool.

3. Niagara Falls, another must-see in New York for families

This list would not be complete without mentioning Niagara Falls , one of the most well-known points of interest in New York . This attraction spills over into Ontario, Canada, but the New York side of the falls is just as beautiful.

Located about 20 miles from Buffalo, the NY side of Niagara Falls includes the Bridal Veil Falls , Horseshoe Falls , and American Falls . You can witness the immense power and rush of this natural wonder from several viewpoints, like Terrapin Point along the Niagara River or Prospect Point.

For the more adventurous types, consider taking a boat ride to the falls on the Maid of the Mist , or walking close to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls at the Cave of the Winds attraction. We took this half-day tour that includes both attractions and it was great. Just be sure to bring your poncho!

It’s also worth taking a walk along the Niagara River Gorge and visiting Old Fort Niagara. We have more info about both sides of the falls and where to stay in our things to do in Niagara Falls guide.

• Recommended accommodation : The Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino is an excellent hotel with fabulous views, a gym, an indoor pool, and hot tub, a sauna, and massage services. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day at Niagara Falls.

4. Lake Placid (The Adirondacks), one of the best things to see in New York

Speaking of road trips from NYC , it’s also worth visiting Lake Placid . Located in northern New York’s Adirondack Mountains , this village is a must-see in New York if you’re looking for the ideal winter vacation.

Lake Placid was the host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, so it has all the winter sports venues and facilities that you’d expect. Here, you can try bobsledding, Nordic skiing, ice skating, and other exhilarating events. If you’re visiting with kids, check out the Lake Placid Olympic Museum or the toboggan chute.

There are lots more activities to do here, so if you love the outdoors, Lake Placid is one of New York’s best destinations. Enjoy 288 skiable acres and 90 trails at Whiteface Mountain , take a scenic drive or snowshoe hike through the woods, or stroll along Main Street and hop into a pub or restaurant for a warm meal and drinks.

With its crisp mountain air and majestic snowy peaks, Lake Placid is a historical place you must visit. That said, the surrounding Adirondacks are worth a visit, too. While you’re here, check out one of the wineries, ADK Treetop Adventures rope course, or High Falls Gorge , a nature park with walking trails past waterfalls, rapids, and the AuSable River.

If you like hiking, some of the most popular routes are around Avalanche Lake (6.8 miles), Cascade Mountain (4.8 miles), and Mount Jo (1.8 miles).

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Crowne Plaza Lake Placid , a lake-view hotel with a restaurant, an indoor pool, a gym, tennis courts, and a putting green. It also has pet-friendly and family rooms.

5. Visit Watkins Glen State Park, one of the top things to do in New York

Watkins Glen State Park is another beautiful place in the Finger Lakes region, in the village of Watkins Glen. It’s a stunning state park, especially if you visit New York during the fall .

The park, which covers over 770 acres, is known for its narrow gorge, which reaches a depth of 400 feet. Cut by a stream, the gorge creates several waterfalls that make for an amazing backdrop while hiking. No doubt, the pretty waterfalls, rushing rapids, and stone steps traveling over and under the water make this one of the best parks in New York state .

There are a few trails here, although I recommend the Gorge Trail , which goes past the stream, gorge, and several waterfalls. It also connects to the Finger Lakes Trail, which I mentioned earlier. If you want to extend this adventure in New York state , Watkins Glen has tent and trailer campsites.

• Recommended accommodation : The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel has beautiful rooms with private bathrooms and showers, seating areas, and lake views. You can also enjoy the resort’s on-site restaurant, bar, and gym.

6. Letchworth State Park, another thing to do in New York State

If you like Watkins Glen, then you should also visit Letchworth State Park . Waterfalls and gorges abound here, and the park has even been called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The park is huge, spanning over 14,400 acres across two counties in western NY. At first sight, the sweeping views, sprawling forests, and wide gorges will take your breath away.

Like Watkins Glen, there are waterfalls here, and while there aren’t as many, they’re larger. The three main waterfalls are the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls , which originate from the Genesee River. You can find all three in the southern part of the park, in Portage Canyon. The Middle Falls are the tallest, at 107 feet.

You don’t want to miss the hiking trails and lookout points here, as they offer some of the best views in New York . There are over 60 miles of hiking routes, and among the viewpoints, I recommend the Inspiration Point Overlook , which is about a half-mile from the Visitor Center.

Besides hiking, you can go kayaking, whitewater rafting, biking, or, in the winter, tubing, and skiing. The park has several playgrounds, swimming pools, and campsites, although the historic Glen Iris Inn is a popular accommodation. Also, when the weather permits, hot air balloon rides are available in the park, making for quite a romantic thing to do in New York state .

• Recommended accommodation : The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mount Morris is a lovely mountain resort with free Wi-Fi and activities like hiking, nature trails, boating, and swimming. The hotel has an indoor pool, a gym, barbecue facilities, and a beautiful garden.

7. Go to Lake George, one of the best things to do in New York

Looking for things to do in northern New York state ? Then go to Lake George , a huge lake surrounded by peaks and forests at the base of the Adirondack Mountains. Known as the Queen of American Lakes, the long and narrow Lake George spans over 32 miles and contains over 170 islands, including Sagamore, Turtle, and Vicar Islands.

An affluent summer colony, Lake George has long attracted famous visitors; the Rockefeller, Roosevelt, and Vanderbilt families have all vacationed here. It’s not hard to see why, since the area offers all kinds of activities, from hiking and paddling to birdwatching, biking, and mountain climbing.

That said, this is also one of the best places to visit in upstate NY in the winter  when you can go ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing around the frozen lake. Moreover, the village of Lake George is home to family-friendly attractions like sports facilities, amusement parks, shops, and museums.

So, no matter what time of year you come to Lake George, you won’t be disappointed!

• Recommended accommodation : You can’t go wrong with a room at the Courtyard by Marriott Lake George , which offers on-site amenities like a restaurant, bar, lounge, and indoor pool. The mountainside resort is also close to shopping, hiking, and skiing.

8. Taughannock Falls State Park, a fun thing to do in New York State

Another New York tourist attraction you should visit is Taughannock Falls State Park . If you’re in Ithaca, the park is about a 20-minute drive away, so you can’t miss it.

The 750-acre park’s namesake waterfall, Taughannock Falls , is the tallest free-falling waterfall in the northeastern U.S. Its 215-foot drop is over 30 feet higher than Niagara Falls, making it one of the most spectacular things to see in New York . Besides the Taughannock Falls, the park also features the smaller Upper and Lower Falls.

The best way to witness this amazing natural wonder is by taking one of the hiking routes. The Gorge Trail is less than a mile long, takes you past the Lower Falls, and ends at the base of Taughannock Falls. The North Rim Trail is about twice as long and offers views of the Upper Falls and Taughannock Falls.

In addition to exploring the hiking and nature trails here, you can also go camping or swimming along the shores of Cayuga Lake. Sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice skating are popular wintertime activities here. As I mentioned, the state park is close to Ithaca, so you can take advantage of the attractions there, too.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Ithaca , which I mentioned earlier. It’s just a 15-minute drive from Taughannock Falls State Park.

9. Thousand Islands, another place to add to your New York bucket list

The Thousand Islands (yes, like the salad dressing), is one of the most interesting places to visit in upstate NY . This archipelago contains over a thousand islands: 1,864 to be exact. The islands range in size and sit in the St. Lawrence River, which straddles the border between New York and Ontario, Canada.

Collectively, the Thousand Islands were declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2002, although there are designated Canadian and U.S. islands. For example, Wolfe Island , the largest of the islands, is in Ontario, while Just Room Enough Island in the U.S. is the world’s smallest inhabited island, at 3,300ft².

Other significant islands include Ironsides Island , home to one of the largest colonies of great blue herons in New York, and Carleton Island , home to old Fort Haldimand, which was built by the British in 1779 during the American Revolutionary War.

If it’s your first time here, it’s best to choose a specific community within the Thousand Islands, such as Alexandria Bay, NY. A popular New York tourist attraction , it includes Heart Island , where you can see the famous 120-room Boldt Castle .

It’s also worth visiting nearby Wellesley Island , which has a state park and lots of outdoor activities like camping, hiking, nature walks, and swimming. If you plan on crossing the border, the easiest way to do so is by taking the Thousand Islands International Bridge.

• Recommended accommodation : The Riveredge Resort Hotel in beautiful Alexandria Bay, NY, is the perfect place to relax after a full day. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Boldt Castle, plus it has spa bathtubs and a gym with a hot tub.

10. Saratoga Springs, a beautiful attraction in upstate New York

Saratoga Springs is a famous place in New York that’s known for its mineral springs, which are said to have healing properties that boost digestive health and improve skin. This has made Saratoga Springs a popular resort town, although you’ll find lots more to do here.

Besides the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, you must visit Saratoga Spa State Park . This is where many of the town’s namesake mineral springs are located, as well as a hotel and pool complex. There are also several great hikes, including the Gideon Putnam Trail, Five Mile Trail, and Geyser Loop. The latter takes you to Geyser Creek, where you can see the Geyser Island Spouter . While it’s technically not a geyser, it’s still an impressive spring that shoots water up to 15 feet in the air.

If you don’t want to bathe in a natural spring, you can visit one of the many luxury spas in town. Downtown Saratoga Springs is full of salons, spas, shops, and museums, and it’s a popular destination for the performing arts.

Nearby, you’ll find wineries and golf courses to round out your upstate NY vacation. In addition, Lake George, another New York tourist attraction I mentioned, is just 30 minutes from Saratoga Springs.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at The Saratoga Hilton , a modern hotel with lush gardens, a gym, an indoor pool, and a restaurant. It’s also very close to downtown.

11. The Hamptons, a luxurious thing to do in NY

A visit to the Hamptons , one of the main attractions in Long Island , is a must-do in New York during summer . This luxurious summer colony attracts New Yorkers and residents from nearby Connecticut and Rhode Island. The historic seaside communities of the Hamptons offer lavish amenities and beautiful beaches, so it’s no wonder coming here is a top thing to do outside NYC .

The oldest and largest village in the Hamptons is Southampton . Along with its pretty beaches, Southampton is home to the historic Tudor House and Garden, Medieval Merchant’s House, and the SS Shieldhall , one of the largest surviving steamships.

Sag Harbor is another notable area in the Hamptons, straddling the border of Southampton and East Hampton. If you want a mix of nature and culture, East Hampton is a solid choice. Known as an artists’ colony, this village has welcomed dozens of famous artists, including Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Andy Warhol. In addition, East Hampton has several state parks, including Montauk Point State Park and Lighthouse .

As I mentioned, the Hamptons are close to NYC (about two hours), so if you’ll be in the city, consider this Hamptons day trip . It goes to several beautiful areas in Southampton and Sag Harbor, so it’s a good way to see multiple points of interest in New York in one trip.

• Recommended accommodation : The Southampton Inn is one of the best places to stay in the Hamptons, thanks to its clean and modern rooms and comfortable amenities. Indulge in a meal in the courtyard or dining room, enjoy free transportation to Cooper’s Beach, or take a swim in the on-site pool.

12. Robert H. Treman State Park, a place with more activities in New York

Boasting 12 waterfalls and nine miles of hiking trails, Robert H. Treman State Park is another historical place in New York I recommend visiting. This beautiful place is close to Watkins Glen and Taughannock Falls state parks, so if you needed another reason to visit the Finger Lakes region, here it is.

Robert H. Treman State Park’s waterfalls were formed during the last Ice Age, and this geological event also created the valleys and gorges found throughout the park, most notably, Enfield Glen . This narrow gorge is a focal point for the park’s hiking routes, which also go past a historic gristmill, Enfield Creek, and lovely waterfalls.

Two of the most famous waterfalls in the park are the 115-foot, multi-level Lucifer Falls , and the Lower Falls , whose base serves as a refreshing swimming hole. The two-mile Gorge Trail leads from the park’s east entrance to the Lower Falls. You can continue on the Gorge Trail and link to the Rim Trail , creating a loop of about five miles that gives you two different views of Lucifer Falls. I recommend both hiking routes, and by far, they’re two of the best outdoor activities in New York state .

Along with the hiking trails, the park has picnic areas and campsites where you can linger and admire the striking scenery of natural stone and cascading water.

• Recommended accommodation : Again, I recommend the Hilton Garden Inn Ithaca . Its central location makes it a great deal, plus the hotel has facilities where you can relax, exercise, dine, and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

13. Catskill Mountains , the best place to visit in New York for scenic views

The Catskill Mountains is one of the best areas to visit in New York any time of year, which is why it’s considered one of the top day trips from NYC . Nestled in the Appalachian mountain range, it’s an amazing place to go if you’re craving some time in nature.

As you can imagine, the Catskills are one of the best places to visit in upstate NY in the winter . Check out one of the ski resorts, such as Hunter Mountain , and enjoy activities like Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. For something calmer, drive along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway and enjoy 52 miles of scenery.

The Catskills offer plenty of things to do in New York in the summer , too. Catskill Park is a popular spot for camping, mountain biking, and watersports like tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. If you like to hike, you’re in luck, because there are dozens of routes throughout the area. Some of the top hikes include Giant Ledge, Devil’s Path, and the Catskills Scenic Trail. The Hunter Mountain Fire Tower Loop is a challenging yet rewarding hike, and you can climb the fire tower for even better views.

13. Catskill Mountains, the best place to visit in New York for scenic views

There is a lot more to see and do here, from cultural activities to extreme sports. You can also visit the surrounding towns of Phoenicia, Saugerties, and Woodstock, or explore the nearby waterfalls, one of which I’ll talk about next.

• Recommended accommodation : Check into the Catskill Mountain Lodge , a charming accommodation with spacious rooms, private bathrooms, two seasonal pools, and outdoor firepits. Enjoy the hotel’s rustic décor and take advantage of ski passes to the nearby ski resorts.

14. Visit Kaaterskill Falls, another breathtaking thing to do in NY

Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the Catskill Mountains, so be sure to check it out if you’re in the area. This two-tiered waterfall has a combined total drop of 260 feet, and it’s one of the tallest and oldest falls in the eastern U.S. Its beauty has long inspired nature lovers and artists, and the waterfall was a common subject for painters of the Hudson River School.

Today, you can see the falls from above or below, although the upper trail is much easier. This accessible trail is wide and flat, and there is a wooden viewing platform where you can take in the immense beauty of the cascades. Here, you can get a closer look at the first drop, which is the higher of the two and leads to a large pool.

While you’re exploring the area, look out from the top of the falls to see Hunter Mountain in the distance. If you have time, it’s worth visiting the town of Hunter, NY , which is considered one of the nicest weekend getaways from NYC .

Even from the pictures, you can tell that Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and hiking to the falls is an excellent outdoor activity in New York state . While you’re here, you can also see Bastion Falls, a 70-foot waterfall at the Kaaterskill Falls Trailhead.

Finally, while this place is highly-rated, the route to the lower falls can be very dangerous, so always stay on the marked path.

• Recommended accommodation : The Catskill Mountain Lodge is also close to Kaaterskill Falls, so after a full day of hiking in nature, you can come back to this charming, rustic lodge.

15. Fire Island National Seashore, another fun place in New York to visit with kids

Finally, the Fire Island National Seashore is a great New York attraction for families , and a unique place to experience the surf, sand, and sun. Spanning 30 miles from Long Island to the Great South Bay, this shoreline is home to over a dozen private communities.

To get to Fire Island, take the ferry or drive down the Robert Moses State Parkway. The latter option will drop you right off at one of the best beaches near NYC , Robert Moses State Park . Here, you can visit the Fire Island Lighthouse and walk the Sailor’s Haven boardwalk trail. This 1.5-mile path leads you through the Sunken Forest, an ecological treasure with some of the most unique flora and fauna in the region. It’s a popular birdwatching spot, so keep an eye out for egrets, herons, raptors, red-winged blackbirds, sanderlings, and warblers.

Towards the eastern end of the seashore, you’ll come to Watch Hill and its rustic campground, as well as the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness. Another hidden gem, this sprawling natural area is a beautiful place to see waterfowl and white-tailed deer.

Of course, the entire shoreline offers plenty of recreational opportunities, such as boating, hiking, sailing, and swimming. So, if you’re looking for things to do in New York in the summer , you can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach!

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at Robbins Rest Retreat , an oceanfront vacation home with six bedrooms, three bathrooms, a balcony, patio, and fully-equipped kitchen.

That ends this guide to the best places to visit in New York State ! Lastly, here is a downloadable map to help you quickly locate all the places on your New York bucket list .

Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment if you have any questions or other NY attractions you’d like to share. I look forward to answering you back. Until then, have an awesome trip!

Ascen Aynat

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New York State Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth New York State travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

There really is no place like New York, a state that truly has something for everyone. And while it may be home to the Greatest City in the World, there’s so much more to the Empire State than just New York City . From gorgeous lakes to breathtaking mountain ranges to some of the best beaches on the East Coast, you’ll find plenty to do in New York State.

Not sure where to start with all the attractions NY has to offer? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

If you’re craving nature, the Finger Lakes Region in Central New York may be best known for its beautiful lakes (obviously) but it’s also a top spot for hiking and exploring, as well. Head to Watkins Glen near Seneca Lake to explore gorgeous waterfalls, streams, and more in this top outdoor destination. You’ll also want to try some of the region’s local wines, considered to be some of the best in the country.

Speaking of lakes, there are plenty of others to visit throughout New York State.

Lake Placid , one-time host of the Olympics, is a top winter destination thanks to its world-class ski resorts. Plus, it’s home to incredible Adirondacks hiking trails like Mount Marcy and Mount van Hoevenberg .

Lake George is another Adirondack favorite with tons of attractions like theme parks, steamboats, and natural caves for the whole family to explore.

For a real adventure, head up to the Canadian border to check out the Thousand Islands , a group of more than 1,800 islands on the St. Lawrence River with tons of outdoor activities to enjoy.

You’ll also find tons of opportunities for hiking in New York . Letchworth State Park, the “Grand Canyon of the East” is a favorite of both New Yorkers and travelers alike for its gorgeous waterfalls, high bridges, and incredible views.

New York City may be the center of the universe — and we’ve got plenty of tips on how to make the most of your NYC trip, too — but there’s so much more to explore in this incredible state.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to New York in North America.

Note: This ultimate New York State guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

New York City Travel Tips

What would you add to this new york state travel guide, new york state map.

Use this New York State tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible destination!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Adirondacks Travel Guide

Visiting the Adirondacks in Upstate New York? These guides can help you plan an unforgettable itinerary:

Hiking The Mount Van Hoevenberg Trail in The Adirondacks

Hiking Mount Marcy, New York’s Highest Peak

Catskills Travel Guide

Visiting New York’s Catskills Region? Some fun things not to miss include:

How To Do The Giant Ledge Catskills Hike For Amazing Views

How To Do The Overlook Mountain Hike For Amazing Catskills Views

22 Fun Things To Do In The Catskills In Winter

Hudson Valley Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to New York’s Hudson Valley, don’t miss:

How To Hike Anthony’s Nose In The Hudson Valley

Escaping NYC For The Shawangunk Wine Trail In New York State

Hiking Bull Hill In The Hudson Valley Of New York State

How To Have A Fun Time In Dutchess County, New York

Hiking To Perkins Memorial Tower In Bear Mountain State Park

Long Island Travel Guide

Visiting Long Island? These guides can help you plan the perfect trip!

17 Reasons Why You Should Visit Long Island

17 Best Places To Hike on Long Island

The Ultimate Guide To Long Island Wine Country

New York City Travel Guide

Looking for a travel guide to New York City? Check out:

Manhattan Travel Guide

Fun Things To Do in SoHo, NYC

How To Enjoy An Epic Day In NYC’s West Village

How To Explore Times Square Like A Local

35 Best Things To Do On The Upper East Side NYC (From A Local)

21 Fun Things To Do On The Upper West Side NYC

13 Best Manhattan Skyline Tours For Amazing Views

Brookyln Travel Guide

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Downtown Brooklyn

12 Quirky & Fun Things To Do In Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Walking Over The Williamsburg Bridge From Manhattan To Brooklyn (Itinerary Includd!)

