Best Places to Visit in New York State
New York might be best known for its bustling city, 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 there for 10 years, and the ones I keep returning to.
1. Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs has a timeless charm, where culture, history, and wellness meet in a town that feels both refined and approachable. Famous for its mineral springs and horse racing legacy, it’s also a place of creativity, with museums, markets, and a lively downtown that invites you to linger.
What struck me most was the way Saratoga Springs blends its storied past with an artsy, modern edge. You can wander through a museum that challenges ideas in the morning, then spend the afternoon sampling fresh produce and homemade goods at a bustling market. The rhythm of the town is balanced — leisurely yet stimulating, with layers of history and culture around every corner.
We stayed at the elegant Adelphi Hotel downtown, which gave us walkable access to shops, cafés, and the mineral springs themselves. For dinner, I loved 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.
What to do in Saratoga Springs in a weekend:
- Stroll down Broadway, the heart of downtown, lined with boutiques, bookstores, and cafés
- Tour the Tang Teaching Museum, where contemporary art and thought-provoking exhibits surprise at every turn
- Browse local goods and farm-fresh produce at the lively Saratoga Farmers’ Market
- Take a sip of the famed mineral waters at the historic Congress Park springs
- Catch a performance at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), a hub for world-class music and dance
- Visit the Saratoga Race Course if you’re there in summer, or tour its storied grounds year-round
- End the evening with a sunset walk through Yaddo Gardens, a serene and romantic retreat
2. The Catskills, NY
The Catskills felt like a mix of wild beauty and creative spirit — mountains that rise in misty layers, rivers rushing through valleys, and towns where artists, chefs, and dreamers have left their mark. It’s a place that invites both adventure and reflection, where you can hike a rugged trail in the morning and watch a Broadway-quality performance that evening.
What stood out most to me was the range of experiences: the hush of pine forests, the hum of live theater, the warmth of farm-to-table dining. The Catskills balance rustic charm with a touch of sophistication, creating a weekend that feels restorative yet full of surprises.
We stayed at the cozy Emerson Resort & Spa, tucked along the Esopus Creek, which made a perfect base for exploring. Dinner at Peekamoose Restaurant was the highlight — the duck breast ($39) was rich and perfectly cooked, while the house-made bread and inventive cocktails set the tone for a memorable night.
What to do in the Catskills in a weekend:
- Hike to Kaaterskill Falls, one of New York’s tallest and most iconic waterfalls
- Catch a show at the historic Forestburgh Playhouse, an intimate venue with Broadway-caliber productions
- Dine at Peekamoose Restaurant for a true farm-to-table Catskills experience
- Wander through Woodstock and Phoenicia, two artsy towns with galleries, shops, and live music
- Paddle or fish on the Delaware River, surrounded by rolling green hills
- End the day stargazing in one of the region’s many wide-open meadows or mountain lookouts
3. Fire Island, NY
Fire Island feels like summer distilled into its purest form — car-free streets lined with bikes, boardwalks stretching through dunes, and the steady sound of ocean waves just beyond the pines. Each community has its own personality, from lively beach towns with music spilling out of bars to quiet stretches where nature feels untouched.
What struck me most was the sense of escape. With no cars, life slows to a walking pace, and the rhythm of the tides shapes the day. There’s a mix of laid-back fun and coastal beauty that makes it feel worlds away, even though it’s just a short ferry ride from Long Island.
We stayed at The Palms Hotel in Ocean Beach, which had a breezy, beach-cottage charm. Dinner at Matthew’s Seafood House was the highlight — the lobster roll ($34) was overflowing and best enjoyed on the deck with sea air drifting in. It was one of those meals that captures the essence of summer by the shore.
