popular places to visit in new york state

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.

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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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The best places to visit in New York State are full of small-town charm

Sep 16, 2023 • 11 min read

Traveling in New York State is a trip back to a gentler vision of America © Tony Shi Photography / Getty Images

Striking American landscapes, quirky antique stores, fabulous hikes and some of the best bakeries you’ll ever find. Welcome to New York State ! From one end to the other, the Empire State is crammed with outdoor adventures, cool art, great food and friendly people.

Not sure where to start? Check out these ten top New York State locations and you won’t be disappointed.

1. Hudson, NY

Best for small-town charm

In Columbia County, about 45 minutes from the state capital of Albany, the quaint city of Hudson overflows with vintage storefronts and small-town charm. The strip along Warren Street is known for its fine collection of boutique shops housed in historic buildings, each with a unique twist. Start with Spotty Dog Books and Ales , a not-so-average bookstore with a full bar inside.

Peppered throughout the neighborhood are cute antique shops and a variety of cafes and coffee shops, including Supernatural Coffee + Bakery , home to the best lavender honey latte on the strip.

Outside town are some of the best hiking trails in the Hudson Valley, including the route through the High Falls Conservation Area , a moderate 1.5-mile hike through rocky terrain, with a stunning waterfall at the end.

For accommodations, The Maker is an 11-room luxury boutique hotel with themed rooms designed to reflect the area's creative population of artists and writers, decorated with antique pieces and bits of history throughout each space. The cafe serves flakey sweet pastries such as twice-baked pistachio croissants from Bartlett House.

The Amelia Hotel , about two blocks from Warren Street, is another fantastic option, with a heated outdoor pool, huge soaking tubs, a beautiful lounge and complimentary beverages and baked goods.

Our favorite New York historic parks and monuments

2. Beacon, NY

Best for fine art and fine dining

A stop at the Dia: Beacon gallery is a must when day-tripping to Beacon, NY. This light-filled, 300,000 sq ft space in a converted factory hosts large-scale conceptual art by Gerard Richter, Louise Bourgeois and Richard Serra. Storm King Art Center , a 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden, is a short drive away, bringing together fine art and fresh air.

When you've had your fill of creativity, there are plenty of ways to fill your stomach. The most charming place to eat is Roundhouse , a farm-to-table restaurant overlooking a waterfall. Inventive dishes such as Spicy Lobster Mac n’ Cheese pair nicely with a signature cocktail or a glass of wine. After your meal, stroll up the street to the trendy HÅKAN Chocolatier for artisanal chocolate that is well worth the trip. For lunch, dinner or drinks, head to Max's on Main for pub food and local beer.

Planning tip: Located about 70 miles north of New York City, Beacon is easily reached by car (a 90-minute drive) or it's a two-hour ride on the Metro-North Railroad. Dia: Beacon and Main Street are just a 10-minute walk from the train station, making this an easy car-free trip.

3. Woodstock, NY

Best for indie boutiques and the outdoors

Although the legendary 1969 music festival actually took place on a dairy farm near the village of Bethel, tie-dye still abounds in Woodstock, a town filled with independent art and the bounteous nature of Catskill Park . It's the perfect destination to get back to the great outdoors – take a hike up Overlook Mountain and enjoy expansive vistas of red spruces, balsam fir trees and red oaks.

A ban on chain stores keeps this town feeling free-spirited. Tinker Street, Woodstock’s main drag, entices travelers with unique gift stores and cafes. You'll find a plethora of restaurant choices in town, too, but for an extra special breakfast, you’ll want to take a 20-minute drive to the Phoenicia Diner , an elevated restaurant known for its unbelievable pancakes. It even has its own cookbook and take-home pancake mix should you miss these treats when you return to NYC.

The top 5 road trips in New York State

Best for "gorges" hiking and a college vibe

When it comes to describing this Finger Lakes gem, the slightly corny (but accurate) slogan “Ithaca is gorges” couldn't be more on point. You'll find a wide variety of hiking trails here, from easy to challenging, and countless waterfalls at sites such as Taughannock Falls State Park , Ithaca Falls, Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park , where there's a swimming hole next to the waterfall in the summer months.

Treetops – a six-story treehouse behind the Cayuga Nature Center – is an eye-catching sight and travelers of all ages can play inside and explore. There's also a farmer's market full of international foodie treats in addition to lots of fresh local produce.

Grab a bite to eat at College Town Bagels , and head to Cornell University 's campus to visit the AD White Library – a stunning space with more than 90,000 books, ceiling-high bookshelves and intricately designed metal walkaways.

If you’re looking for a cozy, modern, centrally located hotel, Hotel Ithaca is affordable and within walking distance of some great things to do. For something a little more rustic, check out Firelight Camps ; it’s right near Buttermilk Falls, with comfortable full-size beds (and in some cases electricity and heat) in safari-style tents in the woods.

Planning tip: Buses from Greyhound and other companies connect Ithaca to NYC in around five hours. It's easier and faster to fly into Ithaca Tompkins International Airport , or you can drive in just over four hours.

5. The Hamptons

Best for beaches and great eats

If you’re into food, then the Hamptons needs to be on your list. Thanks to countless farm stands, gourmet markets and seafood shops with fresh, high-quality goods, you'll always be well-fed in this affluent section of Long Island .

Each area of the Hamptons has something unique to offer, from Montauk with its long beach, state park and lighthouse to Bridgehampton with its famous shops – seek out Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen, renowned for its ripe-banana ice cream – and incredible restaurants, such as Elaia Estiatorio , known for its fresh fish and homemade spreads.

Montauk is low-key and easygoing, at the tip of the Hamptons, so you can see all of the south fork while traveling here. In town, make sure to visit Duryea's restaurant in the summer, and try your best to time it for sunset – the views are incredible, and staff provide fresh, clean blankets for snuggling up as the night progresses and cools down. If you're hungry, try their incredible lobster Cobb salad, loaded with lobster meat.

Planning tip: To stay, check out the Montauk Beach House . The rooms are beautifully decorated with giant mirrors, soaking tubs and comfy beds, while the common area has a bar and two huge pools, all within walking distance of the beach.

6. Lake Placid

Best for winter fun

Lake Placid, located in the lovely Adirondacks , is an absolute blast, especially in the winter. This was the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, and the village still holds onto those ties in some really unique ways – for example, you can ride in a bobsled, spouting out lines from the movie Cool Runnings as you race down the icy track at top speeds. There's also a mountain coaster that goes along a former bobsled trail, currently the longest of its kind in North America.

Visitors can ride the Cloudsplitter Gondola to the top of an active ski jump in the Whiteface ski area and watch future Olympian hopefuls practicing at terrifying heights. Check out the tobogganing shoot before heading over to Mirror Lake for ice skating.

Right across the street is the Dancing Bear , a lovely breakfast spot located inside the High Peaks Resort. Mirror Lake Inn has amazing rooms and a gorgeous indoor pool with a grotto and a hot tub big enough to fit multiple groups of people, so you can enjoy it without being on top of each other. The big new arrival in town is the Grand Adirondack Hotel , a stylish revamp of a historic Main Street hotel.

Planning tip: A few flights run from Boston and New York's JFK airport to Adirondack Regional Airport , 17 miles northwest of Lake Placid, but most visitors drive (NYC is five hours away). Alternatively, take the Amtrak train to Westport, connecting to a bus to Lake Placid.

Best for sports fans and spicy wings

Now there might be a little bias here: Buffalo is my hometown, and to say I love it is an understatement. Located in the western part of the state, the “city of good neighbors” went through a serious glow-up phase over the last 10 years, and it's filled with historic architecture, such as Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House and the art deco Buffalo Central Terminal.

Go zip-lining over the city at Buffalo Riverworks , or enjoy margaritas at Casa Azul or Breezy Burrito Bar in Elmwood Village, which is filled with local boutique shops and hosts one of the best farmers markets in the area – the Elmwood Village Farmers' Market , held on Saturdays on Bidwell Parkway. Formerly a rundown waterfront, the Canalside district has ice bikes to rent in the winter and a bike ferry that goes to the outer harbor, where you can see the Buffalo Main Lighthouse.

If you’re here in the fall, definitely try to grab tickets to a Buffalo Bills NFL game. The tailgate party is an experience like no other, and the Bills' fanbase is known for taking tailgating a little too far…in the best way. It's unclear who started the whole tradition of breaking tables, but it’s become so popular that they even do a baby-friendly version. During a wildcard Bills game in Houston, folding tables were completely sold out at Walmart stores in town!

The food in Buffalo is unbelievable. Try Toutant for gourmet southern cuisine, Remington Tavern and Seafood Exchange for fresh seafood, East Aurora's Bar-Bill and Amherst's Wingnutz for wings, and Jay's Artisan Pizzeria and La Nova for pizzas. For hotels, be sure to check out the Curtiss Hotel , which has an incredible pool and rooftop bar.

Detour: While you're in Buffalo, it makes sense to tack on a detour to Niagara Falls . The famous cascade is less than an hour's drive north from downtown Buffalo.

8. Canandaigua

Best for laid-back lake views

The fourth-largest of the Finger Lakes , Canandaigua is picturesque and peaceful. The lakefront city of Canandaigua is filled with charm and entertainment, with a main strip full of pastel Queen Anne homes, stone churches and storefronts showcasing weathered vintage signage.

I highly recommend staying at Lake House Canandaigua – it’s the perfect way to enjoy beautiful views of the lake, within walking distance of the colorful boathouses at the Canandaigua City Pier. In summer, check out Roseland Wake Park to learn a new water sport…minus the boat.

For food, Rio Tomatlan has the most delicious tacos and guacamole, as well as amazing cocktails like the Cachonda, made with tequila, triple sec, house-made hibiscus syrup and freshly squeezed lime juice – ask for it spicy!

Be sure to stop by Cheshire Farms Creamery to grab a box of cinnamon buns to go (pop them in the trunk of your car so you don’t eat them all on the way home). The creamery is also known for its ice cream, featuring natural flavors such as fresh Concord grape, made from grapes harvested here in the fall.

9. Sleepy Hollow

Best for a spooky vibe

Sleepy Hollow, about an hour from New York City, is the perfect place to visit in the fall. The town has a spooky tie to Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and fully embraces the lore of this creepy tale – so much so that the town changed its name from North Tarrytown in the late 1990s.

Explore the Old Dutch Church, visit the Headless Horseman Bridge and grab a photo with the Headless Horseman statue before delving into more of what the area has to offer, such as the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, once a half-mile offshore but accessible today via a footbridge.

I highly recommend staying at the Tarrytown House Estate , ideally in the King's Mansion. Its rooms are amazing, covered in art, with a terrace leading out to views of the Hudson (and the lights of New York City on a clear night). Grab dinner at the hotel's Cantonese and pan-Asian restaurant, Goosefeather , owned by celebrity chef Dale Talde.

Planning tip: Tarrytown Station has regular train connections with NYC via the Hudson Line of the Metro-North Railroad, a journey of less than an hour.

10. Lake George

Best for fall colors

Located in the vast Adirondacks region, Lake George is such a special place, especially in the fall, when the region overflows with brightly colored red, orange and yellow foliage. Enjoy the kitschy souvenir shops that dot the main strip through downtown, or grab a scoop (or two) at the aptly named Scoop’s Ice Cream Parlor.

You can’t go wrong at any of the town’s restaurants. Cate's Italian Garden has classics such as fried calamari and lasagna, the Algonquin Restaurant (just north at Bolton Landing) has a killer lobster roll, and the Log Jam has generous portions of pub-style comfort food, steak and lamb chops.

The Sagamore Hotel is the place to stay, no competition. The hotel is just stunning, with gorgeous views, especially if you splurge for a suite with a terrace. You can spend all night on that balcony, overlooking views of Lake George that seriously feel like Hawaii, not New York. Amenities aren't bad either, including two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a hot tub and easy access to Lake George, where you can float on inner tubes or go for a swim.

Detour: Drive a little off the beaten path to find Adirondack ATV Tours , close to the town of Whitehall, where you can head out with a group on an ATV tour, and go racing through mud, dirt and hills and over jumps – after a safety briefing, of course.

This article was first published Jan 4, 2022 and updated Sep 16, 2023.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » New York (NY) » 25 Best Things to Do in New York (State)

25 Best Things to Do in New York (State)

Despite the natural beauty and charm of New York State, it remains firmly in the shadow of the city with which it shares its name. When somebody says the words “New York” it conjures images of skyscrapers, shopping, busy streets and yellow cabs but the state of New York has so much to offer in addition. Canyons, lakes, mountains, creeks, rivers and waterfalls provide some of the most beautiful terrain mother earth has to offer. The vast Adirondack Mountains offer some of the United States most tantalizing scenery.

The city of New York certainly has a lot to offer but there is also so much to see and experience in New York State . Our list of the top 25 things to do in New York combines the best of nature and urban sights to provide a definitive list of activities in The Empire State.

1. The Adirondacks

This scenic range of forest covered hills are part of the Canadian Shield and reach a height of 5345 feet at the highest peak Mount Marcy. The park is a beautiful place to enjoy nature and various activities such as canoeing on the lakes and hiking. There are also a number of lakeside cabins in the park, which are a great place for an relaxing vacation. The Adirondacks is particularly beautiful in fall due to the colour of the autumnal trees.

2. Thousand Islands

Extending from the Adirondacks along the St Lawrence river is a 50 mile stretch of thousands of small islands. Cruises along the river are highly recommended and give sightseers the chance to navigate this labyrinth of attractive islands. The tours operate during the summer months highlighting not only the natural beauty of the area but also some of the extravagant holiday villas on the islands.

3. George Eastman House

George Eastman House is a stunning 50-room mansion located in Rochester . The impressive building was completed in 1905 and has been restored to its appearance in photographs from this time period, allowing visitors to experience this grand house as it would have been 100 years ago. The reputable International Museum of Photography and Film is located within the grounds of the house and is highly recommended for those with a passion for photography.

4. Watkins Glen State Park

This park, containing 18 waterfalls, is situated at the southernmost tip of Seneca Lake. Once one of the state’s leading salt producers due to its natural salt wells, the park is popular in summer for hiking as well as car racing. The rock formations within the park often mesmerize visitors and reach heights of 300 feet above the stream flowing below. There is also a nerve wracking 165 foot high bridge traversing the water.

5. Statue of Liberty

One of America’s, or maybe even the world’s, most recognizable landmarks. The Statue was completed in 1886 and was a gift to the United States from the people of France. For close up views of this enormous statue, a ferry trip to Liberty Island will need to be taken. Battery Park also offers great views from afar. No trip to the state of New York is complete without seeing this iconic figure.

6. Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls are one of the most visited natural wonders in the USA and draw millions of tourists every year. The name actually refers to three separate waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. Each minute, around four million cubic meters of water cascades from the waterfalls on its way to the nearby Atlantic Ocean. There are plenty of ways to see the falls including walkways above the water, a boat trip to the bottom or even an extravagant helicopter ride.

7. Finger Lakes

Theses lakes, formed by the impression of a great spirit according to local legend, provide a stunning backdrop for a wide range of outdoor pursuits. The Finger Lakes are made up from a number of different lakes as well as towns and resorts. The area can get busy during the summer months but offers a few brilliant hiking trails, which are well worth undertaking.

8. Lake Placid

This beautiful lake located in Essex County, is a world famous winter sports resort and has hosted the winter Olympics twice. Despite being known worldwide for its winter recreational activities, the town is very popular in the summer also. The main tourist strip in the town is home to a wide variety of interesting shops and plenty of restaurants. As well as the lake known as Lake Placid, the town is also home to the beautiful mirror lake, which should not be missed by visitors.

9. Lake George

Lake George is a town that shares a name with the lake upon which it is located. The town, along with the 32-mile long lake, is a major New York tourist attraction and offers a great range of outdoor activities in the summer. The town is home to a number of historical sights such as the Fort William Henry Museum and Lake George Battlefield Park. Many of the islands on the lake can be camped on and sightseeing tours by boat are very popular. Prospect Mountain offers spectacular panoramic views and is a great way to see the lake from above.

10. Letchworth State Park

The Letchworth State Park is another naturally beautiful area in the State of New York. It is home to three waterfalls along the Genesee River Gorge. The park is a great place for camping and also offers a range of holiday cabins. A days hiking within this striking park or a less physically demanding picnic are both truly memorable experiences.

11. Darwin D. Martin House Complex

This multi-structure complex was built in 1904 by Frank Lloyd Wright after being commissioned by Darwin and Isabelle Martin. Located in Buffalo , the house is considered to be Wright’s finest work. Basic or in-depth tours are available to the public and help guests to understand and appreciate the building and its construction. Currently, works are being undertaken to restore several areas of estate that were previously torn down.

12. Empire State Building

It is hard to imagine visiting New York without visiting this iconic skyscraper. The 102-story skyscraper is situated in Midtown Manhattan and has an observation deck that provides some of the best views of the city of New York. The Otis Elevator in the building shows the current altitude as it ascends instead of showing passing floors. Interestingly, it took the Landmarks Preservation Commission 18 months to restore the building’s lobby to its original 1930s design whereas the building only took 13 months to build.

13. Central Park

This park in Manhattan serves as a tranquil oasis in the every busy city of New York. The densely wooded park is home to several historic and beautiful buildings such as the whimsical lookout point Belverdere Castle and the Ladies Pavillion, a charming example of 19th century American art décor. Informative tours of the park are available and events are staged here throughout the year.

14. Brooklyn Bridge

This New York icon was opened in 1883 and was the world’s first steel suspension bridge. Despite its troubled construction, the bridge was instantly popular with artists, writers and poets, proving to be a superb showcase of urban design. The pedestrian walkway offers great views of Manhattan, beware of cyclists using the adjacent lanes however as they are know to get nasty towards tourists crossing into their designated cycling lane. The two support towers offer views and panoramic histories of the waterfront.

