New York

New York State is a must-visit destination for travelers, with its diverse blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and historical significance. Whether you’re exploring the iconic skyscrapers of New York City, venturing into the serene landscapes of the Hudson Valley, or marveling at the majestic Niagara Falls, there’s something for everyone in the Empire State.

Some of the popular cities and must-see attractions

New York City

Explore Times Square, visit the Statue of Liberty, walk through Central Park, and catch a Broadway show. Check out the Empire State Building, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

Buffalo

Take a tour of the historic Richardson Olmsted Campus, visit the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront. – Don’t miss the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo City Hall, and Buffalo Zoo.

Rochester

Discover the George Eastman Museum, explore the Strong National Museum of Play, and take a stroll through the High Falls district. Be sure to visit the Rochester Museum & Science Center, Genesee River’s High Falls, and Seneca Park Zoo.

Syracuse

Visit the Erie Canal Museum, explore Destiny USA for shopping and entertainment, and admire the beautiful architecture of Syracuse University’s campus. Check out the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Everson Museum of Art, and Onondaga Lake Park.

When it comes to natural attractions, don’t miss:

• Niagara Falls: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty from various viewpoints and take a boat tour for a closer look.
• Hudson Valley: Explore charming towns like Hudson, visit historic estates like Kykuit, and go hiking in the Catskill Mountains.
• Finger Lakes: Enjoy wine tasting tours in the region famous for its vineyards, and make sure to visit Watkins Glen State Park for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

New York State experiences four distinct seasons:

Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor exploration.

Summer (June to August): Warm to hot temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Fall (September to November): Cool weather and vibrant foliage, great for leaf-peeping and scenic drives.

Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures and snowfall, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

The best time to visit depends on your interests:

• Summer: Ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration.
•  Fall: Perfect for enjoying the foliage and outdoor adventures.
• Winter: Great for skiing and winter sports.

Where to Stay

As for accommodations, New York State offers a range of options:

• New York City: Luxury hotels like The Plaza and The Waldorf Astoria.
• Buffalo: Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo Downtown and Hotel Henry Urban Resort.
• Rochester: The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa and Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown.
• Syracuse: Marriott Syracuse Downtown and Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center.

Getting Around

Renting a car is convenient for exploring rural areas and scenic drives. Public transit, such as New York City’s extensive subway and bus system, is a great way to get around the city. And if you want to travel between major cities, Amtrak connects destinations like New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.

Route for 14 days in New York State

Day 1-4: New York City

Day 1: Arrival in New York City

Upon arrival in Manhattan, settle into your hotel before beginning your adventure. Start by visiting Times Square, the iconic symbol of New York City. In the evening, take in city views from the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock.

Day 2: Exploring Manhattan

Spend the day strolling through Central Park and visiting renowned museums like The Met and the American Museum of Natural History. Take in the rich architecture of both old and new New York, including the Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade Center.

Day 3: Waterfront Excursion

Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, followed by a walk along Broadway with visits to the city’s theaters. In the evening, explore neighborhoods like SoHo and Greenwich Village.

Day 4: Wrapping Up New York City

On your final day in New York City, visit museums, art galleries, and enjoy local cuisine at restaurants or street cafes. In the evening, depart for the Hudson Valley.

Day 5-7: Hudson Valley

Day 5: Arrival in the Hudson Valley

Continue your journey into the Hudson Valley, staying in towns like Poughkeepsie and Hudson known for their architecture and antique shops. Visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and National Historic Site.

Day 6: Nature Exploration

Hike in the Catskill Mountains and visit national parks like Bear Mountain State Park and Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Enjoy wine tastings in the Finger Lakes region.

Day 7: Completing the Hudson Valley

Start the day with a morning spa retreat before visiting historic landmarks and castles. In the evening, depart for Buffalo.

Day 8-10: Buffalo and Rochester

Day 8: Arrival in Buffalo

Explore Buffalo, visiting its historic districts and parks. Hike in Albright-Knox Art Gallery and visit the city’s zoo.

Day 9: Rochester’s Historic Center

Tour the Memorial Art Gallery and The Strong National Museum of Play, as well as parks and waterways.

Day 10: Exploring Syracuse

Travel to Syracuse, visiting its museums and exploring the university center. Depart for Niagara Falls.

Day 11-14: Niagara and Surroundings

Day 11: Arrival in Niagara

Tour Niagara Falls and explore the city. Visit unique museums and attractions.

Day 12: Exploring Cities on the Route

Visit national historic parks and memorials in Saratoga and Cooperstown.

Day 13: Saratoga and Surroundings

Tour the Saratoga National Historical Park and explore the city. Visit local art galleries and restaurants.

Day 14: Completing the Route

On your final day, return to New York City for more adventures and visits to museums and architectural landmarks. Depart home with memories of a wonderful journey through New York State.

Tips for Tourists

• When traveling to New York City, it’s important to budget accordingly for food and accommodation. This bustling metropolis can be quite expensive.
• Don’t miss out on the unique charm and rich history of cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. These lesser-known destinations have plenty to offer visitors.
• Embrace the diversity of New York State’s landscapes by engaging in various outdoor activities. From hiking in the breathtaking Adirondacks to skiing during the winter months, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
• Immerse yourself in the history of New York State by visiting nationally significant sites. Take a step back in time at Saratoga National Historic Park or learn about the fight for women’s rights at Women’s Rights National Historical Park.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what New York State has to offer. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or admiring the natural beauty of its landscapes, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit.