Welcome to New York State, the Empire State! Home to bustling cities, scenic countryside, and natural wonders, this state offers something for everyone. From the iconic landmarks of New York City to the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes, you’ll find adventure, history, and culture around every corner. There is ton of great stuff to do in New York.
Let’s start our journey in the city that never sleeps – New York City. With over 8 million residents, it’s the most populous city in the United States. It is a global hub of commerce, culture, and entertainment. Visitors flock to the city to explore all the iconic landmarks. You can’t miss seeing the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. But there’s so much more to see and do in this bustling metropolis.
Central Park
Central Park is one of the most visited urban parks in the world, spanning 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. It’s an oasis of greenery amidst the concrete jungle, with gardens, lakes, and wooded areas to explore. Take a stroll through the Shakespeare Garden, visit the Central Park Zoo, or rent a bike and pedal through the park.
Another must-visit attraction in New York City is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. The museum’s collections span over 5,000 years of art history, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary paintings. Be sure to check out the Temple of Dendur, a beautiful Egyptian temple that was moved to the museum from its original location.
See a Broadway show
If you’re a theater lover, catch a Broadway show or an Off-Broadway production. Broadway shows are world-renowned for their lavish productions, stunning performances, and memorable music. Popular shows include The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked, but there are plenty of other productions to choose from. If you’re on a budget, check out the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted tickets to same-day shows.
And of course, no visit to New York City is complete without indulging in the food scene. From classic delis like Katz’s to trendy spots like Eataly, you’ll find cuisine from all corners of the world. Head to Chinatown for dim sum, Little Italy for pasta, or the Lower East Side for bagels and lox. And don’t forget to try a slice of New York-style pizza, topped with tangy tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese.
New York is more than just the city
But New York State isn’t just about the city. Head north to the Adirondack Mountains for some of the best hiking and outdoor recreation in the state. The High Peaks Wilderness Area boasts 46 peaks over 4,000 feet and stunning vistas. Mount Marcy is the highest peak in New York State at 5,344 feet and offers a challenging but rewarding climb. And if you’re looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience, the Finger Lakes region is home to 11 glacial lakes and over 100 wineries.
The Finger Lakes region is a scenic area dotted with charming towns, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes. It’s a popular destination for wine lovers, with over 100 wineries and vineyards dotting the landscape. Take a wine tour or tasting at a local vineyard, or explore the region’s culinary scene. The area is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and artisanal cheese shops.
One of the most popular attractions in the Finger Lakes region is Watkins Glen State Park, a 778-acre park with stunning waterfalls, gorges, and hiking trails. The park’s centerpiece is the Glen Creek Gorge, which features 19 waterfalls cascading over 200 feet. Hike the Gorge Trail for breathtaking views of the waterfalls and rock formations.
Visit Hudson Valley
Speaking of wineries, the Hudson Valley is another must-visit region for wine lovers. Just a short drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley is a picturesque area known for its historic sites, charming towns, and beautiful countryside. The region is home to over 50 wineries, producing a variety of award-winning wines. Take a wine tour along the Hudson Valley Wine Trail, which stretches over 80 miles and includes stops at some of the region’s top wineries.
But wine isn’t the only attraction in the Hudson Valley. The region is steeped in history, with numerous sites and museums dedicated to the Revolutionary War and other important moments in American history. Visit West Point Military Academy, the United States Military Academy and the oldest continuously occupied military post in America, or explore the historic homes of the region’s founding fathers, such as the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt in Hyde Park.
Another popular destination in the Hudson Valley is the Storm King Art Center, a 500-acre outdoor sculpture museum. The museum features over 100 large-scale sculptures by renowned artists such as Alexander Calder and Mark di Suvero. Take a leisurely walk through the fields and hills of the park and admire the stunning artworks set against the backdrop of the Hudson Highlands.
Dont forget the Catskills
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, head to the Catskills. This mountainous region is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and outdoor recreation. The area was once a popular vacation destination for New Yorkers looking to escape the city, and it’s easy to see why. Hike through the mountains, fish in the streams and rivers, or just relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
One of the most popular attractions in the Catskills is the Woodstock Art Colony. This historic art community was founded in the early 20th century. It has been home to some of America’s most renowned artists. These including Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning amongst others. Visit the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum to learn more about the history of the colony and view works by local artists.
And of course, no visit to the Catskills is complete without a trip to the legendary Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. This outdoor amphitheater was built on the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. It is one of the most iconic music festivals in history. Catch a concert at the venue or visit the Museum at Bethel Woods to learn more about the festival and the era in which it took place.
Beautiful Niagara Falls
Finally, let’s head to the western part of the state to Niagara Falls. This natural wonder draws millions of visitors each year, and it’s easy to see why. The falls themselves are awe-inspiring, with millions of gallons of water cascading over the rocks every minute. Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls, or just admire them from one of the many viewing areas.
But Niagara Falls isn’t just about the falls themselves. The surrounding area is full of attractions, from the Maid of the Mist boat tour to the Niagara Falls State Park. Explore the caves behind the falls on the Cave of the Winds tour. Take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding countryside.
In conclusion, New York State is a diverse and exciting destination, with something for everyone. From the hustle and bustle of New York City to the peace and tranquility of the Catskills, this state offers a range of experiences that are sure to delight. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just good food and wine, you’ll find it all in New York State. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this Empire State has to offer!