15. The Lincoln Centre

Built in the 1960’s, the Lincoln Centre is home to some of the most important performance spaces in Manhattan including the David H Koch Theatre (home of the New York City ballet) and the Metropolitan Opera House with its beautifully painted wall murals. There are usually at least 10 performances in the Lincoln Centre on any given night and even more in the summer when outdoor stages are erected. For those interested in the building but not the performances, tours run daily for the Opera House and Alice Tully Hall.

16. Museum Of The Moving Image

This freshly upgraded (at a cost of $65 million) museum is without doubt one of the best film and TV museums in the world. It has a collection of over 130,000 film and TV artifacts including Cleopatra’s wig and the Exorcist stunt doll. Visitors to the museum can also put their video editing skills to the test by re-dubbing a scene from the Wizard of Oz movie and admire a large selection of vintage televisions, cameras and even arcade games.

17. The Rockefeller Centre

This so-called city within a city consists of 19 buildings in a 22-acre area. The Rockefeller centre is home to a wide variety of shops and restaurants and of course the Top Of The Rock Observation deck that offers incredible views of the Manhattan cityscape. The observation deck allows you to see one impressive landmark that cannot be spotted from the Empire State Building; the Empire State Building itself. From the Rockefeller top deck, the Empire State Building looks particularly spectacular at night with its signature lighting on the top quarter of the building’s exterior.

18. Governors Island

For 200 years, this former military outpost was off limits to the public, however it is now one of New York’s most popular seasonal attractions. The island served as a military fort throughout the Revolutionary War and was the take off point for Wilbur Wrights flight around the Statue of Liberty in 1909. Free ferry trips are available to the 172-acre oasis, which offers a lush 8-acre picnic area and a bicycle path covering the entire perimeter of the island. Yearly events include the popular art festival Figment as well as a number of live concerts and parties.

19. Coney Island

Tracing its roots back to the mid 1800’s when the city’s inhabitants were becoming increasingly restless during the hot summer months in the city, this famous island became a popular resort area for the working class by the arrival of the 20th century, before falling out of favor and becoming a more rough and ready party destination, referred to as some as “Sodom By The Sea”. The area slowly improved its reputation during the 20th Century and added a plethora of family rides. Many of the parks attractions are still open to ride today including roller-coasters and the “Wonder Wheel”. The island also has plenty of popular places to eat and hosts an annual Mermaid Parade.

20. The American Museum of Natural History

First opened in 1869, this museum currently boasts a collection of a whopping 30 million artifacts including complete dinosaur skeletons, a state of the art planetarium and even a seasonal butterfly house. There are 600 fossil skeletons on display including a mammoth and t-rex. The Rose Centre in the museum provides space theater shows that are both informative and spectacular to watch.

21. The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is both the biggest and the oldest in the United States. Visited by 2 million people every year, the zoo accommodates over 4000 animals. As it such a popular attraction the zoo can get very busy in July and August but it is big enough to not get to cramped and competitive. Feeding times offer a great chance to see the animals and are at regular intervals throughout each day. The popular 6.5-acre Congo Gorilla Forest exhibit costs extra but the price of the ticket is donated to conservation projects in the Conga.

22. The Cloisters

Made up of various European monasteries and other historic buildings, the Cloisters somewhat resemble an architectural jigsaw. They were built in the 1930s to house various objects and artefacts from the Metropolitan Museum. There are many treasures to be found on Hudson Hill within the Cloister’s romantic courtyard including 16th century tapestries and the Cloister Gardens. Entry is free but donations are suggested.

23. The High Line

This linear park built on a disused section of elevated railroad track offers the unique chance to sit, stroll and picnic high above the city streets. The quirky attraction has big wooden sun lounging chairs, beautifully landscaped gardens and great views of the Hudson River. The High Line is a great place for an evening stroll and offers great views of the New York city lights.

24. Ausable Chasm

Billed as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, the Ausable Chasm was formed over 15,000 years ago during an ice age. The spectacular terrain that remains is perfect for rafting, bike riding, rock-climbing and rappelling. There are also tours available for those looking to learn more about the forming of this spectacular natural phenomenon.

25. Corning Museum of Glass

The charming town of Corning is home to the Corning Glass Works and the exciting Corning Museum of Glass. The huge complex has various enlightening exhibits on glass making as well as demonstrations and interactive activities for children.

25 Best Things to Do in New York (State):

• The Adirondacks
• Thousand Islands
• George Eastman House
• Watkins Glen State Park
• Statue of Liberty
• Niagara Falls
• Finger Lakes
• Lake Placid
• Lake George
• Letchworth State Park
• Darwin D. Martin House Complex
• Empire State Building
• Central Park
• Brooklyn Bridge
• The Lincoln Centre
• Museum Of The Moving Image
• The Rockefeller Centre
• Governors Island
• Coney Island
• The American Museum of Natural History
• The Bronx Zoo
• The Cloisters
• The High Line
• Ausable Chasm
• Corning Museum of Glass

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The Top Destinations in New York State

When people hear “New York,” it’s natural to think of New York City . But New York State covers 54,556 square miles and is full of incredible things to see and do. From pristine beaches to stunning gorges and canyons to quaint mountain towns to picturesque islands, New York State has so much to offer. These are the top 13 places to go in New York State.

Finger Lakes Region

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The Finger Lakes region consists of 11 lakes between Syracuse, Rochester, and Elmira-Corning in Upstate New York: Canadice, Cayuga, Canandaigua, Conesus, Hemlock, Honeoye, Keuka, Otisco, Owasco, Seneca, and Skaneateles. While some lakes are larger than others, they’re all surrounded by charming towns and plenty of wineries.

Stroll through the town of Skaneateles (pronounced SKAN-e-atlas), stopping at Skaneateles Bakery for some of their freshly made doughnuts to munch on as you stroll down the pier and walk along the lake. Go for a boat ride with Mid-Lakes Navigation Company —you can even help the Barbara S. Wiles mail boat deliver mail to lakeside homes. Head to Seneca Falls to visit the historic Women’s Rights National Historic Park , where the first women’s rights convention was held in 1848. Seneca Lake is great for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and the town of Geneva at the top of the lake is home to farm-to-table restaurants like FLX Table and Kindred Fare. Explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , visiting vineyards like Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, Red Tail Ridge Winery, and Fox Run Vineyards.

Canandaigua Lake is home to the chic hotel The Lake House on Canandaigua , which boasts a lakefront pool and hot tub, and kayaks and a yacht for tooling around the lake among other luxurious amenities. Stop in Naples to sample their famous grape pie on the way to Watkins Glen State Park to see incredible waterfalls and canyons.

North Fork, Long Island

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The North Fork of Long Island is often overshadowed by the South Fork, also known as the Hamptons. But The North Fork also has stunning beaches that are often less crowded, as well as picturesque farmland and vineyards. The town of Greenport has excellent restaurants, cafés, and boutiques perfect for window (or real) shopping and from there you can catch the ferry to Shelter Island.

Charter a boat or rent a kayak, paddleboard, or Jet Ski with Peconic Water Sports. Sip some wines at some of New York’s best wineries including Macari Vineyards, Pindar Winery, and Sparkling Pointe. Visit farms like Sang Lee Farms for fantastic produce, 8 Hands Farm to see their Icelandic sheep, Patty’s Berries and Bunches for berry picking, beautiful flowers, and fresh-made ice cream using farm ingredients, and Lavender by the Bay for Instagram-ready lavender fields that will make you think you’re in Provence . Stay at the breezy Lin Beach House , a cross between a hotel and an Airbnb that’s also home to the bar Days Like These, which features spirits from Matchbook Distilling Company, a craft distillery in Greenport by the same owners.

Niagara Falls

 kris1138 / Getty Images

Although the Canadian side of the mammoth falls is often more popular, the New York side is also stunning. To get your first glimpse of the falls, head to Goat Island inside Niagara Falls State Park . There are several observation points on the rim of the falls accessible by multiple paved walkways, views of the river rapids above the falls, and plenty of places to enjoy a picnic. Leave time to explore Cave of the Winds, where wooden staircases and paths bring you to the bottom of the smallest waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls—be prepared to get wet! And don’t forget to book a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat to get up close to the crashing falls. There are also various hiking trails with breathtaking views to explore in the park. Later, explore the nearby Niagara Wine Trail , which has more than 20 wineries.

Hudson Valley

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New York’s mighty Hudson River runs through a large chunk of the state north of New York City, with a particularly lush valley surrounding the river in Dutchess, Rockland, Westchester, Ulster, and Orange counties. The Hudson Valley region runs along the river, from the Capital District south to Yonkers and is dotted with charming towns especially popular for weekend getaways by city dwellers. The region includes the former capital of New York, Kingston , which has experienced a renaissance lately with a slew of chic boutiques, restaurants, and hotels.

Further north is the town of Hudson , a popular relocation spot for New York City chefs, giving it an impressive food scene. Just outside Hudson is Olana , a historic house with gorgeous grounds open to the public, and Art Omi , a sculpture garden museum featuring modern art.

Rhinebeck , another popular destination, is home to the beloved Bread Alone café, as well as one of three locations of the French-inspired Mirbeau Inn & Spa . Beacon , which is accessible by the Metro North train from the city, is a popular day trip, thanks to the DIA:Beacon modern art museum, and the refurbished movie house, Story Screen Beacon Theater. Poughkeepsie is a larger city and the home to Walkway Over the Hudson , a stunning pedestrian bridge over the river. Just north of there in Hyde Park is the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site , which also contains his presidential library.

Smaller charming towns worth strolling down their Main streets include New Paltz , Tivoli, Red Hook, Catskill, Athens, Leeds, and Coxsackie. There is also spectacular hiking in the region, including areas like Cold Spring, Bear Mountain, Breakneck Ridge, and the Shawangunk Mountains.

Lake Placid and Adirondack Park

TripSavvy / Tanya Nikolic

The town of Lake Placid is not actually on the body of water called Lake Placid—that’s a few miles away. Instead, the town is on Mirror Lake and it offers gorgeous views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains beyond. The area was home to two winter Olympics and the Lake Placid Olympic Center , which has a museum, is worth a visit. There’s also the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex and the Lake Placid Bobsled Experience if you’re a bit a of a daredevil. Otherwise, you can ski or mountain bike Whiteface Mountain , or simply skip the athletics altogether and enjoy the quaint town’s shopping, restaurants, and bars, which boast an après ski scene in winter.

North of town is the lake called Lake Placid where you can take out a boat and enjoy the peaceful calm. Nearby is the massive Adirondack Park with miles of hiking trails that cross the Adirondack High Peaks, thousands of rivers and ponds, and the spectacular Ausable Chasm, a deep gorge with the Ausable River running through it. Most of New York State's Forest Preserve is located in the Adirondacks, which is the largest protected wilderness area east of the Mississippi at 6 million acres.

Letchworth State Park

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Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth is a 14,427-acre, 17-mile long park in northwestern New York and is one of the state's most beautiful parks . There are 66 miles of trails, more than 50 waterfalls, and the flowing Genesee River, which runs through the gorge and over three impressive falls, the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. The rock walls from the gorge rise up as high as 550 feet in some places, hence the Grand Canyon nickname. Hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning, as well as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in winter are some of the activities to do in the park. Be sure to take a break at the Glen Iris Inn inside the park, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Hamptons

 Robert Harding Productions / Getty Images 

Although the Hamptons are often an over-hyped playground for the wealthy, it also happens to be one of the most beautiful areas of New York. Located at the eastern end of Long Island, the Hamptons encompass dozens of pristine beaches and quaint seashore towns. From Sag Harbor to Bridgehampton to Amagansett, expect small town nautical vibes peppered with oceanfront mansions and restaurants serving top-quality seafood, among other dishes. There’s also a bunch of farms and wineries worth visiting, as well as the world-class Parrish Art Museum. At the very end is Montauk , a larger town with a bit more of a party scene that’s also home to the Montauk Point State Park and its resident lighthouse .

Livingston Manor

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This tiny town embodies the ideal Catskills destination, complete with scenic hiking and snowshoeing trails, fly fishing (it’s actually the birthplace of fly fishing in the U.S.) on Willowemoc Creek, a historic covered bridge, stylish yet comfortable independent hotels ( The DeBruce , Antrim Streamside , and the Arnold House ), and a main street filled with chic home goods stores (Nest and Life Repurposed), antique stores (Taylor + Ace), outdoor sporting goods stores (Morgan Outdoors, Fur, Fin & Feather, and Dette Flies), a farm-to-table market (Main Street Farm), well-executed restaurants (The Kaatskeller and The Smoke Joint), a cozy wine bar (Sunshine Colony), and a brewery (Upward Brewing Company) perched on a massive property a bit farther up the road. For a real treat, book the tasting menu at the DeBruce for an upscale meal using local and seasonal ingredients in creative and delicious ways.

Mario Tama / Getty Images

Although it’s not actually the site of the infamous 1969 music festival (that happened about 70 miles south in Bethel ), the town of Woodstock is a funky town that makes an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding Catskills region. The town itself has two streams running through it and is host to a vegetarian-, artist-, and hippie-friendly scene, though it also has several upscale spots these days along Tinker Street (the town’s main drag). Check out restaurants like Dixon Roadside, Cucina, Silvia, Oriole 9, Tinker Taco Lab, Bread Alone, and Garden Cafe, and buy craft chocolate at Fruition. Visit boutiques like Three Turtle Doves, Candlestock, and Shop Little House, galleries like the Center of Photography, and buy books at the Golden Notebook. Woodstock also has some great hiking trails, including Overlook Mountain, which passes through hauntingly beautiful hotel ruins before reaching the top of the mountain, which has a fire tower you can climb for 360-degree views. To get your music fix, visit Levon Helms Studio , a barn venue that was the home and recording studio of the famous drummer that has attracted the likes of Elvis Costello, Phil Lesh, Dr. John, and Emmylou Harris to play there. One town over is Phoenicia, well worth the trip for a visit to the famous Phoenicia Diner, known for its delicious farm-fresh comfort food.

 Davel5957 / Getty Images

A former industry city, today Rochester is a delightful city on the northern end of the Finger Lakes. Highlights include the George Eastman Museum , a photography museum devoted to the founder of Kodak; the Strong National Museum of Play, an interactive museum dedicated to toys and games; the Susan B. Anthony House , the home of the suffragette that’s now a museum; Rochester City Public Market, a massive farmers market with vendors from across the region; and Highland Park , a beautiful landscaped park that hosts annual flower festivals like the one devoted to the signature lilac.

Saratoga Springs

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Saratoga Springs , 35 miles north of Albany, is known for its famous horse racetrack and thoroughbred horse breeding, its healing natural mineral waters, and its lovely Queen Anne and Greek Revival architecture. The Saratoga Racecourse is definitely worth visiting, especially if you can take in a race. Another highlight is Saratoga Spa State Park , which is listed as a National Historic Landmark. There, you can stroll along stream-side trails, do a self-guided or expert-guided tour of various springs inside the park, and have a swim in the Peerless Pool Complex or Victoria Pool, the first heated pool in the country. The most famous mineral spring in Saratoga Springs is the Congress Spring inside Congress Park, which has several other springs and a 120-year-old carousel. Other attractions include the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame , Yaddo Gardens , Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College, and the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame . Spend the night at the historic Saratoga Arms or the recently revamped Adelphi Hotel .

Shelter Island

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This small island situated between the north and south forks of Long Island is a tiny oasis reachable only by ferry (it’s only 10 minutes long though). Shelter Island has various beaches as well as several freshwater ponds ideal for swimming or paddle boarding in. You can also bike around the island, hike in the Mashomack Preserve, and rent kayaks to explore the Coecles Harbor Marine Water Trail, watching for osprey and egrets along the way. Dine out at 18 Bay or Vine Street Café or pick up produce to cook at home at the farm stand at Sylvestor Manor Educational Farm. Ice cream at the Tuck Shop for dessert is a must.

Thousand Islands

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An archipelago of more than 1,800 islands in the St. Lawrence River, straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada, the Thousand Islands offer scenic waterways to explore. Boldt Castle , the circa 1900 mansion of George C. Boldt on Heart Island is a must see and the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton is another favorite. Of course, boating and fishing are popular pastimes, and there are hundreds of lighthouses to see. Be sure and bring your passport just in case you want to hop over to one of the Canadian islands.

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15 Best Things to Do in New York State + MAP

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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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Discover the World

23 Best Things to Do in New York State

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on June 27, 2024

A delightfully diverse place, New York State is much more than just the bright lights, entertainment and attractions of the Big Apple. Exploring ‘The City That Never Sleeps’ is a must, but visitors that venture further afield will come across wonderful wineries, waterfalls and wilderness.

The untamed Adirondacks, for instance, offer awesome outdoor activities while the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes contain countless wineries. The latter also has fun water sports to try, as do the Hamptons and Thousand Islands. While these are all home to stupendous scenery, the iconic Niagara Falls is undoubtedly the state’s standout natural sight.

Besides major cities such as Buffalo and Rochester, famed holiday destinations, such as Lake Placid and The Catskills also offer plenty of things to do in New York State. Add in NYC’s top-class museums and tourist attractions and the Empire State really does have it all.

23. Brooklyn Bridge

One of New York City ‘s unmissable landmarks is the beloved Brooklyn Bridge. Used by thousands of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists each day, it boasts sweeping views over the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines.

Built between 1869 and 1883, the stupendous suspension bridge connects the two famous boroughs together. Spanning 6,016 feet in length across the East River, it showcases a unique stone and steel design. From its giant Gothic Revival towers stretch long, thick cables while an elevated pedestrian walkway runs above its busy roads.

An architectural and engineering marvel, the National Historic Landmark has appeared in countless films, TV shows and artworks over the years. From its promenade, you can snap fabulous photos of the harbor, boroughs, and the bridge itself.

22. Saratoga Race Course

On the southeastern outskirts of Saratoga Springs you can find one of the most revered race tracks in the nation. Since 1863, thrilling Thoroughbred horse races have been held at the hallowed course from July through to September.