8 Delicious Restaurants In Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Fun Things To Do In Bedstuy, Brooklyn

What To Eat & Drink In Red Hook, Brooklyn

21 Best Things To Do In Bushwick (From A Local)

17 Best Brooklyn Walking Tours (From A Local!)

15 Best Brooklyn Food Tours (From A Local!)

Queens Travel Guide

17 Awesome Things To Do In Long Island City, Queens

20 Best Views Of The Manhattan Skyline From Queens

Best Views In NYC For Free

21 Fun & Cheap Things To Do In NYC

27 Of The Most Instagrammable Cafes In NYC

52 Most Instagrammable Places In NYC

21 Best Views In NYC At Night To Take in The Manhattan Skyline

61 Quirky & Delicious NYC Restaurants

73 Romantic Things To Do In NYC (Beyond The Empire State Building)

My Favorite Streets Of New York (Not Broadway)

31 Uniquely NYC Experiences That Shouldn’t Be Missed

41 Unique Ways To Explore NYC In Spring

5 Places To Go Hiking In Manhattan

A Fun Guide To Walking The Manhattan Bridge (Itinerary Included!)

Best Bottomless Brunch In NYC: 31 Must-Try Boozy Restaurants

41 Fun Things To Do By Yourself In NYC

64 Best Non-Touristy Things To Do in NYC

41+ Best New York Souvenirs & Authentic NYC Gifts

17 Things To Do In NYC After Midnight

Why Is New York So Popular? 15 Reasons To Love NYC!

Ultimate Guide To Living In A Hotel In NYC

15 Best New York Architectural Tours By Walking, Boat & Helicopter

59 Best Things To Do In NYC On A Rainy Day

15 Best NYC Limo Tours

Is NYC An Island? New York Geography + Island Hopping Guide

15 Best NYC Night Tours

Upstate New York Guides

32 Best Hikes In Upstate New York

19 Best Romantic Getaways In Upstate New York

Thanksgiving getaways From NYC: 11 Unforgettable Holiday Escapes

New York State Road Trips

Planning a New York State road trip? These guides can help:

A Road Trip Itinerary From NYC To The 1000 Islands

Best New York State Tours

Explore local culture with a New York State tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Hudson Valley Fall Foliage Wine and Local Cheese Tour (Beacon, New York)
• Chelsea Market & High Line Food Tour (Manhattan, New York)
• Niagara Falls American-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride (Niagara Falls, New York)
• New York In One Day Sightseeing Tour (New York City)
• Times Square Drinks & History Tour (Manhattan, New York)
• Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise (Albany, New York)

Renting A Car In New York State

Need a rental car for your New York State trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In New York State

Getting around New York State by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around the United States.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Hotels In New York State

Click here to browse the best New York State hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays and experiences!

It’s set to NYC, but you can easily change the location to your specific destination:

New York State Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a New York State tour. When visiting New York — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your New York State travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

New York State Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in New York State .

Q: Where should I go on vacation in Upstate New York?

Upstate New York is full of tons of great vacation destinations for all types of travelers.

If you’re looking for an easy getaway from New York City filled with lush landscapes, cute small towns, and delicious food, head up to the Hudson Valley . Art lovers can stroll around Beacon, a small town home to contemporary art haven Dia:Beacon and several art galleries featuring the work of up-and-coming creators.

Hudson is also a favorite of Upstate New York travelers for its historic architecture, riverside views, and performing arts festivals like the annual Hudson Jazz Festival.

Other must-sees in the Hudson Valley include the outdoor sculpture gallery at Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, NY and the historic Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY.

Wherever you end up staying, be sure to make some time for outdoor exploration, as the hiking trails in the Hudson Valley — like the Bull Hill Full Loop , Anthony’s Nose , Bear Mountain , and Breakneck Ridge — can’t be beat!

The Finger Lakes Region , located in Western New York, is also a great destination for an Upstate New York vacation. Each lake has its own charm and features different opportunities for travelers.

Stop by Ithaca , located on Cayuga Lake, for a stroll around Cornell University’s campus or a hike up to the famed gorges.

Visit in the winter to hit the slopes at Bristol Mountain on Canandaigua Lake. Learn about the region’s famous wines with a tour of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Or just rent a cabin on the water to enjoy boating, kayaking, swimming, and more in a truly gorgeous setting.

High on the bucket list of many travelers is Niagara Falls , the most powerful waterfall in North America. Located right on the border of New York and Canada, over 3,000 tons of water flow over the falls every second, creating a truly remarkable sight.

There are tons of ways to see the falls from the American side, including the famous “Maid of the Mist” boat tour, the Cave of the Winds, and several amazing Upstate New York hiking trails around Niagra Falls State Park.

Just a short half-hour ride from the falls is Buffalo, a bustling lakeside city with tons of cool museums, art and architecture worth visiting. And you can’t visit Buffalo without visiting the famous Anchor Bar, home of the original Buffalo wings!

Q: What are some do’s and don’ts in New York?

Before you visit New York, there’s a few Do’s and Don’ts you should consider.

• Know that New York state is huge. If you’re planning on visiting multiple destinations within the state, know that you’re going to have to drive a few hours to get from Point A to Point B. The drive from New York City to the Hamptons alone can take three hours on a good traffic day. Be sure to factor drive times into your travel plans and maybe consider taking a plane or train to your destination if possible.
• Take public transportation if you can. Obviously, New York City’s public transportation system is world-famous and the best way to get around the city on the cheap. But know that it’s absolutely possible to visit destinations outside the city without renting a car. Top getaway spots like Hudson, Beacon, New Paltz, and more are easily accesible by the Metro-North train line. You can even head up to Lake Placid via the Adirondack Trailways bus from New York City for a mountain getaway. With a little research, you can plan the perfect car-free trip!
• Get out of Manhattan and enjoy some of the more unique things to do in NYC . Yes, there’s no place like Manhattan anywhere else in the world. But if you limit your New York trip to one borough, you’re only getting a taste of what that part of the city has to offer. Venture out into Queens for the most diverse selection of cuisines you’ll find pretty much anywhere — not to mention there are great views of the Manhattan skyline from Queens . Check out the trendy shops and bars in Brooklyn, like these cool Cobble Hill restaurants . Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry – one of the top Staten Island attractions . Enjoy authentic Italian eats in The Bronx . You’ll never know what you missed if you don’t explore the whole city!
• Eat a lot! Great food is one of the many reasons New York is so popular . You can explore everything from the best bottomless brunch in NYC to unique New York City restaurants to Instagrammable NYC restaurants and beyond!
• Shop local when buying souvenirs from NYC ! Markets like Artists & Fleas, Chelsea Market, and the Brooklyn Flea are great starting points for this.

DON’T

• Forget your good walking shoes. Comfy shoes are a must for any kind of travel, but you’ll definitely need them if you’re planning on exploring New York City. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and blisters are the biggest vacation buzzkill. Good sock coverage and supportive shoes are a must, so leave the stillettos to the Sex and the City crew.
• Disregard the weather forecast. Yes, the weather can be unpredictable throughout New York State, but two things are constants: cold winters and hot, humid summers. Temperatures are significantly cooler upstate, particularly around the Great Lakes. Whenever you choose to visit New York, come prepared for the weather. Pack a good coat for the winter and lighter clothes for the summer. And a pocket umbrella is your best friend all year round.
• Take photos of people without their consent. One of the great things about New York City — and New York State, for that matter — is its cultural diversity. It’s said that over 800 languages are spoken in New York City alone and you’ll find many tight-knit cultural communities throughout the state. That said, it’s very disrespectful to take photos of people without their consent, regardless of their background. Would you want someone snapping photos of you while you’re just going about your business?

Q: What should I do on my first trip to New York?

While there’s no way to pack every must-see attraction into one trip to New York, there are a few things you should definitely prioritize on your first trip. At some point in your trip, you’ll want to take in views of the iconic New York City skyline. There are several ways to do this, from boat tours around Manhattan to fancy observation decks, but if you’re short on cash, we’ve compiled a list of top spots to take in NYC skyline views for free .

You’ll also want to take a stroll through Central Park , the urban oasis featuring 843 acres of green space in the heart of Manhattan. Stop by the iconic Bethesda Terrace, rent a row boat to explore Central Park Lake, head out on a hike through the Ravine , or book a Manhattan skyline tour (a few of which take place right in this urban oasis!).

Central Park also features tons of live entertainment, from buskers on the Mall to big name concerts at SummerStage to free performances of the Bard’s best work at Shakespeare in the Park.

The city’s many museums are also must-visits for any first-time visitor to New York, and also make for great rainy day activities in NYC if you happen to have bad weather. Art fans will want to visit the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art , home to works spanning 5,000 years of history, and the Museum of Modern Art , a hub for all things contemporary.

The American Museum of Natural History is always a favorite, featuring exhibits on everything from sea creatures (hello, blue whale!) to dinosaurs to ancient civilizations. And if you’re looking to explore NYC after midnight , they regularly host family-friendly sleepover events.

Other museums worth checking out on a first visit are the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum , the Whitney Museum of American Art , the Brooklyn Museum , and the Tenement Museum .

By the way, all of the above is also perfect if you’re wanting things to do in New York by yourself .

Want photos of your time in NYC? Our sister company, NYC Photo Journeys, offers the following private experiences:

• NYC photo tours
• NYC influencer photoshoots
• Professional NYC photoshoots

Q: What are some fun things to do in Upstate New York?

Upstate New York’s main attraction is definitely the great outdoors. There are so many ways to enjoy the state’s natural wonders. The state is home to 180 state parks with everything from beaches to forests to waterfalls.

Hiking fans will want to head up to Mt. Van Hovenberg and Mt. Marcy near Lake Placid for incredible mountain views and challenging trails.

You can also enjoy even more time in nature by hiking and camping out at Giant Ledge in the Catskills , another top mountain destination in New York State.

Looking for an adventure out on the water? The Finger Lakes Region is the perfect spot for watersports like boating, waterskiing, kayaking, and more.

Visiting in the winter? You’ll find plenty of opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding upstate. Gore Mountain in the Adirondacks is probably the top rated ski resort in the state, with 110 ski trails, 14 lifts and some of the steepest drops around.

Whiteface Mountain is also a favorite and once hosted many of the skiing events for the 1980 Olympics in nearby Lake Placid.

Snowboarders will want to check out Hunter Mountain in the Catskills which features four terrain parks for adventurers of all skill levels. It’s one of the top attractions when exploring the Catskills in winter .

Not ready to go downhill? You’ll find tons of opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and more throughout the state in the wintertime.

Upstate New York is also a major arts hub with tons of galleries and museums to check out. Dia:Beacon is a popular destination among fans of contemporary art and Storm King Art Center is a great place to check out modern sculptures in the open air.

Heading up to the Finger Lakes? Stop into the Corning Museum of Glass where you can watch live glass-blowing demonstrations and see the largest collection of art glass in the world. While in Corning, head to the Rockwell Museum , a Smithsonian affiliate housing an extensive collection of Western and Native American Art.

Q: How much spending money do you need for a week in New York?

Your budget for a trip to New York very much depends on your itinerary as you’ll likely spend a lot more mone in New York City than you will elsewhere in the state.

The average traveler spends about $240 per day in New York City on accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

There are certainly ways to save money in the city — like stay in hostels, consider Couchsurfing, cook your own meals, and stick to public transportation — but you’ll definitely want to budget more for this part of your trip.

Upstate in destinations like Woodstock and the Adirondacks, you’ll spend closer to $130 per day on accommodations, transportation, food, and other travel expenses. Since public transportation isn’t quite as ubiquitous as in the city, you’ll want to factor the cost of a rental car into your budget.

Overall, though, things tend to be less expensive than they are in NYC.

Q: Is New York State safe to travel?

New York State, from the city to Upstate destinations, is very safe. Violent crime rates are very low in most major travel destinations. New York City itself is very safe for travelers, despite the bad rap it often gets in the media.

Wherever you go, though, it’s good to stay vigilant, particularly when it comes to petty crime like theft and pickpocketing. Knowing how to avoid pickpockets can be helpful.

Always keep an eye on your belongings, keep any valuables out of sight and protected, and don’t flaunt any obvious signs of wealth in public places.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in New York?

Most visitors from abroad who are allowed to enter the United States — the country New York State is located in — can stay for up to six months. Entry requirements and allowances vary depending on where you are from, so definitely check the US government website .

Q: Do I need a travel visa for New York?

Visa requirements vary depending on where you are from. You can visit the US government website to see if you need a visa and what type.

Q: Where is New York?

New York is a state located in the United States , which is located in North America. The state is located in the east coast and is bordered by Canada and Lake Ontario in the north; Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the Atlantic Ocean in the south; Lake Erie in the west; and Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont in the east.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in New York?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around New York State, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in New York State?

While tap water is safe to drink in most places, it’s smart to check with the hotel in your specific destination to be safe.

Q: What is the local currency in New York State?

The local currency in New York is the US Dollar (USD).

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The 9 Most Beautiful Places in New York State

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

New York has been known as the Empire State for quite some time—signifying our great wealth of resources and good looks. The state is filled with sparkling lakes , impressive peaks, incredible vistas and sandy beaches , right in our very own backyard. From the iconic Montauk, known as “the end of the world” to storied Lake Placid and Canandaigua Lake, these local spots, though often tiny, are living up to that moniker in a big way. Here are nine of the most beautiful, scenic spots you can check out in New York, many just a few hours away from Manhattan .

The Most Charming Small Towns in New Jersey

Hidden Gem of the Finger Lakes

1. canandaigua lake.

• Why We Love It: charming lake town, beautiful wildlife area, great food
• What to Do: Naples Walking Tour ; Canandaigua Wine Trail ; Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion  
• Where to Stay: The Lake House on Canandaigua (from $270/night); Sutherland House Victorian Bed and Breakfast (from $206/night); Lapham House (from $144/night, sleeps 2)

Just because Canandaigua is one of the lesser-known Finger Lakes and a bit further from NYC doesn’t make it any less special. In fact, in our humble opinion, this sparkling lake is the best in the region, and in the warm summer months, there is simply nothing better than renting a pontoon boat and getting out on the calm waters with your closest crew.

Upscale homes line Canandaigua’s shores. It’s also anchored by the adorable town of Canandaigua, which sits on the northern end. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion are big on beauty here, and a definite draw for travelers. The town is also notable for some quality grub spots, including the authentic Mexican fare Rio Tomatlan , and the not-to-be-missed steak dinners from Nolan’s . Naples, a smaller but equally charming town is located several miles south from the southern end of the lake, and offers visitors amazing hiking opportunities and vista views for days. It’s also home to a stunning wildlife area, Cumming Nature Center .

For Birding Enthusiasts

2. tivoli bays.

• Why We Love It: two hours from NYC, stunning wetlands filled with wildlife, one of state’s most important bird conservations
• What to Do: Saugerties Lighthouse ; Tivoli Artists Gallery ; Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
• Where to Stay: Mirbeau Inn & Spa (from $430/night); The Wiltwyck (from $143/night); Tivoli Apartment (from $201/night, sleeps 4)

An easy, welcomed escape for city folks roughly two hours drive from Times Square, this state park and the quiet town of Tivoli are both situated along an enchanting stretch of the Hudson River. The bays are created by two large river coves that back up to wooded clay bluffs, and the stunning wetlands here make it a unique place to spot plant life and animals—in fact, it’s even deemed one of New York’s most important bird conservation areas.

For Stunning Sunrises

• Why We Love It: lots of local farms and wineries, quality beaches, majestic sunrises
• What to Do: Shelter Island Private Bike Tour ; Oyster Ponds Historical Society ;  Mattituck Guided Farm and Wine Country Bike Tour  
• Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Islip Arpt East (from $139/night); Hampton Inn Brookhaven (from $149/night); Beachfront Cottage (from $1,436/night, sleeps 6)

Located on the North Fork of Long Island, which is filled with farmer’s markets and pleasing wineries, Orient is home to beautiful beaches, parks and historic homes . The sunrises and sunsets from Orient are what make it truly special in our humble opinion, with our favorite spots to take in these magical colors at Orient Beach State Park and Orient Point. At the latter, you can also peep at a historic lighthouse off the shore which is surrounded by large rocks.

Easiest to Get to from NYC

4. fire island.

• Why We Love It: access via the Long Island Rail Road, closed to cars, rolling sand dunes
• What to Do: Patchogue Distillery Tour ; The Sunken Forest ; Fire Island Lighthouse  
• Where to Stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Holtsville (from $169/night); Mod 8 Cabin (from $156/night, sleeps 2); Fire Island Tree House (from $1,120/night, sleeps 6)

This small barrier island is situated on the southern shore of Long Island, with most points accessible in under 2.5 hours. Well connected by transportation including LIRR trains and ferries that easily whisk travelers here across the Great South Bay, it’s a magnificent escape that shouldn’t be slept on. In fact, for the most part, you can only arrive here by ferry as only one small part of the island allows cars. Being closed to vehicular traffic is part of the charm though, producing a quietness and stillness that keeps New Yorkers coming back season-after-season.

The natural beauty of the beaches, dunes, and some pretty spectacular real estate help, too. The welcoming and inclusive feeling of Fire Island Pines and Cherry Grove have made these towns a longtime respite for the queer community, but there are plenty of towns—each with a distinct look, feel and vibe—that will excite every kind of traveler.

The Adirondacks Getaway

5. lake george.

• Why We Love It: plenty of watersport activities, surrounded by quaint villages, explore nearby caves
• What to Do: West Pawlet Pasture Walk ; Leaf’s Air Tours ; Shelving Rock Falls
• Where to Stay: The Inn of Lake George (from $235); Mohican Motel (from $155/night); Earthen Home (from $199/night, sleeps 2)

Yes, you probably saw that the RHONJ gang recently vacationed to this dreamy spot in the Adirondacks, and for good reason. Aside from being a gorgeous lake surrounded by quaint communities—each with boutique shopping, fabulous dining experiences, quiet parks and beaches for picnicking and swimming, marinas, and plenty of hiking options—Lake George is a popular destination for its many on-lake watersports offerings. The nearby Sacandaga River is also a destination in its own right for fishing and whitewater rafting (!), and visitors to the region are also a quick drive from the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves where trails and caves can keep explorers entertained all day.

In the Heart of NYC

6. new york harbor.

• Why We Love It: right in bustling NYC, the Edge gives unparalleled views, explore the city
• What to Do: Private NYC Helicopter Tour ; Staten Island Ferry ; Edge
• Where to Stay: The Standard High Line (from $429/night); The Maritime Hotel (from $329/night); Greenwich Village Apartment (from $377/night, sleeps 4)

Yes, you can find beauty in even the most urban of settings. As New York rebounds from a pandemic-stricken year, there’s no better reminder of the Big Apple’s prowess and the beauty of the New York harbor and bay than seeing it for yourself at edge . Located at Hudson Yards some 100 stories in the sky, the outdoor observation deck with 7,500 square feet of viewing space and a pretty trippy glass floor is the Western Hemisphere’s highest. It spoils visitors with insane views over Manhattan, New York Bay and the Statue of Liberty, the Hudson River and parts of New Jersey. After a tough year, it will quickly re-spark that New York magic Frank Sinatra so smoothly sings about...

The End of the World

• Why We Love It: relaxed and casual, great surf culture, iconic lighthouse and beach
• What to Do: Oyster Shucking ; Private Sailing Experienc e; Montauk Point Lighthouse
• Where to Stay: Montauk Blue Hotel (from $199/night); Marram (from $465/night); Montauk Cottage (from $201/night, sleeps 2)

For a true escape from NYC, head to what’s been coined as the “the end” or even the “end of the world”—at least on Instagram . Montauk garnered this title from its location at the tip of the Long Island peninsula and its reputation for feeling worlds away from NYC. For one, it’s definitely more relaxed and casual than its Hampton’s neighbors, and has an eclectic vibe with a strong surfing culture. The area’s beaches and parks do not disappoint, either. Make sure to carve out some time to get a great photo in front of the Montauk Point Lighthouse and bring your favorite beach blanket to spread out on Ditch Plains, one of the area’s most iconic beaches.

For the Most Luxurious Lodges

8. lake placid.

• Why We Love It: quaint Main Street, easy access to Adirondack mountains, great winter sports activities
• What to Do: Forest Bathing ; John Brown Farm State Historic Site ; Mount Van Hoevenberg
• Where to Stay: Grand Adirondack Hotel (from $159/night); Lake Placid Inn (from $189/night); Lakeside Hideaway (from $133/night, sleeps 3)

The spirit and soul of Lake Placid are actually centered around not one, but two lakes—the larger Lake Placid and a smaller lake that the village bearing its name surrounds, called Mirror Lake. The picture-perfect Lake Placid is steeped in splendor and history, playing home to the Adirondack Great Camps; today, it’s where some *pretty* luxurious resorts live, including  Lake Placid Lodge  and  Whiteface Lodge .

The town’s vibrant Main Street is juxtaposed by a laid-back vibe and filled to the brim with charm. Travelers generally make it their home base to explore the Adirondack Mountains, which cover over six million acres and boasts the largest trail system in the nation, which make it ripe for biking, fishing, hiking or just relaxing with an amazing view. Lake Placid is also celebrated for its winter sports including snowshoeing, ice skating, skiing, ice fishing, and more.

The True Upstate Getaway

9. alexandria bay.

• Why We Love It: scenic river cruises, iconic castle, myriad outdoor activities
• What to Do: Boldt Castle Tour ; Thousand Islands Cruise ; Thousand Islands Winery
• Where to Stay: Riveredge Resort Hotel (from $159/night); Abay Getaway (from $145/night, sleeps 2); Thousand Islands Cottage (from $250/night, sleeps 5)

Trek all the way upstate to the Saint Lawrence River and you’ll find yourself in the charming village of Alexandria Bay. The town is home to two iconic castles, which you can tour. That includes Boldt Castle’s indoor swimming grotto, Roman-inspired Entry Arch and Alster Tower’s bowling alley. The 28-room Singer Castle features a two-story ice house, endless secret passageways and a dungeon. Want to get outside? Take a cruise on the bay, go fishing, play mini golf or spend the afternoon at Thousand Islands Winery, a local entertainment hub that regularly hosts festivals. Be sure to indulge in some of the local sweets, too—fudge at Lil River Fudge Co and a generous serving of ice cream at The Whole Scoop .

The Most Charming Small Towns in New York

PUREWOW FREELANCE EDITOR

Associate SEO Editor

Upstate New York bucket list: 50 Places to visit in 2021

• Updated: Feb. 26, 2021, 10:04 a.m. |
• Published: Feb. 22, 2021, 6:00 a.m.
• Chuck D'Imperio

With so much to offer in history, beauty and fun, here’s a starting sampler “Bucket List” for any first-time visitor or longtime resident in Upstate New York to seek out.

Please note: In this time of pandemic, many of these places may be temporarily closed, or have modified hours. Visit their websites before heading out. And if you find your favorite destination to be closed for now, please keep this list and revisit them in the future when things return to normal.

Tibbetts Point Lighthouse at the mouth of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario August 6, 2020. N. Scott Trimble | [email protected] N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syra

1. Tibbetts Point Lighthouse (Cape Vincent; Jefferson County)

58-foot tall historic lighthouse located “where the lake and the river meet.” Point of land where the St. Lawrence River joins Lake Ontario. Built in 1854. Gorgeous sunsets.

Website: https://www.tibbettspointlighthouse.org/

2. Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie; Dutchess County)

One of Upstate’s greatest man-made wonders. Old train bridge which crosses the Hudson River now turned into the world’s longest pedestrian walkway. Hundreds of thousands walk over the river here each year.

Website: https://walkway.org/

3. Farmers Museum (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

A glimpse of life in Upstate New York in the 1800s. Home of the Cardiff Giant, which was once known as “America’s Greatest Hoax.”

Website: https://www.farmersmuseum.org/

4. Anchor Bar (Buffalo; Erie County)

Birthplace of the No. 1 appetizer in the country, chicken wings. The Buffalo hot wings were invented at this neighborhood bar on March 4, 1964 and since then it has become one of the city’s top destination restaurants.

Website: https://anchorbar.com/

5. Pratt Rock (Prattsville; Greene County)

A mountaintop canyon with white carvings along the stone walls. All were done by Zadock Pratt who owned the world’s largest tannery in the village named for him. Has been called “New York’s Mount Rushmore.”

Website: https://www.greatnortherncatskills.com/outdoors/pratt-rock-new-yorks-mount-rushmore

6. Corning Tower (Albany; Albany County)

This is the tallest building in New York State outside of New York City. The glass-walled observation deck on the 42nd floor offer visitors an amazing view of the city and mountains in the distance. One of the best free things in Albany.

Website: https://empirestateplaza.ny.gov/corning-tower-observation-deck

View from the top of Little Whiteface at Whiteface Ski Center, Lake Placid, N.Y., Saturday, January 16, 2016. Scott Schild | [email protected]

7. Whiteface Mountain (Wilmington; Essex County)

Take a drive to the top of New York State’s fifth highest mountain. On a clear day you can even see the skyscrapers of downtown Montreal, Canada. The 8-mile Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway to the top is a toll road.

Website: https://whiteface.com/

8. Rod Serling Carousel (Binghamton; Broome County)

Recreation Park is one of Binghamton’s oldest parks. It has a 1925 Herschell carousel which has been enjoyed by visitors since 1925. Playwright Rod Serling, a native of Binghamton, wrote an episode of his famed “Twilight Zone” television show about this park. The episode, titled “Walking Distance,” aired on October 30, 1959.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/binghamtonrecreationpark/

9. Moosewood Restaurant (Ithaca; Tompkins County)

Popular vegetarian restaurant opened by a group of friends in 1973. Restaurant is very popular with college students, college alumni, locals and tourists. Famed for their cookbooks with more than a dozen in print, they are among the bestselling recipe books in the country.

Website: https://moosewoodcooks.com/

10. Northeast Classic Car Museum (Norwich; Chenango County)

A dazzling auto museum with one of the largest collections of Franklin cars in the country. Over 160 vehicles with many dating from 1899 to post-World War II.

Website: https://www.classiccarmuseum.org/

Over a period of 37 years Harvey Fite (1903-1976) created the monumental world-acclaimed 6 ½-acre bluestone sculpture now known as Opus 40 in the town of Saugerties, NY. David Lassman | [email protected]

11. Opus 40 (Saugerties; Ulster County)

Amazing outdoor sculpture park constructed in a quarry. Intricate man-made stairways, passages, and stone walls. Gorgeous bluestone setting. Popular with tourists and as a wedding site.

Website: https://opus40.org/

12. Rondout Area (Kingston; Ulster County)

Kingston was the first capital of New York State. The Rondout is the city’s historic waterfront area. Many fine shops, restaurants, and museums in area.

Website: https://www.thekingstonwaterfront.com/

13. Jell-O Museum (Le Roy; Genesee County)

Le Roy is the birthplace of Jell-O. A Jell-O museum here tells the story of the beginnings of “America’s Favorite Dessert” through exhibits, audio and visual presentations and many examples of rare Jell-O ephemera from the past century.

Website: https://www.jellogallery.org/

14. Andes Hotel (Andes; Delaware County)

A historic tavern, inn and motel built in 1853. Great weekend destination in the autumn months. The wide front porch here is a half-block long and is perfect for dinner, drinks and people watching (or leaf peeping).

Website: https://www.theandeshotel.com/

15. Strong National Museum of Play (Rochester; Monroe County)

A museum dedicated to the concept that play is not only good for all ages, but also is healthy! Home of the National Toy Hall of Fame. Yes, this is where your Etch-A-Sketchs, spinning tops, Candyland games and your little red wagon all came to be immortalized.

Website: https://www.museumofplay.org/

16. Lucille Ball Grave (Jamestown; Chautauqua County)

Hometown girl Lucille Ball is buried in Lake View Cemetery here. Thousands come to Lucy’s grave each year to pay their respects. City is home to the National Comedy Museum and a museum dedicated to Lucy and Desi and their groundbreaking show “I Love Lucy.”

Website: https://comedycenter.org/

In this April 15, 2020 photo, a lone pedestrian makes their way through the Ithaca Commons in Ithaca, N.Y. Most of the almost 24,000 students at Cornell University and 6,200 more from Ithaca College effectively vanished in March when the pandemic struck, leaving behind struggling restaurants and shops. Locals still reeling from the outbreak and resulting exodus are wondering when - or if - things will get back to normal. (John Munson/Cornell University via AP) AP

17. Ithaca Commons (Ithaca; Tompkins County)

A groundbreaking pedestrian mall in the heart of the downtown business district. All vehicular traffic routed around the commercial district. A popular gathering place for shopping, dining, festivals, concerts and with over 100 independently owned specialty stores and businesses. The Commons today is the cultural and retail heart of the city of Ithaca.

Website: https://www.downtownithaca.com/visit-downtown/the-commons/

18. 1890 House Museum (Cortland; Cortland County)

One of Upstate’s great old mansions that is open for public tours. Was the former home of millionaire Chester Wickwire. He made his millions producing woven wire products, such as screens, horse muzzles, popcorn poppers, stove sieves, etc. At one time more than half of the adults in Cortland were employed by Wickwire’s company. The mansion is a Victorian-era stunner.

Website: http://the1890house.org/chester-f-wickwire/

19. Brooks House of Bar-B-Q (Oneonta; Otsego County)

Now in the hands of a third generation of Brooks family members, this is one of New York’s most famous family chicken restaurants. Winner of the James Beard Classic American Restaurant Award. Barbecue chicken is cooked on the largest indoor charcoal fire pit east of the Mississippi (38-feet long).

Website: https://brooksbbq.com/restaurant/

20. USS Slater (Albany; Albany County)

This ship, docked in the Hudson River in Albany, is a floating military museum unlike any other. Of the 563 Destroyer Escorts that were built and employed during World War II, the Slater is the last surviving one still afloat. Today it is an amazing museum which offers tours of the ship from top to bottom. Most of the docents are retired naval officers who give interesting details about the ship and its crew as you go from the bunk room, to the engine room, to the captain’s dining quarters and even to the gun turrets (the kids like this part the best).

Website: https://ussslater.org/

21. Canandaigua City Pier (Canandaigua; Ontario County)

This Finger Lakes community of 10,000 residents acts as a gateway to this popular tourism region of Upstate New York. At the lake front is a long pier which allows the visitor to walk far out over the water and enjoy a spectacular view of the lake and the surrounding shoreline. Near the end of the pier is a famous cluster of gaily colored small boat houses that have become a bit of a charming icon of the city. Rarely do you view the pier and boat houses without seeing artists or photographers capturing this image in paintings and pictures.

Website: https://www.visitfingerlakes.com/listings/canandaigua-city-pier/566/

22. John Boyd Thacher State Park (Voorheesville; Albany County)

A fantastic state park located 18 miles from the Capital District. The park offers all recreational amenities associated with a state park, with a few exceptions. The view from the park, which is located at the top of the Helderlberg Escarpment, is breathtaking. In the distance you can see the foothills of the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and the skyscrapers of Albany’s Empire Plaza. The famed Indian Ladder Trail allows a visitor to descend a 60-foot metal ladder and then walk along a narrow path which clings to the face of a cliff. The path takes you under a waterfall so intrepid visitors are bound to get a little wet.

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/128/details.aspx

23. Oldest Miniature Golf Course in U.S.A. (Irondequoit; Monroe County)

This is fun and historic. The oldest operating miniature golf course in the United States. The Parkside Whispering Pines Mini-Golf is a real slice of Americana. The course is decidedly old-fashioned, but fun to play. The theme here is the ocean (or the Great Lakes since the course is a 9-iron drive from Lake Ontario). It is dotted with lighthouses, lobster traps, colorful buoys, and carved pelicans. And American flags. Lots of American flags. Opened in 1930. A 1950s-style diner adjoins the course.

Website: https://parksidediner.com/

24. Olana (Hudson; Columbia County)

The magnificent estate of famed artist Frederick E. Church. This Moorish-like castle crowns the top of a mountain overlooking the Hudson Valley. Church lived here for years and oversaw the building and expansion of the home. The large windows of the living quarters “frame” the magnificent Hudson paintings that he was famous for. Tours of the mansion as well as the 250-acre grounds are fascinating. Don’t forget to ask your tour guide for the story of the four teapots on the roof!

Website: https://www.olana.org/

The bird's nest allows you to look out over the treetops at the beautiful mountains of the Adirondacks. Stefani Reynolds for nyup.com

25. The Wild Center (Tupper Lake; Franklin County)

Since opening in 2006 this has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Adirondack Park. Although basically a natural history education center, the highlight is the Wild Walk. Here, through a series of intricate suspension bridges, pathways and platforms, the visitor can gradually walk up and over the canopy of forests far below, getting a literal bird’s eye view of the scenery.

Website: https://www.wildcenter.org/visit/wild-walk/

26. Erie Canal Museum (Syracuse; Onondaga County)

The Erie Canal is one of the great jewels in New York State (and American) history. Called “the greatest engineering marvel of its day,” it is a bit tricky to consume it all in one swoop. Unless you travel the 363 miles of the canal. But the Erie Canal Museum does tell a comprehensive story of this incredible feat and the museum tells it all in a historic building. Its home is in the Weghlock Buildng, the last of several giant buildings which weighed canal boats as they passed through, assessing fees according to the weight. Be sure and get a selfie out front with “The Mule Named Sal,” which honors the engine power of the mules who pulled the canal boats from Albany to Buffalo.

Website: https://eriecanalmuseum.org/

27. Seneca Falls (Seneca County)

One of the most historic communities in Upstate New York. Known as “The Birthplace of the Women’s Rights Movement,” many consider any education of the social movement for women’s causes to be incomplete without a visit to this famous village. There are museums, historical markers, famous homes, and impressive statues throughout the village all illustrating the legacy of Seneca Falls. And while visiting, be sure and explore the village’s connection to the famous movie classic “It’s A Wonderful Life.” It is a great story!

Website: https://www.senecafalls.com/visit-seneca-falls.php

28. The TePee (Cherry Valley; Otsego County)

At onetime, NYS Rt. 20 was the most important east-west road in Upstate New York. It was dotted with roadside motels, ice cream stands, old-fashioned diners, and busy towns. With the advent of the New York State Thruway (1954) just a few miles north of Rt. 20, the highway became an afterthought and many of the businesses and small towns faced hard times. One iconic souvenir from the past perseveres, however. The TePee was built in 1950 and is still in business today. A fifty-foot-tall metal tepee, the store sells New York State products, Native American gifts and jewelry, clothing, and folk art. Thousands stop by for a touch of nostalgia every year. And across the road is a breathtaking view of the Mohawk Valley.

Website: http://thetepee.biz/

29. Medina Toy Train Museum (Median; Orleans County)

A fantasy land for all baby boomers who have electric toy trains. This museum has the largest toy train layout in the East. It sprawls over 200 feet long and it 15 feet wide. At any given time, you can see trains of all vintages making their way through miniature settings of cities, farms, wilderness and small towns. This is the place where your toy dreams live on forever.

Website: https://www.medinarailroadmuseum.org/

30. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

It is hard to fathom the fact that more than a quarter million visitors a year come to Cooperstown, a little village of less than 2,000 residents. The Hall is a mecca for generations of baseball lovers to come and enjoy, learn and pay tribute to the “boys of summer” from their own past. The Hall of Plaques, where only the best are honored, is a place of quiet reflection and reminiscence. This is the state’s greatest sports museum.

Website: https://baseballhall.org/

Contemporary Glass (1975-2000) Corning Museum of Glass, Corning November 3, 2016. Michael Greenlar | [email protected] SYR SYR

31. Corning Museum of Glass (Corning; Steuben County)

Another of Upstate’s world class museums. The city is the home of Corning Glass and the entire city pay homage to the industry and the company in many ways. First and foremost is a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass. The story of the company’s beginning is told in audio and visual exhibits and examples of some of the glass artisan’s most impressive works. Do not miss the glass-blowing demonstration in the little amphitheater. You may be lucky enough to take home a one-of-a-kind “made before your eyes” piece of glass art. The museum also has one of the best museum gift shops in the state.

Website: https://home.cmog.org/

32. Animal Adventure Park (Harpursville; Broome County)

A wonderful animal park for all ages to enjoy. Youngsters will thrill at the chance to feed any of the 300 varieties of animals on site. The park gained international fame when it live-streamed the birth of a giraffe, Tajiri, in 2017. More than a million people watched it on the park’s YouTube channel.

Website: https://theanimaladventurepark.com/Page/home

33. Our Lady of Victory Shrine and Basilica (Lackawanna; Erie County)

One of the most beautiful churches in North America. This enormous cathedral was the inspiration of Father Nelson Baker, known locally as “The Padre of the Poor.” It was built at a cost of $3.2-million dollars and Father Baker served his first mass there on May 25, 1926. The interior of the basilica is a wonder. The stained-glass windows, elaborate altars, Italian marble columns, and remote sanctuaries are exquisite. When Father Baker died, in 1936 at the age of 94, he was buried in the churchyard. Later it was discovered that he may have contributed to miracles taking place and he began his path to sainthood. His remains were moved to an impressive grotto inside the church which was constructed out of black lava rock from Mt. Vesuvius in Italy.

Website: https://www.olvbasilica.org/

34. United States Military Academy (West Point; Orange County)

Public tours are given at this historic training ground for officers of the U.S. Army. Of special note on these grounds is the West Point Cadet Chapel, which houses the world’s largest chapel organ (23,511 individual pipes). One of the highlights of any tour of the academy is the West Point Cemetery. Here, as you walk along the solemn rows of graves of some of America’s most storied soldiers, you will recognize the names of Maj. General George Goethals (builder of the Panama Canal), General Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr. who led American troops during Desert Storm, General George Armstrong Custer, who was killed at the Battle of Little Big Horn, and others.

Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/

35. Hanford Mills Museum (East Meredith; Delaware County)

One of the last working gristmill and sawmills from the 1800s in the state. Built in 1820, the mill still retains the patina of old-fashioned ingenuity and craftsmanship of a long gone yesteryear. Tours take you into several of the mills’ working buildings to watch handcrafted items being made. A special treat is to observe a giant 1926 Fitz overshot waterwheel come to action powering the entire grounds with water power. As the wheel turns and thousands of gallons of water pour into the wheelhouse from a nearby creek, the display of power can be quite unforgettable.

Website: https://www.hanfordmills.org/

Howe Caverns Adventure Park is located at 255 Discovery Drive in Howes Cave, N.Y. The park includes the famous Howe Caverns. Stephen D. Cannerelli | Syracuse.com

36. Howe Caverns (Howe Cave; Schoharie County)

New York’s most famous “hole in the ground.” For several generations of young people, a trip “upstate” in the summer meant a stop at this venerable tourist attraction. An elevator takes you 156-feet below the ground, where the temperature is always 56 -degrees. Your tour takes you through amazing displays of rock formations that have been in place for millennia. All are quite beautifully back-lit for dramatic purposes. One of the most popular stops on the underground tour is the Bridal Chapel. Here, on a bright red heart-shaped piece of calcite, more than 600 couples have said “I Do” in an underground ceremony. A boat ride on an underground river is also one of the many fun parts of a visit to Howe Caverns.

