With its outstanding energy and endless opportunities, it’s no wonder why New York is considered one of the best vacation spots in the world. Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned wanderer, New York offers something for everyone. From the historical and cultural to the most contemporary, New York State abounds with interesting locations to visit and unique New York vacation packages. The state is always filled with major attractions, restaurants, and shops. From Manhattan’s entertainment to most beautiful towns in Upstate New York, travelers plan a year-round escape at these vacation spots in New York.
10 Niagara Falls
Scenic Niagara Falls, New York
Considered one of the untouched wonders of North America, Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors each year and is a must-see site in one’s New York vacation. Set along the border of Canada and the US, there are three stunning waterfalls within the park. For the most attractive panoramic view of all three falls, people go up the observation tower or take the Hornblower boat tour into the basin of Horseshoe Falls. The park also delivers the nighttime brightness of the falls and hosts dazzling fireworks shows on special occasions.
9 Finger Lakes
Frozen Taughannok Falls in Finger Lakes region during winter
The multiple lakes making up the Finger Lakes region present a range of outdoor opportunities in a gorgeous landscape. Along the main lakes are sprinkled pretty towns and Finger Lakes resorts. Hikers can explore the beautiful area on the Cayuga, the Seneca Lake Trail, and the Keuka Trail. The falls at Watkins Glen State Park are among the prettiest things to see in the Finger Lakes. Riding in a hot air balloon over Letchworth State Park is also a beautiful thing to do.
8 Kingston
Beautiful Kingston town, New York
Lying on the outskirts of the Catskills, Kingston is a retro waterfront town ideal to spend a weekend in New York, with a bunch of fun things to do, especially during summer. This natural town really offers outdoor concerts, carnivals, and other fun events. Visitors grab a bite on a terrace by the Hudson River, jump on a cruise, tour some of the area’s museums, or stroll along the streets of the Stockade Historic District.
7 Lake Placid
A view of Lake Placid and the surrounding forests, Upstate New York, USA
Found in stunning natural surroundings with lakes and hills, Lake Placid is a prominent tourist hub. The town is mostly famous for its winter entertainment, particularly skiing, and is a popular summer destination as well. Stunning resorts are found along the shores and in the rolling landscape. All sorts of great shops and restaurants stripe the main tourist ribbon in Lake Placid. There is also one of the most beautiful lakes to witness in New York State, the scenic Mirror Lake.
6 The Adirondacks
A rock overlooking forest-carpeted mountains in the Adirondacks, New York
The Adirondacks are a picturesque range of forest-wrapped mountains in northern New York state, with multiple lakes and opportunities. The hills are part of the Canadian Shield and are a famous holiday destination for New Yorkers. Travelers come here to enjoy hiking, canoeing on the vast waterways, and relaxing at lakeside cottages and resorts in the Adirondacks. This is a lovely area to photograph in the fall, with an amazing collection of New York autumn colors.
5 The Catskills
The remains of the Catskills hotel, the Overlook Mountain House, welcomes hikers who journey to the top of Overlook Mountain, located near Woodstock, New York
The Catskills is another famous destination to experience nature in New York State. The wild countryside of moving hills and serene lakes is excellent for recharging someone’s mental batteries. Wanderers experience activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking or unwind by sitting by the pool, sleeping, or visiting the spa at one of the many greatest resorts in the Catskills. In winter, the Catskills convert into a snowy wonderland and attract skiers from afar.
4 Lake George
Lake George, New York in the fall
Located at the southern end of a lake of the exact name, the town of Lake George is a prominent tourist destination in the summer, and the lake itself is the main draw. Many of the islands on the lake have been developed for camping, and the site is particularly prevalent with motorcyclists. Million Dollar Beach delivers swimming, picnic facilities, and volleyball courts. Sightseeing cruises are also a fun way to see the lake. Prospect Mountain offers a high panoramic point for a view of the lake and surroundings.
3 Letchworth State Park
Views in Letchworth State Park, New York
Home to waterfalls set along the picturesque Genesee River Gorge and referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is surrounded by large forests. Middle Falls is the most extensive and illuminated at night from May to October and is considered one of the best waterfalls in New York. The park offers a full scope of facilities, like campsites, and cabin rentals trails, swimming, a playground, and concessions. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and designated snowmobile trails.
2 Thousand Islands
Thousand Islands region, New York
Thousand of islands is located along a granite ledge stretching from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains. It is an area of great picturesque beauty any time of year but is particularly vibrant during foliage season. Boat tours among the islands offer ever-changing sights and include peeks of holiday homes that range from the most basic of log houses to the most luxurious of summer villas.
1 Watkins Glen State Park
A creek at Watkins Glen State Park in New York
Located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake within the Finger Lakes State Parks, Watkins Glen prolongs for two miles, plunging a total of 400 feet over 19 waterfalls, past bluffs that were engraved by the water. Visitors admire the gorge from its rim routes and find numerous things to do, including fishing, hiking, and swimming in the park’s pool. The park has grounds for both tents and RVs, as well as picnic spots.
More Stories
Best Places to Visit in December
How to Make the Best Vacation Plans
10 Cheap Vacation Spots In Miami You Should Visit This Summer