Often listed among the world’s greatest sporting venues, its dirt and turf tracks are lined by gigantic, historic grandstands. As well as seats and suites, restaurants and bars look out over the horses racing neck and neck down below. During the summer season, all kinds of high-stakes races take place six days a week.

Besides watching a race, visitors can take tours around the Saratoga Race Course. As you wander about its paddocks and Hall of Fame, you’ll learn all about the rich history and heritage of the race track.

21. The Hamptons

Long a popular haunt and holiday destination of wealthy New Yorkers, The Hamptons lie at the east end of Long Island. Strung out along its South Fork are a series of scenic seaside towns and villages to visit.

Home to expensive beach houses and exclusive country clubs, the affluent area includes some of the most valuable real estate in the country. Here you’ll find high-end restaurants, luxury boutiques and local art galleries with trendy bars and chic yacht clubs.

While beautiful beaches hug the Atlantic, the interior is mostly made up of pristine farmland. Splendid state parks can also be found along the coast that offer fun outdoor activities and relaxing recreation opportunities.

20. Ausable Chasm

An amazing natural phenomenon, the enormous Ausable Chasm has awed and inspired tourists ever since the 1870s. Nestled in the northeast of the state, not far from Lake Champlain, its snaking river and sheer sandstone cliffs certainly make for a spectacular sight.

Formed over millennia, the gigantic gorge stretches about two miles in total and rises around the rushing Ausable River. Sometimes called the ‘Little Grand Canyon of the East’, its rough waters are lined by fantastic falls and rock formations.

While epic views and photos can be enjoyed from its bridge, more adventurous visitors may want to rock climb or raft along the river. A more peaceful, yet no less picturesque pastime, is hiking atop the chasm’s steep sides.

19. The Catskills

Home to stunning landscapes, The Catskills are another very popular place to explore. Within an hour’s drive of New York City, you can find yourself among the rugged mountain range’s wild and rural spaces.

Due to the serene and secluded nature, many people come to hike, bike and camp amidst its vast forests and valleys. Outstanding winter sports and wildlife watching can also be had while its rivers and lakes lend themselves perfectly to fishing and rafting.

Besides experiencing the great outdoors, The Catskills also have plenty of little towns and villages to check out. The most famous of these include Woodstock, Windham and Kingston, which was once New York’s state capital.

18. Cooperstown

Situated at the southern end of Otsego Lake is the quiet and quaint village of Cooperstown. A lovely little place, it is most known for being home to the brilliant National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

While this is undoubtedly its top attraction , the small settlement actually has much more to see and do. Founded in 1786, it has a very well-preserved historic district to explore packed with centuries-old buildings, businesses and monuments. Alongside all its attractive architecture are several small museums and art galleries to visit.

In addition to exploring its history and culture, you can hike and bike along the lakeshore or enjoy swimming, fishing and boating. One of the best times to visit is in summer when the Glimmerglass Opera Festival takes place.

17. Robert Treman State Park

With wonderful waterfalls and views wherever you go, Robert Treman State Park certainly makes for a great day out. As it lies just outside of Ithaca, visiting the idyllic nature spot can easily be combined with the breathtaking Buttermilk Falls nearby.

Created in 1920, the park is named after the man who purchased the land, planted hundreds of trees and preserved it for future generations. While a valley, woods and rock formations make up most of its territory, it also has a swimming hole where you can take a refreshing dip.

The highlight, however, is its delightful gorge trail which takes you past twelve twinkling waterfalls. The most impressive is the 115 ft Lucifer Falls with Devil’s Kitchen also attracting lots of plaudits.

16. Thousand Islands

Straddling the US-Canada border in the north center of the state is the incredible archipelago of the Thousand Islands. Long a favorite vacation spot of the rich and famous, its innumerable isles offer up rest, relaxation and recreation in a picture-perfect setting.

Numbering 1,864 in total, its islands lie at the spellbinding spot where the St. Lawrence River meets Lake Ontario. While some are simply rocky outcroppings with a solitary tree, others house historic villages, holiday homes and nature reserves.

On boat tours about its bays, you can spy massive and majestic mansions such as Boldt Castle and Singer Castle tucked away on private islands. Aside from seeing how the one percent live, you can also hike and bike about the islands’ parks or sail around their waters yourselves.

15. Strong National Museum of Play

Both educational and entertaining, the superb Strong National Museum of Play can be found in the heart of Rochester . Ideal for families with young children, it contains hundreds of interactive exhibits and has countless hands-on activities and experiments to try out.

First opened to the public in 1982, its ginormous galleries now occupy a large modern building in downtown. Originally dedicated to interpreting the social and cultural history of average Americans, its collection now instead focuses on the past, present and future of play. While some sections look at storybooks and TV shows, others cover carousels, comic books and video games.

Kids and adults can also explore Sesame Street sets and enter the world of the Berenstain Bears. As well as building things, you can amble around its aquarium and see rooms full of colorful toys.

14. Watkins Glen State Park

Lying at the southern end of Seneca Lake you can find the cascading waterfalls and dramatic rocky cliffs of Watkins Glen State Park. Part of the Finger Lakes Region, it has some awesome views and exciting outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Set just outside of the small village of the same name, its rugged realms and verdant woodlands are cut through by a long, narrow gorge. Formed during the last Ice Age, its craggy shale and sandstone cliffs really make for a striking sight. This is because nineteen sparkling waterfalls course their way down its walls while rapids line the gushing Glen Creek down below.

To get the best photos and views, you can hike along its rim or even descend into the gorge itself. A number of campsites are also dotted about the park as are playgrounds, picnic areas and pavilions.

13. Lake George

A top year-round tourist destination, the large and lovely Lake George lies tucked away amongst the Adirondacks. As well as lakeside activities and an amusement park, there are almost endless forests to explore and cozy cabins and campgrounds to stay at.

Stretching over thirty miles in length, its reflective waters lie directly north of both Saratoga Springs and Albany . Due to its sublime scenery, New Yorkers and out-of-staters alike come to relax, unwind and immerse themselves in nature. Its extensive outdoor activities include not just horseback riding and hiking but boating, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

On top of this, the town of Lake George has ample shops, restaurants and of course hotels with golf courses and local historical sights located nearby. In the cold winter months, visitors can also enjoy skiing and snowmobiling at its resorts.

12. Coney Island

For well over a century, residents of the Big Apple have flocked to Coney Island in search of some much-needed sun, sea and sand. Besides a bustling boardwalk and beautiful beach, it has charming old fairground rides, a pier and an aquarium to check out.

Now actually connected to Long Island, the seaside neighborhood makes up the southernmost part of Brooklyn. Easily accessed from downtown on the train, it has all kinds of enticing attractions and entertainment opportunities to enjoy. Its two amusement parks for instance house thrilling rides and rollercoasters and classic carnival games.

After taking a spin on the Coney Island Cyclone – a wonderful old wooden rollercoaster from 1927 – you can bask in sweeping views of Manhattan from atop the Wonder Wheel. Lounging on the beach with an ice cream in hand is another great way to relax. As is strolling along its pier and gazing out over the Atlantic.

11. Hudson Valley

Encompassing an enormous area, the Hudson Valley extends from Albany in the north to Westchester just outside of NYC. While much of it is rural, pockets of life and local farms and wineries can be found here and there.

Along both banks of the Hudson River are vast swathes of fertile farmland with bucolic landscapes on show wherever you go. As it is known for its agriculture and organic produce, many people visit its vineyards, orchards and fabulous farm-to-table eateries.

A foodie’s dream destination, its small towns and villages are full of local restaurants, artisanal food shops and farmers markets. Some interesting museums and historical sights are also scattered about while scenic drives, hikes and cycle rides can be enjoyed in the gorgeous countryside.

10. Metropolitan Museum of Art

As it is the largest museum in the Western Hemisphere, ‘the Met’ is definitely not to be missed when in New York City. Boasting a colossal collection of more than two million artworks and artifacts, its humongous galleries really are fascinating to peruse.

Located along the Museum Mile, the magnificent museum lies on the eastern edge of Central Park on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Established in 1870, it now displays masterpieces by Rembrandt, Picasso and Michelangelo among others alongside ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts.

Covering millennia of art history, its huge holdings range from ceramics and sculptures to drawings, paintings and furniture. Only adding to the experience is the elegant architecture of all its exhibition halls, cloisters and roof garden.

9. Fire Island

A long, thin strip of land, the scenic, serene and sandy Fire Island runs parallel to the South Shore of Long Island. While much is protected as part of its National Seashore , seasonal resort communities are strung out along the barrier island.

As most of its attractions, activities and hotels shut in winter, most people head to the isle during the sunny summer months. Then you can sunbathe, swim and sail at its protected beaches or surf on the rougher Atlantic side. Hiking, fishing and camping can also be enjoyed in its picturesque parks.

Home to some iconic gay resorts, the former whaling base has some interesting historic sights and impressive nature spots to see. These include the fantastic old Fire Island Light and atmospheric Sunken Forest.

8. Lake Placid

Nestled amidst the soaring Adirondacks alongside sparkling lakes is the popular year-round resort town of Lake Placid. While it offers endless outdoor pursuits, the charming village is particularly synonymous with snow sports. This is because it hosted both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics.

As such, a myriad of amazing Olympic sites and sports venues are dotted about town. Although still used by elite-level athletes, locals and tourists can skate, ski and bobsled around the state-of-the-art facilities. Its quaint center also hosts a marvelous museum packed with Olympic-related artifacts, exhibits and of course medals.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding in the mountains, you can hike and bike about while taking in its phenomenal vistas. In summer, visitors can also swim and kayak about its reflective lakes.

7. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Regularly ranked among his greatest works, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House really is a treat to tour around. Located just east of Delaware Park, its brilliant buildings and lush green gardens lie ten minutes’ drive from downtown Buffalo.

Built between 1902 and 1905, the huge house exhibits superb Prairie School architecture – the renowned architect’s signature style. Besides its unusually large size and open plan layout, the house is noted for its intricate details and designs. Fine furnishings and incredible art glass windows make its elegant interior a delight to explore.

After having wandered around the main Martin House, you can see some of the other buildings that dot the pretty property. These include not just a conservatory and carriage house but a pergola and a gardener’s cottage too.

6. Central Park

Acting as the green lung of New York City, the world-famous Central Park sprawls across a massive part of Manhattan. Surrounded on all sides by glinting skyscrapers, its lakes, meadows, woods and lawns offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city all around.

First opened in 1858, the enormous urban park now encompasses scenic spots like the Great Lawn, Sheep Meadow and the Lake. Winding their way amongst its plentiful ponds and playing fields are miles of paths and roads to walk, run or cycle along. You can also row about its waterways or catch shows and performances at its numerous stages.

Central Park is also home to top attractions such as Belvedere Castle, Central Park Zoo and the Met. With a staggering number of things to see and do, its gorgeous green confines are certainly not to be missed when in the Big Apple.

5. Finger Lakes

Another picture-perfect part of the state to hit up is the breathtaking Finger Lakes region just south of Lake Ontario. Known for their wineries and watersports, the eleven long, narrow lakes each have their own unique appeal and attractions.

Roughly oriented from north to south, the shimmering lakes were carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Lining their shores are numerous state parks and nature reserves where you can hike, bike and camp amidst the mountains and forests. Visitors can also kayak and sail around the lakes or fish and swim along the shoreline.

Dotting the region are well over a hundred wineries and countless distilleries to try out. While most towns in the Finger Lakes are very quiet and calm, lively nightlife can be found in larger cities and college towns such as Rochester and Ithaca.

4. Letchworth State Park

Also part of the Finger Lakes region is the stunning Letchworth State Park. Known for its delightful waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, it has outstanding outdoor activities for nature lovers to enjoy.

Centered around the Genesee River’s gorge you can find verdant woods, scenic viewpoints and over fifty wonderful waterfalls. As its walls are so steep and reach 550 feet in places, it is often called the ‘Grand Canyon of the East’. Particularly impressive are its three largest Upper, Middle and Lower Falls which make for some fabulous views and photos.

Besides basking in their beauty, you can raft along the river’s rapids, hike its seventy miles of trails and camp overnight. Thanks to the umpteen activities and spellbinding scenery, it is routinely ranked among the best state parks in the country.

3. Times Square

Emblazoned with bright lights and billboards, Times Square lies right in the heart of the Big Apple’s bustling Theater District. One of the most visited tourist attractions on Earth, it is referred to as both ‘The Crossroads of the World’ and ‘the Center of the Universe’.

Sprawled across five blocks of midtown Manhattan, the bowie-shaped space is bordered by themed restaurants, theaters and shops. As it is a major hub for art and commerce, entertainment and media, the sides of its skyscrapers are coated in flashing neon lights and dazzling advertisements.

While countless important landmarks and attractions lie nearby, simply walking about, taking in its energy and watching its superb street performers is an experience in itself. One of the most popular and packed times of year to visit is New Year’s Eve for the annual ball drop.

2. Niagara Falls

One of the world’s most spectacular natural sights, the incredible Niagara Falls straddles the US-Canada border. From both sides, guests can enjoy phenomenal views of the wide waterfalls with unforgettable boat trips taking you to the foot of their jet white waters.

Made up of three massive and majestic falls, it stretches over 3,000 feet in total with some parts towering more than 160 feet in height. By far the largest of these is Horsehoe Falls in Canada, with Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls falling on the US side.

Due to its sheer size, scale and splendor, Niagara Falls has long been a major attraction. Although the town itself is quite touristy and tacky, the waterfall doesn’t disappoint with its remarkable flow-rate, vertical drop and viewpoints.

1. Statue of Liberty

Arguably New York City’s most iconic sight, the Statue of Liberty has welcomed new arrivals to the country for well over a hundred years. One of the nation’s defining symbols, the stupendous copper statue rises imperiously above the harbor from its pedestal on Liberty Island.

Gifted by the people of France, the colossal figure of Lady Liberty was erected in 1886 to celebrate the centennial of the States. Towering 305 feet in total, she presides with a torch raised and crown on head over the surrounding waters. From atop the marvelous monument, you can drink in views of New York City’s sparkling skyline.

As well as taking tours of the island, you can also stop by the immersive museum before visiting nearby Ellis Island and learning about the history of immigration to the US.

Map of Things to Do in New York State

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The 85 best New York attractions that should be on your list

Discover the New York attractions locals love including historical landmarks, stunning NYC parks and more.

Our definitive guide to the best New York attractions is a great place to start whether you're entertaining out-of-town guests or simply want to channel your inner tourist. The list is a compilation of our favorite sights and spots in the city, including everything from great  parks  and  art museums , to food markets and historical venues. The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are obviously must-see attractions, but we’ve also highlighted a few of our favorite hidden gems, such as one of NYC's greatest flea markets , Hudson Yard's Vessel , and foodie haven Smorgasburg .

Thirsty for more?  🗽Discover the 50 very best things to do in NYC 🏡Take your pick of  the coolest Airbnbs in NYC 🛥Stay in  the best boat rentals in NYC   ⛴Or how about  the best boat tours in NYC ?

How do we know it's the best of the best? Our lists are expertly curated by our local experts far and wide to offer you the lowdown on where to go, what to eat and what to see. Btw, t his article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top New York attractions

1.  one world observatory.

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

Although the One World Observatory occupies floors 100 to 102 of the tallest building of the Western Hemisphere, this observation deck can be reached in just 60 seconds via a set of visually immersive 'Sky Pod' elevators. During the interactive tour experience, guests walk through some of the bedrock on which the building is built before entering the elevators, which are fitted with floor-to-ceiling LED screens showing a video of the city and building's history. Once at the top, the video concludes as the screen lifts up to reveal stunning 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline. Folks typically spend a couple of hours here including queuing time. 

Time Out tip: After soaking up the sights, head to One Café for casual fare, One Mix for small plates and cocktails or, the gem, One Dine for a full dining experience with large windows looking onto the horizon (reservations required). —Dan Q. Dao

2.  Madame Tussauds New York

• Sightseeing
• Midtown West
• price 4 of 4

When Madame Tussaud first started creating wax figures in Europe in the late 18th century, she immortalized figures from the bloody French Revolution, and later, in her first museum space on Baker Street, London she presented persons involved in sensational crimes. Now, over a 150 years after her death, Tussaud’s legacy lives on with museums in several major cities around the world. Yet, few can compare in either size or popularity with the five-story Times Square, New York edition. Folks hoping to take a memento home with them should splurge for the tickets that include your very own wax hand sculpture–you certainly can’t get something like that at every tourist attraction.

3.  Legoland New York

You know what we all need more of in our lives? Lego. Because, well, play is fun. And you’ll sure find a lot of Lego at this incredible New York attraction that is dedicated to the stuff. Well, kind of, because really it’s a very family-friendly amusement park that leans nicely on those little plastic bricks and all the pleasing vibes they bring. Plus, the rides are a lot of fun. Take the kids in your life and watch their smiles. Good times.

4.  The Frick Collection

• Art and design
• price 2 of 4

The opulent residence that houses a private collection of great masters (from the 14th through the 19th centuries) was originally built for industrialist Henry Clay Frick. The firm of Carrère & Hastings designed the 1914 structure in an 18th-century European style, with a beautiful interior court and reflecting pool. The permanent collections include world-class paintings, sculpture and furniture by the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, Renoir and French cabinetmaker Jean-Henri Riesener.

5.  Helicopter Tours

Fancy coasting around the Big Apple in a chopper? Well, now's your chance. There's arguably no better way to see New York City than flying high in the skies, right? Grab your camera – and your safety belt – sit back and relax as your pilot takes you over one of the most iconic skylines in the world. Not sure which one's the right one for you? Take a look at our top picks of the best helicopter tours in NYC to help you decide. 

6.  See a show on Broadway

Is it possible to visit New York City without catching a show on Broadway? We're not sure it is. It's one of the best ways to experience NYC in all of its live(ly) authenticity and as there are so many wonderful shows to catch, we rate you'll be pretty spoiled for choice. From emotional dramas to belly-laughing comedies, there's a show on Broadway for everyone. Get your glad rags on and head on down to the theater district. The lights are calling your name. 

Time Out tip: Grab a table at Osteria al Dodge for dinner for delicious Venetian-inspired cuisine ahead of the show.

7.  New York Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums
• Coney Island

Seen all you can on the streets of NYC and looking for an ocean-oriented activity? It's time to head to the New York Aquarium. Whether it's visiting the penguin habitat or working up your own appetite at feeding time, the  oldest aquarium in the US  has so much for you to discover. Be sure to check out the sea lion pool, the recreated reef, and the shark exploration tank – only if you dare.

8.  Westfield World Trade Center Oculus

• Shopping centers

The world’s most expensive train station , the Oculus serves the PATH train and 12 subway lines, and houses a beautiful mall inside of it. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the exterior resembles the skeleton of a whale, has white metal-clad steel ribs that reach up and out, which symbolize a hand releasing a dove. The structure is a lasting reminder of the attacks of September 11, 2001. It is in alignment with the sun’s solar angles on each September 11, from 8:46 am, when the first plane struck, until 10:28 am, when the second tower collapsed. Its central skylight fits this alignment and washes the Oculus floor with a beam of light. The new shopping center inside has stores like the Apple Store, Aesop, Kate Spade, John Varvatos and others. Dining includes Eataly, Gansevoort Market, Wasabi Sushi & Bento and more.

9.  Summit One Vanderbilt

• Midtown East

Summit One Vanderbilt sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper. As the city's fourth-tallest building after One World Trade Center, Central Park Tower and 111 West 57th Street, it is just west of Grand Central Terminal, where you first enter the experience underground. After a trip through a mirrored hallway with its own immersive elements, visitors take an elevator up to the 91st floor, where they're 1,000 feet over the streets and sidewalks of NYC. Kenzo Digital has created a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Looking above you and below you in this two-story space, you see your reflection repeating forever. After you ascend to the third level of this experience, guests are introduced to "Levitation," a series of transparent glass sky-boxes that jut out of the building at 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue. Here, you can stand over the street with just glass between you and the ground. It's certainly not for the faint of heart.

10.  RISENY

RISENY places thrill-seekers inside a 180-degree, 40-foot projection dome that plays 8K aerial footage to create the sensation of flight. (The ride is similar to Disneyland's "Soarin’ Over California" experience.)  The experience begins with a film by documentarians Ric Burns and James Sanders—narrated by everyone's fave actor Jeff Goldblum—that touches on NYC’s history, specifically Times Square and its global impact. Then visitors are taken to a re-creation of the city’s first subway station at City Hall circa 1904, which transforms into a fully immersive theater with visual and special effects. Eventually, a present-day subway car virtually transports guests to the galleries. While on the subway car, riders see NYC’s vibrant pop-cultural evolution through seven themed galleries— "Finance," "Skyline," "TV/Radio," "Fashion," "Music," "Broadway" and "Film"—that show off historic artifacts, star-studded memorabilia. Once they get through the galleries, visitors are finally whisked into the air, where they'll "soar" around NYC's landmarks (a rendering shows the Statue of Liberty) to a soundtrack with songs like Taylor Swift’s "Welcome to New York" and Frank Sinatra’s "Theme From New York." The full-motion seats will dip, turn, and soar while wind, mist, and scents are blown at riders' faces.

Time Out tip: Visting RISENY on the penultimate day of your NYC trip is the best way to end your trip. It's a real highlight.

11.  Edge Observation Deck

The highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere has landed at Hudson Yards. Sadly, the bird's-eye attraction dubbed Edge won't be open to the public until 2020. But judging by the rendering, it appears to be worth the wait—that is, if you’re not afraid of heights. The building’s outdoor terrace takes you 65-feet into the sky making it the highest public balcony in NYC. The deck not only features panoramic views of our city’s skyline but a killer vantage point below. Brave souls can stand on a large, see-through glass floor and wave to passerby 1,100 feet beneath. Much like the Top of the Rock concept at Rockefeller Center, there’s a 10,000-square-foot bar, restaurant and event space on the 101st floor.

12.  Citi Field

• Sports and fitness
• price 3 of 4

While they haven’t been as successful as their Bronx rivals in recent years, the Mets can certainly be happy about their stadium, which opened in 2009. With great sightlines, fun activities for kids and a prodigious selection of food and booze (including Shake Shack and Blue Smoke outposts), even those with the barest interest in the game will enjoy themselves at the park, which in recent years has also doubled as a concert venue with appearances by mega-stars like Paul McCartney and Nas.

13.  Little Island

• West Village

New York City’s hottest new attraction, Little Island, opened to the public in May 2021 and has since brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace. Open from 6am to 1am, the park is filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. While entry is free to the park throughout the day, entering between noon and close requires a reservation. For those feeling peckish, there are affordable food and drink options offered by Savory Hospitality. The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River, with a majority of the events being free throughout the summer. Every Monday night at 6pm, the theater hosts Savory Talks & Performances, a free dialogue around food sustainability and industry trends. The lineup includes local farms and sustainable meat and fish companies, discussing the future of food production, including "elements of storytelling and dance" from Perform in the Park artists.

14.  TWA Hotel

• Things to do

You can actually look forward to going to JFK International Airport because of this gorgeous, completely renovated TWA Terminal , which serves as a hotel, food and drink, and convention destination. The i nterior of Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 building exudes 1960s chic with 512 guest rooms that offer views of JFK’s runways, a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, a rooftop pool, and an observation deck. 

15.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials

It's practically impossible to imagine the sparkling New York skyline without the iconic Empire State Building. A famed piece of Art Deco architecture that took over 400 days to structurally complete, the skyscraper reaches an astonishing height of 1,454-feet—and while it's no longer the tallest building in New York, it held that title for several decades following its 1931 completion date. Visiting this illustrious landmark? Keep your eyes peeled for some of the finer details in the lobby (lovingly restored in 2009), as well as the incredibly impressive benefits from a $165m investment completed in 2019 (the second- and 80th-floor galleries really are something). Enjoy visions of the t opper’s three tiers of lights, which illuminate up to nine  colors  at a time and don't miss the rod at the top of the building, which is frequently hit by lightning—yep, you might see sparks (literally) fly.  Oh, and (of course) spend some time on the observation deck—the cityscape is ace, and the slick reservation system makes things seamless. Besides, the Empire State is open 365-days a year, so there's no reason to pass this one by.

16.  Brooklyn Bridge

• Historic buildings and sites

No mere river crossing, this span is an elegant reminder of New York’s history of architectural innovation. When it opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was a feat of engineering: It was the first structure to cross the East River and, at the time, the longest suspension bridge in the world. (It also made use of steel-wire cables, invented by the bridge’s original designer, John A. Roebling.) Now it attracts thousands of tourists and locals, who enjoy spectacular views of lower Manhattan and other city landmarks (such as the Statue of Liberty and Governors Island) as they stroll its more-than-mile-long expanse. Heads up, though: You may run into the occasional cyclist trying to navigate through the crowds on the pedestrian walkway.  —Amy Plitt

17.  Central Park

• Parks and gardens
• Central Park

To feel truly out of the city, head to the 38-acre wilderness area on the west side of the park known as the Ramble. The area has a storied history (as a gay cruising spot dating back to the turn of the last century, among other things), and it was even proposed as a recreational area in the mid-'50s. Thankfully, the winding trails, rocks, and streams remain, seemingly waiting to be discovered. If you want plenty of sunshine and more of a social vibe, spread out a blanket at Sheep's Meadow, where groups playing guitar and frisbee and tanning topless are sprawled out as far as the eye can see.

Time Out tip: Take your waterside picnic up a notch by hopping on a rowboat and enjoying the lake. Boat rentals go for around $25.

18.  Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center

• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

Let the world believe the Empire State Building has the best view of New York City–it keeps the crowds slightly more manageable at 30 Rockefeller Center’s spectacular open air observation deck. The bird’s eye view of Gotham from 70 stories up allows visitors to not only see other landmark skyscrapers around midtown–including the aforementioned Empire State building–but also to see the full sprawl of Central Park. Not quite as expensive as that other observation deck (Adults $38, seniors $36, children 6-12 $32), and for those who don't want to wait in line, there's a VIP ticket ($75) that gives guests the chance to skip lines and get priority elevator access. If you’re willing to splurge don’t forget to dress up and stop by the Rainbow Room–the historic lounge on the 65th floor–for exceptional cocktails, fine dining, live music and spectacular sightlines that rival the deck’s, albeit a few stories lower.

19.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

Lady Liberty—or Liberty Enlightening the World, as she’s officially known—was a gift from France on America’s 100th birthday. A universal symbol of freedom that welcomed over 10 million immigrants sailing past to Ellis Island during the turn of the 20th century, the copper-plated sentinel stands 305 feet tall from the bottom of her base to the tip of her torch. Reserve well in advance—three weeks or more—to see New York’s skyline from Liberty Island with access to the statue’s crown, and go earlier in the day if you want to also take the ferry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

20.  Vessel

• 3 out of 5 stars

New York’s ever-changing skyline has acquired another sky-high attraction for Gothamites to climb: Vessel. The 60-ton sculpture, located at sleek cultural destination Hudson Yards, resembles a honeycomb, although some New Yorkers joke it looks like a waste can. Others say the larger-than-life art installation designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick is New York’s version of the Eiffel Tour. We say it looks like a good excuse to exercise and Instagram. Visitors will climb the spiral staircase made up of 154 interconnecting staircases, almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings, and while the current sight of construction is less than ideal (the attraction just opened to the public on March 15), the various outlook points offer sweeping views of the Hudson River that will appear mighty dreamy at sunset.  Know before you go visiting and climbing Hudson Yards’ new jungle gym is free, but you must reserve a time slot and get tickets in advance. Every morning at 8am same-day tickets are up for grabs, if you cant get a reservation in advance.

Note: The Vessel is currently closed. Check its website for reopening plans. 

21.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Sprawling doesn’t even begin to describe this Manhattan institution: It’s one of the few spots in the city where you could spend literally an entire day and see only a fraction of the holdings. Behind the doors of its iconic neoclassical facade lie 17 curatorial collections spanning countless eras and cultural perspectives, from prehistoric Egyptian artifacts to contemporary photography. Those seeking to satisfy their anthropological curiosity can explore the extensive assemblage of musical instruments, weapons and armor or the Costume Institute’s centuries of wearable art. And for committed museumgoers who have made their way through the permanent collections—an admirable feat—special exhibitions merit return visits year after year. Recent blockbusters have examined the career of the late designer Alexander McQueen and featured the works of Pablo Picasso.  —Carolyn Stanley

22.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings

We won’t argue if you want to call this glimmering pinnacle of Art Deco architecture NYC’s most eye-popping skyscraper. Triangle-shaped windows in its crown are lined with lights, creating a beautiful effect come nighttime. Oozing a moneyed sophistication oft identified with old New York, the structure pays homage to its namesake with giant eagles (replicas of ones added to Chrysler automobiles in the 1920s) in lieu of traditional gargoyles and a brickwork relief sculpture of racing cars, complete with chrome hubcaps. During the famed three-way race to construct Manhattan’s tallest building, the Chrysler added a needle-sharp stainless-steel spire to best 40 Wall Street—but was outdone shortly after its completion in 1930 by the Empire State Building.  —Tim Lowery

23.  The High Line

When the weather is pleasant, there’s nothing quite like walking the High Line. NYC’s elevated park is certainly one of more popular New York attractions everyone needs to check off their list. To give you a bit of history, the High Line was once a railway line, in use until 1980. In 2009, the 1.45-mile-long strip was transformed into what is now considered one of the most unique parks in NYC. Featuring wildflowers, greenery and outdoor art installations in addition to killer views of New York’s skyline. — Evelyn Derico

24.  Rockefeller Center

You’ll find a  smorgasbord of  New York sites in this distinctive, multi-block complex—in fact, the ground level alone is home to the tourist-packed ice-skating rink, the bronze Atlas statue and the ‘Today Show’ plaza. Higher up, Top of the Rock rivals the Empire State Building in panoramic city views. You may not be able to access the five private rooftop gardens if you’re not a Saturday Night Live cast member, but you can still peek at the spaces from Saks Fifth Avenue’s eighth-floor shoe department if you can't help but be curious. Special credentials are not required, however, to inspect the Art Deco murals that appear in several buildings. Don’t miss the triptych above the outdoor entrance to 5 Rockefeller Center or the rinkside Prometheus statue; both purportedly contain secret Freemason symbols.  —Allison Williams

25.  Grand Central Terminal

For over a hundred years, this transit hub has funneled thousands of daily commuters (over 700,000 a day) through its expansive halls and concourses. Though technically a passageway for those looking to go elsewhere, the building is certainly a destination in it's own right. With its grandiose Beaux Arts framework, the terminal is a spectacle of both form and function. Familiar features include the vaulted, constellation-adorned ceiling and the four-faced opal clock topping the main information booth, both located in the Grand Concourse. Above the 42nd Street entrance find symbolism of Mercury, the god of travel (naturally), and an ornate Tiffany-glass timepiece.  — Dan Q. Dao

26.  Prospect Park

Urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who most famously designed Central Park, also put their stamp on bucolic, 526-acre Prospect Park. Amenities like the Long Meadow and Nethermead offer plenty of space to pull up on a patch of grass and indulge in some people-watching, and the woodland expanse of the Ravine is a towering forest within bustling Brooklyn. But we also have to give props to Robert Moses: The controversial city planner was behind some of the park’s kid-friendly offerings, including the zoo and LeFrak Center at Lakeside, where roller skating and ice skating goes down.

27.  Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn’s premier institution is a less-crowded alternative to Manhattan’s bigger-name spaces, though the innovative and impactful items found inside are just as important as anything you'll find in the city. The museum, found on the edge of the sprawling Prospect Park, has a large holding of Egyptian art as well as the famous feminist piece, The Dinner Party, by Judy Chicago. Works by such Impressionists masters as Cézanne, Monet and Degas are also included in the collection along with with prime examples of Early American Art, period rooms and so much more.

Book a New York City tour.

28.  Whitney Museum of American Art

When Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a sculptor and art patron, opened the museum in 1931, she dedicated it to living American artists. Today, the Whitney holds about 19,000 pieces by nearly 2,900 artists, including Alexander Calder, Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg. Still, the museum’s reputation rests mainly on its temporary shows, particularly the Whitney Biennial. Held in even-numbered years, the Biennial is among the most prestigious (and controversial) assessments of contemporary art in America. The 2015 opening of the Renzo Piano-designed edifice near the High Line drew acclaim for its sleek and simplistic layout. —Andrew Frisicano

29.  New-York Historical Society

• Upper West Side

History buffs will love this Upper West Side institution. Built in 1804, it's the oldest museum in New York City. In a nod to the city’s heritage, the museum kept the hyphen in its name, which is how New York was known in the early 1800s. The collection features more than 1.6 million works that explore the history of the city and the country, including exhibits, art and historical artifacts. Don’t miss floor four, where you’ll find the center for Women’s History and a glowing gallery of 100 beautiful Tiffany lamps. — Cristina Gibson

30.  Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society

Located in the Bronx (obvs) this massive attraction is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. Spanning 265 acres, it has numerous exhibits, forests, outdoor activities and restaurants. Oh, and don’t forget about the 5,000+ animals! There are lions and tigers and bears (both grizzly and polar), all residing in naturalistic habitats. You can easily spend hours walking the trails past themed exhibits, like the African Plains or World of Reptiles. The zoo also has premium exhibits for an additional fee, but the sea lion feeding is completely free and highly recommended. — Rebecca Fontana

31.  Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

New York’s Guggenheim is as famous for its landmark building—designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and restored on its 50th birthday in 2009—as it is for its impressive collection and daring temporary art shows. The museum owns Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of cubist, surrealist and abstract expressionist works, along with the Panza di Biumo Collection of American minimalist and conceptual art from the 1960s and ’70s. In addition to works by Manet, Picasso, Chagall and Bourgeois, the Guggenheim holds the largest collection of Kandinskys in the U.S. — Howard Halle

32.  Times Square

Manhattan’s heart was once a hub for vice, teeming with sex shops and drug dealers. Over time that notorious reputation has eroded, and now the area can feel like a tourist-clogged shopping mall. Still, changes such as the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have improved the sightseeing experience…sort of. If the thought of attending the annual glitzy New Year’s Eve celebration gives you hives, you can see the midnight countdown re-created on a smaller scale at the Times Square Visitor Center, thanks to one of the Waterford crystal balls used in years past.  —Allison Williams

33.  New York Botanical Garden

Every city park offers its own brand of verdant escapism, but this lush expanse goes beyond landscaped flora. In addition to housing swaths of vegetation—including the 50-acre forest, featuring some of the oldest trees in the city—the garden cultivates a rotating roster of shows that nod to the world’s most cherished green spaces, such as the regal grounds of Spain’s Alhambra palace and Monet’s alfresco sanctuary at Giverny.  —Sarah Bruning

34.  Brooklyn Flea

• Markets and fairs

Attending an outdoor bazaar is certainly a must here in New York, and Brooklyn Flea is hands-down one of the top flea markets to hit. The market has everything, including an impressive selection of throwback wares and records, which you certainly wouldn’t find in any vintage clothing store or record store in the city. The food selection is also nothing to sneeze at, since the creators also operate one of the city’s best food festivals: Smorgasburg.

35.  Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Give the city’s fourth-biggest park a day and it’ll show you the world: Its most enduring icon is the Unisphere, the mammoth steel globe created for the 1964 World’s Fair. But there’s also first-rate culture and sports at the New York Hall of Science, Arthur Ashe Stadium and Citi Field (depending on how the Mets are doing). The rolling green fields also encompass a zoo, a boating lake, a skate park, a barbecue area, playfields, and a $66 million aquatic and hockey center. In 2011, wetland plants such as swamp azalea and swamp milkweed were added to better handle the park’s water runoff, improving the catch-and-release fishing in Meadow Lake.  —Allison Williams

36.  Brookfield Place

• Battery Park City

This downtown luxury complex, originally dubbed the World Financial Center, is now home to a number of offices including Merrill Lynch and American Express. On the ground level, however, find a mecca of retail attractions ranging from fashion (Burberry, Hermes, Gucci) to dining (Amada, the food hall Le District). Beyond shopping, stroll around the space to enjoy installations of art in the glass-encased winter garden, or head outdoors for ice skating during cold-weather months. — Dan Q. Dao

See Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park.

37.  Chelsea Market

Once home to a National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) factory, this Chelsea-set food court caters to locals and restaurant-savvy tourists alike. An ever-changing lineup of dining and drinking options range from all-star Philadelphia hummus slingers Dizengoff to the oyster-and-seafood bar Cull & Pistol and the master-sommelier–helmed Corkbuzz Wine Studio, while commercial vendors include Anthropologie, Posman Books and the locally-driven Artists & Fleas. A stone's throw away from High Line Park and the nightlife hub of the Meatpacking District, the market is a must-visit destination when in the area. — Dan Q. Dao

38.  Apollo Theater

This Harlem institution has been the site of more than a few historic moments: Ella Fitzgerald’s first performance happened here in 1934; Live at the Apollo, recorded in 1962, practically launched James Brown into the mainstream; and a young Jimi Hendrix won an Amateur Night contest in 1964. Despite its storied history and grand decor, this living link to the Harlem Renaissance feels rather cozy inside. As of late, the theater has attracted big-name comedians (Aziz Ansari, Tracy Morgan, Jim Gaffigan) and huge rock stars (Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen), while still welcoming under-the-radar talent to its famed Wednesday Amateur Night. —Tim Lowery

39.  Brooklyn Heights and Brooklyn Promenade

• Brooklyn Heights

For a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of everything the city has to offer, beeline for Brooklyn Promenade. Opened in 1950, this one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River has long been a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here. Follow the views with a stroll around the 19th-century row houses down Brooklyn Heights’ tree-lined side streets, or head down to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

40.  Macy’s Herald Square

• Department stores

Holiday windows and enormous balloons may draw gawkers to Macy’s flagship during the winter, but the mammoth department store is a year-round destination for some 20 million shoppers. The $400 million renovation in 2015 outfitted the store with ostensibly Millennial-friendly gear like 3D printers, selfie-walls and laser-imaging tech, but restored the 34th St entrance and iconic rickety wooden escalators that have been at Herald Square since its opening in 1902. This department store is also home to the always stunning and annual Macy's Flower Show .  —Allison Williams

41.  Brooklyn Botanic Garden

• Prospect Park

Those searching for a little peace and quiet would do well to spend a few hours at this verdant oasis. The garden—which abuts two other neighborhood gems: the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park—was founded in 1910 and features thousands of types of flora, laid out over 52 acres. Each spring, crowds descend on the space for the Sakura Matsuri Festival, during which many trees bloom along the Cherry Esplanade. But equally impressive are serene spots like the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the first Japanese-inspired garden displayed in the U.S., and the Shakespeare Garden, brimming with plants (such as primrose and crocuses) mentioned in the Bard’s works.  —Amy Plitt

42.  Yankee Stadium

The Bombers’ current field opened in 2009 to much fanfare and stands opposite the now-flattened original. It may not be the House That Ruth Built, but many elements of the new arena—the limestone exterior, the gatelike frieze around the top—mimic the old, plus cup holders at every seat and a high-def scoreboard are noticeable improvements. A museum behind center field aims to hold signed baseballs from every living Yankees player, but the most potent relic wasn’t allowed to stay on site—in 2008 the construction staff jackhammered out a Red Sox jersey a rival fan tried to install in the structure’s foundation.  —Allison Williams

43.  American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology

Beyond the iconic, show-stopping displays–the grizzly bear in the Hall of North American Mammals, the 94-feet long blue whale, the prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton rearing up as if to scare the adjacent Allosaurus skeleton–is an expertly curated, 148-year-old museum that fills visitors of all ages with a curiosity about the universe. Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet, or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, your visit is bound to teach you a few things you never knew. — Tolly Wright

44.  Union Square

• Union Square

This gathering place was named for the union of two of Manhattan’s busiest thoroughfares: Broadway and Fourth Avenue (formerly Bowery Road). Political activism has played a large role in the site’s history; the square has hosted rallies, protests and assemblies from the Civil War through Occupy Wall Street. Nowadays, its biggest draw might be the year-round Greenmarket—the city’s first, started by a handful of farmers in 1976—which brings locally grown goods to thousands of New Yorkers every week.  —Carolyn Stanley

Go on a customized walking tour.

45.  Flatiron Building

This 21-story Beaux Arts edifice once dominated midtown. Although it’s now dwarfed by other structures, when it debuted in 1902, the triangle-shaped monolith represented the threat and the thrill of modernity: Naysayers claimed it would never withstand the high winds plaguing 23rd Street, while revered photographer Alfred Stieglitz—who captured it in an iconic shot in 1903—wrote that it was “a picture of a new America still in the making.” Today, it’s possibly the least tourist-friendly New York landmark. The space above the ground-floor shops, occupied by publishing house Macmillan, is inaccessible to the public, but during office hours you can admire black-and-white photos and read a few panels on the history of the tower in its lobby. If you want to see the “point” offices (just over six feet wide at their narrowest), we suggest getting to work on the Great American Novel.  —Jonathan Shannon

Book a private walking tour of NYC.

46.  The Cloisters

• Washington Heights

This Middle Ages museum may have been constructed in the ’30s, but it feels much older than that. Set in a bucolic park overlooking the Hudson River, the structure re-creates architectural details from five 15th-century monasteries and houses items from the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections. John D. Rockefeller, who donated the land for the museum, even purchased a tract across the river to preserve the pristine view. Make sure to inspect the tapestries, including the famous 16th-century Hunt of the Unicorn.  —Andrew Frisicano

47.  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

• Military and maritime
• Hell's Kitchen

Get schooled on the glorious history of American aviation and the brave heroes who pioneered the world's last frontier at this non-profit, educational institution featuring the titular, legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid.  Founded in 1982, the museum also boasts an unparalleled collection of fighter jets, a Blackbird spy plane, a Concorde, the nuclear submarine USS Growler, a prototype space shuttle and a capsule that returned one of the first astrotourists to earth. Permanent exhibits include a harrowing 30-minute video with audiovisual effects about the kamikaze attacks the Intrepid suffered, while new, rotating programs range from a summer movie series (kicking off with Star Trek , fittingly) to an annual Space & Science Festival.  — Dan Q. Dao

48.  Lincoln Center

One of the world's largest campuses for the performing and visual arts, Lincoln Center began its construction in 1959 thanks in part to funding from John D. Rockefeller III. Today, the center houses 30 world-class venues—including the Metropolitan Opera House, the David H. Koch Theater and the Julliard School—as well as 11 resident organizations that collectively host thousands of events every year. At the heart of the complex is the well-recognized Josie Robertson Plaza whose fountain can be seen spouting white-lit jets of water with the golden glow of the Met lobby serving as an elegant backdrop.  — Dan Q. Dao

49.  South Street Seaport

Hurricane Sandy may have temporarily wounded the famed Lower Manhattan sightseeing draw in 2012, but with recent developments by the Howard Hughes Corporation—including a pop-up-friendly Culture District and a fancy dine-in movie theater iPic — prove that the iconic port is back and better than ever. — David Goldberg

50.  National Museum of the American Indian

• Natural history

The life and culture of Native Americans is presented in rotating exhibitions—from Navajo jewelry to ritual tribal-dance costumes—along with contemporary artwork. The Diker Pavilion for Native Arts & Culture, which opened in 2006, has already made its mark on the cultural life of the city by offering the only dedicated showcase for Native American visual and performing arts.

51.  Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)

Sure, you could spend a day getting lost in the permanent exhibits, which showcase all manner of priceless pieces from renowned artists. But just as essential are this museum’s other elements, including an attached cinema that combines art-house fare and more accessible offerings, a sculpture garden with works by Picasso and Rodin, and the Modern, a high-end restaurant and bar run by Danny Meyer. Free Fridays, an alluring prospect considering the sizable entry fee ($25 for adults), are best left to the tourists and penny-scraping students; visit the museum when you can hunker down for a while.

52.  Queens Museum

Located on the grounds of two World’s Fairs, the QMA holds one of Gotham’s most amazing sights:  The Panorama of the City of New York , a 9,335-square-foot scale model of the five boroughs, created for the 1964 exposition and featuring Lilliputian models of landmarks. With an ambitious expansion project in 2009, the museum doubled in size when it reopened in 2013, featuring public events spaces, eight new artists studios and a glass façade featuring Grand Central Parkway. —Andrew Frisicano

53.  St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• Religious buildings and sites

Even though it faces off against the imposing Art Deco Rockefeller Center, architect James Renwick's Gothic Revival building holds it own with intricate marble towers, a cavernous ribbed vault, pointed arches and buttresses. But the real treasures are inside this active house of worship, which is bursting with awe-inspiring works. With a $175 million restoration project completed in 2015, visitors can delight in a shimmering, bronzed and polished new interior. More than 200 saints are represented throughout the church, with many alters helpfully explaining their stories for those who cut Bible studies class. Seek out the alter of Saint Louis, just north of the Lady's Chapel, designed by the Tiffany workshop and donated by Jackie O's father Michael Bouvier. To the south of Saint Louis is an oversized copy of Michelangelo's Pieta, made by the same sculptor who fashioned the lions outside the New York Public Library on 42nd Street.  —Jonathan Shannon

54.  MoMA PS1

• Long Island City

Fans of the Manhattan predecessor won't mind crossing the river to find this Long Island City offshoot, which is unique for its constantly evolving lineup of avant-garde artwork and new programs. And while there's no shortage of world-renowned artists supplying work here (Janet Cardiff, Olafur Eliasson), the venue also curates one of the city’s most popular music events, Warm Up, which pairs innovative installations with live music from up-and-coming acts to challenge visitors’ expectations of what art can be.  — Dan Q. Dao

55.  Chinatown

Take a walk in the area south of Broome Street and east of Lafayette, and you’ll feel as though you’ve entered not just a different country but a different continent. Mott and Grand Streets are lined with stands selling exotic foodstuffs such as live eels, square watermelons and hairy rambutans, while Canal Street glitters with jewelry stores and gift shops. Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants in NYC representing the cuisine of virtually every province of mainland China and Hong Kong, plus Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese eateries and shops. As Chinatown—NYC's largest Asian community—continues to grow, it merges with neighboring Little Italy and the Lower East Side. — Tazi Phillips

56.  Washington Square Park arch

• Greenwich Village

The beatniks, folkies and hippies who famously flocked to this public space are still there, though sporting slightly different facial hair than their boundary-breaking predecessors. During warmer months, the park is one of the best people-watching spots in the city, as musicians and street artists perform in the shadow of the towering 1895 Washington Arch, a modest replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe designed by Stanford White (whose fingerprints are found on more than a few landmark NYC structures). From 2007–2014, the park underwent a controversial, multimillion-dollar renovation, which has yielded more benches, paths, lawn space and vegetation. —Tim Lowery

Go on a two-hour walking tour of Greenwich Village.

57.  Madison Square Garden

• Music venues

Big, beloved and not-so-beautiful MSG is perhaps the most famous sports arena in the world. Perched above Penn Station since 1968, the 20,000 seat venue is not only home to New York basketball and ice hockey teams the Knicks and the Rangers, but also is a favorite spot for college basketball tournaments (The Big East), professional boxing, MMA fighting and, as a destination for WWE. Non-sports fans, however, mainly know the Garden as the best spot in town to catch touring international sensations like Adele, Beyonce and Aziz Ansari and countless other amazing concerts.. To learn about the history of the arena, which existed in several other iterations at other locations for the past 130 years, and for a look at where the athletes get dressed, check out the all-access tour ($26.95, seniors and students $19.95, or with show ticket an additional $16, group rates available), which has stops in the locker rooms, the arena bowl and through exhibits featuring images and paraphernalia from iconic moments in sports and performance history. — Tolly Wright

58.  Socrates Sculpture Park

In 1986, artists and activists created this 4.5-acre city park over a landfill. Now, it hosts large-scale sculpture exhibits year-round, and is one of the few locations in the city specifically designated for artists to create outdoor works. The splendid Queens space looks out over the Manhattan skyline and is open 365 days a year, with a Greenmarket, free yoga and tai chi classes and more.

59.  AKC Museum of the Dog

• Exhibitions

Here’s a pawsh art musem for pups. On February 8, the AKC Museum of the Dog reopend in midtown, and New Yorkers have been panting in excitement ever since. The American Kennel Club moved the original exhibit, formerly doghoused in the New York Life Building, closer to its home turf and library. To be clear: This is not a relentlessly Instagrammable Museum of Ice Cream or Museum of Pizza situation. So, why dig up the 15 bones to enter? For the photo booth that reveals which dog breed you look most like. Have your pup-arazzi moment!

60.  Snug Harbor Cultural Center

• Staten Island
• price 1 of 4

Sitting just a ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, this Staten Island gem, a former home for retired sailers, is still somewhat of a secret. Spread across 83 acres, the area boasts an enormous botanical garden and cultural center surrounded by cobblestone streets and tiny paths of Victorian and Tudor homes. One of the most popular attractions here is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, fitted with magnificent rocks meant to resemble mountains inspired by the poetry and paintings of Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist monks, as well as a bamboo forest path and Koi-filled pond.

61.  Bryant Park

Hitting up midtown's most beloved park? Situated behind the New York Public Library lies a a well-cultivated retreat that hosts a dizzying schedule of free entertainment during the summer, including the popular outdoor movies. In the winter, visit the Bank of America Winter Village for the free ice skating rink and pop-up shops for the holidays.

62.  Smorgasburg

New Yorkers love eating outside, whether it’s at one of the city’s best waterfront restaurants, elevated rooftop bars or open-air food flea markets like Brooklyn’s famed Smorgasburg. A favorite amongst locals and tourists alike, Smorg features nearly 100 vendors selling seriously delicious and graciously cheap snacks. It’s open from April to November (11am-6pm) at Williamsburg’s East River Park on Saturdays and at Prospect Park’s Breeze Hill on Sundays. — Christina Izzo

63.  Museum of the Moving Image

• Movies and TV

Only 15 minutes from midtown, the Museum of the Moving Image is one of the city’s most dynamic institutions. Rubbing elbows with Kaufman Astoria Studios, it includes a three-story extension that features a state-of-the-art 267-seat cinema and expanded gallery spaces. Meanwhile, the museum’s “Behind the Screen” exhibit examines every step of the filmmaking process, with artifacts from more than 1,000 different productions, and 14 classic (playable!) video games, including Asteroids, Ms. Pac-Man and Space Invaders . And do not miss its fairly new Jim Henson exhibit, where you can "meet" all your favorite Muppets and Sesame Street characters.

Book NYC tours and attractions.

64.  New Museum of Contemporary Art

• Lower East Side

The New Museum takes its name from The New School, where it originally opened in 1977. After a move to Soho, where the it became a fixture througout the ’80s and ’90s, the New Museum moved into its current location in 2007. It houses three main gallery levels, a theater, a café operated by Hester Street Fair and roof terraces. The New Musem focuses it program on emerging—and important but under-recognized—artists. 

65.  The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum, housed in the 1908 Warburg Mansion, mounts temporary exhibitions of contemproary and modern art and also has a substantial collection of artworks of art and Judaica. There is a permanent exhibit specifically for children, as well as a restuarant that includes an Uptown outpost of Russ & Daughters, the iconic Lower East Side purveyors of Kosher delicacies like lox, sable and whitefish.

66.  The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

In the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood are North America’s largest man-made waterfalls, the bottoms of which seem to be impossible to see. The twin reflecting pools, the 9/11 Memorial designed by Michael Arad, are a solemn reminder of all that was lost during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. Lining the pools, each one acre in size, are bronze panels with the names of the 3,000 deceased victims from the attacks, including the rescue personnel who died helping the other victims. For those who wish to pay their respects to the tragedy and learn more about the events that transpired, the museum serves as the leading collection of artifacts and documentation of September 11. Inside, visitors can hear first-hand accounts of survivors, see picture and video footage of the attacks and see recovered objects such as wrecked recovery vehicles, large pieces of warped metal foundation and the 30-foot National 9/11 Flag. — Tolly Wright

67.  Blue Note

The Blue Note prides itself on being "the jazz capital of the world." Bona fide musical titans (Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter) rub against hot young talents, while the close-set tables in the club get patrons rubbing up against each other. Arrive early to secure a good spot—and we recommend shelling out for a table seat.

68.  Theater District

Each year, about 13 million locals and tourists take in Broadway shows at one of NYC's 40 Broadway theaters. Most of those venues are located in the theater district—roughly, 41st Street to 52nd Street and Sixth Ave to Eighth Ave. Each season brings a new wave of megamusicals, plays and star-driven revivals. Some boast gold from the Tony Awards. At the height of the fall and spring seasons, be sure to check our homepage for new critics picks, reviews and cheap broadway tickets. The savvy consumer can find discount tickets at most Broadway shows. NYC hurry—the curtain’s about to rise! — David Cote

69.  The Noguchi Museum

This 12 gallery space occupies a former photo-engraving plant, and the entire building was designed by the artist and sculpturer Isamu Noguchi to be a meditative oasis amid its gritty, industrial setting. As well as some of his most iconic sculptures, drawn, painted and collaged studies, architectural models, and stage and furniture designs, there is a garden populated with Noguchi’s work.

70.  Coney Island Cyclone

• Arcades and amusements

You can guarantee that the majority of New Yorkers have ridden the Cyclone. After all, it’s stood on the banks of the Coney Island Channel since 1927, which is a fair feat considering it’s constructed from wood. Thanks to a cash injection from Astroland, an organization that took over in the ’70s, this rollicking ride is still going strong, which will bring some comfort to remember when you’re being flung around the old thrill ride. — Danielle Goldstein

Experience the magic of New York City.

71.  Queens Night Market

Consider yourself a travel-loving foodie? Queens Night Market is your one-stop-shop in NYC to discover bites from 80 countries. Beginning in April through October, t ry a diverse range of grub that runs the gamut from Middle Eastern stews and Barbadian fishballs to Romanian-Hungarian chimney cake and tacos al pastor. The open-air bazaar operates from 5pm to midnight every Saturday, but the market has more to offer aside from fulfilling your late-night food cravings.  There’s always a great lineup of live music and performances such as Bollywood dancers, Indian electronica tunes, DJs and more. Check out  queensnightmarket.com  for the schedule. 

72.  Radio City Music Hall

New York City is full of legendary performance venues, but few match Radio City Music Hall in terms of sheer elegance. The Art Deco concert hall remains one of the prettiest in the city: Designed by Donald Deskey, its interior features opulent chandeliers and lush carpets, while the stage and proscenium are meant to resemble a setting sun. Although Radio City is probably best known as the home of the Rockettes, a plethora of noteworthy performers have graced its boards, including huge pop stars (Lady Gaga, the Jonas Brothers) and indie faves (Pulp, Grizzly Bear).  —Amy Plitt

73.  New York Public Library, Stephen A Schwarzman Building

The century-old main branch of the NYPL is about as regal a setting for reading—either on your laptop or those old dusty things called books—as you’ll find in the city. Two massive Tennessee-marble lions, dubbed Patience and Fortitude, flank the main portal and have become the institution’s mascots. Once inside, check out the cavernous Rose Main Reading Room, spanning almost 300 feet and outfitted with chandeliers and stunning ceiling murals. Though it’s a classy setting in most instances, it’s also where Bill Murray uttered, “Are you, Alice, menstruating right now?” and “Back off, man, I’m a scientist” in Ghostbusters .  —Tim Lowery

74.  Governors Island

The Hills on Governors Island are alive but not necessarily with the sound of music. Instead, you can hear the hum of parkgoers and their bicycles as they tool around the island’s two-plus-mile promenade, the gleeful squeals of folks slithering down one of the four massive slides and the delighted gasps of visitors ogling perfect views of the New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan. While much of the green space’s landscape has changed (and, oh, is it hilly), preexisting features such as Hammock Grove and Picnic Point are still major focal points.  —Jennifer Sugnet

See lower and midtown Manhattan on a 90-minute cruise.

75.  The Rubin Museum of Art

Opened in 2004, this six-story museum (once home to Barneys New York) houses Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan art and artifacts, as well as large-scale temporary exhibitions.

76.  Get a taste of the Lower East Side

You know, the only real way to the heart of a city it's through its belly. So what better way to dive into the history of this cultural melting pot one mouthful at a time than by sampling the best food spots on the Lower East Side – all the while discovering the rich immigrant history that gives this concrete jungle its unique cosmopolitan flavor. The tour consists of four main food stops with several sites along the way like the African Burial Ground Monument and St Patrick's Old Cathedral – a significant landmark for the Irish Catholic community. You'll cut through Chinatown as well as Little Italy and taste the beloved knish – originating from the  Ashkenazi Jewish community –  for the first time.

Time Out tip:  This is your kind of vibe if you've got three hours to kill, and are looking for something fun for under 100 bucks. Steal. 

77.  Village Vanguard

After more than 80 years, this basement club’s stage still hosts the crème de la crème of mainstream jazz talent. Plenty of history has been made here—John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Bill Evans have grooved in this hallowed hall—and the 16-piece Vanguard Jazz Orchestra has been the Monday-night regular since 1966. Thanks to the venue's strict no cell phone policy, seeing a show here feels like stepping back and time. It's just you and the music. 

78.  The Tenement Museum

This fascinating museum—actually a series of restored tenement apartments at 97 Orchard Street—is accessible only by guided tour. Costumed "residents" give glimpses into the daily lives of immigrant clans that called the building home over the decades, bringing to life the stories in an engaging and captivating way.

79.  Fotografiska

• Photography

The Fotografiska gallery in Stockholm, Sweden has opened a New York Branch in the heart of the  Flatiron   District that features three floors of exhibition space as well as Verōnika, a dining room and bar.  The gallery itself mounts temporary exhibits featuring photos from “grand masters and emerging talent” that range from “easily accessible to hardcore conceptual.”

80.  Merchant's House Museum

New York City’s only preserved 19th-century family home is an elegant, late Federal-Greek Revival house stocked with the same furnishings and decorations that filled its rooms when it was inhabited by hardware tycoon Seabury Treadwell and his descendants from 1835 to 1933.

81.  The Morgan Library & Museum

• Murray Hill

This Madison Avenue institution began as the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan and is his artistic gift to the city. Building on the collection Morgan amassed in his lifetime, the space houses first-rate works, including drawings by Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Picasso; three Gutenberg Bibles; a copy of Frankenstein annotated by Mary Shelley; manuscripts by Dickens, Poe, Twain, Steinbeck and Wilde; sheet music handwritten by Beethoven and Mozart; and an original edition of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol that’s displayed every yuletide. This is certainly not your average library.

82.  Neue Galerie New York

• Upper East Side

This elegant addition to the city’s museum scene is devoted entirely to late-19th- and early-20th-century German and Austrian fine and decorative arts. The brainchild of the late art dealer Serge Sabarsky and cosmetics mogul Ronald S. Lauder, it houses the largest concentration of works by Gustav Klimt (including his iconic Adele Bloch-Bauer I ) and Egon Schiele outside Vienna. You’ll also find a bookstore, a chic (and expensive) design shop and the Old World–inspired Café Sabarsky, serving updated Austrian cuisine and ravishing Viennese pastries.

83.  Museum of Sex (MoSex)

• Special interest

Situated in the former Tenderloin district, which bumped-and-grinded with dance halls and brothels in the 1800s, MoSex explores the subject within a cultural context—but that doesn’t mean some content won’t shock the more buttoned-up visitor. Highlights include a permanent collection ranging from a silicone Real Doll torso through to a nine-foot steel-framed love pen donated by a local dominatrix, to sex machines created by keen DIYers, such as the “Monkey Rocker,” constructed from a dildo and exercise equipment. Maybe not one to visit with your mom...

84.  El Museo del Barrio

• East Harlem

Located in Spanish Harlem (a.k.a. El Barrio), El Museo del Barrio is dedicated to the work of Latino artists who reside in the U.S., as well as Latin American masters. The 6,500-piece permanent collection ranges from pre-Colombian artifacts to contemporary installations. The space also features updated galleries, an exposed courtyard for programming and events, and a Pan-Latino cafe that serves tacos, chili, and rice and beans.

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18 unmissable places to visit in upstate new york.

When you think of New York, your mind instantly goes to Manhattan with its incredible skyscrapers, Empire State Building, and sprawling Central Park, but this iconic city isn’t the only place to explore in New York. We’ve fallen in love with New York State and if you plan a trip there, you’ll quickly see why. 

Upstate New York is full of beautiful natural landscapes, excellent food and wine scene, and seemingly endless recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

If you’re planning on visiting Upstate New York yourself, you’ll be hard-pressed to visit every single notable location unless you’re able to stay for weeks. That’s why we’ve made a list of our top 18 places to visit in upstate New York, so you can start imagining your trip and building the best itinerary. 

Planning your trip to Upstate New York?

Where to stay in upstate new york:.

• Margaritaville Resort Times Square ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .
• Moxy NYC Times Square ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .

Best Tours and Experiences in Upstate New York:

• Niagara Falls in One Day from New York City – See and experience Niagra Falls in one day with enough time to explore the Niagara Falls State Park.
• New York NYC Private Limo Tour – Take in Manhattan in a luxurious Stretch Limo, SUV, Or Luxury Van.

» Spending time in New York City? Check out our essential city guide and see the top 25 touristy things to do , where to stay in the city, a perfect 4-day itinerary , plus fun activities in Central Park .

Table of Contents

18 Places To Visit In Upstate New York

1. cooperstown.

Downtown Cooperstown is an area of Upstate New York to explore in as much depth as you can during your trip. 

While you’re there, you should make a point to visit the Farmer’s Museum , where you can learn about some of Upstate New York’s rural traditions.

In a similar vein, there’s also the Fenimore Art Museum , which is the perfect place to appreciate American artwork, including Native American and Folk art collections. 

The National Baseball Hall of Fame is a must-visit attraction for baseball fans, while Glimmerglass State Park’s Otsego Lake is the perfect hiking, picnic, or nature-watching location.

2. Woodstock

Woodstock has been associated with hippie culture for decades due to the town’s history, and it’s still one of the best towns in Upstate New York to visit if you want to enjoy live music, art, and nature all in one place. 

Artists will want to make a beeline for the Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild to take classes, see exhibits, and watch performances by other local artists. Tour the Bearsville Center on this walking music and history tour.

The best natural landscapes to see in Woodstock include Kaaterskill Falls and Overlook Mountain, where you can end a bracing trek by visiting the museum at the top as well as the ruins on the way up.

3. Chittenango Falls State Park

Chittenango Falls State Park is home to one of New York’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls . It’s also one of Upstate New York’s best hiking locations, so if outdoor activities and gorgeous scenery are your ideas of a good time, be sure to check it out!

The waterfall itself is a massive 167 feet tall, and you can hike to the top of the waterfall to see the view from above or watch the water flow from the nearby footbridge.

Alternatively, there are plenty of other trails which are shorter but which you can link together to create your perfect hike.

4. Kingston

You can’t visit Upstate New York without stopping at Kingston! If you didn’t know, Kingston was the original capital of New York and was a key location during the American Revolution. 

One Kingston venue we can’t recommend enough is Rough Draft Bar and Books which is the best place in Uptown Kingston to enjoy delicious beer and browse books while sampling some incredible baked goods. 

If you find yourself in the waterfront area of Kingston, you should try to visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum or take a sightseeing cruise down that same river.

When you get hungry, get a bite to eat at Village Coffee and Goods , which serves excellent breakfast sandwiches and healthy bowls for lunch.

Hudson is another unmissable part of Upstate New York. It’s known for its incredible restaurants, art scene, and historical appeal. 

If you’re interested in seeing some art exhibitions while you’re in Hudson, we recommend the Carrie Haddad Gallery for contemporary art or the Basilica Hudson , where you can enjoy various types of artwork and performances, including music and film.

Around sunset, one of the most iconic Hudson experiences is a boat tour of the Hudson Lighthouse.

WM Farmer and Sons are one of Hudson’s best-loved restaurants, and if you love steak and seafood, you should definitely grab dinner there.

Lovers of fine wine will also want to check out Hudson Wine Merchants , where you can reserve a spot on a wine tasting session.

6. Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake may not be talked about as often as some of the other tourist hotspots on our list, but no matter what time of year you choose to visit Upstate New York, you won’t regret stopping at this haven of natural beauty. 

If you’re going to be in New York during the winter, we recommend staying at the Lake Clear Lodge for the ultimate winter wonderland experience, complete with sleigh rides.

This lodge is also beautiful during the summer, especially during the evenings as the sun sets over the lake. 

There are plenty of outdoor activities to take part in at Saranac Lake, from snowmobiling in the winter to hiking during the warmer months.

The 1892 Bar and Grille is the perfect place to refuel once you’ve worked up an appetite.

7. Niagara Falls

If you find yourself near the Niagara River in New York, you should take the time to appreciate the beauty of Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls State Park is open year-round and provides incredible experiences, from a boat tour of the waterfalls to dining at the Top of the Falls Restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food with a view of this iconic natural landmark. This tour will take you on both the American and Canadian sides of the border with all the must-see attractions.

There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area of Niagara Falls if you feel like walking, or if you’d like to learn more about the history of the area and the waterfalls themselves, there’s the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University .

8. Alexandria Bay

In the Thousand Islands area of Upstate New York, you’ll find Alexandria Bay. This is a maritime village with a lot of history to learn about as well as stunning views. 

One of the main tourist attractions in Alexandria Bay is Boldt Castle , which was built in the early 1900s and drew visitors every year with its beautiful architecture and tragic backstory. You can visit the castle by boat.

You should also book a boat tour specifically of the St. Lawrence River to find out more about the history (and mystery) behind some of the famous homes and shipwrecks in the area.

9. Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is the perfect Upstate New York vacation destination for those who love to stay active on vacation while enjoying some amazing food and drink.

For gorgeous views and lengthy hikes, the Watkins Glen State Park is a beautiful historic preservation site where you can get in touch with nature and local history. 

The nearby Seneca Lake is ideal for kayaking, and animal lovers can spend many happy hours at the Watkins Glen Farm Sanctuary .

Ithaca is one of the most colorful, vibrant towns in New York, known for its progressive attitudes and opportunities for adventure. 

Wine lovers will be obsessed with the Cayuga Wine Trail , where you can tour different wineries in the area and sample some of the best local wines.

Handwork is Ithaca’s artisan cooperative, so if you want to support the town’s thriving art culture, check it out.

This Orleans County village has a lot of history behind it, so if you’re looking for somewhere to learn things you didn’t know and step back into times gone by, Albion is the place for you. 

There are many museums to explore in Albion, from the Cobblestone Museum to the Medina Railroad Museum .

Village House Restaurant is one of the top-rated dining establishments in the area, and the Salmaca Estate Winery is one of Albion’s best vineyards.

12. Storm King Art Center

If you’re going to be visiting Hudson Valley during your time in Upstate New York, it makes sense to stop and see the Storm King Art Center .

The Storm King Art Center spans 500 acres and has been attracting locals and tourists alike since 1960 with its outdoor art exhibitions and museums. You can spend hours here admiring one-of-a-kind works of art. 

There’s even an outdoor cafe at the center, so you’ll be able to stop and enjoy sandwiches and snacks (plus wine and beer) on your art appreciation adventure!

13. Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park is something of a hidden gem in Upstate New York, located next to the Erie Canal Towpath. If you love hiking, this will be a must for your itinerary, but that’s not all Green Lakes State Park has to offer!

Once you’ve finished exploring some of the trails, you can enjoy a relaxing game of golf at the local golf course or unwind at the beach within the park itself. 

You can check off both your accommodation and dining needs at The Craftsman Inn , which includes breakfast with your room and serves dinner at the restaurant.

14. Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is another place you should try to stop at if you’re in the Hudson Valley area. You might associate it with horse races, but rest assured that it’s still worth a visit if that’s not your thing. 

For example, there’s the Saratoga Winery , the stunning Saratoga Spa State Park , and the Yaddo Gardens . 

When you’re in the mood for food, Boca Bistro is beloved by tourists and locals alike.

15. Lake Placid

The Adirondacks region is the best place to go in Upstate New York if you want to enjoy scenic views, crisp mountain air, and exhilarating adventures. Specifically, we recommend visiting Lake Placid. 

Whiteface Mountain is accessible from here and it’s one of New York’s best skiing spots. The ADK Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for animal lovers and Downstairs Boat Rental provides opportunities to try various watersports on the lake for affordable prices.

16. Sleepy Hollow

You may have heard of Sleepy Hollow in the context of ghost stories thanks to Washington Irving, but visiting Sleepy Hollow is actually a very pleasant experience!

Of course, for those who are interested in Sleepy Hollow’s legendary side, there’s plenty to do, from the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery to the Headless Horseman Bridge. You can even visit the home of Washington Irving himself.

However, there’s also the less-spooky historical Philipsburg Manor , the local farmer’s market which sells fresh produce, and Rockefeller State Park Preserve for nature lovers.

17. New Paltz

New Paltz is an Ulster County town with tons of nature-based attractions for visitors. 

During your time in New Paltz, you should take a walking tour of Historic Huguenot Street to learn more about the town’s (and America’s) history. 

Wallkill Valley Rail T rail is one of the best spots for a walk in nature, while the Robibero Family Vineyards is perfect for an afternoon of wine tasting and learning about wine production.  

DM Weil Gallery is another attraction we recommend if you’re interested in contemporary art.

Beacon is easily accessible from many areas of New York, including New York City , and there’s so much to do in this part of the Hudson Highlands. 

Hudson Highlands State Park has some of the most picturesque views and best hiking trails in New York, in our opinion. 

If you don’t feel like hiking, you can get in touch with your artistic side at Hudson Beach Glass or Dia: Museum .

If you have time for a meal in Beacon, we highly recommend reserving a table at The Roundhouse , which was built during the 1800s and has a fascinating history and a modern menu based on American cuisine. You can also book a room here if you want to stay overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i see in upstate new york.

The top things to see in upstate New York, in my opinion, are Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes (Ithaca, Seneca Falls, or Skaneateles), Adirondack Park, covering over 3 million acres, the Hudson Valley, and Cooperstown, a must-see for any baseball fans. Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Where should I stay in Upstate NY?

Upstate New York offers a wide range of vacation options, from scenic mountain retreats to charming small towns and bustling cities. Some popular destinations in Upstate New York include Lake Placid, Saratoga Springs, Ithaca, Hudson, and Niagara Falls. Ultimately, the best place to stay in Upstate New York depends on your personal preferences and interests.

How to get to Upstate New York?

There are several ways to get to Upstate New York;

• By Air. By far the easiest way to get to Upstate New York thanks to the many surrounding airports that serve domestic and international flights.
• By Train. Amtrack is the train service connecting many of the cities within Upstate new york.
• By Car. Take advantage of the major highways and explore Upstate New York at your own pace with a road trip.
• By Bus. Greyhound is one of the many bus service companies that operate in Upstate New york city taking you in and out of the cities and connecting to neighboring states.

Final Thoughts

Based on the variety of things to do and places to see in Upstate New York, we recommend staying here for as long as you can experience as much as possible. 

Whether you’re planning a nature excursion across this part of the state, a deep dive into New York’s art culture, or a tour of the area’s best wineries, Upstate New York will not disappoint you! 

Which Upstate New York location will you visit first?

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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18 most romantic getaways in new york state.

Some of the most romantic destinations in the U.S. can be found in New York State.

Romantic Getaways in New York

Courtesy of The Otesaga Resort Hotel

From relaxing at a lake to exploring the city, New York offers plenty of options for a romantic vacation.

It's nearly impossible not to find love in a state that's served as the backdrop for so many romantic films, from "Dirty Dancing" in the Catskills to the countless classics – think "Annie Hall," "When Harry Met Sally," "You've Got Mail" – set in New York City . In popular sitcom "The Office," Pam and Jim tie the knot beneath Niagara Falls , otherwise known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World."

Even off-screen, romance abounds in New York state's top destinations , from the Finger Lakes to the Adirondacks . Though the options for a couples vacation in the Empire State may actually be endless, these are some of the best places to spend a romantic weekend (or longer) in New York – including several ideal weekend getaways from New York City .

Most Romantic Getaways in New York State

• Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa
• Mirbeau Inn & Spa
• Belhurst Castle and Winery
• The Lake House on Canandaigua

Cooperstown

• Glenmere Mansion
• Mohonk Mountain House

The Catskills

Niagara falls.

• Hutton Brickyards

New York City

• Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club
• Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Westchester County

• Whiteface Lodge
• The Sagamore Resort

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa: Aurora

Courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa comprises five historic inns and a cottage, each with their own distinctive vibe. The Aurora Inn (the site's original hotel), built in 1833, blends vintage furnishings with modern amenities, while the Rowland House, built in 1903, is a more eclectic option. All guest rooms are equipped with plush bathrobes; some even feature fireplaces and views of Cayuga Lake, perfect for cuddling up to admire the spectacular sunsets.

Lovebirds can enjoy complimentary coffee and homemade granola bars each morning, a glass of local wine in the evenings, and seasonal s'mores by the lakefront fire pit. You'll also find candlelit dining at the 1833 Kitchen & Bar and culinary classes just down the street from the Aurora Inn. Explore the beauty of the Finger Lakes with complimentary gear such as kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards; bicycles; telescopes for stargazing; bird-watching binoculars; and more.

The highlight of any stay at the Inns of Aurora is its spa, a 15,000-square-foot healing and wellness center less than a mile from the main hotel property. Opened in 2021, the state-of-the-art facility features 10 treatment rooms where you can enjoy a variety of signature and customized treatments, as well as a full-service salon. All spa services come with a seasonal menu of fare at the on-site cafe, six jetted spa pools with optional hydrotherapy circuits, steam rooms, a sauna and fire pits.

Address: 391 Main St., Aurora, NY 13026

Read: The Best Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa: Skaneateles

Courtesy of Mirbeau Inn & Spa

The sweet town of Skaneateles – brimming with boutique shops, art galleries and lakefront restaurants – merits a trip to the Finger Lakes. But for the ultimate in romance, book a stay at Mirbeau Inn & Spa . This French-inspired spa resort features an elegant spa, overnight accommodations and on-site dining.

Guests have the option to stay in a traditional guest room or private cottage, all of which come with fireplaces and large bathrooms with soaking tubs. Book the Mirbeau Signature Couples Massage or Art of Living couples experience and enjoy use of a heated foot pool, steam rooms and the outdoor Aqua Terrace – which features a heated spa pool with massage jets and a waterfall, a cozy fireplace, and a private bar where you can order beverages and light fare. Afterward, enjoy lunch or dinner at The Bistro & Wine Bar, where breakfast and Sunday brunch are also served. Previous guests rave about this resort, calling it serene and magical.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa also has locations in Rhinebeck, New York (Hudson River Valley), and Plymouth, Massachusetts ( Cape Cod ).

Address: 851 W. Genesee Street Road, Skaneateles, NY 13152

Belhurst Castle and Winery: Geneva

Courtesy of Belhurst Castle and Winery

In the Finger Lakes, not only can you taste some of the world's best rieslings, but you can also spend the night in a castle – with a winery. Located on the shores of Seneca Lake, Belhurst Castle and Winery provides the perfect setting for a romantic getaway in New York.

While the property consists of three hotels, the Chambers in the Castle is the most romantic option for couples. Here, 11 Victorian-era guest rooms – each architecturally and stylistically distinct – feature antique furnishings, some with four-poster beds. There are also three cottages available to rent. Guests of the Chambers enjoy cozy fireplaces and complimentary wine from a self-serve wine spigot.

In addition to wine, Belhurst makes its own craft beer and hard cider, which patrons can enjoy at the winery tasting room or two on-site restaurants. The hotel also offers a spa and salon. The hotel reviews of Belhurst Castle are mixed, but most recent guests agree the staff is wonderful and the property is beautiful.

Address: 4069 W. Lake Road, Geneva, NY 14456

Read: The Top Finger Lakes Wineries to Visit

The Lake House on Canandaigua: Canandaigua

Courtesy of The Lake House on Canandaigua

The Lake House is the first hotel of its kind to open on Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes. The eco-conscious hotel uses its natural environment to provide holistic luxury to guests – from creekside barrel saunas at the on-site Willowbrook Spa to meals made with local ingredients at the Rose Tavern and Sand Bar. Of course, guests can enjoy Canandaigua Lake via kayak, stand-up paddleboard, private boat charter or even a morning coffee cruise. Light and airy guest rooms and suites feature handcarved furniture, rain showers, and plush robes and slippers; some first-floor rooms are pet-friendly.

When booking your stay, consider the "Romance at The Lake" package, which includes overnight accommodations, a spa credit and a Rose Tavern credit for a candlelit dinner, as well as wine and chocolate upon arrival.

If you can peel yourself from the property, take time to enjoy the award-winning wines and delicious food on the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail.

Address: 770 S. Main St., Canandaigua, NY 14424

Courtesy of The Otesaga

Cooperstown is undeniably family-friendly – it's home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and Cooperstown Dreams Park, after all. But this central New York village is also ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, whether you and your beau are baseball fans or not.

Nicknamed "America's Most Perfect Village," Cooperstown boasts plenty of boutiques, breweries and art galleries, such as the Fenimore Art Museum, located on a property once owned by James Fenimore Cooper, author of "The Last of the Mohicans." In the winter, you and your partner can also try cross-country skiing or showshoeing at Glimmerglass State Park.

The village's grand dame, The Otesaga Resort Hotel, features romantic accommodations in which couples can wake up to the sun rising over Otsego Lake. Seasonally, hotel guests can enjoy water sports on the lake and cocktails at the outdoor Fire Bar overlooking the water. The luxury resort also features the Hawkeye Spa and fine dining at 1909 on Friday evenings. Other romantic dining options in Cooperstown include Brewery Ommegang (once famous for its limited-edition "Game of Thrones"-inspired beers); Nicoletta's Italian Café; and Origins Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant inside of a greenhouse.

Glenmere Mansion: Chester

Courtesy of Glenmere Mansion

You'd never guess that this 150-acre estate is located in the U.S., let alone that it's only around 70 miles from New York City. Constructed in 1911, the mansion – then the summer home of industrialist Robert Goet – sits in the countryside of the Hudson Valley, intended to resemble the villas of Tuscany at the time. Now a Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel , Glenmere Mansion features more than a dozen guest rooms, each one thoughtfully redesigned and unique. Most rooms have fireplaces, and many offer terraces.

Romantic retreats can (and should) include indulging at the Glenmere spa, which features a tandem suite with side-by-side soaking tubs and treatment tables. Guests of the spa enjoy pre- or post-treatment tapas and access to a variety of amenities, including an herbal steam room, dry heat sauna and a Swiss shower.

Visitors at Glenmere also have access to four fine dining venues and local activities such as historic sightseeing and wine tasting at the award-winning Brotherhood Winery, widely considered the oldest winery in the U.S. Note that Glenmere Mansion is an adults-only resort . Many previous guests praise Glenmere, noting that the food is exceptionally good.

Address: 634 Pine Hill Road, Chester, NY 10918

Mohonk Mountain House: New Paltz

Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Perhaps the grandest of all the mansions and castles in New York (and the U.S.) is Mohonk Mountain House. Founded in 1869, the resort can be found tucked into the Hudson Valley, less than 100 miles from New York City.

Another major draw? It's one of few all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. Rates include three farm-to-table meals daily plus afternoon tea and cookies; a roster of activities, spanning water sports on Lake Mohonk to 85 scenic miles of hiking trails; wellness offerings such as a spa and fitness classes; nightly entertainment including live music and seasonal campfires; and, for families, additional kid-specific activities. Couples can choose Victorian-style guest room or suite accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces in the Mountain House, or opt to stay in the more private Grove Lodge.

While this National Historic Landmark resort is pricey, previous guests agree the cost is well worth the experience.

Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

Courtesy of Urban Cowboy Lodge

While the Catskills may always be synonymous with "Dirty Dancing," the region looks a bit different than it did when Frances "Baby" Houseman and Johnny Castle fell in love here. A boom in boutique lodging options is once again attracting travelers to an area that saw a period of decline from the 1970s until recent years.

Modern-day Babys and Johnnys can now go glamping at AutoCamp Catskills; spend the night at Wylder Windham, a full-service boutique hotel next to Windham Mountain Resort; relax in rustic-luxe rooms with soaking tubs at Urban Cowboy Lodge; tuck into cozy cabins at Eastwind Windham, which also features standalone saunas in the woods; or even spend the night at a revamped retro motel such as the Starlite Motel, with its outdoor pool. Throughout the region couples will also find breweries and cideries, U-pick farms, and (of course) the outdoor adventures that first put the Catskills on the map: skiing, hiking, biking and more.

Read: The Top Catskills Resorts

Courtesy of Niagara Falls USA

Known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," Niagara Falls is the original romantic getaway in New York. Couples in search of romance have been visiting the region since the 1800s, particularly after the Erie Canal opened. Connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River, the canal – along with railroad expansions – made Niagara Falls a more accessible vacation destination for honeymooners.

Today, couples who want to experience the beauty of this natural wonder can hike or bike scenic trails at Niagara Falls State Park. You and your sweetheart can also watch a nightly illumination of the falls from a cozy blanket in the park, which is an especially colorful spectacle during Pride Month. Of course, there are plenty of guided tours in Niagara Falls , including the iconic Maid of the Mist (where Pam and Jim said their vows).

The New York side of Niagara Falls is home to a large wine region, with the Niagara Wine Trail offering more than a dozen wineries. For romantic accommodations, look to The Giacomo in the heart of downtown. Built in 1929 as the United Office Building, The Giacomo is now a luxury boutique hotel with architecture that blends art deco and Mayan Revival styles. In-room amenities include a nightly cookie delivery and panoramic views; select rooms have whirlpool baths and fireplaces. Duos can grab cocktails at the Giacomo Lounge before taking advantage of the "Sweetheart Package," complete with a bottle of Champagne, souvenir glasses, chocolate truffles and a rose petal display.

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Hutton Brickyards: Kingston

Jane Beiles | Courtesy of Hutton Brickyards

The Hudson Valley's last architecturally intact brick manufactory, Hutton Brickyards, sits on more than 70 lush acres overlooking the Hudson River. Here, lovebirds can hide out in waterfront cabins and luxurious suites designed to optimize privacy, then enjoy on-site activities such as spa treatments, yoga, sip-and-paint sessions, archery, kayaking and nature walks. The property's alfresco waterfront restaurant, The River Pavilion, serves elevated wood-fired cuisine alongside the fireplaces. Other upscale eateries as well as boutiques can be found in downtown Kingston.

Within view of the Rhinecliff Amtrak station, Hutton Brickyards is an easy trip for New Yorkers seeking some respite from the busy city. Previous guests can't say enough good things about this seemingly hidden gem, noting that the cabins are especially cozy.

Address: 200 North St., Kingston, NY 12401

Courtesy of The High Line Hotel

Reenact your favorite rom-com moment in New York City, where there are endless places to fall in love – from world-class museums and award-winning restaurants to studio tours, skyline views and some of the country's best Pride events . In the architecturally awe-inspiring Hudson Yards neighborhood, which officially opened in 2019, lovers will find shopping, dining, special events and an on-site hotel.

Speaking of hotels, while the city may never sleep, you probably will, and there's no shortage of romantic lodging options in New York City. At The James New York – NoMad , which sits just steps from the Museum of Sex, curious couples can participate in intimacy workshops that teach you and your partner how to connect breath, emotions and sensations. Another potential accommodation choice is The High Line Hotel , a Parisian-style property whose Remote View garden serves extrasensory cocktails inspired by Ingo Swann, known as a pioneering psychic. At the TWA Hotel, meanwhile, guests enjoy the glamour of 1960s travel (think "Mad Men") as you sip martinis by a rooftop pool that overlooks the runways of John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Read: The Top Statue of Liberty Cruises

Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club: Sloatsburg

Jean Francois-Jaussaud | Courtesy of Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club

A fitness-focused resort, the Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is ideal for active couples in search of a romantic weekend getaway in New York. The sprawling resort – a popular destination for weddings and other events – is surrounded by 70,000 scenic acres that afford myriad activities, including guided hiking, biking and kayaking tours. The resort also features an expansive fitness center, a variety of fitness and wellness programs, and a 75-foot outdoor swimming pool. Romantic activities include browsing the hotel's organic market and art gallery with its bookstore, cozying up by the outdoor fire pits, enjoying in-room spa treatments and dining at farm-to-table restaurants.

The four historic guesthouses are each equipped with three to five luxurious bedrooms and porches – perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning. The Farm House and Twin Peaks allow you to book only one bedroom and enjoy exclusive use of the home during your stay, making them ideal for a couples weekend.

The Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is about an hour's ride from New York City via the ShortLine Hudson bus from Manhattan; the resort is conveniently located next to the bus stop and train station in Sloatsburg.

Address: 27 Mill St., Sloatsburg, NY 10974

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa: Montauk

Courtesy of Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

An icon in the Hamptons, Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is situated on Montauk's picturesque stretch of oceanfront real estate. Hotel patrons enjoy access to a private beach and ocean views from luxury rooms, suites and beachfront cottages. In-room amenities include wet bars, Nespresso machines, and cozy robes and slippers. Couples can also take in the ocean vistas hand in hand from the Firepit outdoor lounge or relax at The Beach Club. Following a $20 million renovation, the resort's Seawater Spa features new indoor-outdoor spa suites with private soaking tubs, perfect for couples.

While many local hotels close for the winter, Gurney's Montauk is open year-round, so lovebirds can visit whenever the mood strikes. Reviewers say the resort is top-notch, with some noting it's just as good – and less crowded – in the offseason.

Address: 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954

Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island

Courtesy of Discover Long Island

While the Hamptons remains an elite vacation spot on Long Island, the North Fork has been giving that resort destination a run for its money – especially in recent years. Thanks to an ideal terroir for growing grapes, Long Island has an established wine scene, with most of the vineyards and wineries located on the North Fork. You'll find many of the region's wineries along Route 25 (the main thoroughfare); guided wine tours with a personal driver are a popular way to taste the region's signature wines, which include merlot, cabernet franc and chardonnay. In June, many of the wineries celebrate Pride Month.

The area is also dotted with U-pick farms and farmers markets, some of which sell another local delicacy: oysters. For an essential North Fork experience, pair your oysters with wine at places such as Terra Vite North Fork Winery & Vineyard and Peconic Bay Vineyards – the latter offers oyster happy hours seasonally.

Couples can relax by the seaside in Orient Beach State Park, where beachgoers enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, fishing and other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Round out your romantic getaway in Long Island with a game of golf and some upscale dining, then check into one of the North Fork's boutique hotels or bed-and-breakfasts .

Courtesy of Abbey Inn & Spa

Often considered New York City's sixth borough, Westchester County is perfect for a weekend getaway with your partner. Just north of Manhattan, set between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County offers a little bit of everything: quaint river towns (including the legendary Sleepy Hollow), beaches, historic landmarks, seasonal events, and hiking and biking trails galore. You can also traverse the Westchester Farm Trail, which encompasses 13 farms and orchards with markets, U-pick options and more.

Romantic accommodations in Westchester County include the Bedford Post Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property with just eight rooms (many with fireplaces) and two highly rated farm-to-table restaurants. The Abbey Inn and Spa, which overlooks the Hudson River, is another lovely lodging option: Once a convent, the stunning building now houses luxurious guest rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a full-service spa where you and your lover can unwind with a lava stone couples massage.

Whiteface Lodge: Lake Placid

Courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

It doesn't get more romantic than Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid. The AAA Four Diamond resort boasts a variety of rustic-luxe suites (including one-bedroom options), most with cast-iron fireplaces, jetted tubs, and patios or balconies. Romantic on-site amenities and activities include evening drinks under the stars in a private lean-to; a spa with hot tubs, steam rooms and saunas; ice skating in the winter; and fine dining at Kanu, where guests say the atmosphere alone is worth a dinner reservation.

A two-time host of the Winter Olympics, Lake Placid offers a variety of Olympics-inspired museums and experiences, with unique winter activities including bobsledding at Mount Van Hoevenberg and dog-sledding on frozen Mirror Lake. Of course, there's also skiing, snowboarding and the like at Whiteface Mountain, one of the best ski resorts in New York . While you're visiting, take time for a romantic stroll along Lake Placid's Main Street, which looks like a Norman Rockwell painting. Previous guests adore Whiteface Lodge, noting that it's ideal for both couples and families.

Address: 7 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946

The Sagamore Resort: Bolton Landing

Courtesy of The Sagamore Resort

There are plenty of vacation rentals on Lake George, but if you're looking for the ultimate escape with your partner, book a stay at The Sagamore Resort (part of the Opal Collection). Located on a 70-acre private island in the Adirondacks, the hotel features award-winning dining, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Especially unique is the annual Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge, where 18,000 pounds of crystal-clear ice are transformed to create an Antarctic setting overlooking Lake George.

If you're seeking a private outdoor space and/or fireplace, a spacious option is a two-bedroom condo (or perhaps a four-room condo or house if you're traveling with other couples). Otherwise, you'll be perfectly comfortable in a lodge room or suite, some of which also come with fireplaces or balconies. Previous guests say this historic resort – first opened in 1883 and even considered by some to be a haunted hotel – is absolutely majestic.

Address: 110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, NY 12814

Troutbeck: Amenia

Courtesy of Troutbeck

Tuck into Troutbeck, a historic estate hotel whose most famous guests include Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Located in the Hudson Valley, the hotel features field-to-fork dining led by Michelin-starred chef Gabe McMackin, as well as The Barns, a wellness facility featuring yoga, meditation and Kinesoma classes (dance-based movement). The wellness offerings also include services such as acupuncture and massages. An outdoor swimming pool and grill, hammock and picnic sites, tennis courts, and free bike rentals complement the serene setting.

For an especially romantic lodging option, book the Dunham Suite, named for its lovely view of the nearby creek. The suite features a king-size, four-poster bed; a gas fireplace; a wet bar with a minifridge; heated bathroom flooring; and a standalone soaking tub and separate rain shower. Recent guests say they enjoyed the beauty and history of this hotel from the 1700s.

Address: 515 Leedsville Road, Amenia, NY 12501

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross has traveled to New York countless times, most recently for a stay at the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa. Of all the places she's visited, she maintains that upstate New York is one of the most romantic destinations in the U.S .

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Ohio
• The Most Romantic Getaways in New Jersey
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania

Tags: Travel , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations

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10 Beautiful Spots to See Fall Foliage in New York State This Year

If you live in New York City —even if you're just passing through—you're probably clamoring for a way to escape the urban jungle and breathe some fresh air on weekends. There's no better time to head upstate than the fall, when drives through Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, the Catskills, and up to the Finger Lakes have never been more scenic. Plan your Instagramming with a little help from this interactive fall foliage map and our picks of some of the most beautiful spots to see fall foliage in New York state this year.

Greater Niagara

We've all heard of Niagara Falls, but the region also has some serious fall foliage game. Devil’s Hole State Park and Whirlpool State Park both offer several miles of panoramic views of the scenic Lower Niagara River gorge, while nearby Letchworth State Park has been dubbed " the Grand Canyon of the East."

Peak foliage: Second and third weeks of October

Thousand Islands-Seaway

Head way north to Scenic View Park in Alexandria Bay, which overlooks the islands—and lavish homes—of Millionaire’s Row. The excellent vantage point of the famed Boldt Castle is a particular perk. Originally a private mansion built by the general manager of NYC's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, the castle is one of the major attractions in the region today.

Peak foliage: First and second weeks of October

Capital-Saratoga Region

Near Albany and Saratoga Springs, the scenic overlook at John Boyd Thacher State Park in Voorheesville offers stunning views of the Hudson-Mohawk lowlands, including the southern Adirondacks. The park has more than 140 camping sites, so go ahead and make a weekend out of it.

Peak foliage: Second week of October

The Adirondacks

If you want an aerial view of that foliage, Whiteface Mountain has a 4,867-foot summit—the fifth-highest in New York—reachable either by car ( Memorial Highway ) or gondola ( Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride at Whiteface Mountain Ski Center).

Peak foliage: First week of October

Finger Lakes

It may not be ski season (...yet), but the chairlifts at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort , about 30 miles southwest of Rochester, provide a terrific view of the valleys all year round. As an added bonus, you can always sip some crazy good wine if the weather gets too chilly.

Take Route 23A to the hamlet of Haines Falls, where you'll find the highest cascades in New York state—Kaaterskill Falls. A network of hiking trails (of varying degrees of difficulty) provide a number of lookout points over the Hudson Valley .

Hudson Valley

If you're up for a little exercise and fresh air, grab your favorite pair of boots and head out to the area around New Paltz in the Hudson Valley. Climb up to Skytop Tower at Lake Mohonk (off Route 299), where you'll be able to see reds, oranges, and yellows spreading out over not one, but six states.

Central New York

The name may make you smile, but the views will make you gasp: Vroman’s Nose (off Route 30 near Middleburgh) offers a short uphill hike and breathtaking views of Schoharie Valley and the northern Catskill Mountains.

Long Island

Planting Fields Arboretum is a 409-acre former estate comprised of greenhouses, rolling lawns, formal gardens, woodland paths, and marked plant collections. Here you’ll find maples, dogwoods, tupelos, and the famed golden larch. In other words? Leaves, leaves, leaves.

Peak foliage: Third and fourth weeks of October

Chautauqua-Allegheny

Leaf-peepers, plug this into your GPS and never look back: Allegany State Park (Exit 21 off Route 86) offers a notable lake view featuring spectacular fall foliage. There is also an overlook pull-off on the road into the park with photo opps of the valley and the city of Salamanca.

Peak foliage: Third week of October

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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!

Find what you love here

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Explore New York to find your kind of family fun and get out to play today! more

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10 Places To Visit In New York If You Are A Movie-Buff

Central park.

One of the most iconic filming locations in the world, Central Park has featured in countless films like Home Alone 2 , When Harry Met Sally , and The Avengers . Stroll through familiar settings, from the Bow Bridge to Bethesda Terrace.

New York Public Library

This architectural marvel has been a backdrop in movies like Ghostbusters and The Day After Tomorrow . The library’s grand facade and interior make it a must-see for fans of classic New York cinema.

Empire State Building

Featured in King Kong , Sleepless in Seattle , and many others, the Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York. Visit the observation deck for a view that has been captured in numerous films.

Times Square

The vibrant heart of New York City, Times Square is featured in movies like Spider-Man , Birdman , and Vanilla Sky . Its dazzling lights and bustling atmosphere are instantly recognisable from the big screen.

Katz's Delicatessen

Known for the famous “I’ll have what she’s having” scene in When Harry Met Sally , Katz’s Deli is a quintessential New York eatery. Enjoy a pastrami sandwich while reliving one of the most memorable moments in film history.

Ghostbusters Firehouse (Hook & Ladder 8)

The firehouse used as the headquarters in Ghostbusters is a must-see for fans of the classic film. Located in Tribeca, the building is an iconic piece of movie history.

Tiffany & Co.

Made famous by Breakfast at Tiffany's , where Audrey Hepburn’s character gazes longingly at the jewellery displays, Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue remains a top destination for fans of the film and classic cinema.

Plaza Hotel

Featured in movies like Home Alone 2 and The Great Gatsby , the Plaza Hotel is synonymous with luxury and old-world charm. Even if you’re not staying there, the grand lobby and nearby Pulitzer Fountain are worth a visit.

Radio City Music Hall

This iconic venue has been featured in films like Radio City Revelry and Rocky III . Its Art Deco design and storied history make it a must-visit for movie buffs and architecture lovers alike.

Grand Central Terminal

A cinematic gem, Grand Central Terminal has appeared in films such as North by Northwest , The Avengers , and The Fisher King . Its Beaux-Arts architecture and bustling atmosphere are instantly recognisable from the movies.

Top 10 Warm Places To Visit In December in The USA

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I’m a gen z travel influencer who’s been to 190 countries — this is the most overrated place on earth.

You’re tripping if you want to visit this tourist hotspot.

A Gen Z travel influencer who has ventured to 190 of the world’s 193 countries says Egypt is among the most overrated places on the planet.

Luca Pferdmenges, 22, made the bold claim in an interview with the Daily Mai l on Saturday, with the declaration sure to dash the hopes of those who have long dreamed of seeing the pyramids and sailing down the Nile.

The German explorer has racked up 2.9 million TikTok followers and some serious air miles by filming travel videos around the globe, but he won’t be returning to the North African nation in a hurry.

“Egypt is the most annoying country for tourists in my opinion,” he declared, without elaborating why he found that to be the case.

However, the young globetrotter also took aim at several tropical hotspots, similarly saying that they should be avoided.

“Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, most of the Caribbean Lesser Antilles [are overrated],” he stated. “They’re often very touristy and often don’t have much besides pretty beaches.”

When it comes to Europe, Pferdmenges told the publication that travelers can safely skip Belgium, as it’s his least favorite country on the continent.

‘It just feels super unsafe at night in my opinion – and I’m talking about Brussels here,” the intrepid influencer explained. “And many of the Belgian cities are pretty ugly as well. Grey and depressive, especially in winter.”

Pferdmenges didn’t just engage in travel trash talk, however.

The explorer revealed some of the most underrated countries to visit, including Montenegro.

“It’s surprising how little recognition places such as Montenegro or Slovenia get. They are some of the most beautiful countries in the world — and cheap — but nobody visits them,” he stated.

He added Uzbekistan, Myanmar, Bhutan and “most countries in Latin America” to his list of underrated gems.

“People usually forget they exist, but they’re often way more exciting and more affordable than the ‘classic tourism destinations’ — especially hidden gems like Bhutan and Myanmar,” he said. “They are really unknown, but some of the prettiest countries in the world.’

When asked to list his absolute favorite country on Earth, Pferdmenges couldn’t identify just one.

Mexico, Brazil, Israel, Spain, Bhutan, UK, the UAE, Portugal and Austria were his top nine of the 190 nations he’s seen.

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Awesome aurora: See epic photos of northern lights in Upstate NY

• Updated: Aug. 16, 2024, 9:00 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 13, 2024, 12:16 p.m.

The nothern lights shine over the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent, N.Y. overnight on Aug. 12, 2024. Photo courtesy of Karen Millspaugh | @wanderwomanpics on Instagram Karen Millspaugh | @wanderwomanpics on Instagram

• Samantha House | [email protected]

Bolton, N.Y. — For two incredible nights, a brilliant celestial show danced over Upstate New York.

The aurora borealis appeared over the Empire State overnight on Sunday and Monday, coloring starry skies in neon shades of pink, purple, green and blue. The northern lights visited Upstate as the yearly Perseid meteor shower was peaking — treating stargazers to two brilliant natural events.

One photographer even captured three jaw-dropping skyward phenomena (the Milky Way, shooting stars AND the aurora) in one unforgettable shot taken in the Adirondacks.

The northern lights were spotted across much of Upstate, from Western New York and the Finger Lakes to the Catskills and Adirondacks.

Sadly, the northern lights aren’t forecasted to be visible from New York tonight or tomorrow, according to the daily aurora forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. But the Perseid meteor shower will continue to shoot stars over us (albeit not as brightly) through the end of August.

The August aurora borealis show wasn’t the first time the northern lights have made a widespread appearance in Upstate this year.

The aurora borealis lit up Upstate skies in early May as a strong geomagnetic storm hit Earth. Thanks to the sun’s place in its current solar cycle, the aurora is expected to remain active through the rest of 2024.

Here are some of the incredible shots photographers captured around the Empire State:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by James (@jamesperezrogers)

The aurora borealis appears over the The Lodges at Cresthaven in Lake George, N.Y. on Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024. Photo courtesy of Evan Wann Photo courtesy of Evan Wann

View this post on Instagram A post shared by WNY Scenery (@wnyscenery)

The Perseid meteor shower, the Milky Way AND the aurora borealis appear over Basin Bay on Lake George in Bolton, N.Y. around 12:30 a.m. on Monday, April 12, 2024. Photo courtesy of William Adamczak | @wadamczakphoto on Instagram William Adamczak | @wadamczakphoto on Instagram

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica & Acadia - Hiking duo (@adkdoghiker)

The aurora borealis appears over the village of Aurora on Cayuga Lake in this photo taken in Romulus, N.Y. at 2:20 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024. Photo courtesy of Michele Knox Photo courtesy of Michele Knox

The northern lights stun in a show above North Mountain in the Catskills of New York overnight between Aug. 11 and Aug. 12, 2024. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Smith | @j.remy.photo on Instagram Jeremy Smith | @j.remy.photo on Instagram

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luke Madden (@lukemadd)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by William Adamczak (@wadamczakphoto)

The northern lights bring dancing purple and green lights to Hailesboro, N.Y. in the North Country on Aug. 12, 2024. Photo courtesy of Kortney Knight | @kknightphotos on Instagram Photo courtesy of Kortney Knight | @kknightphotos on Instagram

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kevin (@userwiththatnamealreadyexists)

The northern lights were visible over New York's Seneca Lake just after 11 p.m. Sunday, August 11, 2024. Lauren Long | [email protected] Lauren Long | [email protected]

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jeet Devang Sanghavi (@jeetsanghavi48)

Can’t get enough of Upstate? Follow New York Upstate on Instagram and TikTok for gorgeous views from around Upstate New York.

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Watch CBS News

Perseid meteor shower put on quite a show when it peaked overnight

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 12, 2024 / 6:33 AM EDT / CBS News

The Perseid meteor shower peaked overnight Sunday into Monday, giving astronomy fans one of the best shows of 2024 as they look to the skies. 

The shower started in July and will continue through most of August, but just peaked, NASA said. The Perseids are considered the " best meteor shower of the year" by NASA, with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour under ideal conditions. 

What time did the Perseid meteor shower peak?

The best time to catch the Perseids was in the pre-dawn hours, according to NASA, but it was possible to view its meteors as early as 10 p.m. 

NASA noted that the moon was to set just as the Perseids started to peak. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonset times  for different ZIP codes across the United States. 

Where was the Perseid meteor shower visible?

The best view of the Perseids meteor shower was from the Northern Hemisphere. NASA urged astronomy fans who wanted to check out the shower to get away from the bright lights of cities. 

" Try to get to the darkest location you can," NASA wrote . "The darker it is where you are, the more meteors you will see streaking across the sky."

Around 50 to 75 meteors an hour could be seen in darker locations. 

Where was it best to look to see the meteor shower?

NASA had a simple suggestion: Look up! NASA suggested lying on your back, enabling your eyes to adjust to the dark — and staying off your phone. There was no need to look in any particular direction as the meteors could generally be seen all over the sky.

The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory suggested facing roughly northeast as you lay down, but to try to take in as much of the sky as possible because meteors can appear all over.

When will the next meteor shower be?

Two other meteor showers are actually active right now. The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower began last month and will run through Aug. 21. It peaked in late July. The alpha Capricornids, a small meteor shower, also started last month. It will continue through Aug. 11, according to the American Meteor Society.

The next major meteor shower, the Orionids , won't be active until late September, with a peak in October, according to the American Meteor Society. NASA describes the Orionids as one of the most beautiful showers of the year. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed.

What are meteor showers?

Meteors — space rocks that enter Earth's atmosphere — streak through the sky every night, but meteor showers happen less frequently. During a meteor shower, many meteors hit Earth's atmosphere over a short period of time. When they pass through the atmosphere, the meteors leave behind streaks of light caused by glowing, hot air. 

While most meteors burn up as they fall, some survive the trip and reach Earth. Those surviving space rocks are considered meteorites.

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this summer?

There are two more full moons this summer. August's full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, reaches peak illumination on Monday, Aug. 19. September's full moon will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17, just days before the start of fall. 

• Meteor Shower

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Northern Lights may illuminate New York tonight. What to expect

A moderate geomagnetic storm could allow for viewing of the aurora borealis tonight, following a weekend that saw the peak of the Perseid meteor shower . 

A coronal mass ejection watch was issued for Aug. 13 by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center through the first half of the day. As a result, the northern lights could be visible in northern U.S. states from Idaho to New York. 

While conditions are expected to peak on Tuesday at moderate levels, severe conditions were reached on Monday morning. The impacts from the peak of the storm include voltage control problems, GPS degradation and satellite operation anomalies. 

What is the aurora borealis? How do the northern lights work?

Auroras are ribbons of light that weave across Earth's northern or southern polar regions, according to NASA. Geomagnetic storms that have been triggered by solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections like those that occurred this weekend, cause them. The solar wind carries energetic charged particles from these events away from the sun.

These energized particles hit the atmosphere at 45 million mph and are redirected to the poles by the earth's magnetic field,  according to Space.com , creating the light show.

During major geomagnetic storms, the auroras expand away from the poles and can be seen over some parts of the United States,  according to NOAA .

Coronal mass ejections

Between Aug. 8 to 10 there were five coronal mass ejections which arrived on Earth on Sunday and Monday. Coronal mass ejections are large eruptions of plasma and magnetic field from the sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

The ejections come amid one of the highest periods of activity so far in this solar cycle, with 11 sunspot clusters visible on Sunday. The estimated daily sunspot number on Aug. 8 was 337, which would be the highest count since March 2001 , according to the Space Weather Prediction Center. 

The official count for the sunspot number will be reported on Sept. 1; that count is determined by the Solar Influences Data Center at the Royal Observatory in Belgium. The initial daily estimate from the SIDC for Aug. 8 was 295. Subsequent estimations have declined to 245 by Aug. 11. 

Sun spots and solar cycles

The sun is in the midst of its latest solar cycle, which occurs approximately every 11 years. So far, sunspot numbers for the current cycle have exceeded estimates, with July almost doubling the expected value. 

The sunspot number is calculated using the sum of individual sunspots and 10 times the number of groups. The monthly number of sunspots increases and decreases along a roughly 11-year cycle. Sunspots are dark areas on our star’s surface caused by intense magnetic flux.

While no longer at peak this evening, the Perseid meteor shower is still underway and anyone with sufficiently dark skies should have the opportunity to see the display. At peak, meteors can be seen at a rate of 100 per hour. 

More: Perseids meteor shower peaks this weekend. Here's the best time to see

What is a meteor shower?

Meteors are rock and ice debris ejected from comets and asteroids in orbit around the sun which burn up in earth’s upper atmosphere, giving off streaks of light colloquially known as shooting stars. Meteor showers happen at regular intervals because comets orbit the sun, though in a highly elliptical pattern as opposed to the rounder orbit of planets. Each time the orbit of a comet or asteroid and the earth cross, the planet is hit by debris, the vast majority of which never reaches the ground. 

The comet responsible for the Perseid meteor shower is Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862 and has a center 16 miles across.  

 Meteor showers are named for the constellation closest to the point they appear to originate from in the night sky, such as Perseus for the Perseids and Gemini for the Geminids.  

This story includes reporting by USA Today reporter Doyle Rice .

— Steve Howe  covers weather, climate and lake issues for the Democrat and Chronicle. An RIT graduate, he returned to Rochester after working around the state and in Utah. See anything interesting in the night sky? Tell him at [email protected].