Website: https://howecaverns.com/

37. Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and Grave (Hyde Park; Dutchess County)

The magnificent home of our nation’s 32nd president has long been a popular destination in the Hudson Valley. Roosevelt was born at this Hyde Park mansion on January 30, 1892 and was buried here after his death in 1945. Public tours of the home are given. A gift store sells a wide variety of FDR and other presidents’ memorabilia and souvenirs. The final resting place of FDR and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, in the family’s rose garden, is open to the public without taking a tour of the home.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/hofr/index.htm

38. Stamford Fire Tower (Stamford; Delaware County)

There are a number of Adirondack and Catskill Mountain fire towers which have been in use for decades, In the Catskills, there is only one fire tower left that is available to drive to by vehicle. Mount Utsayantha, which rises 3,214 feet above the village of Stamford, has a tower and small public park at the summit. The tower is accessible to visitors. The view from the park and the tower, especially in autumn, is one of Upstate’s best.

Website: https://www.cnyhiking.com/MountUtsayantha.htm

39. Hyde Hall (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

Brendan Gill, the esteemed architecture critic of The New Yorker magazine has called Hyde Hall, “one of the three or four great buildings of its time.” The mansion was built between 1817 and 1834 for George Clarke, whose grandfather was the governor of colonial New York. The mansion is located at the northern tip of Otsego Lake. Philip Hooker, a prominent American architect designed the home. The neoclassical home is open for public tours. They give an eye-opening glimpse of the glamour of wealthy country life two centuries ago. Your tour will take you through the kitchen, the main dining hall, the bedrooms, courtyards, and private family rooms used by a series of Clarke generations. Plus, you will also see, tucked underneath a curving staircase, the first working flush toilet west of the Hudson River! The view of the lake from the front lawn of the mansion is beautiful.

Website: https://hydehall.org/

40. Mark Twain Country (Elmira; Chemung County)

Famed writer and riverboater Mark Twain had a close personal relationship with the Southern Tier city of Elmira. He spent nearly two dozen summers at the home of his wife’s sister in Elmira. Today, the small writing gazebo that he wrote in while there is located on the campus of Elmira College. It is said that the author penned large portions of his adventure books about Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn in that gazebo. Twain is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in Elmira, section G. Prominent signs will direct you to his final resting place.

Website: https://www.friendsofwoodlawnelmira.org/

41. Arkville Train (Arkville; Delaware County)

There are several options if you are looking to take a train ride in Upstate New York. You can see the fall leaves in the Adirondacks, go on a Santa’s Polar Express in Western New York, and several others. One of the best is a ride on the Delaware and Ulster Railroad in southern Delaware County. You can ride in the vintage rail cars (both open and closed) and enjoy some of Upstate’s most beautiful scenery as you roll along the tracks following the Upper Delaware River. Rides go through the end of October, but the fall trips book up fast. Also, ask about the “train robbery” excursions. The kids love them!

Website: https://durr.org/

42. Vidler’s 5&10 (East Aurora; Erie County)

The has been called the “most famous five and dime store in America.” It is also the largest. It covers almost an entire block in this historic Western New York village. Tens of thousands of items pack the shelves with the emphasis on nostalgia. Penny candy anyone? You get the idea. While here don’t forget to look up. Way up. A two-ton statue of octogenarian Ed Vidler, of the store’s founding family, sits with his legs straddling over the roof of the store. Locals love him and call him “Vidler on the Roof.”

Website: https://www.vidlers5and10.com/

43. Saratoga Race Course (Saratoga Springs; Saratoga County)

Even if you are not a horse racing fan, a day at this venerable park is a fun, exciting and (hopefully) a winning experience for you. Known as “The August Place to Be” the track is a major tourist destination in the region during the summer months. A walk around the grounds, the rails, the clubhouse, the horse paddocks and the vending area under the trees gives you a glimpse into why this place ranks among New York’s top attractions. It is one of the oldest sports venues in the country, including all sports. Opened in 1863.

Website: https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/

Taughannock Falls towers 215 feet, making it the single drop tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. July 17, 2020. N. Scott Trimble | [email protected]

44. Taughannock Falls State Park (Trumansburg; Tompkins County)

Beautiful park just north of Ithaca. The star here is a waterfall, of which Upstate has no shortage of. Taughannock Falls is the centerpiece of this 750-acre park and features a dramatic plunge which plummets 215-feet. That not only makes it the tallest single drop waterfall East of the Rockies, but the waterfall is actually higher than the mighty Niagara Falls (the Horseshoe Falls at Niagara drops “just” 167 feet). Plenty of pathways to explore in the park as well as viewing areas to observe (and photograph) the falls itself.

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/taughannockfalls

45. Point Lookout (East Windham; Greene County)

A perennial tourist stop which offers a grand view of five states. From this promontory you can see (on a clear day) the forests and rivers of New York, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. An inn and “lookout” has been located at this site to cater to tourists with meals and souvenirs for over 75 years ago.

Website: https://www.greatnortherncatskills.com/attractions/five-state-lookout

46. World’s Largest Kaleidoscope (Mount Tremper; Ulster County)

The Emerson Resort is one of the most exquisite resorts in the Catskills. But it is not too fancy to offer up an exciting adventure inside an old barn silo. The silo, which is 60-feet tall, has been transformed into a dazzling kaleidoscope. Visitors enter through a bottom door and watch in amazement as hundreds of pieces of crafted colored glass dance across the ceiling to the accompaniment of music and a light show. A unique experience to be sure!

Website: https://emersonresort.com/worlds-largest-kaleidoscope/

47. Safe Haven Museum (Oswego; Oswego County)

One of New York’s smallest and yet most important museums. Located near the grounds of historic Fort Ontario, the Safe Haven Museum is the last standing building of what was America’s only Jewish refugee center during World War II. The story it tells inside is chilling and inspirational. 982 Jews from war ravaged Europe made a harrowing trip from Italy to Oswego in 1944 where they were housed in a camp as “personal guests of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.” This was the only place in the country where refugees were accepted. The museum features photographs, documents, oral histories, and artifacts from the period.

Website: https://www.safehavenmuseum.com/

48. Woodstock Concert Site (Bethel; Sullivan County)

Now known officially as the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, this is perhaps the most famous concert site in the world. Nearly a half-million young people converged on the hallowed field here for the 1969 rock concert that will live for eternity. The concert field, then a dirty mud field, is now a beautifully landscaped rolling lawn. There is a Woodstock monument and a great museum near the top of the hill. Concerts are still held here.

Website: https://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/

49. Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome (Rhinebeck; Dutchess County)

So much fun here. This is a living museum that offers many old-time airshows using authentic vintage planes. Thousands attend these shows all season long, and marvel as a dozen or more planes take flight and soar overhead. The biggest applause is always saved for the 1909 Bieriot, the oldest flying airplane in the Western Hemisphere, or any of the several vintage biplanes, plus an exact replica of Lucky Lindy’s famous “Spirit of St. Louis.” A great family outing!

Website: https://oldrhinebeck.org/

50. Susan B. Anthony Grave (Rochester; Monroe County)

Ms. Anthony’s grave is the most visited in this expansive historic cemetery in Rochester. Mt. Hope is the final resting place of 350,000 thousand people, many of them famous. Anthony, the towering figure of the Women’s Rights Movement, is buried in Section C, Lot 93 of the cemetery. Hundreds of women walk to her grave each year during election time to place their “I Voted” stickers on her tombstone in tribute to the woman who fought so long for their right to vote.

Website: https://freethought-trail.org/trail-map/location:susan-b-anthony-gravesite/

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All-season destinations: 10 of Upstate New York’s best four-season towns

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10 Places to Love in New York State This Summer

There’s no better place in the world for couples to visit than New York City. The city's excitement, culture and entertainment, variety of cuisine from the world’s best pizza and pastrami joints to Michelin-starred restaurants, the seductive hotels , shopping and style are all unsurpassed.

Unfortunately, NYC swelters in the summer. So when the sticky months arrive, fan out to explore cooler, greener spots around the state. New York state's two mountain ranges (the Catskills and the Adirondacks) offer lower temperatures at higher elevations.

For couples who appreciate beaches and vacationing by the water, New York state boasts three coasts (the Atlantic, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario) as well as the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, Hudson River Valley and Long Island. And don’t forget that thundering marvel that has lured lovers for generations, Niagara Falls at the Canadian border.

The Great New York State Fair in Summer

Held in Syracuse from August 21 – September 7, 2020, the Great New York State Fair shows how agricultural the rest of the state is outside of New York City. 

The fair also books big-name entertainers. To avoid the mid-day throngs and heat, plan to arrive in the afternoon and stay late.  

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  Turning Stone Casino Resort, about 35 miles away, has a luxurious Lodge (try to score a suite with a hot tub on the deck), upscale Tower accommodations, good restaurants, plenty of gambling and good air-conditioning.

Saratoga Race Course in Summer

One of America's most beautiful race tracks, the Saratoga Race Course  season is brief. So plan to visit in summer, when you can see magnificent Thoroughbreds compete between July 16 and September 7, 2020. 

Opened in 1863, the property has maintained much of its 19th-century grandeur including a sloping grandstand roof with graceful turrets. Hot tip: Make an advance reservation at the Turf Terrace , where you will have a privileged view from the grandstand, watch the action in comfort and enjoy a meal.

Best Place for Couples to Stay: Gideon Putnam Resort, a National Historic Landmark from 1935. It's adjacent to Roosevelt Baths & Spa, where you can both drink and bathe in effervescent Saratoga Water.

Chautauqua Institution

Editor's note: The Chautauqua Institution will hold all 2020 summer programming online.

Every year, over the course of nine weeks, the  Chautauqua  (sha-taw-kwa) Institution at the western edge of New York state serves as a summer camp for thinking adults.

The season's  schedule  includes lectures, ​fine and performing arts, interfaith worship and programs and recreational activities on the grassy complex.

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  The Athenaeum Hotel  is an authentic Victorian hotel on the campus. The rooms are all different and a bit quirky, but for the full Chautauqua experience you'll appreciate staying here to commune with like-minded vacationers.

Watkins Glen

Editor's note: Due to current circumstances, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival has been postponed to July 2021.

Feel the need for speed? Watkins Glen is New York State's motorsports capital, and the summer season is packed with races and events.

If you promise not to drink and drive, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival is a delicious way to sample New York's best vintages.

Finger Lakes Wine Country  is home to some 100 wineries, and artisanal cheesemakers are also making a splash. Foodies can plot their own wine-and-cheese trail through the region.

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  Three miles from the racetrack, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel stands at the foot of Seneca Lake overlooking the marina, where  both cruises and sailing are options to pursue in summer. American comfort food at its Blue Pointe Grille is particularly tasty.

Glimmerglass

Editor's note: Glimmerglass will not be taking place in 2020.

Come summer, New York City culture heads to the hinterlands. Set in the wilds of New York state, Glimmerglass mounts more than 40 performances of four different operas during its short summer season in July and August. If your musical tastes run more to "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" (or you love both basso profundo singers and base stealers), know that the concert hall is just eight miles north of Cooperstown. Glimmerglass State Park, a short drive away, has trails through the forest and a beach on the lake.

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  A grande dame of a hotel right outside of Cooperstown, the Otesaga  overlooks Otsego Lake and has a long veranda with Adirondack chairs to take in the placid view.

Corning Museum of Glass

There's really only one reason to visit Corning, but it's worthwhile: The unique and wondrous Corning Museum of Glass. An education in the many uses and properties of glass, the museum is also a place that puts on display exquisite works of art and crafts made from the material. And if you don't mind briefly standing near a blast furnace in summer, you can make your own glass project with the help of a staffer.

Best Place for Couples to Stay: Choose one of the hotels in downtown Corning's Gaffer District , where you can experience a variety of shops and restaurants.

Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate

Built by Standard Oil baron John D. Rockefeller for his family in 1913, Kykuit (pronounced keye-cut) in Westchester County is now open to the public for a fee. On a visit, couples can explore the six-story, 40-room stone mansion, vast garden overlooking the Hudson River and the Coach Barn, which puts classic cars, horse-drawn carriages and more on display.

Overshadowing the architecture, the gardens and even the views is the world-class  Rockefeller art collection. Terraced gardens display Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller's monumental collection of 20th-century sculpture including works by Picasso, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Louise Nevelson and many others. Underground art galleries feature Picasso tapestries among many other priceless treasures.

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  The century-old  Castle Hotel and Spa in nearby Tarrytown has the appearance of a real castle. A member of the Historic Hotels of America, this property includes Equus, a popular restaurant; an Asian-style spa and acres of manicured gardens with Hudson Valley vistas.

Lake Placid

TripSavvy / Tanya Nikolic

Hold on tight as you carom down the curves of the bobsled run  at Whiteface Mountain that challenged Olympic athletes during the 1980 Winter Games. (Don't worry; there's a driver in front and a brakeman behind to ensure you don't fall out.)

In summer, you can access plenty more additional heart-thumping thrills, from hiking up to Adirondack peaks to zip lining over mountain and forest to whitewater paddling to participating in the 19th annual Ironman Lake Placid . Couples who prefer gentler pursuits can stroll the town, take a canoe out on the lake and visit the Olympic Museum .

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  The Mirror Lake Inn has been hosting lovebirds for generations. Its fine restaurant overlooks the lake and its spa elicits praise. If you can, stay in the Colonial House, where you get a private porch, lush furnishings and the biggest bathtub we've seen outside of a plumbing showroom.

Saugerties Lighthouse

It's been out of commission for many years, but the circa-1869 Saugerties Lighthouse continues to beckon couples in search of an unusual place to stay in New York State.

On the National Register of Historic Places, the lighthouse is both a museum and an unfussy inn. Two small bedrooms and the lighthouse tower that's above them provide bird’s-eye views of the Hudson River. You may just spot bald eagles as you celebrate the sunset from on high.

The town of Saugerties itself has a few stores and restaurants. For livelier fun, head 10 miles west to Woodstock , where there's more to see, do, and hear in the summer time.

Thousand Islands

Way north in New York State, in the Thousand Islands (actually they number closer to 1,800), there's a particular island of interest to couples: Heart Island, home to Boldt Castle . An American Taj Mahal and equally tragic, the 6-story, 129-room Castle was built by a man in tribute to his wife more than a century ago. After she died suddenly, he never returned to admire the edifice. May through mid-October, Boldt Castle can be reached by water taxi, private boat or tour boat on a day trip.

Best Place for Couples to Stay:  The  Thousand Islands has always been a family-friendly vacation value, so don't expect white-glove service. But you can camp, stay in a waterfront cottage, find cheap and affordable hotels and motels or opt for an AirBnB rental.

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in New York

Last Updated By VI on April 19, 2024 in Things to Do in New York State & Places to Visit

Saratoga Springs, New York

Lake placid, new york, lake george, thousand islands, new york.

• Complete List & Map

The state park also includes golf courses, a large swimming pool, trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, ice rinks, picnic areas, and the well-known Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Visit from July to September and take in a horse race at the country’s oldest thoroughbred track - the Saratoga Race Course. The downtown features restaurants and local shops to explore after a day soaking in the baths or cheering on your favorite horse.

Home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, you can take in some Olympic history at the Olympic Museum and visit the Olympic Sports Complex. Summer activities include kayaking or canoeing at Mirror Lake, going on a boat tour of Lake Placid, and rafting or tubing along a local river. Shopping options include a wide range of local and boutique shops where visitors can shop for the perfect gift or souvenir from their time in Lake Placid.

The town’s many relaxing spas can help you relax and unwind after a long day enjoying the lake. Should the weather not be ideal for enjoying the outdoors, Lake George is also home to several performing arts and live music venues as well as interesting museums.

Outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and diving are readily available. The area boasts scores of hotels, campgrounds, and golf courses while boat tours are one of the most popular ways to take in the islands. Visitors who take the tours will be afforded the chance to visit many islands as well as hear the rich history of the area. Keep reading for more great places to see in New York.

Art galleries and museums such as the Albright-Knox Gallery, the Buffalo Museum of Science, and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park provide visitors with a range of cultural and educational opportunities. Families will have plenty to do at Buffalo Zoo, the botanical gardens, and the city’s many parks. Buffalo is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, whether it be fishing at Unity Island or taking in the lovely panoramic views and beautiful sand beach at Woodlawn Beach State Park.

Finger Lakes

Many tourists come to the area for the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, boating, fishing, and much more in the area’s state parks and other outdoor areas.

The USS Slater is a historic WWII-era ship that offers hour-long guided tours for tourists interested in military history. Outdoor activities nearby include hiking scenic trails at John Boyd Thacher State Park and fishing at the Washington Park Lake.

Ithaca boasts several museums, including the family-friendly Sciencenter children’s museum, which offers a hands-on learning environment for kids. State parks such as Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls offer visitors an opportunity to explore the outdoors, take a hike, or go for a swim. Interestingly, the Namgyal Monastery in Ithaca is the North American seat of the Dalai Lama.

The city’s many green spaces include golf courses, waterfalls, an arboretum, and hiking trails. The Memorial Art Gallery displays stunning art exhibits from medieval times to the 20th century. The Seneca Park Zoo is a popular family destination and includes an African Safari. Spend a day at the Seabreeze Amusement Park for more fun for the entire family.

Good to know: Best Time to Visit New York

Niagara Falls

Technically, Horseshoe Falls lie mostly in Canada while the smaller Bridal Veil Falls and the American Falls lie entirely in the United States. Visitors to the falls can take part in the Maid of the Mist boat ride, which takes passengers to the area of the rapids just below the falls. Visitors can also use walkways along Prospect Point Park to view the falls. Every night, the falls are illuminated, which makes for an impressive display.

For outdoor fun in Syracuse , you can go ice skating at Clinton Square or relax at one of the city parks such as Thornden and Elmwood Parks. Both Onondaga Lake Park and Hiawatha Lake offer opportunities to enjoy activities on and near the water while the nearby Clark Reservation State Park features impressive cliffs, a beautiful lake, and guided nature walks.

New York City

There are enough cultural events to keep any visitor busy, including iconic Broadway Shows. Of course, no trip to the Big Apple would be complete without a visit to the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty. With fantastic food, events, attractions, and more, visitors had best plan to stay awhile.

Narrowsburg

Narrowsburg is a charming little town on the Delaware River in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, surrounded by forests, lakes, streams, and rolling hills. Once a bustling logging town, Narrowsburg today attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds: Canoers, kayakers, and rafters who come to float down the clear waters of the Delaware River, and hikers who hit the trails as soon as the weather permits. Anglers come for trout, walleye, and smallmouth bass and hunters chase whitetail deer, turkey, and black bear. The Great Outdoors is not the only reason to visit Narrowsburg. The town is well-known for its rich cultural and art activities. It is the home of the Delaware Valley Opera, the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance, the Tusten Theatre, and the Tusten-Cochecton Library. The best time to come for a visit is in the summer, during one of town’s street festivals such as art fair Riverfest and the Honey Bee Fest, popular with families. More ideas: Beaches Near NYC

Cooperstown

Fun for the whole family awaits at the Cooperstown Fun Park, which features laser-tag, go-carts, bumper boats, mini golf, and a full arcade. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit to take in beautiful foliage as well as visit the Fly Creek Cider Mill, which makes old-fashioned apple cider and a variety of sweet treats.

Cold Spring

The downtown area features boutique and local shops that sell antiques, clothing, and more. Coffee houses and restaurants supply a wide range of refreshments and many feature outdoor dining and live entertainment. The park along the river’s edge is a popular place for visitors to unwind after a long week’s work.

Long Island, New York

A popular escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Long Island offers a quieter, more laidback way of life and plenty of things to see for tourists. Popular summer resorts line the shores, along with windswept dunes and old whaling and fishing ports. There are many parks, family farms, museums, and beaches, making Long Island a popular destination for families. More weekend getaways from NYC .

The Adirondacks

Hiking, canoeing, and camping are some of the most popular activities in The Adirondacks and many of lakes are good for fishing and boating as well. However, if you visit during the colder months, the several ski resorts and Nordic ski trails provide plenty of winter fun.

