When you hear the words ‘New York,’ you probably think of the city, but this big state has so much more to offer, rich in natural beauty, culture and history. If you are considering a trip here, know you have no shortage of attractions and sights available to you. The hard part will be narrowing down which area in particular you want to focus on this time around. Here you will find an overview of some of the more popular tourist regions, and what is available to you.
Greater Niagara Region
The Greater Niagara region’s shining star is obviously Niagara Falls. Straddling the US and Canada, there is plenty to do on either side of the divide once you have had your fill of the falls, from visiting wineries to dining in world-class restaurants. When searching for Niagara hotels, seriously consider splurging on one that provides a view of this magnificent natural wonder. This area is also home to Letchworth State Park, which is home to a 17-mile long gorge that has been dubbed the Grand Canyon of the East. You can take an Erie Canal Cruise, or do some trophy fishing; If you like theme parks, Darien Lake Theme Park is not to be missed—full of rides and all sorts of family fun.
If you want a bit of urban experience, Buffalo has plenty on offer, from great restaurants to theater.
Adirondacks
The Adirondacks is best known for the longest fall foliage season in the Northeast, but that is far from this region’s only offering. It comprises 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, and six million acres of land. There is something for everyone, making it a great family destination. The fall is one of the best times to visit, not just for the scenery, but for the plethora of activities happening here, such as the Annual Balloon Festival, famous corn mazes and the Annual Harvest Festival. Summer has plenty on offer as well, such as renting a house and lazing around Lake George.
Hudson Valley Region
The Hudson Valley region, which is a short distance from New York City, is best known for its apple-picking, and like the Adirondacks, is a particularly popular destination in the fall. Check out the Hudson Valley Apple Trail, where you can indulge in all sorts of fun, from apple picking to hay rides.
New Paltz is home to the Mohonk Mountain House, one of the best rated hotels for families, complete with a kid’s club, teen program and a junior naturalist program. There is plenty to do for the adults as well, from a romantic ride in a paddle boat to pampering in the spas.
If you enjoy a bit of history with your travels, this region has plenty to see, such as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Home National Historic Site and the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. If you are a fan of the ‘Legend of Sleepy Hollow,’ you can check out Hyde Park, where the book was written, and the author’s home in Tarrytown, which is also home to the Rockefeller estate.