I love NY.
At least, that’s what the T-shirt says, doesn’t it?
But before you start thinking it’s all about New York City’s hustle and bustle, let me assure you, there’s so much more to this diverse state than yellow cabs and Broadway shows.
I do love New York, but more because it is a state that boasts the world’s most famous city but keeps secret so many beautiful towns and villages that so few have even heard of. I love the New York that proclaims the world’s most visited waterfall but also hides away equally impressive natural wonders.
Having had the pleasure of discovering New York’s charm, between and beyond the skyscrapers, I can honestly say it’s a destination that deserves a spot on everyone’s travel list.
In this guide, I’ll be sharing my top 10 recommendations for places you should visit. These are the spots that made me think “Why don’t more people know about this?” So, if you’re ready to discover a side of New York that’s refreshingly far from the madding crowd, grab your walking shoes and let’s get started!
99% of international visitors to New York State arrive into New York City, so we might as well start there too.
When most people think of New York City, they often picture Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, but for me, the city’s real magic lies in its lesser-known neighbourhoods.
A visit to Greenwich Village reveals a charming, bohemian corner of Manhattan. With its cobblestone streets, independent cafés, and rich history as the birthplace of New York’s art and music scene, “The Village” offers a quieter, more intimate slice of city life. Grab a coffee play a game of chess on the sidewalk, stroll through Washington Square Park, or delve further into its quirky bookshops and offbeat theatres.
For those willing to venture further, hop on the Staten Island Ferry. The free ride offers fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, but Staten Island itself is worth exploring too. Head to the Staten Island Greenbelt for woodland hikes and wildlife spotting, or visit Snug Harbour, a waterfront cultural centre with botanical gardens, galleries, and historic buildings.
Other hidden New York City gems include Brooklyn’s DUMBO district (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), known for its stunning views of the bridges and an eclectic mix of art galleries, or head to Roosevelt Island for a peaceful walk along the East River with panoramic views of the city skyline. These neighbourhoods showcase a more relaxed, authentic side of New York, far from the crowds.
The Hudson River flows from the slopes of Mount Marcy, in upstate New York, through 315 miles of ever-changing scenery to New York City and the Atlantic Ocean. From the tidal estuary in the south to the fast-flowing stream in the Adirondack Mountains, the Hudson Valley provides spectacular scenery and historic monuments in equal measure. It is possible to join a scenic cruise along the Hudson River from New York City to Albany, taking in some of the scenery and many of the historic towns and villages that line the Hudson Valley.
A break from the urban jungle of New York City, the neighbouring villages of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow offer a blend of charming streets and historical intrigue. Tarrytown played a significant role in the American Revolution, whilst Sleepy Hollow gained fame from Washington Irving’s 1820’s novel “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”. Today historical homes such as Lyndhurst Mansion and Philipsburg Manor add highlights to charming streets and scenic river views.
Only one hour north of New York City, nestled in the hills of the Hudson Highlands, Bear Mountain State Park offers more than 5000 acres of forest and parklands. The park’s centrepiece is Bear Mountain, which provides sweeping panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. The summit can be reached via several scenic hiking trails, including the popular Appalachian Trail, which passes through the park.
A little further upriver, you are rewarded with stunning views of Hyde Park. Most famous for being the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, Hyde Park hosts the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, next door to the Springwood Estate that was his lifelong residence. Hyde Park is also the location of two opulent Gilded Age estates. Vanderbilt Mansion and Mills Mansion are now National and State Historic Sites, and both overlook the Hudson River.
The town of Kingston was first established in the Hudson Valley in 1652, and during the American Revolution is served as New York’s first capital. Kingston has always had a rich maritime heritage and the Hudson River Maritime Museum, located on the waterfront, provides an interesting insight into shipbuilding and river navigation.
Named after the river’s explorer Henry Hudson, the town of Hudson features a remarkable collection of 300 historic buildings within a two square mile area that have been lovingly restored back to their 18th and 19th century heyday. A walk around Hudson today is a walk through architectural history. From early Dutch farmhouses, Queen Anne mansions, weather-vaned Victorian homes to Art Deco lofts, all of it is found in Hudson, with much of the original detail intact.
From the town of Hudson, the river continues north to the city of Albany. Which happily enough is the next destination in our New York State Top 10.
I am sure that most people believe that New York City is the capital of New York State. However, most people will also be wrong. Albany may be smaller in scale than other New York cities, but it is their capital, and its blend of historical landmarks and green parks makes it a compelling stop on any exploration of New York State.
