The most populous metropolis in the country, vast state parks, and a few coastal towns all draw tourists from both domestic and foreign locations to New York State. There are numerous unique holiday destinations in the Empire State, whether your preference is to escape to the mountains of upstate New York or visit New York City to see Times Square and go ice skating at Rockefeller Center. This list of the top tourist destinations in New York state was compiled by U.S. News taking into account attractions, experiences, culture, and reader and expert opinions. As you peruse the following for travel ideas, don’t forget to cast your vote below for the places you believe should be on this list.
1. Niagara Falls
The main draw for visitors to this Canada-bordering location in New York is the cascading, foamy falls, which discharge over 3,100 tons of water over the edge every second. An electric tour boat carrying tourists in ponchos takes them to the base of Niagara Falls; this is the greatest way to see the falls. Take the Maid of the Mist boat excursion. For the most adventurous, there’s a thrilling jet boat excursion that allows you to witness this natural wonder. Just don’t forget to explore the other amazing sights in the region, such as the hiking trails in Niagara Falls State Park, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory, or the neighboring casinos.
2. Adirondacks
Nestled amidst about 6 million acres, the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York harbor several cities, lakes, valleys, and hiking paths. There are almost 2,000 miles of hiking trails in the vicinity, canoeists, kayakers, and boaters on Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake, and skiers on Whiteface Mountain, which is close to Lake Placid, may descend snow. Aside from taking in the local wines and breweries, visitors should plan to spend some time exploring historical sites like Fort Ticonderoga and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum.
3. Thousand Islands
As the name suggests, there are more than 1,800 islands in the Thousand Islands region. Take an open-air boat cruise to get the greatest view of this huge region, which extends into Canada. There are lighthouses, mansions, and castles to see on a picturesque cruise here. The tour also includes commentary about the Gilded Age magnates who once called the region home and the real-life pirates who formerly roamed the islands’ waterways. When the time comes to head back to Earth, you can go fishing at Mary Island State Park or hiking the trails of Wellesley Island State Park.
4. New York City
New York City is a destination that many tourists aspire to explore, and for good reason—it’s a center for sightseeing, dining, the arts, and culture. The Big Apple has plenty of entertainment options for all. Check out the scores of museums, stroll along the High Line, witness a Broadway performance, take a cuisine tour through Manhattan’s unique districts, shop till you drop on Fifth Avenue, and visit the iconic Empire State Building. Visit the Central Park Zoo and Conservatory Garden, two of the park’s must-see attractions, and don’t forget to take a stroll through the famous Central Park.
5. The Finger Lakes
Discover the Finger Lakes region of New York, a romantic vacation destination for those looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by beautiful landscapes. This region of northwest New York is a popular destination for activities including boating and hiking at nearby state parks, wine tasting at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail’s wineries, and skiing at the area’s resorts. Though the Finger Lakes are most famous for their breathtaking fall foliage, they make great year-round travel due to their abundance of quaint communities and a wide range of seasonal attractions.
6. The Catskills
Naturalists are drawn to the Catskill Mountains of southeast New York, which have 98 peaks. Scattered over the park’s more than 700,000 acres, about 40% are set aside as “forever wild,” giving you access to expansive areas perfect for outdoor recreation. Skiing and snowboarding are abundant in the Catskills throughout the winter months. Summertime is the best time of year for activities like zip line, boating, hiking, and hunting. The Hudson River School, America’s first art movement, originated in the Catskills. After a strenuous day outside, you may explore the area’s art scene or make use of the facilities at one of the best resorts in the area.
7. Bear Mountain State Park
In the Palisades area of New York, Bear Mountain State Park is situated on the western bank of the Hudson River and provides expansive views of the surrounding highlands and Hudson Valley. Trails through lakes, gorges, and valleys wind across the forested park, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. A hand-painted merry-go-round, a swimming pool, a zoo, and a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink are among the amenities of Bear Mountain State Park, which guarantee family enjoyment both on and off the trails. Please take note that due to storm damage incurred in July 2023, portions of this park are closed.
8. Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park is a hidden treasure for outdoor enthusiasts, earning the moniker “the Grand Canyon of the East” due to its breathtaking gorge. As you hike some of Letchworth’s 66 miles of hiking paths, you’ll come across three sizable waterfalls in the park and numerous others on tributaries. Whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, motorcycling, and hot-air ballooning are among the many activities available in the park. Come when the weather drops to do cross-country skiing or snowmobiling if you prefer winter activities to summer ones.
9. Long Island
Those from New York who want to get away from the city and unwind on white sand beaches while sipping wine on this 118-mile-long island often visit. Beaches like Ditch Plains Beach, a favorite destination for surfers, and other must-see beaches are highlights of summertime hotspots like the Hamptons and Montauk. Jones Beach State Park, on the other hand, is a more accessible choice for families with shuffleboard grounds, a mini-golf course, and a swimming pool. Located amidst the North Fork Wine Trail, Long Island is home to over 50 wineries and tasting facilities in addition to its beaches.
10. Ithaca
Ithaca is a real college town because of the presence of two esteemed universities, Cornell University and Ithaca College. Nevertheless, this little village in the Finger Lakes region of New York is also well-known for its breathtakingly beautiful surroundings; in fact, its catchphrase is “Ithaca is gorges.” Near Ithaca are gorges, lush forests with hiking and bike trails, and more than 150 waterfalls. A great place for boating, fishing, and swimming, the town also has a view of Cayuga Lake’s southern shore. Take the Discovery Trail in Ithaca to visit must-see sites like the Cornell Botanic Gardens and the Sciencenter, which are ideal for groups with aspiring naturalists.