New York is a diverse state brimming with incredible destinations, stunning natural wonders, and charming small towns alongside vibrant cities. While New York City often steals the spotlight, many people don’t realize just how much more the state has to offer beyond its iconic skyline. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of your backyard, or a traveler eager to experience the best of New York, this guide is for you!
Having spent most of my life in New York State, I’ve made it a priority to explore its hidden gems and breathtaking spots. In this post, I’m highlighting 12 unforgettable places across the state that you absolutely need to see. From thrilling adventures to rich history and natural beauty, these destinations are packed with excitement and charm. If you’re ready to uncover the best of New York, keep reading!
1. Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen State Park is one of New York State’s most breathtaking natural wonders. It’s famous for its dramatic gorge, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque hiking trails. Located in the Finger Lakes region, this stunning park features a deep, winding gorge carved by Glen Creek over thousands of years. The result is a mesmerizing landscape of towering cliffs, lush greenery, and 19 stunning waterfalls. The iconic Rainbow Falls is a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
The park’s main attraction is the Gorge Trail. This is a 2-mile path that takes visitors through tunnels, over stone bridges, and behind waterfalls. It offers an incredible up-close experience with the park’s rock formations. For those looking for a different perspective, the Indian Trail runs along the rim of the gorge providing scenic overlooks of the waterfalls below. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and even swimming at the nearby Seneca Lake.
2. Green Lakes State Park
Green Lakes State Park, located just east of Syracuse, is a stunning destination known for its two rare glacial lakes—Green Lake and Round Lake. What makes these lakes unique is their striking turquoise color. It’s caused by a rare phenomenon called meromixis, where the lake’s layers of water do not mix. This creates crystal-clear, vividly colored waters that are as beautiful as they are scientifically fascinating. The park’s lush forests and rolling hills provide a peaceful escape, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the park’s highlights is the Green Lake Trail. This is a scenic 3-mile loop that circles the shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the vibrant water and surrounding woodlands. For a longer adventure, the Round Lake Trail extends the journey to the park’s second glacial lake. This is actually a designated National Natural Landmark! Visitors can also enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the calm waters. With picnic areas, a golf course, and year-round activities, Green Lakes State Park is a perfect getaway for anyone looking to experience the beauty of New York.
3. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls State Park is one of the most iconic destinations in New York State. It draws in millions of visitors each year to witness the sheer power and beauty of its world-famous waterfalls. It is also the oldest state park in the United States! This natural wonder has three stunning cascades—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Over 3,100 tons of water plunge over the edge every second. Visitors can admire the view from an overlook or take a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist. The Cave of the Winds offers a thrilling experience, with mist spraying from the falls. Seeing Niagara Falls up close is unforgettable.
Beyond the waterfalls, the park offers a variety of scenic trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The Niagara Gorge Trail System features multiple paths, including the Great Gorge Railway Trail and the Whirlpool Rapids Trail. Visitors can also explore Goat Island, home to picturesque walkways and some of the best vantage points of the falls.
For a list of fun things to do on the American side of the falls, check out my post here.
4. Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is in the Finger Lakes region near Cayuga Lake. It features one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Northeast. Taughannock Falls stands 215 feet tall, making it the tallest free-falling waterfall in the eastern U.S. It is even higher than Niagara Falls! The park’s gorge was shaped by thousands of years of glacial activity. Cliffs nearly 400 feet high rise on either side, creating a breathtaking scene. Visitors can experience the raw power of nature up close.
The park offers several trails that provide stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes. The Gorge Trail is an easy, family-friendly 1-mile walk. It leads directly to the base of the falls, offering an up-close perspective of the cascading water. For those looking for a higher vantage point, the North Rim and South Rim Trails wind along the edges of the gorge, providing panoramic views of the falls from above. Beyond hiking, the park offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, kayaking on Cayuga Lake, and even swimming at the park’s lakeside beach.
If you’d like information on Taughannock Falls and its surrounding areas, check out this itinerary.
5. New York City
No list of must-visit places in New York State would be complete without including New York City. As one of the most iconic cities in the world, NYC is a place where history, culture, and innovation collide, creating an atmosphere that’s both fast-paced and endlessly exciting. Whether you’re strolling over the Brooklyn Bridge, admiring the skyline from the top of the Empire State Building, or taking in a Broadway show, every corner of the city offers something for everyone.
Tourists can expect an endless array of experiences! From world-class museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA to legendary landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. Food lovers will be in paradise, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to famous street food vendors serving up global flavors. Shopping enthusiasts can explore Fifth Avenue’s luxury boutiques or hunt for unique finds in SoHo and Brooklyn’s trendy markets. There is truly something for everyone!
6. Howe Cavern
For an underground adventure unlike any other in New York State, be sure to visit Howe Caverns. Here, you’ll experience a mesmerizing journey through a prehistoric world hidden beneath the surface. Discovered in 1842 by local farmer Lester Howe, these limestone caves were carved over millions of years by an underground river. It created a breathtaking landscape of twisting passageways, stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering rock formations. Today, Howe Caverns is the largest show cave in the Northeast and one of the state’s most unique attractions, drawing visitors eager to explore its otherworldly beauty.