What to do on Fire Island in a weekend:
- Walk or bike the boardwalks of Ocean Beach, the island’s bustling hub
- Climb the historic Fire Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast
- Swim, sunbathe, or surf at the wide beaches near Kismet or Watch Hill
- Explore the natural beauty of Sunken Forest, a rare maritime holly forest
- Enjoy cocktails and nightlife in Cherry Grove or The Pines, two of Fire Island’s most iconic communities
- Take a sunset stroll along the dunes and end the day with your toes in the sand
4. Plattsburgh, NY
Plattsburgh felt like a gateway to both mountains and water — a lakeside city with Adirondack peaks at its back and the vast expanse of Lake Champlain stretching out in front. It’s a place where history runs deep, but the energy is young and outdoorsy, shaped by its college-town spirit and endless opportunities to explore the natural world.
What stood out most to me was the balance of rugged beauty and laid-back small-city life. You can kayak on the lake in the morning, wander historic battlefields in the afternoon, and enjoy craft beer or local food downtown in the evening. It has the feel of a hidden northern hub, connected yet unhurried.
We stayed at the waterfront Hotel Saranac, which offered Adirondack charm and easy access to nearby trails. My best meal was at Irvine’s Bistro, where the maple-glazed salmon ($28) paired perfectly with local cider. It was a meal that reflected the region — hearty, fresh, and rooted in place.
What to do in Plattsburgh in a weekend:
- Walk the Plattsburgh City Beach, one of the largest freshwater beaches in the U.S.
- Tour the War of 1812 Museum to learn about the city’s role in American history
- Stroll through downtown for local cafés, breweries, and shops
- Take a ferry ride across Lake Champlain to Vermont for scenic mountain views
- Explore nearby trails in the Adirondack Park, less than 30 minutes away
- End the evening with a lakeside sunset at Wilcox Dock, a peaceful local spot
5. Saugerties, NY
Saugerties has the feel of a small Catskills town with a creative heartbeat. Nestled along the Hudson River, it blends historic brick storefronts and antique shops with an artsy, laid-back vibe. Just minutes from Woodstock, it offers the same mountain charm but with a quieter, more grounded rhythm.
What struck me most was the sense of discovery. Around every corner there’s something unexpected — a waterfall tucked behind an old mill, a lighthouse you can only reach by trail, or a quirky café where locals linger. Saugerties manages to feel both timeless and surprising, equal parts heritage and bohemian spirit.
We stayed at the riverside Saugerties Lighthouse B&B, a historic gem that requires a scenic half-mile walk to reach. Dinner at Miss Lucy’s Kitchen was a highlight — the braised short ribs ($34) were rich and comforting, paired with seasonal vegetables from nearby farms. It was the perfect mix of rustic and refined.
What to do in Saugerties in a weekend:
- Hike the short trail to the Saugerties Lighthouse for river views and history
- Browse the antique shops and galleries in the historic village center
- Catch a performance at the Orpheum Theater or explore local live music spots
- Visit the Opus 40 Sculpture Park, a stunning hand-built bluestone landscape
- Spend an afternoon at nearby Falling Waters Preserve, with forest trails and waterfalls
- Relax with a coffee or glass of wine at one of the town’s bohemian cafés
6. Vestal, NY
Vestal has the feel of a classic upstate New York town, shaped by both its natural setting and its role as a college community. Home to Binghamton University, it blends youthful energy with small-town quiet, offering a mix of parks, trails, and local eateries alongside easy access to the larger city of Binghamton next door.
What struck me most was the balance between green space and community life. The Susquehanna River winds nearby, trails cut through forested hills, and yet you’re never far from shops, cafés, and the steady rhythm of campus life. It feels grounded, approachable, and full of the kind of everyday charm that makes a weekend feel restorative.
We stayed at the Residence Inn by Marriott, which offered spacious rooms and easy access to both town and campus. 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.
