There are many beautiful places to visit in New York State, and it can be hard to narrow it down to just seventeen. But, after much deliberation, these are our top picks for the best places to go in the Big Apple. From world-famous tourist destinations to hidden gems off the beaten path, there is something for everyone here.
New York City is a bustling metropolis with endless attractions for visitors. From the iconic Times Square to the world-renowned Central Park, there are plenty of places to explore in this dynamic city. So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, be sure to check out these fantastic spots.
New York City has always been a popular tourist destination, and the list of places to visit grows longer with each year. Whether you’re looking for shopping, dining, art, or history, these 17 destinations will have something for you.
1. Statue Of Liberty
The American Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic monuments in the country, symbolizing new beginnings for millions of immigrants as they journeyed to Ellis Island. Tourists can take a ferry to both of these attractions that operate continuously between Battery Park and Liberty Island.
Visitors may enjoy views of both the New York memorial and the cityscape free of charge when they stop at the first stop. Tickets are also available for those who wish to access the pedestal or crown, but crown passes sell out up to six months in advance. Make sure to check out the museum at the bottom of the statue and see the many historical signs, statues, and markers.
After Ellis Island, the ferry arrives in New York City, where the memorabilia on the first floor of the main building turns into a museum and an architectural wonder that once served as a processing and treatment center.
On the first floor of the main building, there is a museum that served as a principal facility and hospital from 1892 to 1954. Tourists can also visit the second floor’s spacious quarantine wing to see the original beds and facilities used by those seeking to start new lives.
2. New York City
New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There is so much to see and do in the city that it can be hard to know where to start. Here are just a few of the many reasons to visit New York City.
The skyline – One of the first things you notice about New York City is the skyline. Iconic buildings like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building are just two of the many skyscrapers that dominate the skyline. If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, you can take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry or go to the top of the Rockefeller Center.
The food – New York City is home to some of the best food in the world. Whether you’re looking for a cheap slice of pizza or a fine dining experience, you’ll be able to find it in the city. There are also food carts on nearly every street corner, so you can always get a quick bite to eat.
The museums – New York City is home to some of the best museums in the world. The Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Guggenheim Museum are just a few of the must-see museums in the city. If you’re a history buff, you’ll also want to check out the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
The theater – on Broadway is one of the most popular reasons to visit New York City. The city is home to dozens of theaters where you can see world-famous musicals and plays. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, you won’t want to miss out on a chance to see a show in New York City.
There are so many reasons to visit New York City. Whether you’re interested in the skyline, the food, the museums, or the theater, you’ll be able to find plenty to do in the city.
Where to stay: Find where to stay in New York City
3. Syracuse
Syracuse is a beautiful city located in New York. It is also the county seat of Onondaga County. This city has a lot to offer its visitors. From its rich history to its plethora of cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in Syracuse.
The city is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions. The Erie Canal Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Erie Canal. The Onondaga County War Memorial is another popular attraction. This museum commemorates the men and women who served in the armed forces.
The Everson Museum of Art is the perfect place to spend an afternoon if you love art. The museum houses a collection of over 11,000 works of art. The Syracuse Symphony Orchestra is also a popular cultural attraction. The orchestra performs at the Crouse Hinds Theater.
If you are looking for a place to stay, there are a number of hotels in Syracuse. The Marriott Syracuse Downtown is a popular choice for business and leisure travelers. The Crowne Plaza Syracuse is another great option.
There are also a number of restaurants in Syracuse. If you are looking for a fine dining experience, you should check out the Empire Brewing Company. This restaurant is located in the historic Armory Square district.
If you are looking for a more casual dining experience, you should check out the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. This restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Syracuse.
Whether you are visiting Syracuse for business or pleasure, you will find plenty to do. This city has something for everyone.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Syracuse, NY
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4. Central Park
Central Park covers an area in Manhattan that is large enough to cross on foot with a complete day and a half to spare. It offers traveling tourists various sights and attractions, such as serene park buildings and intriguing skating rinks. Bethesda Terrace is renowned for its ornate Bethesda Fountain, the Mall, a broad pathway shaded by the majestic limbs of American elms that grow countless feet in height across the site, starting close to the terrace.