Albany’s standout feature is the Capitol Building. Completed in 1899, the building itself showcases a mix of architectural styles, with a distinctive stone façade adorned with elaborate carvings and statues. Inside, the Capitol is equally impressive. The Great Western Staircase, with its sweeping marble steps and ornate ironwork, is a highlight, as is the Red Room, a stunning space with rich wood panelling and decorative ceiling work. I can recommend taking a guided tour of the Capitol Building to gain insights into the architecture and the legislative history of New York State.
You can reach Albany on a direct train from New York’s Penn Station, or on a river cruise, and if you truly want to understand New York State, a visit to Albany us a must.
New York’s backyard beachfront is Long Island. Stretching out for 118 miles to the east of New York City, Long Island is comprised of four counties. Kings (Brooklyn), Queens, Nassau and Suffolk. Each offers their own unique attractions, but it is Suffolk County that offers traditional seaside scenery with long sandy beaches and waterfront towns.
The South Shore is renowned for its picturesque white-sand beaches and winding boardwalks. This area is a haven for beach lovers, offering everything from ocean-to-table dining and vibrant nightlife to fishing, seal and whale watching excursions. The South Shore’s standout feature is Fire Island, a car-free summer retreat famous for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
The North Shore transforms into the agricultural lands of the North Fork. This region, affectionately known as “NOFO,” is home to Long Island’s acclaimed wine country, with over 60 vineyards and numerous breweries and distilleries. You can stay in charming B&Bs and experience the seasonal beauty of over 100 active farms and farm stands. The North Fork’s autumn colours and harvest are the perfect time to visit.
The Hamptons and Montauk are Long Island’s premier summer destinations, attracting international visitors, Manhattanites and many celebrities. The Hamptons encompass several characterful coastal towns, each offering boutique-lined Main Streets, chic restaurants serving fresh seafood, and beautiful beaches. Coopers Beach in Southampton is a particular highlight, consistently rated among the top beaches in America.
Montauk, known as “The End,” is celebrated for its rugged charm. You can visit the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, surf the renowned waves at Ditch Plains, or unwind in luxury at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa. Don’t miss the chance to sample the local craft beverages at the Montauk Brewing Company or enjoy fine wines at Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Duck Walk Vineyard.
From the beaches and vibrant life of the South Shore to the refined charm of the Hamptons and the vineyards of the North Fork, Long Island offers a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveller.
The Catskill Mountains are one of my favourite places for those wanting to escape the city and enjoy the scenery of New York State. Just a couple of hours’ drive north of New York City, the Catskills offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventure, a world away from the urban hustle and bustle.
One of the first things I recommend is a visit to Kaaterskill Falls. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York, cascading over two tiers. The hike there is well worth the effort, and if you enjoy hiking, then the Escarpment Trail is another must-do.
This stunning 23-mile hike runs from Windham High Peak to Haines Falls, and although some sections are challenging, the rewards of views across the Hudson Valley, especially near Stoppel Point are exceptional.
For those interested in art and culture, the town of Woodstock is iconic. Known for the famous music festival, it is now a haven for artists and has a charming, laid-back vibe with plenty of shops and galleries to explore.
Phoenicia is also a quaint village nestled along the Esopus Creek, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures. It’s a great base for exploring nearby attractions such as The Slide Mountain Wilderness Area and offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
For a more luxurious experience, Hunter and Windham are popular towns that cater to those looking for a blend of luxury and nature. Hunter is well-known for its ski resort, providing excellent winter sports and a cozy après-ski scene, while Windham offers a charming village atmosphere with boutique shopping and dining.
Whether you’re exploring its waterfalls, mountains, or colourful towns, the Catskills offer an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation in a picturesque natural setting.
Visiting the Finger Lakes region is like stepping into another world compared to New York City. This is a world of rural towns, forested hills and calm waters. I can tell you that the Finger Lakes has some of my favourite scenery in the state.
The region is named after the eleven narrow, glacially formed lakes, which resemble fingers stretching across the map. Each lake has its own character and unique attractions.
Cayuga Lake is home to the city of Ithaca, a lively college town, home to Cornell University, and surrounding the lake are waterfalls, gorges, and lots of great hiking trails. Ithaca Falls and the stunning Buttermilk Falls State Park are two favourites. The city itself has a great local food scene, a thriving arts community, and a truly welcoming atmosphere, so a good base to stay when exploring the area.