What to do in Vestal in a weekend:
- Walk the Rail Trail, a peaceful paved path that runs through the heart of town
- Visit the Binghamton University Art Museum for rotating exhibits and campus culture
- Explore Arnold Park, a community favorite with trails and open fields
- Spend an evening at the Kopernik Observatory & Science Center, one of the best public observatories in the Northeast, for stargazing and hands-on science programs
- Take a short drive to downtown Binghamton for shops, cafés, and local breweries
- Catch a performance or sporting event at Binghamton University
- End the evening with sunset along the Susquehanna River, a peaceful local spot
7. Lake George
Lake George feels like the Adirondacks’ classic summer escape — a sparkling, 32-mile-long lake framed by mountains, with a lively village on its southern shore. It’s a place where history, recreation, and natural beauty come together, offering both family-friendly fun and quiet corners for reflection.
What struck me most was the contrast: on one hand, the bustle of the lakefront boardwalk and boat cruises, and on the other, the serenity of hidden coves and forest trails. Whether you’re drawn to action or relaxation, Lake George makes it easy to find your own pace along its shores.
We stayed at The Sagamore Resort, a historic hotel set on a private island with sweeping lake views. 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.
What to do in Lake George in a weekend:
- Take a lake cruise aboard the Minne-Ha-Ha or Mohican for panoramic views
- Hike up Prospect Mountain for one of the best overlooks of Lake George
- Stroll the Lake George Village Boardwalk, with shops, arcades, and cafés
- Visit Fort William Henry Museum to explore colonial-era history
- Relax on Million Dollar Beach, the area’s most popular swimming spot
- Spend an evening enjoying local craft beer or wine in the village’s breweries and tasting rooms
- End the day with a lakeside sunset, watching the Adirondack peaks glow in the fading light
8. Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is all about water, wine, and wide-open views — long, glacial lakes stretching like ribbons across the land, framed by rolling vineyards, waterfalls, and charming small towns. It’s a place that feels both indulgent and restorative, where farm-to-table dining and world-class wineries meet natural wonders and laid-back lakeside living.
What struck me most was the variety: one moment you’re sipping Riesling overlooking Cayuga Lake, the next you’re hiking into the gorge trails at Watkins Glen, surrounded by cascading waterfalls. The region manages to be both adventurous and serene, offering experiences that speak to every kind of traveler.
We stayed at Belhurst Castle on Seneca Lake — part boutique hotel, part historic estate, and all atmosphere. 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.
What to do in the Finger Lakes in a weekend:
- Tour the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, with dozens of vineyards along the water
- Hike the gorge trails at Watkins Glen State Park, famous for its waterfalls
- Stroll the campus and gardens of Cornell University in Ithaca
- Visit the Corning Museum of Glass for dazzling glass art and live demos
- Enjoy a boat cruise on Skaneateles Lake, one of the clearest lakes in the region
- Sample farm-fresh cheese and cider at local markets and roadside stands
- End the evening stargazing by the lake, where the night skies open wide and clear
9. Greenport, NY
Greenport is the kind of harbor town that feels timeless — sailboats bobbing in the marina, historic buildings along the waterfront, and the salty air of the North Fork drifting through the streets. It’s equal parts nautical charm and modern sophistication, with farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, and wineries never far away.
What stood out most was the blend of tradition and trend: century-old landmarks sit comfortably beside stylish new cafés and shops. The pace is unhurried, yet the town hums with energy from visitors and locals alike, all drawn to the beauty of the water and the richness of Long Island’s East End.
We stayed at the Harborfront Inn, right along the marina, which offered stunning sunrise views over the bay. 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.
What to do in Greenport in a weekend:
- Walk the historic waterfront and explore boutiques, art galleries, and tasting rooms
- Dine at Claudio’s, a Greenport institution with over a century of history
- Take a ferry to Shelter Island for hiking, biking, and quiet beaches
- Ride the vintage Greenport Carousel, a local favorite since the 1920s
- Tour nearby wineries and sample the North Fork’s renowned vintages
- Spend a morning kayaking or paddleboarding along Peconic Bay
- End the day watching the sunset from the pier as boats return to harbor
10. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of those rare places where nature’s power leaves you speechless. The roar of the water, the mist rising into the air, and the sheer scale of the falls make it unforgettable — a destination that feels both humbling and awe-inspiring. Beyond the famous cascades, the surrounding town offers history, parks, and a growing food scene that rounds out the experience.
