New York State Travel Guide
From Niagara Falls and the Adirondack Mountains to Finger Lakes wine country, Hamptons beaches, and the world's greatest city — New York State has it all.
Welcome to New York State
New York State is one of America's most diverse destinations, stretching from the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the thundering cascade of Niagara Falls, from ancient Adirondack forests to the pristine white sand beaches of the Hamptons. The Finger Lakes wine region rivals Napa Valley for viticulture, while the Hudson Valley offers historic Gilded Age estates and farm-to-table dining. Upstate wilderness parks, Olympic heritage in Lake Placid, and the thousand-island archipelago of the St. Lawrence River make this one of the most geographically varied states in the nation.
Major Cities & Urban Destinations
New York City
The city that never sleeps with iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway, and Central Park
Buffalo
Revitalized waterfront city at the gateway to Niagara Falls with an acclaimed food scene
Albany
State capital with Dutch Colonial heritage, Empire State Plaza, and Hudson River access
Saratoga Springs
Elegant Victorian spa town famous for horse racing, mineral springs, and summer arts festivals
Upstate Wonders & Natural Landmarks
Niagara Falls
One of the world's great natural wonders with 3,160 tons of water flowing over the brink every second, best viewed from the Maid of the Mist boat tour
Adirondack Mountains
Six-million-acre park with 2,000+ miles of hiking trails, 3,000 lakes, High Peaks wilderness, and authentic Adirondack Great Camps
Catskill Mountains
Classic American wilderness resort region with dramatic gorges, fly-fishing streams, farm stays, and stunning fall foliage
Hudson Valley
Historic river valley with Gilded Age estates, Dia:Beacon art museum, Storm King sculpture park, and exceptional farm-to-table dining
Thousand Islands
Archipelago of 1,864 islands in the St. Lawrence River with Boldt Castle, kayaking, fishing, and charming riverside towns
Lake Placid
Two-time Olympic Winter Games host town in the High Peaks Adirondacks with bobsled rides and alpine skiing at Whiteface Mountain
Finger Lakes Wine & Waterfall Country
Seneca Lake
Largest Finger Lake with 100+ wineries along its shores, Watkins Glen gorge at the southern tip, and charming lakeside villages
Cayuga Lake
Longest Finger Lake flanked by Cornell University, Taughannock Falls, and award-winning Riesling and Gewürztraminer vineyards
Watkins Glen State Park
Dramatic 400-foot-deep gorge with 19 waterfalls and a stone pathway trail carved through ancient shale walls
Ithaca & Gorges
College town surrounded by dramatic gorges with Buttermilk Falls, Robert Treman State Park, and a vibrant independent food scene
Beaches & Atlantic Coast
The Hamptons
Legendary Long Island beach communities with pristine Atlantic surf, celebrity estates, farm stands, and upscale dining in East Hampton and Southampton
Montauk
Long Island's iconic lighthouse point with exceptional surf, fresh lobster, and a laid-back beach town atmosphere
Fire Island National Seashore
32-mile barrier island accessible only by ferry with pristine beaches, no cars, and unique boardwalk communities
Long Beach
Classic Long Island boardwalk beach with surf culture, excellent swimming, and easy access from New York City via LIRR
Best Hiking Trails
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Whiteface Mountain Summit
Summit of the Olympic ski mountain with sweeping views across six states and into Canada on clear days
Kaaterskill Falls Trail
Two-tiered waterfall trail in the heart of the Catskills near Palenville — the highest waterfall in New York State at 260 feet
Breakneck Ridge
Classic Hudson Valley scramble with steep rocky sections and stunning Hudson River views, accessible by Metro-North train from NYC
Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
Iconic stone path through a spectacular 400-foot-deep gorge with 19 waterfalls, natural pools, and ancient shale formations
When to Visit New York State
New York State's best seasons are summer for beaches and fall for unrivaled foliage — though winter skiing in the Adirondacks and spring wildflowers have devoted fans.
Spring
Waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt, wildflowers throughout the Catskills and Hudson Valley, and cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Summer
Beach season in the Hamptons and Montauk, Saratoga racing, outdoor concerts, and the best hiking conditions in the Adirondacks and Catskills.
Fall
Arguably New York State's finest season — brilliant foliage transforms the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and Adirondacks into a natural masterpiece.
Winter
Ski season at Whiteface and Gore Mountain. NYC comes alive with holiday markets, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, and New Year's Eve in Times Square.
New York State Photo Gallery