Visitors revel in the gorgeous Conservatory Garden, the picturesque Shakespeare Garden, and the enticing Chess & Checkers House. The New York Central Park Zoo is an extraordinary place, with sea lions, penguins, and other fantastic animals, and the children will love its historic carousel. The park also provides vast green lawns, as well as a number of ponds, and can be toured in a horse-drawn coach for a quaint antique sightseeing experience.
5. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is among the natural wonders of North America, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Located at Niagara Falls, the New York–Ontario border area of the United States and Canada is home to three waterfalls and one gap: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.
Furthermore, there are plenty of reasons to visit Niagara Falls, New York. The falls are one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, and the city offers plenty of ways to experience them. To obtain the best view of the three falls, climb up the observation tower or take advantage of the Hornblower boat tour to view the Horseshoe Falls basin.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Niagara Falls
And that’s just the beginning. Niagara Falls is also home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Families will love spending a day at the Niagara Falls State Park, where they can explore the Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Adventure Theater. There’s also an abundance of shopping and dining options in the city.
In addition to details about the park and tour tickets, the Visitor Center also offers a gift shop, several restaurants, and a theater, which features a film with a runtime of close to forty minutes on the history of Niagra Falls, legend, and previous developments of the falls. A typical winter theme includes a multitude of frozen pictures of waterfalls, dark clouds of freezing mist, and railings covered in ice. On calm days, the mist blown off the falls can be seen 100 kilometers away from the CN Tower in Toronto.
6. Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes Region of New York State is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the world. The eleven Finger Lakes, which give the region its name, are long, thin lakes that were formed by glaciers during the last ice age. The Finger Lakes Region is also home to Taughannock Falls State Park, one of the most popular state parks in New York.
The Finger Lakes Region is a great place to visit if you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The region is also home to some of the best wineries in the world, so it is a great place to visit if you are a fan of wine. There are also many great restaurants in the Finger Lakes Region, so you will never go hungry during your visit.
If you are looking for a place to stay while you are visiting the Finger Lakes Region, there are many great hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from. There are also many campgrounds in the region, so you can camp under the stars if you want to. No matter what your budget is, you will be able to find a place to stay in the Finger Lakes Region that is perfect for you.
The Finger Lakes Region is a great place to visit for a variety of different reasons. Whether you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation or you are looking for a place to enjoy some of the best wine in the world, the Finger Lakes Region is the perfect place for you.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Finger Lakes, New York
7. Lake Placid
Lake Placid, the flagship resort in Whiteface Mountain’s canyon, hosted the Winter Olympics twice (1932, 1980). The town is now a popular destination, situated in an amazing natural landscape with lakes and hills. Not only is the town famous internationally as a winter sports destination, but it is also a popular summer destination, as well.
Dozens of distinct restaurants and shops line the main tourist strip throughout the town. There is also a picturesque body of water called Lake Placid, which is the community’s main attraction. The mirror lake setting contributes to its desirability.
Visitors can hit the slopes in winter at one of the many nearby ski resorts or go for a scenic sleigh ride. And in the warmer months, there’s no shortage of things to do, from hiking and biking to canoeing and kayaking. But that’s not all that Lake Placid has to offer.
As stated above, the town is home to the 1980 Winter Olympics arena, as well as the Olympic Training Center, which is open to the public. So whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or just looking to get away from it all, Lake Placid is sure to please.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Lake Placid, NY.
8. Cooperstown
Cooperstown, New York, is a small village located in Otsego County. The village is most famous for being the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Cooperstown is a popular destination for baseball fans from all over the world, and the village’s Main Street is lined with baseball-themed shops and restaurants.
In addition to the Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown is home to several other museums and historical sites. The Farmers’ Museum is a living history museum that recreates life on a 19th-century farm. The Fenimore Art Museum features a collection of American art, including paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe and Andrew Wyeth. And the Glimmerglass Opera, one of the nation’s leading summer opera festivals, is held each year in Cooperstown.
Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, Cooperstown is a great place to visit. The village offers a charming Main Street, a variety of museums and historical sites, and a unique summer opera festival.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Cooperstown, NY
9. Thousand Island
There are many reasons to visit Thousand Island, New York. This region is known for its natural beauty, its history, and its many activities.
