Best Places to Visit in New York State
New York might be best known for its bustling city which I know well as a local, but the state holds surprises far beyond skyscrapers and subways. From dramatic mountains and shimmering lakes to charming towns and world-class cultural gems, every trip I’ve taken has revealed something new. These are my favorite places I discovered while living in New York for 10 years, and the ones I keep returning to.
1. Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs was my ultimate summer retreat and absolute best place to visit when I moved to New York...long, golden days with just the right touch of mountain breeze made it perfect for both relaxation and adventure. The town buzzed with energy, from the opening weeks of the world-famous Saratoga Race Course season to lively outdoor concerts in Saratoga Spa State Park. Evenings were filled with culture, thanks to performances by the New York City Ballet and the Philadelphia Orchestra at the iconic Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
I drove 3 hours 30 minutes from NYC, checked into the elegant Adelphi Hotel downtown, and spent two indulgent days soaking in mineral springs at the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa, strolling along Broadway’s boutique-lined streets, hiking on peaceful trails around Geyser Creek, and sampling farm-to-table cuisine paired with local wines in charming al fresco patios.
I enjoyed walking to to shops, cafés, and the mineral springs from my hotel.
For dinner, my highlight was 15 Church, where the scallops ($36) were unforgettable, fresh, delicate, and beautifully plated. The meal felt like a celebration of Saratoga’s elevated but unpretentious spirit.
2. The Catskills, NY
May was a dream for exploring the Catskills — cool mountain air, rushing waterfalls from spring melt, and hillsides just starting to glow with early wildflowers. Without the summer rush, I had trails nearly to myself, and evenings meant crackling fireplaces and starry skies instead of city lights.
I drove up from my apartment in New York City (just about two hours) and based myself at the Emerson Resort & Spa, a cozy-chic retreat with mountain views, riverside walks, and a luxurious spa to sink into after a day outdoors.
One of my highlights was a scenic hike up Kaaterskill Falls, where mist sparkled in the sunshine, followed by a leisurely afternoon sipping cider at a Stone Ridge Orchard. I also loved wandering through artsy towns like Woodstock and Phoenicia, where indie galleries, vintage shops, and cozy cafés made each stop feel like a discovery.
Dinner at Peekamoose Restaurant was a highlight. It was a true farm-to-table Catskills experience!
3. Fire Island, NY
Fire Island was perfect for a peaceful springtime escape: wildflowers speckled the dunes, the breeze was salty and mild, and crowds were light, making it ideal for bike rides along the wooden boardwalks and scenic coastal paths. I loved the intimate, local vibe — afternoons felt unhurried, and evenings were spent watching pastel sunsets over the Great South Bay.
We drove from New York City to Bay Shore, then hopped on the quick ferry ride across the Great South Bay to Fire Island — an easy, seamless trip that made the island feel like a world away despite its closeness to the city. I stayed at The Palms Hotel in Ocean Beach — bright, beachy, and perfectly placed for walking everywhere. Dinner at Matthew’s Seafood House was a standout, with just-caught fish and a casual harbor view that felt quintessentially coastal.
I strolled through the Sunken Forest, biked out toward Fire Island Lighthouse, and relaxed on Fire Island beaches. Browsing Ocean Beach’s shops was a highlight, too.
4. Plattsburgh, NY
I absolutely loved visiting Plattsburgh! While it’s a smaller city, I found it incredibly charming, with a mix of historic architecture, a lively waterfront, and that relaxed Adirondack vibe.
I think it's one of the best places to visit in New York State. Why? It’s right on the shores of shimmering Lake Champlain, framed by the rolling Adirondack Mountains to the west and with Vermont’s Green Mountains rising across the water—such a scenic backdrop!
I drove about 2.5 hours north from Albany to reach it, and once there the easygoing, family-friendly vibe made me want to stay. I spent two fun days at Best Western Plus Plattsburgh exploring the Plattsburgh City Beach (yes, it's one of the largest freshwater beaches in the U.S.), checking out the War of 1812 Museum, and strolling through the quaint downtown shops.
My highlight were the peaceful lakeside trails at Point au Roche State Park.
5. Saugerties, NY
Saugerties was delightful with its 19th-century brick storefronts, colorful murals, and postcard-perfect views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains.
A scenic 20-minute drive north from Woodstock brought me to the heart of downtown, which felt both artsy and historic with a relaxed small-town charm. I spent the afternoon browsing quirky boutiques and antique shops along Partition Street, enjoying a cozy farm-to-table meal at Miss Lucy’s Kitchen, walking the short nature trail out to the historic 1869 Saugerties Lighthouse, and then staying two blissful nights at the beautifully situated Diamond Mills Hotel, perched right above the Esopus Creek Falls.
6. Vestal, NY
I found Vestal to be a welcoming town this month with its mix of suburban comfort, rolling hills, and postcard-like views of the Susquehanna River.
A quick 10-minute drive west from Binghamton brought me to the heart of the community, which felt lively yet laid-back with a balance of modern shopping centers and small-town charm. I spent the afternoon browsing for treasures at the locally loved Vestal Farmers Market, enjoying a casual bite at The Vestal Bakery, walking peaceful trails at the Vestal Rail Trail, and then staying two relaxing nights at a Residence Inn by Marriott.
