Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
New York is more than just the city it is famed for. Although a trip to New York City is a must, there is so much more to do in the state of New York.
The spectacular Niagra Falls draws millions of visitors every year, apart from that there are so many amusement parks, Drive-in theatres, breweries, and even mountains. There is a lot of history in the New York state as well as it has played a central role in the nation’s history.
Let us explore some of the best New York Vacation Spots you must go to.
Lake Placid, New York
This is one of the most beautiful places to visit for a vacation in New York. Lake Placid is a village located near the lake of the same name.
Lake Placid has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and is a world-famous winter sports resorts. Surrounded by the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, this place has lots to offer to its visitors.
You can also take a tour of the Olympic Sports Complex and get to know more about its history.
All kinds of restaurants line the tourist strip of the town where you can have a laidback afternoon. Do try Salt Of the Earth Bistro.
You can also spend time kayaking and canoeing on the Mirror Lake or go boating on Lake Placid. End your vacation by doing some shopping at the local boutique shops.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, New York
Located in New York Bay, Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is home to a museum of immigration.
This was also the spot where 12 million immigrants entered the United States from Europe and the rest of the world.
Tourists can visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park.
You can enjoy views of the monument and also a scintillating view of the New York skyline at no cost. From here you can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or the crown.
At Ellis Island, you can spend your time at the museum, where the collections display historical artifacts from both Ellis and Liberty Islands in interactive and informative exhibits.
This island makes for a terrific vacation spot in New York.
Lake George, New York
Located at the southern end of a 32-mile -long lake called Lake George, the city of the same name makes for a perfect vacation spot in New York.
Visitors can enjoy lots of water sports at the lake. The town is a major tourist destination in the summer. There are plenty of islands on the lakes developed for camping, make this a perfect weekend getaway in New York.
Visit the Million Dollar Beach on the beach road for swimming, volleyball courts, and picnic facilities. You can also stop by at the Prospect Mountain for a scenic view of the lake.
History aficionados can explore the Lake George Battlefield Park and the Fort William Henry Museum.
For a relaxing time, enjoy some downtime at the many spas this island has to offer.
Times Square, New York
This famed square in the middle of New York City has attractions to last a week.
Walk up to the heart of Times Square at the junction of Broadway and 7th Ave where you will be astounded by the big screens that announce the newest films to the latest ads.
Take some time to soak in the charged atmosphere of the place then have a look at the pedestrian areas which are full of artists, performers, and food trucks.
Don’t leave without having a meal at the famous Sardi’s Restaurant. Plus, there is also the world-famous Madame Tussaud’s which exhibits famous waxworks of celebrities.
Walk over to the Empire State Building which is an iconic figure in New York’s skyline.
Thousand Islands, New York
This popular island on the border of New York State and Ontario, Canada is worth a visit. As the name suggests, there are thousands of islands dotted all over the 50-mile stretch.
The islands make for a great vacation spot offering scenic beauty. The peaceful bay’s and miles of shoreline make for a holiday paradise.
It is a great scenic beauty at any time of the year, but the islands really blossom during autumn when the foliage turns all kinds of colors.
While most of the islands are private, many of the public islands feature popular attractions, lighthouses, museums, and castles.
Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and diving.
City of Niagara Falls, New York
One of the most famous tourist attraction in America, Niagara Falls draw millions of tourists every year. The City of Niagara Falls sits on the banks of Niagara Falls. Needless to say, Niagara Falls makes for a great vacation spot in New York.
There are actually three waterfalls in the park – Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls). Horseshoe is the most famous one and also the widest and tallest.
Visitors can get a panoramic view of all three falls from the observation tower. Also, take the famed Maid of the Mist tour to the basin of Horseshoe Falls to see the falls up close and personal.
There are many casinos in the area as well which can keep you entertained for the weekend. Do pay a visit to the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel
Buffalo, New York
Also the gateway to Niagara Falls, Buffalo makes for a great vacation spot in New York.
Famous for art galleries and museums, do pay a visit to the Albright-Knox Gallery, the Buffalo Museum of Science.
Families can enjoy at the Buffalo Zoo, botanical gardens and city parks.
Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes region houses 11 long and narrow lakes, which is why the region got its name of Finger Lakes. According to a legend, the long, narrow lakes in the landscape west of Syracuse were formed by the impression of the fingers of the Great Spirit.
Providing a lot of outdoor activities to tourists, this area is also known for over 100 wineries and vineyards.