Mohonk Preserve, NY

3197 US-44, Gardiner, NY 12525, Phone: 845-255-0919

Onondaga Lake Park

Onondaga Lake Park , 126 Lake Drive, Liverpool, NY 13088, Phone: 315-451-7275

Ellis Island

Statue of Liberty National Monument, New York, NY 10004, Phone: 212-363-3200

Panama Rocks Scenic Park, New York

11 Rock Hill Road, Panama, NY 14767, Phone: 716-782-2845

Taughannock Falls State Park

1740 Taughannock Blvd., Trumansburg, NY 14886, Phone: 607-387-6739

The City of Niagara Falls

The Seneca Nation runs the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, which features 99 gaming tables and 4,200 slot machines as well as the biggest hotel in New York State outside Manhattan.

Poughkeepsie, New York

The many historical places near Poughkeepsie include Locust Grove, which is the estate and home of Samuel Morse, and the Bardavon Opera House. The opera house still hosts performances in this interesting, 1869 building. The city has many green spaces as well as the popular Walkway over the Hudson, which is the longest footbridge in the world and crosses the Hudson River from Poughkeepsie to the town of Highland on the other bank.

105 Enfield Falls Road, Ithaca, NY 14850, Phone: 607-273-3440

• 1. Saratoga Springs, New York
• 2. Lake Placid, New York
• 3. Lake George
• 4. Thousand Islands, New York
• 6. Finger Lakes
• 9. Rochester
• 10. Montauk
• 11. Niagara Falls
• 12. Syracuse
• 13. New York City
• 14. Narrowsburg
• 15. Cooperstown
• 16. Cold Spring
• 17. Long Island, New York
• 18. The Adirondacks
• 19. Mohonk Preserve, NY
• 20. Onondaga Lake Park
• 21. Ellis Island
• 22. Panama Rocks Scenic Park, New York
• 23. Taughannock Falls State Park
• 24. The City of Niagara Falls
• 25. Poughkeepsie, New York

New York City is bustling with entertainment, food, art, and energy. However, there is so much more to the state of New York than just the world-famous city that bears its name, including amusement parks , caves , beaches , castles , RV parks, lakes , golf , drive-in theaters , breweries , and mountains .

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Upstate New York

42 unique things to do in upstate new york + hidden gems.

Ahh, Upstate New York. One of America’s most hidden gems. Most people, when they think of New York, they immediately assume New York City. But did you know that NYC is less than 1% of the landmass of New York State? There are endless things to do in Upstate New York, too! From cute small towns to breathtaking waterfalls to fun young cities. Here are our favorite Upstate New York hidden gems!

Fun Fact: The dictionary defines “Upstate” as whatever is north of you. Since most of New York State’s population lives in the NYC region, we’ll define Upstate New York relative to NYC. AKA: Everything north of NYC. From the Adirondacks to Buffalo to the Catskills. Don’t fight us on this one. In addition to the dictionary, even Wikipedia agrees with this definition !

Favorite Things to Do in Upstate New York

Did you know that the entire country of Iceland could fit in New York State ? Our state is so big that we had to divide this list by region. So if you’re looking for a specific NY area, keep scrolling!

Did we miss anything interesting? Do you have a small local business you’d like us to check out? Drop us a comment below!

Catskills , NY

Book a horseback riding tour .

Combine a leg workout with exploring the Catskill’s beautiful nature on horseback! After all, New York State is horse country! So take advantage of the unique horseback riding culture just a few hours north of NYC. Here are some excellent places to go horseback riding in NYC:

• Tiffani’s Ranch : You can easily book this guided tour and either go on a private tour or join a larger group. Pictured above.
• Mountain Brook Farm
• Rough Rider’s Ranch

Hiking & Farm Experience with Llamas/Alpacas

If you love a hands-on experience with animals, this is the perfect activity! Llamas and alpacas are soft and cuddly creatures with an exciting history. From homestead owner and educator Andrea , you can learn all about camelids (the biological family containing alpaca and llama members) while getting up close and personal.

Walk through magnificent pastures and fields, strolling alongside llamas and alpacas with a large or private group. Don’t forget to take a llama selfie with the countryside backdrop!

Farm Animal Cuddles

There are a ton of farm animal sanctuaries and small farms in Upstate New York. I would recommend avoiding sanctuaries that house wild and exotic animals without researching beforehand; look into how they procured the animals, the history of the establishment, whether they breed these animals, etc.

On the other hand, farm animal sanctuaries are generally small farms that have saved or purchased animals to keep them away from slaughterhouses or similar fates. These farms may breed and raise animals themselves, but their goal is to keep these creatures happy and safe. Animals housed here are generally comfortable interacting with humans, especially children, individuals with autism, or people who suffer from anxiety. Cuddling up with a pig or goat can really brighten your day–except when a goat is in a mood and turns mean!

Cool Off in a Swimming Hole

Lakes scattered across the Catskill Mountains are perfect places to rent a cabin for the weekend. There are tons of swimming holes and hikes in the region, perfect for cooling off in on a hot summer day. With swimming holes growing in popularity, keep in mind that they may get crowded. Peekamoose Blue Hole is the most well-known, making it one of the most sought-after spots for many travelers.

You can visit a few lesser-known swimming holes if you want to avoid crowds. Diamond Notch Falls lies at the end of several different hiking trails. Kaaterskill Falls is another great swimming spot requiring a steep hike, with a swimming hole below the waterfall; avoid this spot on the weekends to miss the crowds.

Otter Falls is another great swimming hole located at the basin of 30-foot cascading falls. In the wet months, the pool is 6 to 8 feet deep. The dry months leave a shallow pool that is still perfect for cooling off in after a hike.

Visit the Town of Woodstock

It may surprise you to know that Woodstock, NY was not the site of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival. This famous spectacle actually occurred in Bethel, NY, 60 miles southwest. If you’re looking to attend a show on these infamous grounds, performances at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts are still running strong!

Aside from this misconception, Woodstock is still an amazing town worth visiting. The local shops, eateries, and cafes exude the same ideology and allure behind the draw of the Woodstock Music Festival. There are amazing boutiques on Main Street where you can support local artisans and artists of the Catskills.

Tour Option: There is a Woodstock Rock n’ Roll Tour if you’re into music history!

Rail Explorers Railroad Tours

See the natural sights of Phoenicia, NY, with this unique railroad tour! Rail Explorers set you up on the tracks with an electric pedal-powered rail bike. Tours are offered at all hours (day or night), but I recommend a daytime tour to catch the views–unless it’s Halloween!

This experience is accessible to all and requires light exercise, which is perfect for doing with friends or family. While you may not get tired, paying attention on the tracks so as not to bump into the person in front or back of you is important.

I recommend booking the Golden Hour tour in the fall. Before your ride, hit the iconic Phoenicia Diner in town. Staying overnight? Hotel Mountain Brook in Kingston is a cute and cozy place to stay.

Go Hiking in the Catskills

• Catskill Hiking and Photography Experience: This half-day hike is a fun experience if you want photographic memories of your time in the Catskills. The Catskill Hiking and Pro Photography Experience provides you with an expert hiking guide and adventure photographer to show you the best scenic views and hidden secrets of the mountains. Hikes can be adjusted based on your skill level and expertise. Throughout the trip, your guide will snap Instagram-worthy photos to be emailed after the hike.
• Minnewaska State Park: Full of trails for hikers of all levels. Here, you’ll find waterfalls, lakes, and much more. This is one of our favorite places to go hiking in the Catskills.
• Giant Ledge : Giant Ledge is a moderate out-and-back hike that boasts the best views of all hikes in the mountain range! Adjacent to the trail are fire ledges with views that will leave you speechless. For hiking enthusiasts, this is a great spot to camp out for stargazing and wake up to a gorgeous sunrise.
• Ashokan Rail Trail (“ART”) : This hike opened in 2019 and is a shared recreational trail that lines the northern section of the Ashokan Reservoir in West Hurley. The surface of the trail is packed with crushed stone and fully accessible. Ashokan Rail Trail is an easy out-and-back hike for those looking for a leisurely stroll with great views.  

The Finger Lakes, NY

If you couldn’t tell by now, we LOVE the Finger Lakes region. This region has so many cute places to stay and even more things to keep you busy.

Explore Harriet Tubman’s Home

Step into the prior home of Harriet Tubman in Auburn, New York. This residence is where she spent the latter part of her life, and it’s now a United States National Park . Tours of the home are offered twice a day, and you must reserve a spot in advance. Harriet Tubman was one of American history’s most inspirational abolitionists, political activists, and female military leaders. Learning about her in her former home is quite the experience.

As of March 2022, tours inside the property were prohibited, and only outdoor tours were available. Call to check before making your tour reservation to confirm.

Join a Finger Lakes Wine Tasting Tour

The Finger Lakes tasting is fantastic, with three popular trails to choose from: Cayuga Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Keuka Wine Trail. There are over a hundred wineries across the region between these three trails, with endless samples of local creations. You can visit each location on your own (with a safe ride, of course, or by booking private transportation) or book a Finger Lakes wine tour.

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is one of our favorite wineries in the Finger Lakes, especially if you love sipping Rieslings. Rieslings rule the Finger Lakes region, so if you are a white wine drinker, this is where you want to be.

Go Kayaking or Boating on a Finger Lake

The Finger Lakes is a kayaking paradise. You can kayak and boat most everywhere, with the most popular spots being Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, and Canandaigua Lake. Boating is so popular in the region that most vacation homes will actually store kayaks for their guests to use on their trips. If that’s not the case, you can easily rent one at several local agencies .  

If you own your kayak, you just have to get it out on the water! Ten launch sites are available across several lakes for visitors to use. For a full boat launch list , check with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation for details.

You can also book a boat tour with local operators who can often combine boat tours with winery visits and other fun activities. Ending your kayak or boat trip with a bottle of local Finger Lakes wine is the cherry on top of a fantastic day.

Dine at FLX Table in Geneva

New York City is not the only stellar food scene in the state. Foodies love the Finger Lakes for it’s amazing dining opportunities and unique cuisine. F.L.X. Table in Geneva is a small eatery with only 14 seats offering a 4-course, pre-set meal for dinner from Thursday to Monday. You get to share the space with the chefs crafting your meal in an intimate and charming atmosphere that connects everyone in the room. It feels like a personal dinner party!

I love that the prix fixe menu constantly changes, bringing fresh meal options to fit the season. Past favorites include dishes like Chicken Royal served with quinoa and burgundy truffle. Reservations can be tough at F.L.X., but there are other options to taste this cuisine through F.L.X. Bird for delicious fried chicken.

Horseback Riding Tours in Burdett

We love Watkins Glen State Park ­–its natural beauty is unparallel to any park you’ll find in most of the state.  Horseback riding allows you to explore the park from a unique vantage point, with tours available through Painted Bar Stables . Stroll by on horseback some of the best waterfalls in New York State! It won’t take long to see why this region is known for its natural wonders and great wine.

Horseback riding may be intimidating for some, but not to worry. Guided tours include expert riders who will help you along on your journey. Listen up because they’ll also share some pretty cool facts about the Finger Lakes area.

Hike to Amazing Finger Lakes Waterfalls

Hiking in the Finger Lakes is epic, with so many state parks, outdoor areas, and a national forest to explore.  To find hiking options near you, check with the closest state park to where you’re staying for assistance. Hikes across this region will range in difficulty, so you want to ensure you find one to suit your ability.

Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of our favorites, with stunning waterfalls and gorges. We also recommend checking out Finger Lakes National Forest . This gem has 30 miles of trails scattered through lush woods and serene pastures that sometimes have cattle grazing depending on the season.

Shop at the Ithaca Farmers Market

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Cayuga is the friendly young college town of Ithaca. We love this area, especially the Ithaca Farmers Market , which has been operating since 1973! You can peruse more than 130 vendors at the market selling produce and handmade goodies. If you’re looking to hike or horseback ride in the Finger Lakes, this is a great place to stop and grab some snacks for your trip. This is one of my favorite towns in the Finger Lakes !

During the summer months, the market is spread across a park on the Cayuga Lake waterfront with spectacular views to pair with your local finds. The market is set up in the winter months at the Triphammer Marketplace to allow growers a full year to sell. Check the website for changes.

Explore Corning’s Museum of Glass

Corning may be a small city, but it has one of the world’s largest spaces dedicated to the art of contemporary glass making and design! The more museums I’ve visited in my travels, the more they feel the same–a little dark, full of paintings in ornate frames, room after room of an older grand old building once some famous or rich’s person’s home.  But the Museum of Glass in Corning truly blew me away.

This attraction allows you to get up close to the glass-blowing process, watching artists create before your eyes. You can even learn to make glass yourself by signing up for a short class ! Everyone in your group will enjoy the interactive galleries and exhibits teaching you about the history of glassmaking and the secrets behind this stunning art technique.

Ride on a Hot Air Balloon Over Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park has some of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the entire country­–there’s a reason it’s nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the East!” One of the most amazing ways to experience the full beauty of this park is on a hot air balloon ride, soaring above the breathtaking views. Don’t like heights? You can hike and walk instead!

THE Adirondacks REGION

We ADORE the Adirondack Park. Between all the cute towns in the Adirondacks to visit year-round and the host of hidden gems in Upstate New York, you’ll quickly fall in love with this region too.

Lake Gorge Ice Castles and Caves

The Ice Castles and Caves in Lake George are an award-winning attraction every ice and snow lover has to experience. Kids and adults alike love to explore the ice mazes, slides, tunnels, fountains, and more. As the season continues, more is added to the Ice Castles, so you’re never visiting the same place twice.

It’s going to be cold in this frozen world, so dress warmly. You can purchase tickets online for the Ice Castles from the end of January to the end of February. The attraction could extend beyond these months if the weather permits.

Hike the Mountains of the Adirondacks

• Indian Head Hike : You can still catch killer views of the Adirondacks without scaling the high peaks. Indian Head has a rocky overlook with stellar views of the Lower Ausable Lake without putting too much effort into getting there. It’s not an easy breezy hike, but it’s certainly not the most difficult around.
• Cobble Lookout : If you want more of a walk than a hike, the trail to Cobble Head is only 2 ½ miles and great for leisurely stroll. It only takes about an hour, and you’re still rewarded with picturesque views.
• Whiteface Mountain : For hiking enthusiasts looking for a challenge, Whiteface Mountain is a popular area to challenge your skill. Hiking on Whiteface is open all year round, rain or shine, ice or snow. Make sure you’re prepared for this hike and start early to get the most out of your day.

Tour the Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is an exciting canyon in the Adirondacks with a ton of activities to keep you busy. You must pay a fee to enter; even the hiking trails cost a fee, but they’re worth it. Paying for a tour will get you a package of tube rides, a guided tour of the canyon and caves, and more.

We recommend taking the day to explore the Ausable Chasm. It’s the perfect attraction for New Yorkers who want to experience the natural beauty in their own backyard.

Snowshoeing in the Adirondacks

The Adirondacks are one of the best places for an Upstate New York winter getaway if you love to ski. If you’re staying in or near Lake Placid, you have to check out Cascade X-C Ski Center. This place has everything you need, from rentals to apparel to equipment, and 12+ miles of trails! They also have a restaurant and lodging accommodations at the bunkhouse.

Renting an iconic cabin in the mountains is a dream, but it’s not always affordable. Staying at the bunkhouse is a great way to pay discounted rates at the ski center while getting that traditional Upstate New York lodging experience.

Winter Wonderland Lodging Experience

Some of our favorite cute cabin and lodge rentals in Upstate New York are right in the Adirondacks. They range from grand to cozy, but all give you that Great Camp vibe.

• Whiteface Lodge : Staying at the Whiteface Lodge is experiencing Lake Placid at its finest. This luxury hotel and spa are in the heart of the mountains. It’s surrounded by hiking trails to keep you busy all day, allowing you to end with a massage or a 3-course meal. (Nightcaps are available too!)
• Other favorite amenities include a two-lane bowling alley and a small movie theatre. This is a wonderful accommodation for those who want to relax for a few days, with tons of onsite entertainment available.
• Lake Placid Lodge : For a luxury experience that is on the quieter side, try booking a room at the Lake Placid Lodge . There is a gorgeous outdoor space here extending right up to the shores of Lake Placid.
• Mirror Lake: If you love Mirror Lake as much as we do, you must try staying a night or two at Mirror Lake Inn. Their restaurant + bar is hands down one of our favorite places to eat in Lake Placid!

Swimming/Kayaking in the Adirondack Lakes (Like Lake George)

Visiting Lake George is the perfect long weekend getaway from New York City and the ultimate Upstate New York experience. Try renting a cabin by the beach for the ultimate lake vacation in the summer. There are a ton of boat tours in the area and places to rent kayaks and water skis, with lessons available to book.

When it gets hot, try grabbing a cool treat from Lake George Ice Cream in town. This is especially perfect for those spending the day at Million Dollar Beach. If you’re looking for a hiking trail to pass the time, Lake George is the gateway to the Adirondacks and has plenty.

Bonus : In the winter, Lake George offers several outdoor opportunities as well. And even hosts a Winter Festival , which includes an ice castle.

The Hudson Valley

Grab a drink at the cider house.

In the fall, the Hudson Valley turns into apple country. And every apple has the capability to turn into a tart, crisp, delicious cider. While not everyone has tried apple cider, this was certainly a popular drink back in the day. Hudson Valley cider mills are bringing back the hype around cider, and there are dozens of places you can go to sample the goods.

Kettleborough Cider House is one of our favorites and has a spectacular view of Shawangunk Ridge. Twin Star Orchards is another premier spot, often providing live music and food to buy. Some cider houses also double as an orchard or farms where you can pick apples!

Take a Private Helicopter Tour in the Hudson Valley

The fall foliage in the Hudson Valley is breathtaking, especially from a bird’s eye view. You can book a Private Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour of the Hudson Valley that will take you high above the tree tops to soak in all the natural fall colors. This trip leaves right from Manhattan and takes about 30 minutes total, perfect for a quick trip out of New York City.

Persue Art at Dia Beacon Museum

Love contemporary art? Dia Beacon is a hub for contemporary artists set on the shore of the Hudson River.  The museum itself is in an old Nabisco box-printing favorite, with ethereal nature lighting you must see to believe. Art displays range from the 1960s to the present day and feature a number of rotating exhibits.

If you want to ditch your car (or don’t have one), you can take the Metro-North Hudson Line train from Grand Central Station all the way to Beacon. The museum is within walking distance from there and close to tons of cafés, shops, and restaurants on Main Street. Our favorite places here are All You Knead Artisan Bakers and Reserva Wine Bar .

Visit Hudson Valley Wineries

There’s another way to explore the natural beauties of the Hudson Valley without having to hike around­–visiting wineries. Wineries in the Hudson Valley are sprawled across acres of stunning fields, with mountain backgrounds, sometimes with views of lakes and rivers Not to mention, wineries in this area of the state know how to craft a delicious glass of wine!

Robibero Winery near New Paltz has stunning views of the Shawangunk Mountain range–the drive here from New York City is simply gorgeous. Robibero was voted one of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley for handcrafted batches. Other popular spots include Benmarl Winery in the rolling hill of Marlboro with views of the Hudson River and Magnanini Winery, Restaurant & Distillery in Walkill.

Hike Through the Hudson Valley

• Anthony’s Nose : This is a perfect route if you want an easy out-and-back hike you can complete in under 4 hours. Anthony’s Nose boasts fantastic views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain, and Bear Mountain Bridge. You can take one of two paths up the mountain; my favorite part is the way back!
• Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze : Set on the Mohonk Preserve, this unique hike and rock scramble is challenging. You have to put in a lot of effort to get the reward of the view, but it’s worth every second. The viewpoint overlooks Shawangunk Ridge and its beautiful surroundings.
• Mount Beacon : Mount Beacon checks all the boxes for me when it comes to a perfect hike. This is not an easy breezy hike by any means, but it’s not a grueling struggle either. The views from the top are breathtaking, and it only takes a half day to finish, so you can enjoy some food in downtown Beacon when you’re done.
• Taconic Mountain : Hiking the Taconic Mountains is challenging, but the reward is worth the effort. This trail is nestled in Dutchess County, where New York meets Connecticut and Massachusetts. When you get to the top, you can see views of the Berkshires, Catskills, and the Hudson River. The trail is rugged and steep. Spikes are recommended if you have them, and bring lots of water.  

