New York State, known as “the Empire State,” was among the original 13 colonies that became the United States. Immerse yourself in New York State’s many world-renowned museums and cultural institutions. Nearly one-third of all battles during the Revolution were fought in New York State, including the victory at the Battle of Saratoga. Celebrate this proud history along the Path through History. Pay tribute to the great achievements of our country’s heroes by visiting one or all of the 15 Halls of Fame.
There is so much to see and do in New York State. However, so many visitors to New York never make it out of Manhattan, let alone out of New York City. Explore all the state of New York has to offer. Here are our 10 must see attractions in New York state.
New York City
NYC is a great place to start because there is so much for families to see and do. It is one of the top travel destinations around the world and for good reason. This city offers everything from theater to parks to shopping, making it the ideal place to visit for all individuals or families. As the most popular city in the country, there is no shortage of attractions, making it nearly impossible for visitors to narrow down their list of must-see attractions. Central Park, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Battery Park, National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art are among the many attractions that draw families to this amazing city.
Niagara Falls
The Statue of Liberty is one of America’s most recognizable symbols and certainly New York’s most prominent attraction. No trip to the state is complete without seeing the statue. There are good views of the statue from Battery Park, but for a close up experience visitors will want to take a ferry over to the Liberty Island.
Adirondacks Mountains
One of the first places to receive Forever Wild status in United States, these mountains have been cherished as an outdoor playground, accessible and open to all, for centuries. Their beauty is unique, and it attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Canoers and kayakers have multiple bodies of water to choose from. Hunting and fishing, though strictly regulated, are enjoyed by many. Rock climbers, bird watchers, and snowmobilers can all find happiness here. The Wild Center in Tupper Lake provides a wealth of information about the natural history of the surrounding area, and is open year round.
Thousand Islands
Dotted all over a 50 mile stretch of the St Lawrence River are thousands of little islands. It’s an area of great scenic beauty. A cruise in this maze of islands is highly recommended. Operating between mid-May and mid-October, the tours show ever-changing vistas and include glimpses of holiday homes that range from the plainest of log cabins to the most luxurious of summer villas. In addition to the beautiful scenery of the area, there are a number of attractions here, including Boldt Castle on Heart Island and the Antique Boat Museum.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of North America, drawing millions of visitors each year. It is actually a series of three waterfalls which, when taken together, send more water cascading over the edge than any other falls in the world. There are many interesting ways to see the falls, from walkways above the falls to sightseeing boats that take visitors right to the base. The falls are located along the Canada-USA border, with great viewing opportunities from both sides.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes are so called because they are a series of long, thin bodies of water with a north-south alignment, resembling fingers. According to Iroquois legend, the long, narrow lakes in the landscape west of Syracuse were formed by the impression of the fingers of the Great Spirit. There are several towns and resorts around the lakes, most of which are particularly busy during the summer months. There are also museums dedicated to the rich history of the region, including the Women’s Rights Natural Historic Park in Seneca Falls, where the women’s suffrage movement began. The Corning Museum of Glass, the Strong National Museum of Play, the Museum of the Earth, and the Seward House, named for President Lincoln’s secretary of state, can all be found here.
Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley extends 150 miles above the tip of Manhattan. This gorgeous stretch of fertile ground contains hiking trails, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, fishing, as well as shopping and museums detailing the stories of the region. The valley is steeped in history, natural beauty, culture and a burgeoning food and farmer’s market scene. There is something to do in the valley all year round, with autumn being a particular favorite because of the changing of the leaves.
Letchworth State Park
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. It is home to three sets of waterfalls along the dramatic Genesee River. The river carved a deep gorge out of the rocks, and the result is breathtaking natural beauty for miles. Waterfalls dot the river and its creeks, with the highest waterfall in New York State, Inspiration Falls, found here. People come to the park to enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, whitewater rafting, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, camping, and whatever else can be done when the weather’s right. There are also great opportunities for hiking and picnicking. The park offers camping facilities and cabins for rent.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid is the perfect destination for a family vacation. With a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from. The world famous winter sports resort of Lake Placid has twice hosted the Winter Olympics (1932, 1980). Today the town is a major tourist center. While it is perhaps best known internationally for its winter recreation, particularly skiing, the town is a very popular summer destination as well. All kinds of unique shops and restaurants line the main tourist strip through town.
Cooperstown
From baseball to the best of American Art, experience the many sides of Cooperstown. Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Catskills, the Village of Cooperstown is the home of James Fenimore Cooper and his Leatherstocking Tales. However, Cooperstown’s biggest “claim to fame,” and its most popular attraction is the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. After strolling through its unique exhibitions, take in a game at Doubleday Field or stop by the Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum. For a change of pace find inspiration at one of the nation’s premier art institutions, The Fenimore Art Museum. Exhibitions range from 20th century American Art, to traditional American Indian Art.
http://www.thisiscooperstown.com/
New York is one of the country’s most desirable vacation destination. On your next family vacation experience the endless treasures that New York State has to offer.
Julie Syl Pit Stop Crew
Sunday 27th of November 2016
Woow what a list, somehow I gotta get to New York Soonest man so much to seee by God's grace Thanks for bringing to the Pit Stop
Julie
Sunday 27th of November 2016
I've been lucky enough to visit New York City a couple of times, Niagara falls and the Thousand Islands, but the rest sadly not. I do live in the UK though so it's a bit of a trek! Maybe one day!
Lisa @ Fun Money Mom
Saturday 26th of November 2016
I'm still not sure how I haven't yet made it to Niagara Falls. It's on my bucket list! Thanks for sharing with us at Share The Wealth Sunday!
Madalyn
Saturday 26th of November 2016
Thanks for stopping by the Peaches+Salt Link Party! I've live in New York for about 1.5 years and definitely need to check these out! Still haven't made it to the statue of liberty or Niagara Falls!
jonny
Friday 25th of November 2016
Lake Placid is a most exciting holiday destination of the world where the large number of visitors come here annually with family and kids and spent their holidays. I had remarkable time there with my family during my last holidays. It was a really nice tour of my life. We all had huge fun there. It was a memorable moment while I was captured incredible views of nature beauty in my camera. I will love to be there again and again. Now my father is going to take with is few friends.