Looking to trade city noise or suburb routine for a quick breath of fresh air? While exploring New York State, I found day trips to scenic lakes, charming towns, and peaceful mountain trails—each one showing off a different side of the Empire State’s natural beauty and rich character. "These day trips in New York State offer everything from waterfalls to wineries—ideal for a day full of discovery and charm."
Highlights:
Unique Day Trips in New York State:
1. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Buffalo, NYHighlights:
Need a tropical escape—without leaving New York? The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are a jaw-dropping oasis of glass-domed greenhouses, rare plants, and curated art, all set in a landmark architectural marvel.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, photographers, architecture buffs, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for beauty and peace year-round—rain or shine.What I Love: ♥
The historic glass conservatory, rotating art exhibits, immersive rainforest and palm dome experiences, and the fact that it's home to the world's largest public ivy collection.- Visit a National Historic Site built between 1894 and 1900, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, John F. Cowell, and the architectural firm Lord and Burnham.
- Explore indoor gardens like the Palm Dome, Asian-style Rainforest House, and the Medicinal Garden House, which holds the world's largest public ivy collection.
- Admire diverse plant life from across the globe—cacti, succulents, orchids, begonias, and rare carnivorous plants are all on display.
- Discover new perspectives in the onsite art gallery, featuring rotating exhibits by both professional and amateur artists.
Distance from Niagara Falls:
Just 30–40 minutes by car.How to Get to the Botanical Gardens:
Located in South Buffalo’s Olmsted-designed South Park, just off NY-5. Parking is available on-site.Address:
2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218Phone: 716-827-1584
2. Cazenovia
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Location:
Cazenovia, NYHighlights:
Searching for a charming lakeside village steeped in history and natural beauty? Cazenovia offers classic small-town appeal, beautiful architecture, and lakefront serenity—all in the heart of Central New York.Recommended For:
History buffs, lake lovers, couples on a romantic weekend, and travelers seeking a quiet, refined escape with scenic charm.What I Love: ♥
The 19th-century village feel, forested surroundings, locally beloved dining at historic inns, and the peaceful views along Cazenovia Lake.- Discover the village of Cazenovia nestled along the southeastern shore of Cazenovia Lake in Madison County.
- Learn about its origins—founded in 1794 by John Lincklaen of the Holland Land Company and named after Theophilus Cazenove.
- Stroll through a picturesque 19th-century business center filled with architecturally significant buildings and local boutiques.
- Relax into the rural beauty of forested trails and scenic waterways—perfect for a slow-paced weekend in nature.
- Dine at the historic Lincklaen House, offering elegant yet casual fine dining in a beautifully preserved building featuring period furnishings.
Distance from Syracuse:
Around 30 minutes by car southeast of the city.How to Get to Cazenovia:
Take NY-92 or US-20 eastbound from Syracuse. The village is easy to access via scenic country roads through Central New York.Map:
View Cazenovia on Google Maps3. Corning
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Location:
Corning, NYHighlights:
Looking for a Finger Lakes gem packed with art, history, and charm? Corning offers riverside beauty, world-famous museums, and a walkable downtown filled with 19th-century flair—perfect for culture seekers and weekend wanderers alike.Recommended For:
Art and history lovers, Finger Lakes explorers, couples on a weekend getaway, and travelers interested in design, craftsmanship, and small-town charm.What I Love: ♥
The fusion of high art and glassmaking, the scenic Chemung River setting, and the historic Gaffer District's vibrant mix of boutiques, bistros, and heritage architecture.- Visit the renowned Corning Museum of Glass, featuring a world-class collection of artistic and functional glass—from ancient pieces to cutting-edge contemporary works.
- Explore the Rockwell Museum, which showcases Western American art, sculpture, and rotating exhibitions celebrating heritage and frontier storytelling.
- Stroll the historic Gaffer District, filled with beautifully restored 19th-century buildings, unique shops, and cozy eateries.
- Discover Bloody Run, a historic site marking a conflict between indigenous villagers and colonial forces—one of many deep historical layers in Corning’s past.
Distance from Ithaca:
About 1 hour by car via NY-13 and I-86 W.How to Get to Corning:
Drive through the scenic Finger Lakes region or take a regional bus. The town is compact and walkable once you arrive.Map:
View Corning on Google Maps4. Ellicottville
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Location:
Ellicottville, NYHighlights:
Looking for a four-season destination with ski slopes, scenic trails, and serious small-town charm? Ellicottville in Western New York combines historic charm, outdoor recreation, and year-round festivals—perfect for cozy getaways and adventure escapes alike.Recommended For:
Skiers, leaf peepers, history buffs, couples, and families looking for a laid-back yet lively mountain village experience.What I Love: ♥
The dual ski resort options, walkable village, unique arboretum, and calendar full of spirited festivals in every season.- Explore a scenic village originally developed by the Holland Land Company and officially incorporated in 1837.