Visit NY’s Original Capital: Kingston

You heard right; Kingston used to be New York State’s original capital! It’s a small town along the river, full of charming brick buildings full of shops, and eateries. There is history around every corner, and it’s the perfect town for a weekend getaway from NYC.

Visit the bookstore at Four Corner, the only intersection in the country where all four buildings dating back to the Revolutionary War era. You can visit the farmers’ markets around town or take a boat tour along the Hudson River. Kingston is the perfect distance from the Catskills and the Hudson Valley.

The Stockade District of Kingston has a ton of beautiful buildings and historic features that can serve as a backdrop to a photo shoot. Book an Uptown Kingston photographer for a personal or group photoshoot while you walk and explore.

See Outdoor Sculptures at Storm King Arts Center

Exploring the open-air museum at Storm King Arts Center is out of this world. It beats an old stuffy, dark museum by far and offers visitors access to the country’s largest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures!

Take your time here wandering around the grounds and really taking in works of art like Suspended or the Three-Legged Buddha . These sculptures are so large you’re barely going to notice any of the other visitors while you are transfixed on all the beautiful pieces.  

The Capital Area

Soul fire farm.

Like most other institutional systems in our country, the food system is often a deeply racist mechanism. Committed to uprooting racism and seeding over sovereignty, Soul Fire Farm is an Afro-Indigenous-centered community that goes deeper than simply planting food.

Soul Fire Farm provides amazing training programs for Black and Brown farmers and growers. They also offer workshops for urban youth and more. You can get involved with their mission in so many ways, even if you’re just visiting. Take a tour, volunteer at the farm, or attend a half-day public speaking event to show your support.

Visit Troy, NY

Troy, NY is just north of Albany and is home to the famous Uncle Sam! Once a manufacturing city, Troy has transformed into a cultural and economic hub with an exciting waterfront full of attractions and restaurants. It’s also known as Collar City for supporting twenty-six shirt manufacturing facilities back in 1901!

Check out the Burden Iron Works Museum , which formerly housed the Burden Water Wheel–the most powerful vertical water wheel in history. If you’re hungry, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a nationally acclaimed restaurant with award-winning sauces and dishes. Then, take a stroll from the Oakwood Cemetery , with 29 miles of roads and thousands of historic graves surrounding 4 manmade lakes.

Relax in Saratoga Springs at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa

It’s safe to say that the last couple of years has been stressful for us all. There is no better time than now to hit the spa to relax your tired muscles. One of the coolest places to visit in Upstate New York to do this is Saratoga Springs Spa Resort . This gem has run for 85 years and uses the natural underground spring waters for a number of treatments.  

Get a facial, mineral bath, or massage at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa almost every day except on major holidays. A visit here is an affordable method of muscle relaxation that will allow you to get your body back on track.

Tour Albany: The New York State Capital!

While it’s always been important to stay involved in government policies on all levels, it’s become even more crucial in the past few years. Life-altering legislation is being fought out at the state level that could significantly affect how we live our lives. So, in return, let’s get to know New York State government a little better!

You can tour the New York State Capital building in Albany and learn all about its history and the government officials who created our state’s legislation. This has to be one of the coolest things to do in New York’s capital city­, not to mention meaningful.

Learn About the Underground Railroad Education Center

In New York State, two of the most well-known and influential Black abolitionists were Harriet and Stephen Myers. These two were central figures of the Underground Railroad in the state, and their residence is now home to the Underground Railroad Education Center . Take a tour of the home or attend events to learn all about the role everyday citizens played in ensuring a more democratic future for everyone equally.

Born a slave, Stephen Myers became a leading anti-slavery activist in the northeast region after slavery was abolished in 1827. Together, Harriet and Stephen Myers helped people escape slavery for decades out of their homes and worked on a newspaper that espoused abolitionist ideas.  

Central New York Region

Hiking in chittenango falls state park.

Central New York has just as many opportunities to splash in the water as the Finger Lakes and Great Lakes regions.  Just southeast of Syracuse, visitors can stop at Chittenango Falls State Park, where they can have a picnic lunch, take a stroll, or hike to a dazzling waterfall.

We love this small park because it’s easy to walk around and access the waterfalls. It doesn’t take a lot of time or preparation to visit Chittenango Falls State Park, and they’re even a little footbridge for a casual stop.

Shop Around at Syracuse Antiques Exchange

If you love antiques, you have to spend some time at Syracuse Antiques Exchange , featuring four floors full of treasures. This is the largest and longest-running antique store in the state, outside of New York City. You’ll find a huge collection of Victorian and Midcentury furniture, unique lighting fixtures, and tons more to explore.  

Antique shopping may be a fun hobby, but it can quickly become costly if you’re not careful. Syracuse Antiques Exchange offers is a great place to buy your first antique, with various price ranges that would set you too far back.

Spend the Day at Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park is one of our favorite places for cabin rentals in Upstate New York. There are two lakes in the park, campgrounds with cabins for rent, and a fantastic golf course. The property is covered in towering woods and has miles of hiking trails for summer hikes or snowshoeing adventures in the winter.  

If you’re in the Syracuse area, Green Lakes State Park is super close. Visiting here for the day is a perfect break from the hustle of busy city life and a way to reconnect with yourself in nature. You’ll be relaxed and focused when returning to one of the best cities in Upstate New York.

Check Out Breweries in Syracuse

Craft beer brewing has burst in popularity over the past few years, especially in bustling cities like Syracuse. There are more breweries in the city than you’ll be able to visit in one trip. But at least you can hit a few in between other activities in the area.

Buried Acorn Brewing Company is a popular spot for sour beer and ale lovers. It features some of the best sour brews in the city, and it’s not far from Onondaga Lake. If you’re in the rural part of the Syracuse suburbs, you’ll want to hit Heritage Hill Brewhouse , boasting fantastic views of the downtown area from inside and outside the taproom. Plus, this place has killer food!

Go Mining for Herkimer Diamonds

While Herkimer diamonds are technically real diamonds (they’re quartz crystals), these beautiful treasures are really fun to find! You get to keep everything you find when mining at the Herkimer Diamond Mines set right in Herkimer, NY.

Herkimer Diamonds are stunning, and even more so when you turn them into jewelry at the Artisan Center. Don’t worry if you forget your mining hammer! The admission price will cover the cost of borrowing one from the mines.

Chimney Bluffs Hike along Lake Ontario

Commonly known as ‘The Bluffs’ in communities across Central New York, Chimney Bluffs State Park is a picturesque scene on the shores of Lake Ontario with dramatic spikey “bluffs” along the waterfront. Visiting this park on a summer day was one of our favorite things to do in Oswego when we were students there! The bluffs are so dramatic and look stunning on the shore.

There is a myriad of trails along The Bluffs you can walk along. It’s not uncommon to find students from SUNY Oswego or other local colleges soaking up a little bit of warmth on the sand before the cold hits Central New York.

WESTERN + Niagara Frontier NY Area

Touring chautauqua wineries.

More than 30,000 vineyards are spread across the Lake Erie Grape Belt set along a 50-mile wine trail known as Lake Erie Wine Country in Chautauqua County . These vineyards produce about 65% of the state’s entire grape harvest, shipping off to 35 countries! Wine tasting in this area is a treat; they host year-round events and tours to explore it all! Read more: Best Chautauqua Wineries !

Camp and Hike at Allegheny State Park

Allegheny State Park is an exceptional place for camping, hiking, boating, and all things outdoors just north of the Allegheny National Forest . The Quaker area in the park has two lakes, campgrounds, and a sandy beach for swimming and fishing. You can also launch canoes and kayaks from Friend’s Boat Launch. Read our guide to: Visiting Allegheny State Park !

See the Epic Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is more than just a big waterfall­–it’s a State Park, its own city, and an internationally-known attraction for visitors worldwide! Visiting Niagara Falls is one of the coolest things to do in Upstate New York, with more than enough in the surrounding area to keep you busy.

Daring visitors can take a boat tour under the falls. (Be prepared to get wet!) You can also walk on the rails around the shore, hit the casino, visit an amusement park, and so much more. Bring your passport just in case you want to peruse the Canadian side of the falls for a different experience.  

Hop Around the Museums in Buffalo

There are tons of museums in Buffalo just waiting for you to soak up all the history. Museum hopping is one of the best things to do in New York State. One of our favorites is the Buffalo Museum of Science , where your inner child will spring out immediately when hitting the dinosaur fossil exhibit. Next, you can head to the Buffalo History Museum , where you can explore the development of the Western New York frontier.

Art lovers should certainly not miss the Albright-Knox Art Gallery , featuring exhibits and collections of contemporary art reflecting present culture. For a rare museum, the Museum of disABILITY History is a unique attraction to educate the public on people with disabilities, their treatments, and their contributions to history. Need a few more? Try out the Buffalo Harbor Museum and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.

Taste Craft Beers at Buffalo Breweries

Micro-breweries in New York State are some of the best in the country, and the industry continues to grow. Buffalo is no exception when it comes to tasty breweries, especially in the last decade.  Some are so exclusive you can’t find them outside Western New York!

Big Ditch Brewing Company is a perfect place to relax with an IPA or ale and eat some snacks. The Thin Man Brewery offers a huge rotating tap list and includes a delicious IPA. Some of our other favorites include Community Beer Works and Resurgence Brewing Company , both worth the stop.  

Hungry? Buffalo has an extremely underrated foodie scene, perfect for exploring after some tasty beers. You’ll love tasting different dishes at the best restaurants in Buffalo, NY .

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• 35 Stunning Waterfalls in New York State
• 27 Fun Winter Getaways in Upstate New York
• 34 Best Restaurants in Upstate New York
• 18 Cute Western New York Towns
• 32 Enjoyable Things to Do in Rochester, New York
• 13 Lovely Resorts in the Catskills for Your Next New York Getaway

Michelle Peterson

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Ausable Chasm

Things to Do in New York

Discover the many wonders that make New York the country's most desirable vacation destination and enjoy some of the many fun and exciting things to do here.

Experience the endless treasures that New York State has to offer. Consider the thrill of parasailing hundreds of feet above scenic Lake George or horseback riding along a Long Island shoreline. Behold "The Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park , or explore the unique rock formations and winding waterways at Ausable Chasm . Feel the exhilaration of whitewater rafting in the Adirondacks , hike the natural landscape, peaceful forests, and mountain scenery of the Catskills , or tour one of our picturesque villages or palatial homes . Like good food and drink? Tour the state's wine or craft beverage trails or dine out in the Hudson Valley .  

Immerse yourself in New York State's many world-renowned museums and cultural institutions, and celebrate our proud history along the Path Through History . Pay tribute to the great achievements of our country's heroes by visiting one or all of our 15 Halls of Fame.

These are just some of the amazing activities from which to choose on your next New York State vacation!

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12 incredible places to visit in new york state with kids, perfect for a family getaway.

Our handpicked selection of the 12 of the best places to visit in New York State with kids for an unforgettable family vacation.

The first time we visited New York State with the kids, we focused our attention on New York City. 

New York City is one of the best cities in the world to visit with children and is exceptionally exciting.

However, all it takes is to set your glance past its glitzy skyscrapers to find a fantastic State with windswept beaches, soothing country landscapes and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Enjoying New York State with kids is easy.

This guide looks at twelve of the best places to visit in New York State with kids that we believe are perfect for a family vacation.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

New York City with kids

A list of the best places to visit in New York State with kids can only start with New York City, one of the most exciting cities for kids of any age.

Large, busy and culturally varied, New York City may not be to everyone’s taste.

Still, it is fantastic if you are looking for a family city break and have kids who love tapping into more activities and attractions you can pack into a lifetime.

It doesn’t matter if you are in New York City with toddlers, school-age kids or teenagers: NYC has something for everyone!

Depending on the season and age of your kids, you can choose between many options. 

Our kids adored Central Park and its vast green areas, ponds and games. 

They had fun seeing iconic views of Manhattan from the top of the Empire State Building and had a fantastic time walking the New York High Line. 

The Statue of Liberty and a trip on the boat for views over the city from the waters is perfect in spring and summer and, for when the days get chillier, you have endless options for museums, shopping and indoor attractions.

You will never really be done visiting New York City with kids, but we love how easy it is to get a feel for it even with a short amount of time there.

You can read here >>>  what you can see in NYC with kids in a day . 

As you can see, the city is perfect for a weekend family getaway as much as for a more extended stay!

Finger Lakes with kids

The Finger Lakes region may be one of the dreamiest parts of the Empire State.

The Finger Lakes region is famous for its excellent wines; however, there is much more to do here than sipping with a good glass of wine (nothing wrong with that!) and plenty of activities to keep the whole family happy.

If you and your kids enjoy the outdoors especially, the place is a dream.

The Finger Lakes area is home to some of the best state parks in New York State and boasts beautiful hiking trails and gorgeous lakes.

The region is pretty and has a soothing, family-friendly atmosphere that is perfect for kids.

You and the kids can spend the day hiking or biking in search of waterfalls, go fishing or boating at the clear lakes in the region, spend a night under the stars, or lay at one of the white-sand beaches surrounding the lakes.

Watkins Glen State Park boasts gorgeous waterfalls and gorges and is one of the most famous parks in New York and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Gorge Trail follows a gorge lined by multiple waterfalls, where you’ll get to weave through walls and caves, walk up hundreds of stone steps, and stumble across beautiful waterfalls cascading down!

Whatever activity you choose to go for, beautiful vistas all around are guaranteed!

For child-centered fun, you can also head to The Strong Museum of Play in Rochester (super interactive and perfect also for small kids) or the Corning Museum of Glass (great for older kids thanks to the mind-bending glass-making demonstrations).

Catskills with kids

I first heard of the Catskills Mountains on Netflix’ ‘Wonderful Ms. Maisel’, and it immediately piqued my attention.

With green lawns, beautiful lakes and cabins, the Catskills seemed perfect for kids, and the more I looked into it, the more I realized they are great for a family getaway in New York!

Located 137 miles north of New York City, the Catskills Mountains are a beautiful mountain range dotted with pretty waterfalls, lakes, rivers and great family-friendly amenities.

A few of the adventures on offer here include skiing, hiking, camping, and rafting.

In winter, you can come here skiing in one of the many resorts in the area, such as the family-friendly Belleayre Mountain resort.

You will also find restaurants aplenty as well as a varied array of hotels and accommodation options!

The Catskills have many family-friendly hikes, lakes and swimming areas for fantastic family outdoor fun and also find excellent farms that are wonderful for small kids especially.

Adventurous kids will love Howe Caverns , while kids who prefer theme and amusement parks will also have their fix at local parks and resorts.

Have a look at Kartrite Resort and Indoor Water Park and Jellystone Park™ at Birchwood Acres : here, you can do anything from renting boats to speed down water slides.

Another fantastic thing to do with kids in this area is a trip to see the largest kaleidoscope in the world! 

At 60 feet tall, the Kaatskills Kaleidoscope is making it a must on your New York bucket list. 

Located right next to the Emerson Resort & Spa, this gorgeous psychedelic-looking gem overlooks the quaint town of Mount Tremper. 

You can enter the kaleidoscope and immerse yourself in its moving colors and patterns: a magical experience!

Good to know! The drive on Route 23 to the Catskill Mountains is stunning and worth taking in its own right!

Taking you from Otsego County right into the heart of the alluring Catskill Mountains, this road trip will have you pass through historic towns, quirky mansions, stunning waterfalls, crystal clear reservoirs, and enchanting mountain views.

It also has plenty of pit stop options for you and the kids.

So when you need a well-deserved break, you can stop and explore the many hiking trails in the area, such as Kaaterskill Falls Trail, the Devil’s Path Trail, and more!

Hudson Valley with kids

Another lovely area to visit in new York State with kids is Hudson Valley, which you can visit on its own or with the nearby Catskills.

In this area, you find lovely family friendly attractions ranging from nature trails to theme parks such as Legoland New York Resort .

If you love being out in nature, Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve has opportunities to go hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Boscobel House and Gardens is a lovely family friendly attractions in the area. This estate has lovely gardens, a woodland trail, and lovely river views and family tours and kids activities on selected dates.

Places your kids may enjoy in Hudson Valley are also the Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston, Fireman’s Firefighting Museum in Hudson and Greenburgh Nature Center which include a Native American Replica Village.

Bannermam Castle, Country Treetop Adventure, and kids’ attractions such mini golf and bowling in Poughkeepsie are also family favorites in the area.

Niagara Falls, New York, with kids

Niagara Falls are among the most exciting places you can visit in New Your state with kids.

The first time we saw the falls, we were on the Canadian side of the border; however, you do not need to cross into Canada to marvel at the roar of these world-famous waterfalls!

Enjoying Niagara Falls, New York State, with kids is easy.

The area is well equipped with viewpoints and observation decks and nothing beats the excitement of catching the Maid of the Mist and seeing the waterfalls from the water!

If your kids want to get even closer to the water and have a real thrill, you should also treat them to a visit to the Cave of the Winds , which leads you below the Bridal Vail Fall!

After you are done seeing the falls for the day, you can keep exploring the many child-friendly attractions of the area.

Some family-friendly attractions in the area are the Aquarium, Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and Schoellkopf Power Station, one of the United States’ first hydroelectric power plants.

Power Vista is also fantastic for families thanks to the fun and educational exhibits.

You can also go hiking on the many family-friendly Niagara Gorge trails.

Long Island with kids

Long Island New York is packed with family friendly activities and it is one of the best destinations for families with kids in New York State.

There are so many things to do in Long Island with kids, you will be spoilt for choice.

If you come to Long Island hoping for windswept stunning beaches, you will be happy to know that many are family friendly.

The Hamptons of course come to mind, but Long Beach and more remote ocean beach Fire Island are also fantastic with children.

Together with the nature preserves on the island, these beaches make Long Island a great place for family outdoors fun with the kids.

For child centered fun, Long Island offers a cool Aquarium, petting farms and tons of amusement parks such as Adventureland, Splish Splash in Calverton and Long Island Adventure Park, which has ziplining, rope bridges and hiking trails for the whole family.

If you are in the area in spring, you should also seek out flower fields: one of the best lavender farms in the world to see with kids is here!

Mohonk Preserve

Seventy-two miles away from New York City, Mohonk Preserve in the Shawangunk Ridge is New York State’s largest nature preserve and a fantastic place if you love hiking, biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.

This fantastic preserve protects and manages mountain ridges, forests, fields, streams, ponds, and other unique environments perfect for surrounding yourself with nature. 

During the winter months, Mohonk Preserve becomes a favorite for winter sports, with cross-country skiing being the star of the show with more than 40 miles of trails on offer!

A favorite for families is Mohonk House, a resort with a plethora of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages: toddlers to teens here can

The Adirondacks with kids

Adirondak park is an area of outstanding natural beauty blessed with forests, rivers, orchards and hamlets under the stunning backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains.

The park is fantastic for a family getaway in New York State with kids and offers a myriad of adventure possibilities for nature lovers all year round.

During your visit, you’ll get the opportunity to indulge in various outdoor activities, including fat-tire biking, hiking, boating, and, during the winter months, sports like snowshoeing and skiing.

The area also have lovely towns perfect for lodging and relaxing with local food.

A family friendly place not to be missed here is Lake Placid.

A small town with extensive views and significant history, it is a perfect home base for hiking and also offers plenty of locally-owned restaurants and boutique shops selling handmade goodies. Fantastic to browse with kids! 

