Top Destinations in New York State for 2024

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

1. Adirondacks

I think you’ll love the Adirondack region of northern New York, whether you’re into sports history, outdoor activities, or just stunning landscape. The Adirondacks provide a pleasant diversion from the region’s busy metropolises. They are located roughly 290 miles north of New York City, 250 miles northwest of Boston, and 110 miles south of Montreal. Visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor winter activities, such as dogsledding, bobsledding, skiing, and snowshoeing. When summer arrives, visitors can go whitewater rafting, biking, fishing, hiking, and canoeing. With more than 6 million acres scattered across 12 areas, you’ll have your choice of breathtaking scenery to explore year-round, including Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake.

You’re in luck if you’re hoping to take a break from the outdoor activities offered by the Adirondacks: this hilly region is home to a wealth of historical artefacts. Explore the Olympic Jumping Complex, the Olympic Sports Complex, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to get a taste of everything Olympic in Lake Placid. In addition, the cemetery and former residence of abolitionist John Brown, John Brown Farm State Historic Site, is worth visiting if sports history isn’t your thing. Extras include a range of seasonal activities, upscale dining establishments, boutique stores, and gastropubs with an Adirondack theme. When it’s time to head home for the night, there are a variety of lodging choices available, from comfortable cabins and upmarket resorts to conventional campgrounds and charming bed-and-breakfasts.

2. Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region is made up of more than 1,800 islands, despite its name. An open-air boat cruise is the ideal way to observe this huge region, which extends into Canada. A gorgeous tour here will pass lighthouses, mansions, and castles, along with historical narration about the Gilded Age magnates who once called the area home and the actual pirates who once roamed the islands’ waterways.

When you’re ready to head back to Earth, head to Mary Island State Park or Wellesley Island State Park to go fishing or explore the trails.

3. New York City

The Big Apple is a cool, bustling, diverse city that perfectly combines big-city grandeur and small-town charm. Amidst the city’s famous landmarks and tall skyscrapers, New York offers a diverse range of neighbourhoods and boroughs, each with its own unique culture. Go to the East Village and Brooklyn with trend-setters to see independent stores, well-known bakeries, and hip coffee cafes. After that, browse the Fifth Avenue’s slick stores’ racks, take in the Met’s and MoMA’s state-of-the-art art collections, see a memorable Broadway production, or have dinner at the newest “it” restaurant.

NYC, the most populated metropolis in the United States and a leader in the arts, fashion, and cuisine, demands endurance. However, don’t allow the hectic sights and sounds of the Big Apple deter you from taking in its splendour. Seek the assistance of a native to guide you through it all. Strolling about the concrete jungle, you’ll see Times Square’s neon lights flickering constantly, roaring taxis speeding down busy blocks, and fast-moving passengers making their way to marquee galleries and hip cocktail bars. However, the city’s dazzling lights and bustling alleyways also beckon you to seize every moment of New York life, discover every community, and forge your own urban journey. The city that never sleeps has countless activities to do, but before you go, take a moment to explore your surroundings. You never know when something small like this will grow into something much bigger and better.

4. The Finger Lakes

Native American mythology holds that the eleven glacial lakes that make up this location in central New York are proof that the Great Spirit blessed the land and left his footprint behind. As a result, the freshwater lakes in the area are called Seneca, Keuka, Cayuga, and Skaneateles after Native Americans. Currently, this 9,000-square-mile region serves as both a growing wine region that has been compared to Napa Valley and a year-round outdoor playground.Apart from an abundance of water activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, the Finger Lakes also provide strenuous climbs through breathtaking state parks with rocky gorges and tumbling waterfalls. However, there are also lots of options for leisure in the area, including beautiful drives through rural and wine regions. The region has you covered if culture is what you’re looking as well: It’s

5. The Catskills

With 98 peaks, southeastern New York’s Catskill Mountains beckon to nature enthusiasts. About 40% of Catskill Park’s 700,000-plus acres are designated as “forever wild,” meaning you’ll have access to sprawling spaces ideal for outdoor activities. In winter, the Catskills offer ample opportunities to ski and snowboard.

Meanwhile, summer is perfect for hunting, hiking, boating and zip lining, among other activities. After a busy day outdoors, you can check out the region’s art scene (the Catskills were home to America’s first art movement – the Hudson River School) or enjoy the amenities at one of the area’s top.

6. Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park, known for its breathtaking gorge and nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East, is a hidden treasure for outdoor enthusiasts. Letchworth boasts 66 miles of hiking paths, many of which offer views of the park’s numerous rivers and three sizable waterfalls.

The park also provides lots of chances for biking, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. Should you have a preference for winter activities over summer ones, go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling as soon as the weather drops.

7. Long Island

Many New Yorkers who want to get away from the city and unwind on white sand beaches with a glass of wine often visit this 118-mile-long island. Summertime hotspots like the Hamptons and Montauk have a quaint seaside appeal and must-see beaches like Ditch Plains Beach, which is a well-liked site for surfers. In contrast, Jones Beach State Park, which welcomes families and has shuffleboard grounds, a mini-golf course, and a swimming pool, is a more affordable choice.

Long Island has more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms in addition to its beaches; some of these are included on the North Fork Wine Trail.

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