- Stroll through the Ellicottville Historic District, where many buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Hit the slopes at Holiday Valley, a popular public resort, or HoliMont Ski Club, the largest private ski club in North America.
- Relax at the Nannen Arboretum, featuring Japanese-style gardens and serene walking paths, or enjoy a picnic at Ellicottville Village Park.
- Celebrate at the annual Fall Festival, timed with Canadian Thanksgiving and peak foliage, or attend seasonal favorites like Mardi Gras Weekend, the Jazz and Blues Festival, and Rock’n’Oldies.
Distance from Buffalo:
About 1 hour by car via US-219 S.How to Get to Ellicottville:
Take US-219 or NY-242 for a scenic drive through Western New York’s rolling hills. Once there, the village is compact and easy to explore on foot.Map:
View Ellicottville on Google Maps5. The Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County
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Location:
Cattaraugus County, NY (Chautauqua–Allegany Region)Highlights:
Looking for a nature-filled getaway with waterfalls, forested trails, and storybook mountain towns? The Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County offer breathtaking views, year-round adventure, and small-town charm—just a few hours from Buffalo and Rochester.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, skiers, couples on a romantic weekend, geology buffs, and anyone chasing peace and panoramic views in Western New York.What I Love: ♥
Rolling hills and glacial valleys, prehistoric rock formations, lakeside serenity, and top-tier skiing all tucked into one scenic region nicknamed the “Aspen of the East.”- Explore the beauty of Cattaraugus County, one of Western New York’s most scenic upland regions, filled with lush forests, glacial valleys, and pristine waterways.
- Visit two cities and 13 villages spread across 32 townships, including hotspots like Holiday Valley ski resort in Ellicottville—a top-rated winter destination.
- Get outside at Zoar Valley, Case Lake, and Harwood Lake, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing in tranquil surroundings.
- Marvel at ancient rock formations at Rock City Park and Little Rock City, home to prehistoric geological features and massive boulder mazes.
Distance from Buffalo:
About 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on destination.How to Get to the Enchanted Mountains:
Drive south on US-219 or NY-16. The region is made up of several scenic routes, best explored by car for flexibility and photo ops.Map:
View the Enchanted Mountains on Google MapsRomantic Day Trips in New York State:
6. Ausable Chasm
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Location:
Ausable Chasm, NYHighlights:
Looking for jaw-dropping natural beauty and high-adrenaline adventure? Ausable Chasm—often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks”—offers stunning sandstone formations, roaring waterfalls, and dramatic river-carved cliffs just minutes from Lake Champlain.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, hikers, bikers, and families looking for a one-of-a-kind Adirondack outdoor experience.What I Love: ♥
The incredible geological formations, thrilling trails, and peaceful moments at Rainbow Falls—plus the fascinating link to Underground Railroad history nearby.- Marvel at a 2-mile sandstone gorge carved by glacial meltwaters near the end of the last Ice Age—truly a natural wonder of the Adirondack region.
- View iconic formations like The Devil’s Oven, Sentinel Rock, Elephant’s Head, and The Cathedral, all shaped by time and water.
- Capture the beauty of Rainbow Falls, located at the southern end of the chasm and among the region’s most photogenic sights.
- Learn about the area’s past at the nearby North Star Underground Railroad Museum, which honors abolitionist history and freedom seekers in the region.
- Ride more than 15 miles of mountain biking trails at the Ausable Chasm Recreation Center—perfect for both beginners and advanced riders.
Distance from Lake Placid:
Just under 1 hour by car via NY-9N S and NY-73 E.How to Get to Ausable Chasm:
Located off U.S. Route 9, near Keeseville. Easily accessible by car from Plattsburgh, Lake Placid, and the Lake Champlain ferry.Address:
2144 U.S. 9, Ausable Chasm, NY 12911Phone: 518-834-7454
7. Coney Island History Project - Preserving Coney Island's Past
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Location:
Coney Island, Brooklyn, NYHighlights:
Love nostalgia, boardwalk charm, and old-school New York history? The Coney Island History Project brings the neighborhood’s wild past to life with colorful exhibits, rare artifacts, and a tribute to the people and legends that made Coney Island iconic.Recommended For:
Families, NYC history fans, photographers, beachgoers, and anyone looking to add a dash of culture to their boardwalk adventure.What I Love: ♥
A photo op with an original Steeplechase horse, rare relics like an 1823 Toll House sign, and a location steps away from the fun of Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park.- Step into the Coney Island Hall of Fame, the original project launched in 2005 that celebrates the movers, shakers, and showmen who shaped this legendary beachside playground.
- Explore the Exhibition Center on West 12th Street, just off the Boardwalk—perfectly positioned next to Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park.
- See real-deal treasures like a preserved 1823 Toll House sign and the only surviving original Steeplechase horse.