Kids will also have fun at the Wild Center, the Adirondack Experience, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom amusement park

 If you are visiting in winter, you will also be able to treat your kids to days snowshoeing on the Natural Stone Bridge & Caves trails!

Cold Spring, NY

Perched on the banks of the Hudson River, Cold Spring is one of the best-preserved 19th-century towns in the Hudson Valley area and a delightful place for a weekend with the kids. 

Cold Spring is set just 50 miles north of Manhattan and is a charming town with a river lined by sidewalk cafés and restaurants.

If you are looking for a slow-paced getaway on the water, you can enjoy the town’s picturesque historic center and take your time in its riverside restaurants, boutiques, antique stores, and quaint coffee shops.

The kids won’t take long to discover Moo-Moo’s Creamery, a town institution.

If you have a little longer or look for more active entertainment, you will find many kid-friendly things to do.

In the area, you find several hiking and biking trails in the outskirts of town, as well as water sports, including boating, canoeing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and waterskiing on the river.

During the autumn, fall foliage cruises are popular.

Hudson Highlands State Park with Bannerman Castle and Stonecrop Gardens are also family favorites. 

Green Lakes State Park

Set near the town of Fayetteville in Central New York, Green Lakes State Park is home to two gorgeous glacial lakes whose waters come in striking tones blues.

Swimming is only allowed on designated spots but Green Lakes State Park is a dream for hiking and the lake views are stunning.

Boating and camping are favorite activities here during the summer, while winter brings in lots of fun in the snow activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing!

Innisfree Garden

Innisfree is a unique 150-acre garden with a delightful display of rocks, water features, stone walls, and plants carefully curated and placed to delight your senses.

The place is lovely for an afternoon out with the kids in a relaxing outdoor setting. 

The area has lovely manicured areas, nice walking paths and bridges, great for small kids to tot around safely and for you to relax while keeping a watchful eye on them. 

Herkimer Diamond Mines

Would you kids like to go mining for diamonds?

Ok, this is not exactly what the Herkimer Diamond Mine offers, but the fun is real!

Herkimer Diamond Mines is a unique spot in upstate New York.

Despite the name, this mine doesn’t actually contain diamonds, but its quartz crystals look a lot like them and mining for them is great fun!

During your visit, you go prospecting the mines and kids can also try sluice mining: you choose a bag to purchase (gemstones, fossils or Herkimer Diamond Dirt Bag) and you start screening for treasures.

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of some of the best places to visit in New York State with kids and it inspired you to go visit. Safe travel planning!

12 of the best places to visit in New York State with kids – pin this!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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Sacred Sightseeing: 10 Most Mystical & Spiritual Places To Visit In New York State

• Channel your inner spirit at Lily Dale Assembly, known for mediumship and spiritual healing. Experience profound connections and personal growth.
• Explore the mysterious underground experience at Secret Caverns in Howes Cave. Connect with Earth's natural history and marvel at the secret waterfall.
• Find spiritual calm and understanding at Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. Immerse yourself in workshops and retreats focused on personal growth.

Mystical and spiritual places help us to transcend our worldly lives and reach out to become one with the universe. There are already a lot of places where people looking for spiritual peace and growth can go. And while many of these are in far-off exotic locales, quite a few exist right in New York State.

If a visitor is looking for one of the best spiritual vacations in the world and doesn’t want to leave the US, New York State might be the best destination for them. These 10 spiritual and mystical destinations located here will give any visitor a new connection to their inner spirit and the ethereal world around them.

Related: 10 Amazing Trips To Take Throughout New York State In The Winter

Lily Dale Assembly: Channeling the Ethereal

Known for mediumship and spiritual healing.

Those seeking a deeper connection to the ethereal would enjoy visiting the Lily Dale Assembly. The retreat is known as the home of mediumship and spiritual healing and is well-known by many practicing spiritualists. Here, visitors can engage in profound mediumship experiences, gain insights into spiritual healing, and explore personal growth through various. Understanding the unknown and making sense of the mystical world is a massive draw for visitors to this assembly.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Lily Dale Assembly is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, with a strong focus on mediumship and spiritual healing, making it a place of deep introspection and connection.
• Best Time to Visit : The summer months are the best time to visit when many events and workshops are held.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For : Visitors have the option of staying on the grounds (if available) or paying a daily gate fee for entrance to the facility.

Secret Caverns: Unearth the Mysteries Beneath

A unique cave system in howes cave.

Caves might strike some people as scary, but they can also bring about profound spiritual awe. Nestled in the heart of Howes Cave, New York, Secret Caverns offers an enchanting and mysterious underground experience. There’s something extraordinary about this place, where time seems to stand still. Ancient geological features evoke a profound connection with the Earth's natural history. It’s even home to a secret 100-foot underground waterfall . For those wanting reconnection with the earth in a serene spot, these caverns should be on their list of places to visit.

The cave's temperature remains around 52°F (11°C) year-round, so dress in layers and wear comfortable, non-slip footwear. A light jacket or sweater is advisable.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Secret Caverns offers a unique underground experience with mysterious rock formations, providing a sense of awe and wonder.
• Best Time to Visit : Visit during the summer when the cave is open for guided tours.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For : The location only accepts cash as a payment option, and it’s $18 to enter the cave.

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies: A Journey to Inner Enlightenment

Hosts workshops, retreats, and events on spiritual and personal growth.

Travelers who want a different type of journey, that of the spirit, may find what they seek in the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. Situated on 250 acres in the Hudson Valley , this lush, vibrant location offers a wide selection of places to find spiritual calm, bliss, and understanding. Visitors come to explore personal growth, healing, and self-discovery through a wide array of holistic practices. Guests may visit because of the lectures, but the institute is dedicated to creating caregivers and those who seek to help a hurting world.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Omega Institute is a dedicated holistic education center where visitors can immerse themselves in workshops and retreats focused on personal growth and holistic wellness.
• Best Time to Visit: The Institute has a family week every June to allow for younger members of the family to participate.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The location is hilly, but the Institute caters to those with mobility issues by providing golf carts to help them get where they need to go.

Lake Ronkonkoma: Where Spirits and Serenity Converge

Known for its mysterious legends and tales of a restless native american princess.

Lake Ronkonkoma is notable as being the largest and most well-known freshwater lake in Long Island, New York. A long time ago, it served as the market that divided the regions of thirteen native tribes. Even back then, the waters were considered haunted by spirits. Its “Lady of the Lake” legend refers to a Native American princess who died here in the 1600s . The spiritual and calming nature of the lake comes from its connection to the tribes that used to live on this land. Even today, visitors can feel that deep mystical connection.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Lake Ronkonkoma is quiet, serene, and has few distractions, making it perfect for self-discovery and meditation.
• Best Time to Visit: Visit year-round, but the lake's beauty is most prominent during the warmer months.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The lake belongs to three different towns, and there are several parks that offer an escape from a busy life and a calm place to relax and commune with nature.

Related: Deserted But Not Forgotten: 10 Towns In New York State That Have Been Lost To Time

Mohonk Mountain House: Victorian Tranquility for the Soul

This historic resort offers a serene setting for meditation and reflection.

Spiritual and mystical travelers who are seeking respite from the many things that ail their inner being can seek solace here. Food, drink, and endless spiritually enriching activities form the core of a visit to this spot. The captivating allure of this historic resort lies in its serene setting, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and their inner selves. Sitting atop a bluff, the imposing Victorian structure on the shore of a lake already exudes that calm and vibrancy of a spiritual retreat. The building itself is also historic, being more than 140 years old .

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Mohonk Mountain House is set amidst the Shawangunk Mountains and offers a serene environment for meditation, relaxation, and reconnection with nature.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with each season offering its unique charm. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: There is no expectation of tipping at Mohonk Mountain House.

Esopus Meadows Lighthouse: Nostalgia and Natural Beauty

A serene, scenic setting on the hudson river.

This spot is both breathtaking in its beauty and remarkable in its historical significance. Built between 1870 and 1871 , the lighthouse offers a commanding and scenic view of the Hudson River. The remote location of the lighthouse, surrounded by the river's beauty, creates a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and reflection. The lighthouse is fondly nicknamed “The Maid of the Meadows,” and the current structure replaced the original one, which was built in 1839 .

If approaching the lighthouse by boat, research local boat tour operators that offer transportation to the lighthouse. Make a reservation in advance and confirm the departure point and schedule.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The lighthouse itself has a rich history and exudes a sense of nostalgia, making it an exciting and peaceful place to explore.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Special tours can be arranged with the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission. If the Open flag is flying, boaters are encouraged to stop by.

Neversink Reservoir and Preserve: A Remote Sanctuary for Spiritual Reflection

A tranquil and remote location in the catskill mountains.

The Neversink Reservoir and surrounding preserve is a pristine jewel of nature that spiritual visitors would enjoy. The reservoir went into service in 1954 and holds 34.9 billion gallons at its most full point. Surrounding the reservoir is one of the most amazing natural areas in New York State. Extending for 550 acres , the preserve is home to thousands of species. However, it also offers some of the most calming and awe-inspiring backdrops for those who love communing with nature.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Neversink Reservoir and Preserve is a remote and tranquil location in the Catskill Mountains, offering a sense of isolation and natural beauty.
• Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but it's exceptionally peaceful during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: The reservoir and preserve are pretty far removed from the town, making it serene and quiet.

Mystery Spot in Lake George: Altering Reality Through Sound

Known for its audio illusions and quirky experiences.

The inexplicable mystery in Lake George has fascinated travelers for years. Behind the visitor center is a mystical spot where whispers seem to break the laws of acoustics . Visitors who stand on the X will hear something interesting. This location is unique in how it plays with visitors’ perceptions of the world around them. Moreover, it was once rumored to be the spot where Native American gods spoke to their followers. Visiting here will change a traveler’s perception of reality just a bit.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The Mystery Spot offers audio illusions and quirky experiences that will change how visitors see the world around them.
• Best Time to Visit: The attraction is open during the summer season.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Taller travelers will have to bend down slightly to get the whole experience of the spot.

Related: 10 Of The World's Most Spiritual & Mysterious Destinations

Woodstock: Revisiting the Cultural Revolution

Known for its history as a hub for counterculture and music.

Popular culture has created an aura of mystique and mysticism around the grounds of one of the most famous music festivals of the twentieth century . Bethel, the original site of Woodstock , has changed a lot in the years since then. Spiritual travelers might consider this trip as a spiritual pilgrimage to where counterculture made its way into the mainstream. Woodstock’s message of hope is one that spiritual and mystical travelers should try to get into the wider world. Visiting Bethel is a great idea to reconnect with that hope and the message it carries.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: Bethel is a lot calmer today than it was in the 60s, and visitors can still see the field where the concert was held and reconnect with nature there.
• Best Time to Visit: Visit during the summer or attend one of the town's many festivals and events.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: Check out the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, which is on the very same site as the original Woodstock concert.

Adirondack Forest Preserve: Into the Wild Unknown

Hidden lakes, remote trails, and a sense of isolation.

The Adirondacks are home to various unique places , but the Forest Preserve is the best spot for spiritual travelers seeking that escape. Consisting of over 2.7 million acres , the preserve is a massive, sprawling forested area that makes it easy for a visitor to get lost in it. As visitors explore its untamed beauty, the forest's hallowed silence and boundless vistas inspire introspection and a profound connection with the natural world. This preserve was created in 1892 , but its mysticism pervades to this very day.

• Why Is This Place So Healing/Calming: The Adirondack Forest Preserve provides a vast and wild landscape with hidden lakes and remote trails, allowing visitors to connect with nature and find solace.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are great for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter offers a serene and snowy wilderness.
• Things Visitors Should Prepare For: If visiting during the middle of the year, pay attention to smoke near the site chosen. Fires sometimes start without warning between May and October.

• 7 Cutest Small Towns In the Finger Lakes To Visit In 2024

If wineries, waterfalls, gorges, and auto-races get your heart beating, why not enjoy it all lakeside, in the heart of the Finger Lakes ? Steeped in history and spoiled in natural beauty, the region's eleven unique lakes are gem-studded along the shores. Cute as buttons, each town has a unique vibe, heritage, and family attractions, and it really feels like an escape from life, as you know it in the city. Penn Yan is one of the cutest towns in New York, with wineries, great breakfast options, and a historic inn straight from Little Women.

The First Presbyterian Church in Bath, the town along the Cohocton River, is one of eight Tiffany glass sanctuaries in the entire country, while Geneseo, a college town, features Geneseo Riviera, the city's downtown, just 30 miles from Rochester, near the Pennsylvania border. Verona Beach is a generations-long destination to reconnect with nature, bond with family, and celebrate events with waterfront cottages, while Naples, the Grape Pie Capital in the World, home to Grimes Glen Park with wildflowers and two refreshing 60-foot waterfalls, offers a haunted stay at the Naples Hotel.

Aurora , one of the Finger Lakes' cutest, is a college town with a rich culture and many interesting landmarks, like the infamous Aurora Inns; worth a shot even if you're not staying there. Morgan Opera House is a beautiful Victoriana in a half-timbered Tudor-Revival building, complete with a library. Home to Wells College and its notable graduate, Pleasant Rowland, the creator and founder of the American Girl Doll Company, she returned to this "life-changing" town, according to her interview with Vogue, 25 years after graduating. Many of the beautiful, restored homes from disrepair and some of the thriving businesses are her legacy.

Located in Cayuga County on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake , visitors can enjoy lakeside recreation and watersports, as well as the student talent from the liberal arts college through galleries and live art in the area. A one-road town, Aurora more than makes up for her size with generous attractions and admirable lakeside mansions as part of the 21st-century renaissance. Once home to elegant family estates and a prep school for girls in Upstate New York, today, Trader Rose is an antique store, while for a great dinner after a day of shopping or lounging at Lake Glass Beach, Fargo Bar & Grill is waterside and delicious.

Bath, a destination for the longest, continuously-running county fair in the US, is undeniably cute! Nestled minutes south of the uniquely shaped Keuka Lake , its historic grandeur of buildings and architecture, as well as the grand town square, maximize the small town appeal away from the tourist crowds. Favored by generations since its founding days in 1793, Bath, the county seat, is steeped in history and surrounded by rich agriculture and small, family-owned farms. Today, it is a destination for live music, traditional celebrations, and modern-day events, while the cuisine is always fresh and local, like at Stephanie's or the many markets around, which makes it no wonder about the oldest fair!

Founded by William Pulteney along the Cohocton River through the southern portion, visitors enjoy the understated charm of a namesake famous town in England and waterside recreation both ways. Take a morning riverside stroll after breakfast at the Chat-A-Whyle Restaurant, ending the day at sunset over the lake. In between, the active can enjoy watersports on the Y-shaped lake, which is so fun to explore, or strolls downtown, with sites and shopping gravitating towards Pulteney Square. The First Presbyterian Church, one of eight Tiffany glass sanctuaries in the entire country, may be open to admire the beauty from the translucent inside.

Geneseo, a cute town with a diverse culture and a unique character, appeals to those looking for a lakeside escape out of the ordinary. Nestled in a valley 35 miles south of Rochester , it is just minutes east of the beautiful Conesus Lake. The Village of Geneseo thrives in the constant beauty of the Valley as a tourist destination, with outfitters and other small-town businesses near the Pennsylvania border and an innovative spirit of a college town where the students like to study or relax along the banks in the warmer months.

Home to just under 10,000, Geneseo is quaint in the summer, while the college grounds stay open for tours of the Geneseo Campus. Nearby, the refreshing Long Point Park is great for a stroll and picnics. From fishing to swimming, bird watchers can enjoy the large migratory bird population in the area. Bursting with venues to relax and stay culturally entertained, the Geneseo Riviera, the city's downtown, is steeped in over a century of history. Its vintage theatre offers musical and cinematic performances, while the Warplane National Museum is a family favorite for exhibits of historic military aircraft and the opportunity to ride with an expert on the BT-13 Basic Trainer.

Travel to Naples once and fall for its small-town charms forever after, including foodie pleasures, historical sites, and scenic natural parks. Turning many new faces into loyal tourists, Naples, home to Grimes Glen Park, is spoiled in natural beauty, from the seasonal wildflower display in spring to its two refreshing 60-foot waterfalls and the unique hemlocks, a type of tree. Nearby, the sprawling 900-acre Cumming Nature Centre is fantastic for a summertime stroll, with an observation deck over the beaver pond. Don't miss Monica’s Pie's best seller of a grape-stuffed slice or slab to bring home and share over tea time with friends and family, along with a variety of homemade jams, jellies, and seasonal surprises. The Naples Hotel, renowned for its hauntings, is a one-of-a-kind stay in the whole Finger Lakes region.

For easy scenery with little hiking, West Hill Preserve is part of the Finger Lakes Trail through a forested landscape, while the 5-star Bristol Valley Theatre in the heart of town presents professional theatrical productions. Make an evening out of wine tasting at Inspire Moore Winery after the must-hit local favorite, Roots Cafe, for dinner next door. The tiny size of Naples, one of the region's smallest towns, magnifies the picturesque nature around it and its immense food offerings, which is part of its appeal and a major draw to visit the namesake of an Italian city in the Empire State. Located in Ontario County, New York, near Honeoye and Canandaigua Lakes, welcome to the Grape Pie Capital of the World!

It's easy to fall in love with Penn Yan , a cute town from every side, starting with its name and ending when you don't want to say goodbye to the sweet hosts at the Laurentide Inn, a historical yellow home right from Little Women with a great restaurant, True Roots Kitchen, and, bonus, their own brewery onsite! Nestled just off Keuka Lake to the north, Penn Yan, a play on the words “ Pennsylvania ” and "Yankee," is as all-American as it sounds, home to some Amish and Mennonites with clambering horses and buggies. Amity Coffee is a great idea to start the day running, or Penn Yan Diner when you just arrive before hitting the Keuka Outlet Trail, which features a waterfall!

Downtown Penn Yan, home to cute shops and outlets, is proud to offer Red Tail Ridge Winery for a feel-good pursuit in more ways than a tipsy daze, being the only one in the state that is LEED-gold certified. Kemmeter Wines is another gem in the area, while the aptly named Sweet Farm, a climate and animal sanctuary, is a haven for the kiddos to interact with rescued farm animals in rehabilitation. Promoting sustainability and regenerative agriculture, it hosts timely events and even visitors at the Sweet Farm House across the road. Indian Pines Park is waterfront with a playground, a family-friendly beach area for swimming or wading, and scenic views, while Seneca Farm, just a stroll away, will keep you coming on a hot summer day for the best ice cream treats of your life!

Verona Beach

Headed by two miles of sandy beach, this little villa on Oneida Lake is as dreamy as its name suggests. Whether you're on a lakeside escape or a family vacation of building sandcastles and sunbathing, Verona Beach State Park is a great place to relax in natural scenery year-round. Verona Beach is a generations-long destination to reconnect with nature, bond with family, and celebrate events, with waterfront cottages welcoming back old friends and new faces. From local RV parks and campgrounds, enjoy easy access to the vast lake scene, visible from anywhere in town. From fishing for walleye and bass to a beach volleyball game, watersport fans can enjoy every type of vessel to explore the lake. Don't miss the nearby church in the Oscar-nominated film The Sterile Cuckoo with Liza Minnelli in 1969, the site of her on-screen kiss.

Opened in 1897, Sylvan Beach Union Chapel, a historic interdenominational church on the waterfront in Sylvan Beach with unique top-hinge doors open to the shores, looks spectacular at sunset from the beach or a restaurant. The historic Verona Beach Lighthouse is great for a morning stroll along the path in seclusion before lakefront breakfast at the iconic Eddie’s for a famous hot ham sandwich at Canalview Cafe or at the Pancake House. There's family fun during Pirates Weekend in July and Canal Fest in August, as well as a nostalgic carnival spot with a gorgeous view of Oneida Lake from the top of Central New York’s largest roller coaster at Sylvan Beach Amusement Park nearby and the historic Carello’s Carousel Arcade with a classic carousel.

