Top Destinations in New York (State)
New York City is undeniably the state’s most popular tourist destination. While there will be a few city destinations on the list, we made sure to include destinations that may not be as iconic as Central Park or the Empire State Building but are just as gorgeous.
This short list of our top 5 destinations would make sure you have a holistic New York experience —from iconic city landmarks to beautiful mountains, beaches, and lakes.
Lake Placid
Located in northern New York right by Adirondack mountains is the village of Lake Placid. Its centerpiece being, of course, the lake itself. The lake is approximately 2,170 acres wide and while this does not sound particularly spectacular, wait until winter comes.
Lake Placid is the definition of a winter wonderland. Winter in Lake Placid is nothing short of magical. The forest becomes all covered in snow and the lake freezes. It has just about every winter activity you can think of: snowshoeing, ice skating, ice fishing, skiing, and dog sled rides!
New Paltz
Located around 80 miles of New York City is this small town that looks and feels like it is from another world. The New York Times described New Paltz as a beautiful, sporty, and cultured town up on the rise. That just about describes this gem of a town.
The small town is cradled by a mountain range that is surrounded by meadows, preserved forests, a river, and a mountain range. Historical houses, shops, and galleries prime the town — attracting all the right kinds of tourists. Here you can shop, dine, hike, cycle, even get on a kayak!
It is a beautiful town that is right outside the city but does not feel like it is anywhere near a city at all.
Central Park
This large nature park smackdown at the center of the city is not to miss. In fact, it is pretty hard to miss. Nicknamed New York’s backyard, Central Park is an urban landscaping masterpiece.
Even if you are not one to enjoy nature walks, there are plenty of other things to do in Central Park. This is what makes this park so exciting. You can head over to SummerStage and listen to a band, watch a Shakespearean play at Shakespeare in the Park, or just lay out a blanket on the Great Lawn.
A trip to New York is just not complete without a trip to Central Park.
Montauk
Montauk beaches are among the top-rated beaches in the country. Miles of white gleaming sound and undeveloped boardwalks helped Montauk to have this reputation. While the beaches certainly have their own individual charm, it is impossible to not have some favorites.
For surfers, Ditch Pains Beach is for you. The area boasts of super long breaks that make it ideal for both newbies and experienced surfers. The beach can get pretty crowded though, especially on weekends and holidays.
If you are looking for a more peaceful, more quiet beach, Amsterdam Beach is your best bet. There is quite a hike to access Amsterdam Beach but once you’re there, you will be rewarded by some of the beautiful sceneries you can get from the East Coast.
Statue of Liberty
A symbol of everything America represents, the Statue of Liberty is a staple tourist landmark to put on the list. One of our favorite ways to appreciate it is from Battery Park or from Liberty Island itself and get really up close. Besides, have you really been to New York if you do not have a photo with the Statue of Liberty?
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