Just west of Cayuga, you’ll find Seneca Lake, the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes. This is the heart of the region’s wine country, and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, that links the vineyards around the lake, is a must for wine lovers. Watkins Glen is known for its motor racing circuit, but a visit to Watkins Glen State Park will reward visitors with 19 cascading waterfalls that are absolutely breathtaking. It is one of the most photogenic spots in the whole region.
Skaneateles Lake is arguably the most charming lake in the region, with the picturesque village of Skaneateles offering boutique shops, local restaurants, and lakeside views that are postcard perfect. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, a boat tour, or even a spot of afternoon tea at a lakeside cafe.
A short drive north takes you to Syracuse, a larger city on Onondaga Lake. The Lake Park is great for a morning stroll and the Erie Canal Museum offers an insight into the town’s local importance. The impressive Everson Museum of Art is as well-known for its award-winning architecture as for the international works of art inside.
Further west, near Keuka Lake, you can visit Hammondsport, a lovely village that sits at the lake’s southern tip. Hammondsport is known for its wineries and the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, dedicated to aviation and local history. Keuka Lake itself has a unique “Y” shape and is a fantastic spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Canandaigua Lake is another gem, offering activities like sailing and a visit to the Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park, where you can tour a beautiful mansion surrounded by lush gardens.
For outdoor enthusiasts, like me, the Finger Lakes National Forest, between Seneca and Cayuga lakes, offers miles of trails for hiking, with beautiful views and an abundance of wildlife. And of course, if you’re visiting in the autumn, the region’s fall foliage is spectacular. The hills around the lakes burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
Visiting the Adirondacks in New York State is like stepping into a wilderness wonderland, with rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and endless forests stretching as far as the eye can see. As someone who likes to escape from other people on holiday, I found the Adirondacks to be a truly special place, offering a natural beauty that feels quite far removed from the pace of modern life.
Although not a National Park, the Adirondack Mountains cover a vast area, about six million acres in total, making it one of the largest protected areas in the United States. What struck me most about the region is its wild, untamed nature, perfect for those who love the outdoors, but also full of charming towns and scenic spots that make it an ideal destination for any traveller. It is the perfect antidote to New York City.
A great starting point when exploring the Adirondacks is Lake Placid, a town famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980. It’s a haven for outdoor activities all year round, from skiing at Whiteface Mountain in the winter to hiking, kayaking, and cycling in the warmer months. You can also visit the Olympic Museum to soak up some sporting history or take a trip up the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Another highlight of the Adirondacks is Saranac Lake, just a short drive from Lake Placid. With a lovely historic downtown area and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, it is a bit of a hidden gem. The lake itself is beautiful, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Saranac Lake is a bit quieter than Lake Placid, which makes it a perfect spot if you’re looking for a more laid-back retreat.
For those that prefer a touch of luxury with their nature, then Lake George is a must visit. It’s often referred to as the “Queen of American Lakes,” and when you see it, you’ll understand why. The clear, sparkling waters of Lake George are perfect for swimming and for the less active boarding the scenic steamboat cruise is idyllic. The town of Lake George Village offers charming shops, restaurants, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, making it a great base for exploring the southern Adirondacks.
If you’re serious about your hiking holidays, then the High Peaks Region is where you’ll find some of the most challenging and rewarding trails. Mount Marcy, the highest point in New York State, is a bucket-list hike for many, offering spectacular views from the summit. But even if you’re not up for the climb, there are plenty of shorter trails with equally stunning views, like Cascade Mountain or Indian Head, which overlooks the serene Lower Ausable Lake.
For those with an interest in history, Fort Ticonderoga is an essential stop. Situated on the southern end of Lake Champlain, this 18th-century fort played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. The fort is beautifully preserved, and the museum offers fascinating insights into early American history.
…exploring Eastern USA on this holidays
New York | Hudson Valley | Catskill Mountains | Albany | Lake George | Stowe | Conway | Kennebunkport | Boston
New York | Hudson Valley | Saratoga Springs | Syracuse | Niagara Falls | Pittsburgh | Cumberland | Gettysburg | Philadelphia
Washington D.C. | New York | Niagara Falls
New York | Hudson Valley | Catskill Mountains | Albany | Lake George | Stowe | Conway | Kennebunkport | Boston
New York | Hudson Valley | Saratoga Springs | Syracuse | Niagara Falls | Pittsburgh | Cumberland | Gettysburg | Philadelphia
Washington D.C. | New York | Niagara Falls
Clearly someone can’t count as this area has more than 1800 islands to explore, but I doubt many people will have seen them all. I was truly enchanted by this area, which straddles the border between America and Canada along the St. Lawrence River, but it is rarely visited by international visitors.