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen , a town on the radar when in the region, stays cute and quaint with its pristine streets, nature, and Seneca Lake banks despite its popularity. Immensely proud to offer Watkins Glen International; this, one of America's most famous road racing tracks, attracts thrill seekers, while the annual Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July is perfect to coincide with your summertime visit to the cascading waterfalls at the enchanting Watkins Glen State Park . Comprising 19 magical waterfalls amid gorgeous verdancy, the cobbled pathways and bridges along the 1.5-mile Gorge Trail make this glen appear right from a fairy-tale book cover.

Come early or on a weekday to score a free parking spot literally across the street for two hours after throwing down your bags at the Watkins Glen Harbour Hotel, which offers a top breakfast. The cute lakeside town on the southern shore is more than auto racing and waterfalls; it has some of the region's prettiest lake views and landscapes for hikes. Don't miss the sweet and short trail with stairs to climb at the park, Pier House Seneca Lake, the nearby Blue Pointe Grille, and, just up the shore, Clute Park, a garden and park. From the Elf in the Oak to Glen Mountain Market Bakery, your drink of choice awaits at Wagner Vineyards or Horseheads Brewing Seneca Lake for beer and the best sunset from Seneca Harbor.

The eleven long, narrow lakes in west-central New York feature gems like Watkins Glen State Park, with its 19 magical waterfalls in verdant nature along cobbled pathways and bridges straight from a fairy-tale book cover. Once home to elegant family estates and a prep school for girls in Upstate New York, Aurora is famous for the Aurora Inns, lounging at Lake Glass Beach, and Morgan Opera House, a beautiful Victoriana in a half-timbered Tudor-Revival building.

These picturesque villages, close to each other, offer the sweetest escape with unique experiences against gorgeous lake views, from waterfront dining and shopping to scaling gorges, chasing waterfalls, and vino glasses after watersports and adventures while lounging at sunset over another lake—something from the bucket list of every type of traveler.

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2 New York City beaches make Travel + Leisure's "25 Best in the USA." See the complete list.

By Dave Carlin

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- Travel + Leisure magazine's annual list of the 25 best beaches in the U.S. includes a pair of popular ones right here in New York City.

The two beaches are sharing the prestigious space with other sun, sand and surf spots in places like Hawaii, California and Florida.

George Schlereth of Forest Hills said his love for Rockaway Beach predates the hit 1978 song by the Ramones with lyrics that went, "Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach."

"It's a great place to spend the afternoon. It's the best place you could go," Schlereth said.

So what else makes Rockaway Beach such a fan favorite?  

Travel + Leisure praised Rockaway Beach's "Five-mile boardwalk, and surf-worthy waves."

"It's definitely very diverse. People come from all over come here," said Kristen Supple of Far Rockaway.

"Rockaway Beach, because I love like the waves and boogie boarding and they have great ice cream and food," said 10-year-old Jordan Cannetti.

"I used to come here as a kid with my parents and family and it's just night and day. The boardwalk, it's just amazing. Now, the restaurant," his father said. "The parks along the boardwalk are just amazing. Ninja Park is great The pickle ball, the basketball."

"They spent so much money fixing up the Rockaways. They brought in more people, more families down there. The place is packed now," Schlereth added.

And let's not forget the amazing Coney Island   

Coney Island bubbled up to the Top 25 as well, with the editors of Travel + Leisure writing, "Coney Island is a perfect seaside wonderland of nostalgia and kitschy fun."

Kenya Dethan, who is 7, called it her favorite beach.

"I like the nice water. I like going on the roller coasters," Dethan said.

The thing about Coney Island is there is so much to do -- sand and surf, the boardwalk with the amusements, and the food and drinks -- all of it rain or shine.

"Number one in the world, Coney Island," resident David Dingle said. "Best of both worlds. You're at the beach and the stores all together, all in one place. Once you're here, you don't want to go back home."

Also making the best beaches list is the New Jersey favorite for fun, Asbury Park. It's the hometown of music legend Bruce Springsteen and features clubs like The Stone Pony , which keep the town highly rated and rockin'.

• Asbury Park
• Coney Island
• Rockaway Beach

Dave Carlin serves as a reporter for CBS2 News and covers breaking news stories and major events in the Tri-State Area.

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Trump trial schedule: Latest on the trial and what you should expect this week

Former President Donald Trump 's hush money trial is on break Monday, but court will reconvene Tuesday morning .

Although the jurors and lawyers typically gather on Monday mornings, Judge Juan Merchan ruled last week that there would be no proceedings Monday, April 29.

Monday is part of the last two days of the Jewish holiday of Passover . Court also let out early on April 22 and April 23 to allow people to travel for religious gatherings.

Trump faces 34 counts of falsifying business records to disguise the hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels that allegedly constituted an illegal campaign contribution.

Here is what to know as Trump's trial continues into Week 3:

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Trump trial live updates: Michael Cohen's banker to testify on payment to Stormy Daniels

Trump trial schedule

The tria is expected to last six to eight weeks, according to a media advisory .

Proceedings typically start at 9:30 a.m. local time and run through the business day. Court is on break on Wednesdays .

Trial is not televised, but you can read transcripts

New York City Criminal Court is publishing the trial transcripts and copies of evidence shown to the jury.

Transcripts of proceedings aren't always available, but officials decided to make them available because of "unparalleled public interest."

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday's transcripts are available now on the New York State Unified Court System's media website. Evidence shown to the jury, including texts, emails and photos , also are available from last week's proceedings.

Week 2 ended during third witness testimony

Jurors heard from three witnesses last week.

First, David Pecker, former head of the National Enquirer’s parent company, testified about how he used the publication to write positive stories about Trump and prevent negative stories about him from coming out during his 2016 presidential campaign.

His testimony and cross-examination spanned three days. He also said his editor-in-chief believed Stormy Daniels' story about an alleged sexual encounter in 2006, which Trump denies.

Trump's former executive assistant Rhona Graff made a brief appearance on the witness stand Friday. When court wrapped for the week, the prosecution was questioning Gary Farro, former senior managing director at First Republic Bank. Farro, who was former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen's banker in 2016, could be used to bring in email evidence about the payment to Daniels. CNN reported Cohen used money from his home equity line to cover Daniels' payment, and an email from a First Republic Bank employee confirmed the transfer.

Leaving the courthouse Friday, Trump challenged President Joe Biden to a debate.

“We’ll do it at the White House,” Trump said. “That would be very comfortable, actually.”

Contributing: Bart Jansen and Aysha Bagchi

• International

University protests

Trump's hush money trial

Trump criminal trial wraps for the day after opening statements and first witness

From CNN's Jeremy Herb, Lauren del Valle and Kara Scannell in the courthouse

Key takeaways from opening statements and the first witness in Trump's hush money trial

From CNN's Jeremy Herb, Lauren del Valle and Kara Scannell

Prosecutors and Trump’s attorneys delivered opening statements and the first witness — a former National Enquirer publisher — was called Monday in the historic and unprecedented criminal trial of a former president.

Each side got their first chance to lay out a theory of the case for jurors. Prosecutors told jurors that the reimbursement of hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels was part of a larger conspiracy to influence the 2016 presidential election.

The former president’s attorneys responded by telling the jury that Trump was innocent and not involved in the creation of the 34 business records he’s charged with falsifying. They also pointedly added that there’s “nothing wrong with trying to influence an election.”

Here are key takeaways from Monday:

• Prosecutors say Trump schemed "to corrupt the 2016 presidential election": The district attorney’s office framed the case for jurors as illegal payments to try to influence illicitly influence the 2016 election that Trump then tried to illegally cover up by falsifying business records. Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo walked the jury through Trump’s efforts, along with Michael Cohen and former American Media Inc., chief David Pecker, to keep damaging information from coming to light during the 2016 election.
• Defense says Donald Trump is innocent: Defense attorney Todd Blanche began his opening statement with a simple assertion: “Donald Trump is innocent.” Blanche told the jury that the story isn’t as simple as prosecutors laid out and argued that Trump was not involved with any of the business records he’s accused of falsifying beyond signing the checks. Blanche didn’t dispute the paper trail existed, but he argued to the jury there was nothing illegal about signing non-disclosure agreements — or trying to influence an election.
• Tabloid publisher testifies first: Prosecutors called former AMI CEO David Pecker as the first witness in their case against Trump. He testified for less than 30 minutes Monday morning before the trial adjourned for the day. He’s expected to continue testifying Tuesday. Colangelo teed up the former tabloid publisher as a key player in Trump’s “catch and kill” scheme to control the public narrative about him ahead of the 2016 election.
• Gag order hearing will lead off court on Tuesday: Before the trial resumes Tuesday, Judge Juan Merchan is holding a hearing on allegations that Trump violated the judge’s gag order barring discussion of witnesses. The district attorney’s office asked the judge to fine Trump $1,000 for each of several gag order violations leading up to and since the trial started. In addition to the fines, prosecutors want the judge to remind Trump he could be imprisoned if he continues to disobey the order.
• Trump was thinking about the $175 million bond hearing down the street: Meanwhile, other lawyers for Trump were in a courtroom a block away arguing over the legitimacy of the $175 million bond Trump posted to appeal the judgment in his civil fraud trial. Trump, who could not attend the civil hearing because he’s required to attend each day of the criminal trial, railed against Attorney General Letitia James.

Fact check: Trump falsely claims Michael Cohen’s crimes "had nothing to do with me"

From CNN’s Daniel Dale

Speaking to reporters Monday after opening statements in his criminal trial in Manhattan, former President Donald Trump declared that the crimes committed by his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen “had nothing to do with me.” 

Cohen is expected to be a key  witness for the prosecution . Trump said: “The things he got in trouble for were things that had nothing to do with me. He got in trouble; he went to jail. This has nothing to do with me. This had to do with the taxicab company that he owned, which is just something he owned – and medallions and borrowing money and a lot of things – but it had nothing to do with me.” 

Facts First:  Trump’s claim that Cohen’s prison sentence “had nothing to do with me” is false. Cohen’s three-year sentence in 2018 was for  multiple crimes , some of which were directly related to Trump. Most notably, Cohen was sentenced for  campaign finance offenses   connected to a hush money scheme  during the 2016 presidential campaign to conceal Trump’s alleged extramarital relationships -- the same hush money scheme that is central to this prosecution against Trump. Cohen was  also sentenced to two months in prison , to run concurrently with the three-year sentence, for  lying to Congress in 2017 in relation to previous talks about the possibility of building a Trump Tower in Moscow, Russia , including about the  extent of Trump’s involvement in the aborted Moscow initiative  and about when in 2016 the discussions ended. (The discussions continued into June 2016, the month after Trump  became the presumptive Republican nominee , and did not conclude in January 2016 before the first votes were cast, as Cohen had claimed.)

Referring to Trump as “Individual-1,” Cohen  said  at the time of his 2018 guilty plea for making false statements to the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence: “I made these statements to be consistent with Individual-1’s political messaging and out of loyalty to Individual-1.” When Cohen pleaded guilty in 2018 to the campaign finance violations, he  said  he broke the law “in coordination and at the direction of a candidate for federal office,” Trump. 

David Pecker is an important witness in prosecutor's quest to prove criminal intent, legal analyst says

From CNN's Elise Hammond

David Pecker will be back on the stand on Tuesday to continue testimony in the hush money trial against former President Donald Trump. Not only is he the first witness to answer questions from the prosecution, but he is also a critical piece of how the state is trying to prove criminal intent, one former federal prosecutor said.

Criminal intent means that “not just an act happened, but an act happened for a purpose,” said Elliot Williams, a CNN legal analyst. “The defendant did something wrong to carry out some criminal purpose.”

As the then-chairman of American Media Inc., which publishes the National Enquirer, Pecker was involved in numerous “catch-and-kill” schemes he orchestrated on behalf of Trump, and he allegedly helped broker the deal with adult film star Stormy Daniels which is at the center of  the case.

“It’s not just the catch-and-kill payments, but catch-and-kill payments for the purpose of concealing information from voters in the context of an election,” Williams explained, referring to the 2016 presidential election. 

Williams said it’s likely that prosecutors will focus much of their questioning trying to uncover what was discussed in meetings between Pecker and Trump.

The question at the heart of the argument, Williams said, is if the payments were intended to conceal information from voters, “or was it just Donald Trump saying, ‘Well, you know, this is embarrassing to my wife and my kids, I really want to keep this hidden.’”

Read about the stages of Trump's criminal trial — and what they mean 

From CNN's Lauren del Valle, Jhasua Razo and Gillian Roberts

Former President Donald Trump’s first criminal trial is expected to take six to eight weeks from start to finish.

This trial, related to a  hush money payment  to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016, is the first of  four ongoing criminal cases  that are expected to head to trial for the presumptive 2024 GOP presidential nominee.

Now that opening statements are done, prosecutors are presenting trial evidence through witness testimony and exhibits. David Pecker, the ex-publisher of the National Enquirer, will resume testimony Tuesday.

Defense attorneys can cross examine the prosecution’s witnesses and typically aim to discredit their testimony. Witnesses’ responses are considered evidence, but not the questions posed by an attorney.

Read more about the stages of the trial, and what they mean here.

Michael Cohen jabs back at Trump's claim that Cohen's crimes have nothing to do with him

From CNN's Laura Dolan

Michael Cohen, who is expected to be a key witness in Donald Trump’s criminal trial, jabbed back at his former boss in response to comments Trump made about him outside the courtroom Monday.

Speaking to reporters in the courtroom hallway after court concluded, Trump said Cohen’s crimes have “nothing to do with me."

“He got in trouble, he went to jail. This has nothing to do with me,” said Trump. “This had to do with the taxicab company that he owned, which is just something he owned — and medallions and borrowing money.”

Shortly after those comments. Cohen posted on social media, “Hey Von ShitzInPantz … your attacks of me stink of desperation. We are all hoping that you take the stand in your defense. 

Cohen, who is Trump’s former attorney, served time in federal prison after pleading guilty to breaking federal campaign laws when he facilitated the $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, which is directly linked to the charges against Trump.  As for the taxi medallions that Trump referenced, Cohen was also sentenced for tax evasion related to a taxi medallion enterprise and lying to a bank in relation to a home loan. 

Trump is under a gag order and was ordered by Judge Juan Merchan not to comment about any witnesses in the trial.

CNN's Daniel Dale contributed to this post.

See courtroom sketches from today's Trump trial

No cameras are allowed inside the Manhattan courtroom where Donald Trump's hush money trial is underway, but a sketch artist captured the scene as opening statements unfolded and the first witness took the stand.

Biden builds early advertising edge as Trump spends millions on legal fees

From CNN's David Wright

President Joe Biden and his allies have nearly tripled Donald Trump’s network in ad spending over the last month and a half while the former president has had to devote millions of campaign funds to legal expenses — and sit in a New York courthouse for his hush money trial.

Since March 6, after Super Tuesday when Trump effectively secured the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, through April 21, Biden’s campaign and other Democratic advertisers spent $27.2 million on advertising for the presidential race, while the Trump campaign and GOP advertisers spent about $9.3 million, according to AdImpact data.

Ad spending data (presidential race, March 6 to April 21)

• Democrats: $27,153,293
• Republicans: $9,344,948

During that time, Biden's campaign has spent millions in key battleground states, including $4.1 million in Michigan, $3.9 million in Pennsylvania, and at least $2 million in Arizona, Wisconsin, and Georgia. And the Biden network has used its plentiful airtime to promote the administration’s first-term record and slam Trump, focusing on key issues such as the  cost of living  and  abortion rights .

Meanwhile, Trump’s network has failed to match that effort since he became the presumptive nominee, though a pro-Trump super PAC, MAGA Inc., recently ramped up its advertising, booking over $1 million worth of airtime in Pennsylvania to coincide with Biden’s recent campaign swing through the state last week.

Trump has also benefited over that stretch from a nearly $3 million anti-Biden campaign from outside groups aligned with the oil and gas industries, which have been  running ads  in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, criticizing California fuel standards  defended  by the Biden administration. But despite some recent signs of activity, Trump’s network has been significantly outspent on the airwaves since his general election matchup with Biden came into focus. And  the latest round of FEC filings  shows how Biden’s fundraising edge is enabling that advertising advantage, as Trump’s ongoing legal battles drain millions from his campaign coffers.  

How we got here: A timeline of the Donald Trump and Stormy Daniels hush money case

From CNN’s Lauren del Valle, Kara Scannell, Annette Choi and Gillian Roberts 

The first criminal trial of a US ex-president is underway in New York, where former President Donald Trump faces charges from the Manhattan District attorney related to a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016. 

This is the first of four criminal cases expected to go to trial for Trump, also the presumptive 2024 GOP presidential nominee. CNN compiled a timeline of the key events leading up to the historic trial. 

Here’s how we got here: 

• September 2016: Donald Trump discusses a $150,000 hush money payment understood to be for former Playboy model Karen McDougal with Michael Cohen who secretly records the conversation . McDougal has alleged she had an extramarital affair with Trump beginning in 2006, which he has denied. 
• October 7, 2016: The Washington Post releases an "Access Hollywood" video from 2005 in which Trump uses vulgar language to describe his sexual approach to women with then show host Billy Bush. 
• October 27, 2016: According to prosecutors, Cohen pays Daniels $130,000 to her attorney through a shell company in exchange for her silence about an affair she allegedly had with Trump in 2006. This $130,000 sum is separate from the $150,000 paid to McDougal. Trump has publicly denied having any affairs and has denied making the payments. 
• November 8, 2016: Trump secures the election to become the 45th president of the United States. 
• February 2017: Prosecutors say Cohen meets with Trump in the Oval Office to confirm how he would be reimbursed for the hush money payment Cohen fronted to Daniels. Under the plan, Cohen would send a series of false invoices requesting payment for legal services he performed pursuant to a retainer agreement and receive monthly checks for $35,000 for a total of $420,000 to cover the payment, his taxes and a bonus, prosecutors alleged. Prosecutors also allege there was never a retainer agreement. 
• January 2018: The Wall Street Journal breaks news about the hush money payment Cohen made to Daniels in 2016. 

See the full timeline.  

Trump is also facing charges in 3 other criminal cases

From CNN’s Devan Cole, Amy O'Kruk and Curt Merrill 

The hush money criminal trial against former President Donald Trump is just one of  four criminal cases  he faces while juggling his presidential campaign.

The former president is facing at least  88 charges  over the four criminal indictments in Georgia, New York, Washington, DC, and Florida. Trump has pleaded not guilty to every charge in these cases. 

Here's a recap of each case: 

• Hush money:  Trump was first indicted in March 2023 by the Manhattan district attorney on state charges related to a hush-money payment to an adult film star in 2016. Prosecutors allege Trump was part of an illegal conspiracy to  undermine  the integrity of the 2016 election. Further, they allege he was part of an unlawful plan to suppress negative information, including the $130,000 payment. 
• Classified documents:  Trump was indicted in June 2023 by a federal grand jury in Miami for taking classified national defense documents from the White House after he left office and resisting the government’s attempts to retrieve the materials. The National Archives said in early 2022 that at least 15 boxes of White House records were recovered from the estate, including   some that were classified . The charges were brought by special counsel Jack Smith. 
• Federal election interference:  Smith separately charged the former president last August with four crimes over his efforts to reverse the 2020 election results. The indictment alleges Trump and a co-conspirator "attempted to exploit the violence and chaos at the Capitol by calling lawmakers to convince them ... to delay the certification" of the election. That case is currently on hold as the Supreme Court weighs Trump’s claims of presidential immunity in the matter. 
• Fulton County:  State prosecutors in Georgia brought a similar election subversion case against Trump and others. An Atlanta-based grand jury on August 14, 2023, indicted Trump and 18 others on state charges stemming from their alleged efforts to overturn the former president’s 2020 electoral defeat. A trial date has not yet been set in that case. 

Read more about  the four criminal cases  Trump faces.  

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong