The Big Apple is obviously on the list, but there are so many diverse and wonderful places to visit in New York! Here are our 7 favorite things to do during your trip.
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New York City
Most people traveling to New York State are headed towards this magnificent city, and the reason why is obvious. You can spend a lifetime of vacation days in the Big Apple and never see everything. There are iconic landmarks to see, historical sites to explore, and diverse neighborhoods to visit. Not to mention the world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities available.
First time visitors to New York City should take the time to visit several key sites. Take a ferry to Liberty Island to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to learn more about the immigrants who shaped our nation. After your jaunt across the harbor, take some time to walk over the Brooklyn Bridge. Also in this area is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum where you can pay tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Another must-visit place in New York City includes Central Park. This sprawling green oasis in the center of the city offers plenty of space to relax after the hustle and bustle of the streets. Nearby, check out the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. And make sure to end your day enjoying the bright lights and entertainment options in Time Square and taking in the views from the observation decks of the Empire State Building.
There are many great places to stay in the city. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Finger Lakes
The picturesque Finger Lakes Region is named for the 11 long and narrow lakes that resemble a hand from above. No matter which lake you visit, there are plenty of kayaking, boating, and hiking opportunities available.
The top attraction in this region is Watkins Glen State Park. The highlight of this park are the 19 waterfalls located along various hiking trails. The park also features caverns, gorges, and scenic overlooks. Nearby, the Coring Museum of Glass explains the history and science of glassmaking. Watch live glassblowing demonstrations, and you can even create your own masterpiece in an interactive workshop.
From Watkins Glen, take the Seneca Lakes Scenic Byway along New York State Route 414. Along the way, stop to enjoy some of the many wineries, breweries, distilleries, farms stands, restaurants, and shops. Drive all the way to Seneca Falls, home of the women’s right to vote movement in the U.S. Here you can visit the Women’s Rights National Historic Park.
Camping is available at Watkins Glen State Park, and there are many great places to stay in the area (Watkins Glen | Corning | Seneca Falls). And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area (Watkins Glen | Corning | Seneca Falls).
Niagara Falls
Located on the New York/Canadian border, Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls spanning from 78-188 feet tall and 56-2,600 feet wide. Visit Niagara Falls State Park to take pedestrian-friendly paths to breathtaking views of all three falls. While there, get up close and personal with the falls at the Cave of the Winds. You can also take a Maid of the Mist boat tour to see the falls from another vantage point. And you can visit the Niagara Falls Observation Tower for panoramic views of the area
History buffs will enjoy visiting one of the many historical sites in the area. Old Fort Niagara is the site of a fort built during the colonial wars more than 300 years ago. The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center tells the story of the abolitionist movement and the brave people seeking freedom. If nautical history and advancements intrigue you, visit the Erie Canal and take a boat cruise through the Lockport Locks.
If you enjoy art, seek out the street murals in Art Alley NF. You will also enjoy exploring the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center. For live entertainment, check the schedules for Old Falls Street, Riviera Theatre & Performing Arts Center, and Artpark.
If you have kids in tow, checkout the Aquarium of Niagara featuring sharks, sea lions, penguins, and more. Kids will also like the immersive films shown at the Niagara Adventure Theater. Also take time to visit the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum to learn about the history of hand-carved carrousels and to take a spin on an authentic Herschell wooden horse.
There are many great places to stay. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Adirondack Mountains
If you love the great outdoors, be sure to add the Adirondack Mountains to your list of places to visit in New York. Visit Adirondack Park National Historic Landmark which contains the largest protected wilderness area in the contiguous United States This vast wilderness region of lakes, forests, and mountain peaks offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
The park has over 2,000 miles of hiking trails. Van Hoevenberg Trail is a challenging 16.2 mile out-and-back mile trek up to Mount Marcy, the highest peak in the state. The Cascade Mountain Trail is a bit shorter at 5.6 miles out-and-back but still challenging trek up Cascade Mountain for stunning views. If you aren’t up for strenuous hikes, there are plenty of other hikes suitable for all ability levels.
There’s plenty of other activities available in the region. You can take a boat tour, take a scenic drive, and visit any number of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Visit the Adirondack Experience, an interactive indoors/outdoor museum that offers a deep dive into the region’s past. There’s also the Wild Center, a natural history museum offering the opportunity to experience the treetops from an elevated walkway as well as see native wildlife and learn about the region through interactive exhibits. And there plenty of other museums and historic sites to keep you busy!
There are great places to stay near and in Adirondack Park. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Saratoga Springs
The historic resort town of Saratoga Springs oozes charm and elegance. Known for its natural mineral springs, people have been traveling to the area seeking health and relaxation in the waters for centuries. Today the town boasts beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of opportunities to interact with nature.
Take a walking tour of downtown Saratoga Springs to learn about the city’s history. Then stick around to explore the many boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Nearby, check out the exhibits and events offered at Saratoga Arts community art center. And make sure you look to see what entertainment is offered at the Saratoga Springs Performing Arts Center during your visit.
To experience the mineral waters, make your way to Saratoga Spas State Park. Enjoy the park’s gardens and hiking trails before taking a soak at one of the many springs available or at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa. The park is also home to the Saratoga Automobile Museum, and the Saratoga Spa State Park Golf Course.
If you are visiting late July through Labor Day, attend a live horse race at the historic Saratoga Race Course. Other times of year, visit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame to learn about horseracing and its history in Saratoga Springs.
There are many great places to stay in Saratoga Springs. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area.
The Catskills
Located in southeastern New York State, the Catskill Mountains are known for their scenic beauty, lush forests, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Lower in elevation than the Adirondack Mountains, the Catskills are famous for their scenic waterfalls and family-friendly hiking trails. To best discover the area, take one of the many scenic drives through all four regions of the Catskills.
Visit Catskills Park to enjoy water sports, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, and biking. Start your visit at the Catskills Visitor Center. Enjoy the 1.5 miles of nature trails near the center, and make plans to climb the 80 -foot tall Upper Esopus Fire Tower for unparalleled views of the landscape. Make sure to take time to see Kaaterskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in New York State. It is best viewed from an observation platform you can reach via a 0.5 mile trail from the Laurel House Road parking area in Haines Falls.
Once you have had your fill of nature (if that’s even possible), you can explore historic sites and villages in the area. Visit the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts where the 1969 Woodstock festival was held. Learn about artist and environmentalist Thomas Cole by visiting his home and studios preserved at the the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. Take a ride on the historic Catskill Mountain Railroad. And no matter where you are in the Catskills, take time to explore the unique charms of the towns along the way.
There are many great places to stay in the region. There are other fun things to see and do while in the area as well.
Thousand Islands
If you are seeking a quiet and less touristy New York experience, visit the Thousand Islands located on the border between the U.S. and Canada. Here you are greeted with more than 1,800 scenic islands, historic lighthouses, and grand waterfront estates. Take a boat tour to explore the area and learn about the history and lore of the area.
If you think castles are in short supply in America, think again! There are two noteworthy castles in the Thousand Islands. Both castles were built in the early 20th century and are only accessible by water. Boldt Castle is more grand and known for it’s Gilded Age design, while Singer Castle is inspired by medieval castles.
Opportunities for watersports abound in the area. Use a kayak or canoe to hop between the islands, some of which feature hiking trails and picnic areas. You can also fish and enjoy watching the diverse array of bird species that make the region their home. And if you love to golf, there are several scenic golf courses available.
Want to visit Canada? You can easily do so by walking over the Thousand Islands Bridge. It connects New York State with Ontario, Canada. You can see panoramic views of the river and islands from the bridge’s observation decks. If you plan to go all the way across, remember to bring your passport!
There are several great places to stay in the region. There are also other fun things to see and do in the area.
What’s on your New York itinerary?
These are just 7 of the sensational sites to see in New York. But the state is full of many more incredible destinations that are worth exploring. Tell us below where you plan to visit!
We hope you have enjoyed this installment on our 7 Sensational Sites in Each State of the USA series. Tell us what you think in the comments below. You can also contact us and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest so you never miss a post.
