12 Most Charming Towns and Villages in New York
While most visitors never make it past the Big Apple’s incredible array of world-famous attractions, the state of New York also has superb scenery, sights, and small towns to discover.
There Are Over 100 Waterfalls Around This Small City
The largest city in New York’s Finger Lakes region, this lively destination offers an appealing blend of natural beauty, culture, and youthful energy.
Why This Former Industrial City Is Quietly One of the Best Bases for Exploring the Finger Lakes
The third-largest city in the State of New York, Rochester is a fabulous place to visit with plenty for visitors to see and do.
From Baseball Pilgrimages to Lakefront Picnics — Discover the Upstate Spot That’s Way More Than a One-theme Trip
While most people come for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, this quiet and quaint village has much, much more going for it.
9 Unforgettable Day Trips from New York City
New York City is one of the most popular worldwide vacation destinations for many reasons. It is a world force in economic, financial, fashion, artistic and literary circles.
From Gorge Trails to Stunning Waterfalls: Things to Do in Watkins Glen State Park
One of my favorite things to do when my husband and I travel north to visit my in-laws is to go to Watkins Glen State Park.
Best Cities to Live in New York: A Quick Guide
When people think of New York, minds often jump straight to the spellbinding high rises of Manhattan.
This Historic City Is One of Upstate New York’s Best Weekend Getaways — But Most Travelers Overlook It
Despite holding the title of state capital, this historic city is often overlooked by travelers heading elsewhere.
Forget the Big Apple: Why This Upstate Haven Is Perfect for Culture Lovers and Outdoor Adventurers
Nestled within the scenic Finger Lakes region, this well-preserved upstate city blends historic charm with a lively modern atmosphere.
This Town Has More Natural Springs Than Stoplights
Long celebrated as a resort destination, this elegant city is perhaps best captured by its official slogan: “Health, History, and Horses.
This Lakeside Village Offers Mountain Views, Cozy Inns, and Olympic History — Explore the Best of Its Outdoor Wonders
Set amidst the soaring Adirondack Mountains, the lovely resort town of Lake Placid has long been a popular place to holiday.
Fun Things to Do in New York’s Finger Lakes Region
Located in upstate New York, the Finger Lakes region is a scenic destination known for its natural beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant food and wine scene.
Why New Yorkers Drive All the Way to the End of Long Island for This One Place
Perched at the far eastern edge of Long Island, this small seaside hamlet feels wonderfully removed from the rush of everyday life.
Beyond the Hudson River: Discover the Rich Culture and Scenic Beauty of This New York Gem
Just north of New York City is the region of Hudson River Valley, a popular destination for tourists and where I had the pleasure of visiting one summer in July.
10 Best Places to Visit in New York State
New York is a large and diverse state, but many visitors only visit the Big Apple. While New York City is undoubtedly exciting, there is far more than the state has to offer.
Introduction
While most visitors never make it beyond all the Big Apple’s iconic attractions which are renowned the world-over, the rest of New York state is just as worthwhile exploring. Aside from smaller towns and cities such as Rochester and Buffalo, there are also scenic and spectacular spots such as Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes, and the wild, untamed Adirondacks to enjoy.
One of the most populous states in the country, it is located in the northeast and is bordered by New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Island with Canada lying to the north. While the south of the state lies alongside the Atlantic Ocean and includes several islands, Upstate is home to the rugged Appalachian and Adirondack mountain ranges and bounds both Lake Ontario and Lake Erie with Niagara Falls lying in between them.
As it boasts not just the Empire State Building and Times Square but Central Park and the Statue of Liberty too, New York City understandably dominates most visitors’ itineraries. In ‘The City That Never Sleeps’ you can indulge in everything from fine dining and upscale shopping to unbelievable entertainment and nightlife with countless world-class landmarks, museums and shows on offer.
Not venturing beyond the bright lights of the Big Apple would be a mistake however as the Empire State has lots of pretty countryside and state parks to enjoy. Many people head to the scenic Finger Lakes for its wineries and watersports with both the gorgeous Thousand Islands and rural Catskills also attracting outdoor aficionados and holidaymakers alike.
Besides gaping at the jaw-dropping Niagara Falls and hiking amidst the incredible Adirondack High Peaks, it is also well worth checking out both Buffalo and Rochester for their art galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks. Ithaca is another popular draw due to its stunning setting and the charming campuses of Cornell University and Ithaca College.