What struck me most was the immersive quality of the falls. Whether you’re standing at the edge on the American side, sailing right into the mist on a boat tour, or gazing from the observation tower, the falls demand your full attention. It’s an experience that feels larger than life yet deeply personal at the same time.
We stayed at the Giancarlo’s Niagara, a boutique hotel within walking distance of the falls. Dinner at Top of the Falls Restaurant was a highlight — the maple-glazed salmon ($32) paired with panoramic views of the Horseshoe Falls was an experience that blended cuisine with scenery in a way few places can match.
What to do in Niagara Falls in a weekend:
- Take the iconic Maid of the Mist boat ride into the heart of the falls
- Walk the Cave of the Winds trail to feel the rushing water up close
- Visit the Observation Tower for sweeping views of all three waterfalls
- Stroll through Niagara Falls State Park, America’s oldest state park
- Cross the border to the Canadian side for a different perspective of the falls
- Explore the Niagara Gorge Trail for hiking with dramatic river views
- End the evening watching the falls illuminated in shifting colors, or catch the seasonal fireworks show
11. Syracuse
Syracuse is a city where history, culture, and community meet in the heart of Central New York. Known for its university spirit, snowy winters, and rich Erie Canal heritage, it balances small-city accessibility with plenty of attractions — from museums and markets to sports and parks. It’s a place that feels welcoming, with deep local pride and a creative streak running through its neighborhoods.
What struck me most was the range of experiences packed into one city. You can stroll a bustling farmers’ market in the morning, take in an art exhibit downtown in the afternoon, and cheer on Syracuse basketball at the Dome by evening. There’s a warmth here that goes beyond the weather — it’s in the food, the people, and the sense of community.
We stayed at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown, a beautifully restored historic hotel that radiates old-world charm. 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.
What to do in Syracuse in a weekend:
- Visit the Erie Canal Museum to explore the city’s canal-era roots
- Spend time at the Everson Museum of Art, designed by I.M. Pei and filled with American art
- Wander through the Syracuse University campus, including the Carrier Dome
- Shop and dine in the revitalized Armory Square district
- Spend a Saturday morning at the Central New York Regional Market, one of the state’s best farmers’ markets
- Relax outdoors at Onondaga Lake Park, with walking and biking trails along the water
- End the day with a local craft beer from one of Syracuse’s microbreweries
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 to 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.
What to do in New York City in a (long!) weekend:
- Walk through Central Park and soak up the green heart of Manhattan (this is a must-do with kids!)
- Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Take in the views from the Empire State Building or One World Observatory
- Stroll along the High Line, an elevated park built on old rail tracks. I think this really lets you take a peak into the daily lives of people who live there.
- Catch a Broadway show in the Theater District
- Explore Brooklyn’s DUMBO and Williamsburg neighborhoods for art, food, and skyline views
- Ride the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island up close
- End the day with city lights from the Brooklyn Bridge or Top of the Rock
Conclusion
New York State is far more than just New York City — it’s a collection of diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences that stretch from the Atlantic coast to the Canadian border. Each destination offers its own rhythm: the artistic energy of Saratoga Springs, the rugged beauty of the Catskills, the lakeside serenity of Plattsburgh, the iconic roar of Niagara Falls, and the small-town charm of places like Saugerties, Greenport, and Vestal.
What ties them all together is the sense of discovery. Whether you’re sipping Riesling in the Finger Lakes, hiking Adirondack trails, strolling a historic Hudson Valley village, or watching the sunset over Lake George, you’ll find moments that feel both distinctly local and universally memorable. It’s a state where history, nature, art, and food meet — and where every corner invites you to slow down, explore, and connect.
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.
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.