- Learn through colorful displays and history panels about Coney Island’s past as America’s playground—from vaudeville to the heyday of roller coasters and sideshows.
How to Get There:
Take the D, F, N, or Q subway to Coney Island–Stillwell Ave. It’s a short walk to the Exhibition Center, located next to the Wonder Wheel entrance.Map:
West 12th St, Coney Island, NY 11224Family Day Trips in New York State:
8. Hunter Mountain
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Location:
Hunter, NY (Greene County, Catskill Mountains)Highlights:
Craving fresh air, snowy slopes, and sky-high views? Hunter Mountain offers all-season adventure in the Catskills—from skiing and tubing in winter to summit hikes and scenic fire tower climbs in summer and fall.Recommended For:
Skiers, snowboarders, hikers, families, weekend warriors, and anyone eager for outdoor fun in an iconic mountain setting.What I Love: ♥
The fire tower's sweeping vistas, 100% snowmaking reliability, and the blend of thrill and relaxation you’ll find across the mountain’s terrain parks, trails, and resort amenities.- Climb to the summit of Hunter Mountain, the second-highest peak in the Catskills at 4,040 feet, where a fire lookout tower offers the highest observational views in the state.
- Ski or ride the Hunter Mountain Resort, a year-round attraction featuring four terrain parks and the state’s first 100% artificial snow operation.
- Enjoy snow tubing, beginner-friendly slopes, and advanced runs—perfect for all ages and skill levels.
- Relax with a range of on-site dining and resort options, from casual comfort food to après-ski cocktails.
- Hike or ride to the summit via scenic hiking and horseback trails that wind through forested paths and ridgelines.
Distance from NYC:
Just over 2.5 hours by car via I-87 N.How to Get to Hunter Mountain:
Drive up NY-23A through the northern Catskills, or take a seasonal bus service from NYC direct to the resort during winter weekends.Address:
8827 NY-23A, Hunter, NY 12442Phone: 518-263-4811
9. Ithaca
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Location:
Ithaca, NY (Finger Lakes Region)Highlights:
Craving waterfalls, brainy charm, and artsy vibes? Ithaca is one of New York’s most dynamic small cities—home to Ivy League culture, scenic trails, vibrant music venues, and a booming creative food and arts scene in the heart of the Finger Lakes.Recommended For:
Families, culture seekers, nature lovers, students, and anyone looking to mix outdoor adventure with museum-hopping and indie concerts.What I Love: ♥
Ivy League prestige meets laid-back lakeside creativity. Cascading waterfalls, science museums, and late-night music shows give this college town a little bit of everything.- Tour the stunning campus of Cornell University, one of the nation’s top Ivy League schools, set high above the city with panoramic views and historic architecture.
- Stroll through the Cornell Botanic Gardens and the awe-inspiring Cascadilla Gorge Trail, where waterfalls flow right through the heart of campus.
- Bring the kids to interactive spots like the Sciencenter, Museum of the Earth, and Cayuga Nature Center for hands-on learning and nature exploration.
- Catch a show at the Hangar Theatre or explore modern and historical works at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art.
- Experience the city’s legendary live music scene, which has launched artists like X Ambassadors and pulses through over 80 venues across the region.
Distance from NYC:
About 4.5 hours by car, or take a regional bus or flight into Ithaca Tompkins International Airport.How to Get to Ithaca:
Drive through scenic upstate routes or take a bus (like Greyhound or OurBus) direct from major Northeast cities. Once here, Ithaca is best explored on foot or by local transit.Map:
View Ithaca on Google Maps10. Lake Placid
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Location:
Lake Placid, NY (Adirondack Mountains)Highlights:
Dreaming of an Olympic escape? Lake Placid is a legendary winter wonderland nestled in the Adirondacks—famous for its Olympic legacy, mountain charm, and year-round adventure opportunities for couples and families alike.Recommended For:
Winter sports lovers, history enthusiasts, families, couples, and Upstate NY road trippers.What I Love: ♥
The Olympic history, scenic mountain views, world-class skiing at Whiteface, and the cozy alpine town atmosphere that makes Lake Placid feel magical no matter the season.- Experience the legacy of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics—Lake Placid is one of only three places in the world to host the Games twice.
- Relive the “Miracle on Ice” at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, home to medals, uniforms, and team memorabilia.
- Ski or snowboard at Whiteface Mountain, which boasts the highest vertical drop in Eastern North America and is just a short drive from the village center.
- Stay and play in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, with cozy hotels, upscale resorts, and plenty of dining, shopping, and lakeside activities year-round.
Distance from NYC:
About 5 hours by car; nearest regional airport is Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK).How to Get to Lake Placid:
Drive north through the Adirondack Northway (I-87) or take Amtrak to Westport Station, then use a shuttle to reach Lake Placid. Scenic and accessible!Map:
View Lake Placid on Google MapsPlan Your Trip