Top 25 Must-Do Activities in New York State

Despite the stunning natural allure and charisma of New York State, it often exists in the shadow of its namesake city. When one hears the term “New York,” it evokes visions of skyscrapers, retail districts, bustling streets, and iconic yellow taxis; however, the state of New York presents an abundance of experiences beyond this urban landscape. Rugged canyons, serene lakes, majestic mountains, flowing rivers, and magnificent waterfalls contribute to some of the most picturesque terrains that nature offers. The expansive Adirondack Mountains showcase some of the most enticing scenery in the United States.

The city of New York indeed provides extensive attractions, yet there is a myriad of sights and experiences to behold in New York State. Our compilation of the top 25 activities in New York merges the finest of nature with urban landmarks, creating an exhaustive guide for exploring The Empire State.

1. The Adirondacks

This picturesque range, abundant in forested hills, forms part of the Canadian Shield and rises to an elevation of 5,345 feet at the pinnacle of Mount Marcy. The park serves as an exceptional venue for immersed nature experiences through activities such as canoeing on the lakes and hiking through pristine trails. Moreover, it features numerous lakeside cabins, providing an ideal setting for a peaceful getaway. The Adirondacks are particularly resplendent in autumn due to the vibrant hues of the fall foliage.

2. Thousand Islands

Extending from the Adirondacks alongside the St. Lawrence River is a 50-mile stretch of thousands of small islands. Cruises along the river are highly recommended and afford guests an opportunity to explore this intricate collection of scenic islands. These tours, operating during the summer months, highlight the region’s natural allure, alongside glimpses of some opulent vacation homes dotting the islands.

3. George Eastman House

The George Eastman House is an exquisite 50-room estate situated in Rochester. Completed in 1905, this impressive edifice has been meticulously restored to reflect its historical appearance from that era, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur as it would have existed a century ago. The esteemed International Museum of Photography and Film is housed on the grounds, making it highly recommended for photography enthusiasts.

4. Watkins Glen State Park

This park, home to 18 distinct waterfalls, is located at the southern point of Seneca Lake. Historically recognized as a prominent producer of salt due to its natural wells, the park is especially favored during summer for hiking and car racing activities. The remarkable rock formations within the park frequently captivate visitors, reaching heights of 300 feet above the stream below. Additionally, a thrilling 165-foot-high bridge spans the water.

5. Statue of Liberty

This monument is among America’s, and indeed the world’s, most identifiable landmarks. The statue was completed in 1886 and was entrusted to the United States by the people of France. For those seeking an up-close view of this monumental figure, a ferry ride to Liberty Island is essential. Alternatively, Battery Park provides remarkable distant views. A visit to New York State is incomplete without witnessing this iconic emblem.

6. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls ranks among the most frequented natural attractions in the USA, drawing millions of visitors annually. The term refers to three distinct waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. An impressive four million cubic meters of water cascades over the falls each minute, making its way towards the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can relish various vantage points, including walkways above the water, boat excursions, or even exhilarating helicopter tours.

7. Finger Lakes

These lakes, according to local legend, were formed by the imprint of a great spirit, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a diverse array of outdoor activities. The Finger Lakes region encompasses numerous lakes as well as charming towns and resorts. Though the area experiences increased foot traffic during the summer months, it offers several exceptional hiking trails that merit exploration.

8. Lake Placid

This picturesque lake, located in Essex County, is a globally renowned winter sports resort that has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. Despite its international fame for winter sports, the town also thrives in the summer. The main street features a variety of unique shops and a plethora of dining options. In addition to the notable Lake Placid, visitors should take care not to overlook the stunning Mirror Lake.

9. Lake George

Lake George is a town that bears the same name as the lake it borders. The town, alongside the 32-mile-long lake, serves as a significant tourist attraction in New York, offering an extensive range of outdoor activities during the summer. Historical landmarks within the town include the Fort William Henry Museum and Lake George Battlefield Park. Visitors can camp on various islands within the lake, and sightseeing boat tours are exceptionally popular. Prospect Mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views, serving as a remarkable vantage point over the lake.

10. Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park is another naturally exquisite area in the State of New York, featuring three waterfalls along the Genesee River Gorge. The park serves as an excellent destination for camping and offers a selection of holiday cabins. Whether it’s a vigorous hiking expedition or a more leisurely picnic, experiences within this remarkable park are truly unforgettable.

11. Darwin D. Martin House Complex

This multi-structure estate, constructed in 1904 by Frank Lloyd Wright at the behest of Darwin and Isabelle Martin, is situated in Buffalo. Widely regarded as Wright’s magnum opus, the house offers both basic and in-depth tours that illuminate its architectural significance and craftsmanship. Presently, restoration efforts are underway to revive sections of the estate that had previously been demolished.

12. Empire State Building

It is challenging to envision a visit to New York without experiencing this iconic skyscraper. The 102-story edifice, located in Midtown Manhattan, features an observation deck that boasts some of the most stunning perspectives of New York City. The Otis Elevator within the building displays current altitude instead of the floors as it ascends. Notably, it took the Landmarks Preservation Commission 18 months to restore the lobby to its original 1930s design, while the actual construction of the building took only 13 months.