Dinner at The Vestal Steakhouse was my favorite — the ribeye ($42) was perfectly seared and paired with local craft beer. It felt like the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that defines upstate dining.
7. Lake George
I thought Lake George was stunning with its shimmering blue waters framed by the Adirondack Mountains, its lively lakeside village, and postcard-perfect views from every angle.
A scenic 30-minute drive north from Saratoga Springs brought me to the heart of the village, which felt both festive and charming with a classic resort-town energy. I spent the afternoon browsing souvenir shops and artisan boutiques along Canada Street, enjoying a hearty lakeside meal at The Lake House, taking in sweeping views from Shepard Park’s waterfront, and then staying two blissful nights at the beautifully located Sagamore Resort on nearby Green Island.
Dinner at Lakeside Lodge & Grille was a highlight — the Adirondack trout ($32) was fresh and perfectly prepared, enjoyed with a view of the water as the sun set. It was a moment that captured the timeless charm of the region.
8. Finger Lakes
Finger Lakes were breathtaking with their deep, glacier-carved lakes, vineyard-draped hillsides, and postcard-worthy sunsets over the water.
A scenic 40-minute drive south from Rochester brought me to Canandaigua, one of the region’s gateway towns, which felt both sophisticated and relaxed with a strong wine-country charm. I spent the afternoon browsing local boutiques on Main Street, enjoying a glass of Riesling at a lakeside winery, walking the pier for sweeping views of Canandaigua Lake, and then staying two blissful nights at the charming Belhurst Castle overlooking Seneca Lake. It was a very enchanting place, but I found that accommodations and winery tastings were a little pricier than in smaller upstate towns without the tourist draw.
Dinner at Stonecat Café was a highlight: the pan-seared duck ($34) with local vegetables was unforgettable, paired with a crisp glass of Finger Lakes white. It felt like the essence of the region on a plate.
9. Greenport, NY
I thought Greenport was wonderfully charming with its historic wharves, brightly painted storefronts, and postcard-perfect views of sailboats drifting on Peconic Bay. A scenic 15-minute drive east from Southold brought me to the heart of downtown, which felt nautical yet stylish with a blend of old fishing village character and upscale coastal flair.
I spent the afternoon browsing unique shops and art galleries along Front Street, enjoying a fresh seafood meal at Claudio’s, taking in harbor views from Mitchell Park (with its antique carousel), and then staying two blissful nights at the waterfront Harborfront Inn. It was a very delightful place, but I found the boutique hotel and dining prices were a little higher than in other Long Island towns.
Dinner at Claudio’s was unforgettable — the lobster roll ($38) was overflowing and perfectly seasoned, and eating it just steps from the dock made the experience quintessentially Greenport.
10. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls was awe-inspiring with its thundering waterfalls, misty rainbows, and postcard-perfect views across the Niagara River Gorge.
A scenic 25-minute drive north from Buffalo brought me to the heart of the city, which felt bustling yet touristy with a mix of natural wonder and kitschy attractions. I spent the afternoon marveling at the American Falls from Prospect Point, boarding the Maid of the Mist boat for an unforgettable ride into the spray, walking the Cave of the Winds boardwalk beneath Bridal Veil Falls, and then staying two thrilling nights at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, just steps from the action. It was an incredible place, but I found that dining and attractions were a little pricier compared to other upstate towns without such a major tourist draw.
11. Syracuse
I thought Syracuse was full of character with its historic red-brick architecture, lively university atmosphere, and postcard-perfect views of tree-lined neighborhoods in the fall. A scenic 40-minute drive south from Lake Ontario brought me to the heart of downtown, which felt energetic yet approachable with a mix of cultural landmarks and local charm.
I spent the afternoon browsing unique shops in Armory Square, enjoying a hearty meal at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, taking in the impressive collection at the Everson Museum of Art, and then staying two relaxing nights at the historic Marriott Syracuse Downtown. It was a very engaging place, but I found that boutique hotels and trendy dining spots were a little pricier than in some smaller Central New York towns.
Dinner at Pasta’s on the Green was a highlight — the chicken riggies ($24), a regional favorite, were rich, spicy, and unforgettable. It was a meal that felt uniquely Syracuse.
12. New York City
New York City is a place that needs no introduction and you simply must add it to your best places to visit in New York State bucket. After all, it's the world capital of culture, food, art, and energy, where every block feels alive. From the towering skyline of Manhattan to the artistic enclaves of Brooklyn and the green spaces of the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, the city has so much to offer.
As a resident, I always tell visitors too observe the sheer variety: one moment you’re standing in front of a Van Gogh at the Met, the next you’re tasting dumplings in Flushing or hearing live jazz at a club you wandered into last minute. The city thrives on contrast, and that’s what makes every visit feel new, even if you’ve been dozens of times before or live there like me.
Conclusion
No matter where you choose to go, traveling through New York State is about balance: big experiences and small details, iconic sights and hidden gems. From bustling cities to quiet riversides, the journey is as rewarding as the destinations themselves. As a resident of NYC in the center of it all, it's easy to explore for longer stretches nearby. But even if you have time for just a quick weekend trip, NY state is completely worth it!
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