If you do find yourself this far north, then the town of Alexandria Bay is an excellent starting point. It’s a quintessential riverside town, buzzing with life in the summer months, and the gateway to some of the most iconic sights in the region. A scenic boat tour of the islands is a must, and no trip to the Thousand Islands would be complete without a visit to the grand Boldt Castle. Situated on Heart Island, Boldt Castle is a stunning, unfinished mansion with a romantic and tragic history. Built by millionaire George Boldt for his wife, construction was halted after her untimely death, leaving behind this fairytale castle that is now open to the public.
Another highlight is Singer Castle, located on Dark Island. Unlike Boldt Castle, this medieval-inspired mansion was completed and is still in remarkable condition. Its hidden passageways and secret rooms make for an intriguing tour, and the views from the island are spectacular.
Many of the islands are now privately owned, but there are still plenty of public ones where you can stop for a picnic or a swim. Grenadier Island and Picton Island are lovely, quiet spots where you can relax and take in the serene surroundings. Wellesley Island State Park, the largest of the state parks in the area, is a great place for hiking and the Minna Anthony Common Nature Centre within the park offers the opportunity for exploring by kayak, canoe or boat.
Continuing the nautical theme, the small town of Clayton is home to the Antique Boat Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich boating history, with beautiful vintage boats on display and even the chance to take a ride in a classic wooden vessel.
One of the unique aspects of the Thousand Islands area is its close proximity to Canada. You can hop over the border via the Thousand Islands International Bridge for a day trip to explore the Canadian side. Gananoque is the Canadian gateway to the islands and offers its own range of boat tours and local attractions.
Spanning over 65,000 acres, the Allegany State Park, in western New York, is the largest park in the state. Uniquely the park is divided into to different zones, Red House and Quaker Areas. Red House is home to the lake of the same name, which great for swimming in the summer months, as it has a nice sandy beach. There’s also a network of easy-to-moderate hiking trails here, including the Beehunter Trail, which offers lovely woodland scenery and is perfect for a leisurely walk.
In the Quaker Area, the scenery gets even more dramatic with larger hills and thicker forests. This area is perfect for the accomplished hiker, with trails like Mount Tuscarora offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Even in the winter months this area transforms into a winter wonderland frequented by cross-country skiers and snowshoers making the most of the fresh snowfalls.
On my visit to Allegany State Park, I was able to visit the Stone Tower, a historic lookout built during the Great Depression, which offers panoramic views across this side of the park. I was also able to spot deer and beavers so keep your cameras with you if you are hiking in the area.
Nothing much compares to getting up close to Niagara Falls. Only by feeling the spray on your face and by hearing the thunder of the water, do you truly appreciate the force of Niagara Falls. Whilst some of the associated attractions with Niagara Falls are on the Canadian side of the bridge, it is still possible to get incredibly close to the falls without leaving New York State.
Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest in the whole of America, offers superb viewing points, including Prospect Point, where you can marvel at the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour is essential. You will be given a rain poncho for good reason. The boat takes you into the heart of the falls, and the sheer power of the water is exhilarating.
One of my best experiences at Niagara Falls was the Cave of the Winds, where you get up close to Bridal Veil Falls. Standing on the Hurricane Deck, I was nearly engulfed by the spray. It is an exciting and immersive way to experience the power of the falls.
Whilst both the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are on the American side, don’t think that you will be missing out on views of the impressive Horseshoe Falls. As well as the Maid of the Mist boat tour, the Observation Tower on the U.S. side offers stunning panoramas of all three waterfalls.
Now that you have discovered the Top 10 Places to Visit in New York State, how do you get there? The good news is that it is very easy. There are direct flights between various airports in the UK (and Ireland) with New York. Within eight hours you can exploring the Big Apple.
From New York City there are various ways to explore New York State with car, coach, train and cruise all available. My preference is to collect a rental car for a go-as-you-please style exploration of New York State. Completing a fly drive holiday such as FREEDOM’s New York to Niagara Falls Road Trip will tick most of your Top 10 boxes. If you prefer not to drive, then the Upstate New York & Hudson River Cruise will take you through the heart of New York State. Of Course, if you prefer something a little more relaxed then the simple combination of New York and The Hamptons is always an option. The choice is yours.
Richard has more than 25 years of experience working within the travel industry. He has travelled widely in the USA, Australia and Africa and enjoys exploring National Parks and other wilderness areas.
