When people think of coming to New York, they generally only consider visiting the city.
While New York City has plenty to offer tourists, but there are also a variety of places to visit in New York state that are worth the visit.
We've compiled a list of all the best places to visit in New York state.
New York City
If you're planning a trip to NY state, you should spend a few days in the Big Apple. There is so much jam-packed in NYC for visitors to do.
You can go to the Empire State Building, visit the Central Park Zoo , see Times Square, and walk around the busy city streets soaking up the food and atmosphere.
It's a good jumping-off point to learn more about American history, and you'll understand why it's such a popular vacation destination.
If you're after some nature in the city, there's the nearby Hudson River and Hudson Valley, where you can go on some boat tours.
Niagara Falls
However, stepping out of the city opens the door to many other beautiful attractions in New York state.
Niagara Falls is one of Ne w York's top outdoor attractions and one of the world's best natural wonders.
The Niagara River runs between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie and sits right on the Canadian border, making this a popular weekend getaway spot for Canadians and Americans alike.
This frothy and tumbling waterfall sees over 3,100 tonnes of water flowing over its edge every second. Your jaw will drop when you visit the gigantic size of the falls.
Pictures don't do it justice. It's an epic sight you can enjoy from a viewpoint or boat tour.
Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga Spa State Park , at over 2,300 acres, is one of the best places to visit in New York state. There's so much to see and do.
You can explore the hiking trails, swim in the mineral waters Saratoga Springs is well known for, or go cross-country skiing.
Saratoga National Historical Park is an ideal spot for history lovers to learn more about the area during the American Revolutionary War.
It's an area filled with rich history and plenty of cultural attractions. You can visit Saratoga Springs and browse the local shops or take in the local racecourse, one of the oldest in the United States.
National Baseball Hall of Fame
The National Baseball Hall of Fame is in Cooperstown, in upstate NY. It's the best place to learn more about baseball's history in the United States.
Visitors can also see the Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum in Cooperstown. The Fenimore Art Museum and other tourist attractions are also available to fill your time.
Source: mccarthy.com
Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes are eleven long and narrow lakes in upstate New York, south of Lake Ontario, the longest of which is Cayuga Lake.
The whole area is full of small towns, where you can visit boutique shops and admire the scenery. It's best seen in fall, as the leaves change color, and you can appreciate all the foliage.
The Finger Lakes region covers Watkins Glen State Park and Seneca Lake. This is a popular spot for nature buffs to marvel at the scenic beauty and trek the hiking trails.
It's a famous New York destination for city dwellers who want to get out into the country, see some greenery, and get fresh air.
You can ride a hot air balloon over Letchworth State Park or go white water rafting. The state park is nicknamed the 'Grand Canyon of the East' because of its deep gorges and valleys.
Fire Island National Seashore
Fire Island National Seashore is a place you must visit in New York. Just 60 miles south of Manhattan, this long stretch of coast spans 32 miles and is an entirely car-free barrier island.
There are many local communities, boutique shops, and bars to visit in this fine stretch.
For people coming to New York who want to see the city and experience some nature without going too far - it's the perfect spot.
Buffalo, NY
Buffalo is the second most populous city in New York state and is near Lake Erie.
There are many things to see here, like the Buffalo Museum and the Buffalo Zoo. It sits on the Canadian border and is close to Niagara Falls, so you can visit both on the same trip.
You can also visit the Darwin D. Martin House Complex, an old house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1904. Visitors can go on tours around the complex and take in the buildings.
Thousand Islands
This scenic location is where the Lawrence River runs into Lake Ontario, and Thousand Islands tour is a popular vacation getaway for wealthy people who want to take in some of the scenery.
Visitors can tour Boldt Castle, go on a boat tour around the lake and river, and visit some islands.
Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York
The Adirondack mountains are magnificent fores t-covered hills in northern New York state. People come here to go hiking, canoe on the calm lakes, and get out of the city.
Hundreds of communities, valleys, and hiking trails are nestled between the many hills.
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Skiers can go skiing near Lake Placid, on Whiteface Mountain, and history lovers can go to the Lake Placid Olympic Museum commemorating the Winter Olympics.
In these six million acres, you can also explore Saranac Lake, Lake George, seasonal events, boutique shops, and gastropubs.
Final Thoughts
This list contains all the best places to visit in New York state, and there is something for everyone who comes here.
It doesn't matter if you prefer nature, history, or city life. You can do it all in New York. Take your time visiting the many state parks and lakes, or go to a college town.
The options are endless. New York state has too many museums, art galleries, and visitor centers to mention. Whatever you decide to do, we hope you enjoy your trip!
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