The Thousand Islands region is located in the heart of the St. Lawrence River. It is a beautiful area with over 1,800 islands. The scenery is amazing, and there are many activities to enjoy, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking.
The region is also rich in history. Thousand Island Park is the site of Fort Crown Point, which was an important military fort during the French and Indian War. The 1000 Islands Bridge is also located in the region and is one of the longest bridges in the world.
There are many other reasons to visit Thousand Island, New York. This region is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are also many events and activities to enjoy throughout the year.
The place to stay: Find places to stay on Thousand Island, NY
10. The Adirondack
The Adirondack region of New York is one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world. The Adirondack Mountains are the largest mountain range in the eastern United States, and the Adirondack Park is the largest park in the country. The Adirondack region is home to thousands of miles of hiking trails, many of which offer stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding area. The Adirondack region is also home to some of the best camping and fishing in the country.
There are countless reasons to visit the Adirondacks, but here are just a few of our favorites:
1. The scenery is simply breathtaking.
Whether you’re hiking through the woods or paddling down a river, the Adirondacks offer some of the most stunning scenery in the country. And with over 6 million acres of wilderness to explore, you’re sure to find a spot that’s perfect for you.
2. There’s an abundance of outdoor activities.
From hiking and camping to fishing and canoeing, the Adirondacks offer something for everyone. And with over 3,000 lakes and 30,000 miles of rivers, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
3. The Adirondacks are home to some of the best breweries in the country.
If you’re a fan of craft beer, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the Adirondacks’ best breweries. From world-renowned breweries like Ommegang and Saranac to local favorites like Adirondack Pub & Brewery, there’s sure to be a beer that’s perfect for you.
A place to stay: Find places to stay in Adirondack, NY
4. The Adirondacks offer a taste of true Americana.
The Adirondacks are filled with charming reminders of America’s past, from small towns to historic sites. From the Olympic Village of Lake Placid to the Saratoga Race Course, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
5. The Adirondacks are the perfect place to relax and recharge.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind, the Adirondacks are the perfect destination. With its peaceful surroundings and abundant activities, it’s easy to forget about the stresses of daily life and just relax.
Whether you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, an abundance of outdoor activities, or a taste of true Americana, the Adirondacks are the perfect destination for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
11. The Catskills
The Catskills are a beautiful mountain range in upstate New York that offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities. In the winter, the Catskills are a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, and in the summer, the mountains are a great place to escape the heat and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
There are a number of small towns and villages in the Catskills, each with its unique charm. The town of Woodstock is a popular destination for artists and musicians, while the village of Phoenicia is known for its outdoor adventures. No matter what time of year you visit, the Catskills have something to offer everyone.
This region was once the center of the American art world, and many of the world’s most famous artists lived and worked here. Today, the Catskills are home to a number of art galleries and museums, as well as a lively arts scene. The Catskills are also a great destination for food lovers.
The region is home to numerous farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, and breweries. And, of course, the Catskills are also a great place to just relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of upstate New York.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Catskills, NY
12. Letchworth State Park
If you love the great outdoors, then you’ll definitely want to add Letchworth State Park to your list of must-visit destinations. Situated in the Genesee River Valley in upstate New York, this 14,427-acre park is renowned for its spectacular gorges and waterfalls, as well as it’s abundant hiking and camping opportunities.
In addition to its natural beauty, Letchworth State Park is also rich in history. The park was originally inhabited by the Seneca Nation of Native Americans, and later became a popular destination for European settlers. Today, the park is home to numerous historical sites, including the Mary Jemison Visitor Center, which tells the story of a young Seneca woman who was captured by a group of French traders and sold into slavery.
Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, fish, camp, or simply take in the scenery, Letchworth State Park has something for everyone. The park features over 66 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. For those looking to bike, the park has over 20 miles of trails to explore. If fishing is more your speed, the Genesee River is home to trout, bass, and walleye.
And if you’re looking to camp, the park offers both primitive and hook-up camping sites. No matter what your interests are, a visit to Letchworth State Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
13. Rochester, NY
There are many reasons to visit Rochester, New York. The city is rich in history, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider a trip to Rochester.
Rochester is home to the Genesee River, which runs through the center of the city. The river is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. There are also several parks located along the river, which are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
The city is also home to the Rochester Museum & Science Center, which is a great place to learn about the history of the area. The museum has several interactive exhibits, and there is also a planetarium on site.
If you love shopping, you’ll be happy to know that Rochester is home to several malls and shopping districts. There are also plenty of boutique shops downtown, and you can find just about anything you’re looking for.
And, of course, no visit to Rochester would be complete without trying some of the local food. The city is known for its chicken wings, and there are several restaurants that specialize in them. You can also find plenty of other local favorites, such as Rochester’s world-famous garbage plates.
Whether you’re looking for history, shopping, or just a good meal, Rochester has something to offer everyone. So why not plan a trip and see for yourself?
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Rochester, NY
14. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen is one of the best places to visit in new york, and it is situated in the Finger Lakes State Parks at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. It provides two miles of land and water from a height of almost 400 feet to an elevation of 200 feet. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and swimming in the park’s Olympic-sized pool in addition to the gorge’s hiking trails. The park offers room and RV campsite stays, and participants may take place in picnic areas during peak daylight hours. Guided tours of the gorge are provided in season.
Furthermore, the park is home to the world-famous Watkins Glen International racetrack, which hosts a variety of racing events throughout the year. Watkins Glen State Park is a great place to visit for a variety of reasons. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, and the hiking trails are perfect for a day of exploring. The park is also home to a variety of different wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Watkins Glen State Park is the perfect spot. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or just enjoying the scenery, you’re sure to have a great time at this New York state park.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay in Watkins Glen, NY
15. Long Island
Long Island is a beautiful place to visit, and there are many reasons to do so. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, as well as many other attractions. Here are just a few reasons why you should visit Long Island.
- The Beaches
Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to have some fun, you’ll find it on Long Island. There are many different beaches to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.
- The Attractions
Long Island is home to many different attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, or art, or just want to have some fun, you’ll find it on Long Island. There are many different museums, parks, and other attractions to choose from. You’re sure to find something that interests you.
- The Food
Long Island is home to some of the best food in the world. There are many different restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that you’ll love. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you’ll find it on Long Island.
- The People
The people of Long Island are some of the nicest people in the world. They’re always willing to help and they’re always friendly. You’re sure to feel right at home on Long Island.
- The Weather
The weather on Long Island is perfect. It’s never too hot or too cold. You’re sure to enjoy the weather no matter what time of year it is.
These are just a few of the many reasons why you should visit Long Island. There are many more reasons to visit Long Island, but these are just a few of the most important ones. If you’re looking for a place to have fun, Long Island is the perfect place.
A place to stay: Find a place to stay on Long Island, NY
16. Fire Island
Across Long Island from Fire Island is a narrow borderland called Fire Island. Much of Fire Island contains the National Seashore, a former whaling spot that has since become a prominent beach getaway location. The combination between the beaches and the area’s outdoor activities makes Fire Island a good place for vacation in New York.
The beaches on Fire Island are some of the best in the state and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or windsurfing. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the island’s nature trails, which wind through the dunes and offer stunning views of the coastline.
And, of course, no visit to Fire Island would be complete without taking some time to relax. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy, as well as shops and art galleries. Fire Island is the perfect place to escape the busyness of everyday life and relax in a beautiful setting.
Where to stay: Find a place to stay on Fire Island, NY
17. Museum of ice cream
The Museum of Ice Cream in New York is a must-visit for anyone who loves the sweet, cold treat. This unique museum celebrates all things ice cream, from its history and evolution to its many delicious flavors.
Visitors can learn about the science behind ice cream making, taste various samples of ice cream from around the world, and even create their own unique flavor. There’s also an ice cream sundae bar, where you can build your own sundae using your favorite toppings.
Whether you’re a die-hard ice cream fan or just looking for a fun and unique experience, the Museum of Ice Cream is sure to please you.
Places to visit in New York State: Final Thought
New York state has some of the most famous cities in the world, and there are many attractions for tourists to visit. With everything from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, there are plenty of places to enjoy when in the city. New York is a diverse and exciting place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in New York. The 17 places listed above are only a few of the many amazing attractions the state offers. There are endless attractions and activities to keep you busy.
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