13. Central Park

This park in Manhattan acts as a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. The densely wooded landscape is home to several historical and architecturally stunning structures, including the whimsical Belvedere Castle and the charming Ladies Pavilion, which exemplify 19th-century American Art Deco. Guided tours of the park are available, and a variety of events take place throughout the year.

14. Brooklyn Bridge

This New York landmark, inaugurated in 1883, ranks as the world’s first steel suspension bridge. Despite facing considerable construction challenges, the bridge quickly gained popularity among artists, writers, and poets, demonstrating exemplary urban design. The pedestrian pathway affords breathtaking views of Manhattan; though, caution is advised for tourists regarding cyclists using the adjacent lanes, as they are known to be aggressive towards pedestrians. The supporting towers provide an educational viewpoint with historical insights regarding the waterfront.

15. The Lincoln Centre

Constructed in the 1960s, the Lincoln Centre encompasses some of Manhattan’s most significant performance venues, including the David H Koch Theatre (home to the New York City Ballet) and the Metropolitan Opera House, renowned for its exquisitely painted wall murals. Typically, there are at least ten performances at Lincoln Centre each night, with even more during the summer months when outdoor stages are erected. Daily tours explore the Opera House and Alice Tully Hall for those interested in its architecture rather than its performances.

16. Museum Of The Moving Image

This recently renovated museum, with an investment exceeding $65 million, is undeniably one of the premier film and television museums globally. With a collection that exceeds 130,000 artifacts—such as Cleopatra’s wig and the Exorcist stunt doll—visitors can also test their video editing skills by re-dubbing a scene from the Wizard of Oz. Additionally, the museum showcases a large range of vintage televisions, cameras, and even arcade games.

17. The Rockefeller Centre

This so-called city within a city comprises 19 buildings spanning 22 acres. The Rockefeller Centre hosts a diverse selection of shops and restaurants while also featuring the Top Of The Rock Observation deck, providing unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline. This observation platform permits views of one prominent landmark not visible from the Empire State Building: the Empire State Building itself. From the top deck of Rockefeller, the Empire State Building is particularly striking at night, enhanced by its iconic lighting.

18. Governors Island

For two centuries, this former military outpost was inaccessible to the public; however, it has transformed into one of New York’s most sought-after seasonal destinations. The island served as a military fort during the Revolutionary War and was the departure point for Wilbur Wright’s flight around the Statue of Liberty in 1909. Free ferry rides are provided to this 172-acre haven, which features an extensive 8-acre picnic area and a bicycle path circling the island. Annual events include the well-known art festival Figment, along with various live performances and gatherings.

19. Coney Island

Originating in the mid-1800s during periods of urban restlessness during hot summer months, this renowned island evolved into a popular resort destination for the working class by the early 20th century. Although it faced a decline and developed a reputation as a less desirable party locale, the area gradually improved throughout the 20th century, expanding its offerings of family-friendly rides. Many attractions are still operational today, including roller coasters and the “Wonder Wheel.” The island also features an array of popular dining venues and hosts an annual Mermaid Parade.

20. The American Museum of Natural History

First inaugurated in 1869, this museum now houses an astounding collection of over 30 million artifacts, including complete dinosaur skeletons, an advanced planetarium, and even a seasonal butterfly house. With 600 fossil skeletons on display, such as a mammoth and a T-rex, the Rose Center within the museum features planetarium shows that are both educational and visually spectacular.

21. The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is celebrated as both the largest and the oldest in the United States. Welcomed by 2 million visitors each year, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals. Given its popularity, it can become quite busy during July and August; however, its vast space prevents overcrowding. Scheduled feeding times present an excellent opportunity to observe the animals, and the popular 6.5-acre Congo Gorilla Forest exhibit incurs additional costs, with ticket proceeds contributing to conservation efforts in the Congo.

22. The Cloisters

Comprising several European monasteries and other historical buildings, the Cloisters resemble an architectural puzzle. Constructed in the 1930s, it was designed to house various artifacts and objects from the Metropolitan Museum. Visitors can find numerous treasures on Hudson Hill within the Cloisters’ enchanting courtyard, such as 16th-century tapestries and the Cloister Gardens. Admission is complimentary, but donations are suggested.

23. The High Line

This linear park, constructed on a repurposed section of elevated railway, offers a unique opportunity to sit, walk, and picnic high above city streets. The distinctive attraction features spacious wooden lounging chairs, beautifully landscaped gardens, and stunning views of the Hudson River. The High Line serves as a delightful venue for an evening stroll, providing a backdrop of the illuminated New York cityscape.

24. Ausable Chasm

Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Ausable Chasm formed over 15,000 years ago during an ice age. The stunning landscapes that remain are ideal for activities such as rafting, biking, rock climbing, and rappelling. Guided tours are also readily available for those interested in learning more about this remarkable natural formation.

25. Corning Museum of Glass

The charming town of Corning is home to the Corning Glass Works and the engaging Corning Museum of Glass. This vast complex features various enlightening exhibits about glass-making and offers demonstrations and interactive activities tailored for children.