There are plenty of resorts and towns around the lakes. Many tourists come here for the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities this area has to offer.
Cooperstown, New York
A brilliant vacation spot for baseballer fans, Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame as well as Doubleday Field, the ballpark that is said to be the birthplace of baseball.
The town sits at the southern tip of Otsego Lake in central New York state. Visitors can also explore the Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum which is a fun follow-up to the Hall of Fame.
The Adirondack, New York
These scenic ranges of mountains make for a memorable vacation spot in New York state. The Adirondack contains more than one hundred peaks at heights ranging from just over 1000 feet to over 5000 feet high.
The highest peak is Mount Marcy at 5,345 feet. Year-round activities make these peaks a lovely vacation spot.
You can spend your time hiking, canoeing or camping for the weekend. During the colder months, you can enjoy ski at some great ski resorts here.
Montauk, New York
This lovely idle city of Montauk is a favorite with New Yorkers in the summer. This Long Island Town is a laidback sea town offering lots to explore.
Visit the Montauk Point State Park for sea watching where many sea creatures come. You can also spend some time at the Hilton State Park where you can go to the ocean for swimming, plus you can access the 40-acre pond and go camping as well.
Walk around the beaches, go shopping or just simply have a great meal at some of the restaurants at Montauk to end your vacation.
Rochester, New York
A city on Lake Ontario, Rochester makes for a great getaway in New York. This thriving destination is full of art, culture, and great food.
A perfect family-friendly place, Rochester also has several historic homes. Visitors can also spend their time at golf courses, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
Syracuse, New York
New York’s fourth-largest city, Syracuse is located in upstate New York. This city is best known by sports fans who follow Syracuse University basketball.
This city is becoming a popular family-friendly getaway in the state. The artistic vibe of the town plus the historical aspect makes this city lovely to explore. History enthusiasts can learn more about the Suffrage movement and the Underground Railroad anti-slavery movement.
Plus, avid golfers can have a great time at over 40 golf courses dotted throughout the city. In the evenings you can gorge on great snacks at the food trucks and farm-to-table restaurants.
Ithaca, New York
This college town in the Finger Lakes region has become a popular tourist town and is a great city to explore waterfalls, wineries, and lakes.
Home to Cornell University, you can also check out this Ivy League campus. Explore the family-friendly Sciencenter children’s museum with your kids.
Plus, you can also spend a day at State Parks such as Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls. Take the opportunity to hike, go for a swim or explore the outdoors.
Albany, New York
Located on the west bank of the Hudson River, Albany is the capital city of New York.
This place is a favorite of history buffs, as there are a lot of historic homes and churches here where you can learn about the architecture and the people who shaped this region’s history.
A great way to get the feel of the city is to aboard the city cruise boat. After which you can head to Saratoga Springs to immerse yourself in New York culture.
Cultural attractions include visiting the Institute of Art and History and taking in a live performance at the historic Palace Theatre.
End your vacation by watching a ballet or check out the oldest thoroughbred horse race track in the U.S.
Saratoga Springs, New York
This quaint old college town is a bohemian city known for its horse racing and performance arts. Enjoy the springs at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa at Saratoga Spa State Park.
Visitors can also indulge in golf, hiking or skiing at the state park. Plus, you can also explore the well-known Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
Visit from July to September and take in a horse race at the country’s oldest thoroughbred track – the Saratoga Race Course.
Long Island
These are the longest and largest continuous island in the United States. Technically, they are made up of four counties. Two of which (Kings and Queens) are boroughs of New York City (Brooklyn and Queens).
This island offers a quieter escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Enjoy the laidback way of life and live at one of the popular summer resorts that line the shores.
There are many parks, family farms, and beaches, making Long Island a popular destination for families.
Onondaga Lake Park, New York
Also called the “Central Park of New York”, Onondaga Lake Park is a park on the banks of Onondaga Lake near Syracuse.
Relax by the lake or enjoy boating, hiking or a laid-back holiday by the lakeside. You can also enjoy the trails along the lake which are made for hiking or walking.
The East Shore Recreation Trail allows bicycling and in-line skating while the West Shore Trail passes through more natural and is perfect for outdoorsmen.
New York state is home to lots of varied cities and state parks that can be explored as vacation spots during the weekends.
From the idle town of Montauk to the ever-popular Niagra falls- New York never fails to amaze and entertain.
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