The task of choosing a handful of top attractions to represent the entire state of New York is not an easy one thanks to its nearly endless number of things to see and do. From the historic to the most contemporary, New York State overflows with interesting places to visit.
Upstate New York, as locals call pretty much anything north of the city, offers year-round vacation possibilities.
Main Highlights
- New York’s charming small towns are the main attractions.
- Winter is also a popular time to visit due to the ski resorts and luxury hotels and lodges that make great getaways.
- Plan the perfect escape any time of year with our list of attractions and places to visit in New York State.
1. The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is the nation’s most iconic monument, a symbol of hope to millions of immigrants on their way to Ellis Island.
Tourists can visit both attractions via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park and runs continuous loops throughout the day.
The first stop is the statue, where visitors can enjoy views of both the monument and the New York City skyline at no charge. You can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or crown, although crown passes sell out at least six months in advance.
2. Ellis Island
The ferry stops next to Ellis Island, where there is a museum on the first floor of the main building, an architectural masterpiece that once served as the main processing center and hospital from 1892 to 1954. On the upper level, tourists can wander the rooms of the quarantine wing and see some of the original bunks and facilities used by those hoping to start new lives.
Inside are poignant exhibits, with walls of photos, documents, and personal stories that capture defining moments in American history, one person at a time.
Tourists should plan at least a half day to enjoy sightseeing at both attractions, or if pressed for time consider hopping aboard the ferry and using the ride to get phenomenal views of these New York City landmarks from many angles.
3. Central Park
Although it may appear on a map as a small patch of green within the grid of Manhattan streets, Central Park is an expansive space that contains enough sights and things to do to last for days, if not longer.
Central Park is home to a wide range of attractions, from impressive architecture and peaceful gardens to skating rinks.
Bethesda Terrace is known for its stunning Bethesda Fountain, and the Mall, an idyllic, broad pathway canopied by the arching limbs of centuries-old American elms, begins at the terrace. Tourists will find several peaceful spots to relax, like the formal Conservatory Garden, the Shakespeare Garden, or the famed Chess & Checkers House.
Kids will enjoy the Central Park Zoo, which features sea lions, penguins, and other animals, and the younger ones will want to ride on the historic Carousel. The park also has, of course, expansive green lawns and enough playgrounds to keep kids busy for days.
Heckscher Playground lies mid-park between 61st and 63rd streets and boasts an extensive sprinkler area to help little ones cool off on a hot summer day. It dates to 1926 and also has slides, a giant sandbox, and climbing structures, as well as lots of open space to run around.
The Billy Johnson playground near the zoo features a stone slide beloved by kids. Be sure to bring a newspaper, or better yet, the lid of a pizza box to sit on while sliding, as it makes the ride faster.
Several ponds are also on hand to enhance the ambiance. Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal with a side of people-watching.
Central Park can be toured by horse-drawn carriage for the ultimate romantic sightseeing experience.
4. Niagra Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of North America, drawing millions of visitors each year. Located along the border of Canada and the United States, there are actually three waterfalls within the park: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the widest and tallest, dropping 167 feet from a 2,700-foot-wide ledge.
For the best panoramic view of all three falls, go up the observation tower, or take the famed Hornblower boat tour into the basin of Horseshoe Falls. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Niagara Falls. In addition to park information and tour tickets, the visitor center has a gift shop, several dining options, and a theater that shows a 40-minute film about the history and legend of the falls.
5. The Catskills
Another popular destination to experience nature in New York State is the Catskills. The rugged countryside of rolling hills and peaceful lakes is perfect for recharging your mental batteries. You can be as active as you like by undertaking activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking; or as lazy as you like by sitting by the pool, snoozing, or visiting the spa at one of the many top resorts in the Catskills.
In the winter, the Catskills transform into a snowy wonderland and draw skiers from far and wide to some of the finest ski resorts in New York.