A visit to Howe Caverns takes you 156 feet below ground on a guided tour through the illuminated cave system. Guests can explore winding tunnels and see the Titanic Formation and Bridal Altar. They can also enjoy a boat ride on the underground Lake of Venus. For more adventure, the Signature Rock Discovery Tour offers extended caving. Above ground, Howe High Adventure Park features ziplining and a ropes course.
7. Whirlpool State Park
Whirlpool State Park sits along the Niagara River, offering stunning views and rugged hiking trails. It provides a front-row seat to the powerful Niagara Whirlpool, a natural wonder shaped by the river’s relentless currents over thousands of years. The swirling waters crash through the narrow gorge, creating an awe-inspiring sight. Just a few miles downstream from Niagara Falls, the park offers a quieter, more scenic escape while still showcasing the river’s raw power.
For those looking to explore, the park features two main levels. The Upper Rim Trail provides an easy, scenic walk with breathtaking overlooks of the whirlpool and surrounding gorge, making it perfect for photography and wildlife spotting. For a more adventurous experience, the Gorge Trail descends into the canyon, leading hikers along rocky terrain to the river’s edge, where they can witness the whirlpool up close and feel the immense power of the rapids. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching in this peaceful yet dramatic setting.
8. Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of New York’s most stunning natural spots. It spans over 14,000 acres along the Genesee River. The park features a deep gorge, dramatic cliffs, and three breathtaking waterfalls—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. Water cascades over sandstone and shale, creating a spectacular sight. Lush forests and scenic overlooks add to its beauty. With endless opportunities for adventure, Letchworth is a perfect place for outdoor recreation.
For those looking to explore, the park features over 66 miles of hiking trails, with routes for all skill levels. The Gorge Trail is one of the most popular, running along the river and offering spectacular views of the waterfalls and canyon. Visitors can also enjoy biking, whitewater rafting, and even hot air balloon rides for a truly unforgettable perspective of the park’s rugged landscape. In the fall, Letchworth transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the best places in the state for leaf-peeping.
For more information on Letchworth State Park, check out my full guide here.
9. Chimney Bluffs
Perched along the shores of Lake Ontario, Chimney Bluffs State Park is a striking natural wonder known for its towering, jagged clay formations that rise dramatically above the water. These unique bluffs were shaped by thousands of years of wind, water, and ice erosion, creating an otherworldly landscape unlike anywhere else in New York State. The park offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into the wild beauty of New York State.
Visitors can explore the park’s stunning scenery through its network of hiking trails. The Bluff Trail runs along the edge of the cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the towering spires and the vast expanse of the lake. For a more wooded experience, the Drumlin Trail winds through lush forests, providing a quieter, shaded hike. In addition to hiking, Chimney Bluffs is a great spot for birdwatching, picnicking, and enjoying a serene lakeside sunset. Whether you’re drawn by the park’s dramatic geology, scenic trails, or peaceful shoreline, Chimney Bluffs State Park is a hidden gem that showcases the raw, sculpted beauty of New York State’s natural landscapes.
10. Saratoga Springs, New York
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks, Saratoga Springs is a charming city that seamlessly blends rich history, natural beauty, and modern flair. Known for its healing mineral springs, Saratoga has long been a destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, with the iconic Saratoga Spa State Park offering a tranquil escape and historic bathhouses that have been pampering visitors since the 19th century. Beyond its spas, the city is also home to vibrant downtown streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés, making it a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture.
Tourists can enjoy a wide variety of experiences, from exploring the historic Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest and most prestigious horse racing tracks in the country, to taking a stroll through the lush Congress Park, where you can sip water from the natural mineral springs. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) hosts world-class performances, from ballet to jazz, while the nearby Saratoga Lake offers boating and outdoor activities.
11. Lake George, New York
Located in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake George is a stunning destination! It offers natural beauty and endless recreation, making it a year-round favorite. Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” it stretches over 30 miles with crystal-clear waters. Charming lakeside villages add to its relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Whether visiting the bustling town or the peaceful shores, Lake George has something for everyone.
Tourists can enjoy many outdoor activities. Boating, swimming, and fishing are popular on the lake. Hiking Prospect Mountain offers panoramic views of the Adirondacks. The town has charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Fort William Henry lets visitors explore colonial-era history. In summer, the Lake George Steamboat Company offers boat tours. These cruises provide a unique view of the lake’s beauty. In the winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
12. Lily Dale, New York
Nestled in the rolling hills of Western New York, Lily Dale is a small, unique town with a rich history and a reputation as a spiritual retreat. Known as one of the largest spiritualist communities in the United States, Lily Dale attracts visitors seeking a peaceful atmosphere, a connection to the metaphysical, or simply a one-of-a-kind experience. The town is dotted with charming Victorian-style homes, peaceful gardens, and an array of historic buildings, creating a serene, almost otherworldly charm that invites relaxation and introspection.
Visitors can expect to experience something truly special in Lily Dale. The town is home to several mediums who offer readings and spiritual guidance, making it a popular destination for those interested in spiritualism. Visitors can also explore the Lily Dale Assembly, a historic center for spiritual learning that hosts workshops, lectures, and services throughout the year. For those seeking peace and reflection, the town’s beautiful Healing Temple and tranquil inspirational gardens offer quiet spaces for contemplation.
Awesome travel blog Carly…loved all your amazing pictures…interesting facts…and since I have only enjoyed 4 of these spots I have alot of catching up to do!!!