Top 13 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in New York State

New York State is packed with breathtaking destinations beyond the hustle of NYC. From cascading waterfalls to charming small towns, there’s no shortage of stunning spots to explore. As a travel blogger exploring New York for years, I’m excited to share these 13 natural places offer some of the most beautiful and unforgettable experiences in the state.

When I visited these places, I did a lot of research beforehand to ensure I could explore as many spots as possible in a week that were both travel-friendly and budget-friendly. Based on my experience, these 13 places are my favorite and most popular destinations that you’ll absolutely enjoy exploring. So, what are you waiting for? Take a quick 5 minutes to check them out!

Niagara Falls

One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Niagara Falls is a mesmerizing sight that draws millions of visitors each year. Located on the border between the U.S. and Canada, these massive falls plunge over 160 feet, creating a thunderous roar and a misty spectacle visible from miles away. The best way to experience the falls is by taking a Maid of the Mist boat tour, which gets you up close to the powerful torrents.

Beyond the falls, visitors can explore Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S., or take a scenic walk along Goat Island. At night, the falls are illuminated in dazzling colors, making for a breathtaking view.

Highlights:

Take a boat tour on Maid of the Mist for a close-up view.
Explore Niagara Falls State Park for stunning hiking trails.
Visit at night to see the falls illuminated in vibrant colors.

Adirondack Mountains

Stretching across six million acres, the Adirondack Mountains offer some of the best outdoor experiences in New York. Home to over 3,000 lakes, dense forests, and high peaks, this region is a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts. Lake Placid, a two-time Winter Olympics host, is one of the most famous destinations, offering breathtaking mountain views, skiing, and charming small-town vibes.

During the fall, the Adirondacks become a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, attracting leaf peepers from across the country. Popular activities include paddling on Mirror Lake, hiking to the top of Whiteface Mountain, and visiting Ausable Chasm, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East.”

Highlights:

Hike the High Peaks Wilderness for panoramic mountain views.
Enjoy a scenic drive along Route 73 for stunning fall foliage.
Explore Lake Placid for year-round outdoor adventures.

The Finger Lakes

This region is a hidden gem known for its long, narrow lakes and award-winning wineries. With eleven glacially carved lakes stretching across central New York, the Finger Lakes offer incredible scenery, charming small towns, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the famous Seneca Lake Wine Trail, featuring dozens of wineries producing some of the best Rieslings in the country.

Aside from wine tasting, adventure seekers can hike through Watkins Glen State Park, known for its mesmerizing waterfalls and gorges. For history buffs, the Corning Museum of Glass and the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls provide fascinating insights into art and activism.

Highlights:

Tour the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for exceptional wine tastings.
Explore Watkins Glen State Park with its 19 waterfalls.
Visit the Corning Museum of Glass for stunning glass artistry.

The Catskills

A favorite getaway for New Yorkers, the Catskills are renowned for their picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and charming mountain towns. This region inspired the Hudson River School of painting and remains a haven for artists, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation. The Kaaterskill Falls hike is a must-do, leading to one of New York’s tallest waterfalls.

Beyond hiking, the Catskills are home to Woodstock, a town filled with art galleries, cafes, and the legacy of the famous 1969 music festival. Winter brings excellent skiing at Hunter Mountain, while fall offers some of the best foliage viewing in the state.

Highlights:

Hike to Kaaterskill Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in NY.
Visit the artistic town of Woodstock for unique shopping and culture.
Ski or snowboard at Hunter Mountain in winter.

The Hamptons

Known for its upscale coastal charm, the Hamptons offer pristine beaches, historic mansions, and a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere. Located on the eastern tip of Long Island, the region consists of quaint villages like East Hampton, Southampton, and Montauk, each with its own distinct character.

Visitors can lounge on the soft sands of Coopers Beach, explore the scenic trails at Montauk Point State Park, or admire the historic Montauk Lighthouse. The Hamptons are also famous for their farm-to-table dining experiences, art galleries, and summer festivals.

Highlights:

Relax on the beautiful shores of Coopers Beach.
Visit the historic Montauk Lighthouse, New York’s oldest.
Enjoy fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine in Sag Harbor.

Thousand Islands

Located along the St. Lawrence River, the Thousand Islands region is a breathtaking collection of over 1,800 islands, each with its own charm. The area is perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing, offering scenic waterfront views and historic attractions like Boldt Castle.

The Thousand Islands Seaway is ideal for a boat tour, where visitors can explore luxurious island homes, charming lighthouses, and beautiful natural landscapes. The region is also known for its namesake Thousand Island dressing, a must-try for food lovers.

Highlights:

Tour Boldt Castle, a grand unfinished mansion with a love story.
Take a boat cruise through the Thousand Islands Seaway.
Try the famous Thousand Island dressing at local restaurants.

Saratoga Springs

Famous for its historic horse racing culture, Saratoga Springs is a charming destination filled with Victorian architecture, mineral springs, and a vibrant arts scene. The Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest in the country, hosts thrilling summer races that attract visitors from around the world.

Beyond racing, Saratoga is home to Saratoga Spa State Park, where visitors can soak in natural mineral springs or enjoy a relaxing spa day. The town’s lively downtown offers boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and live music.

Highlights:

Watch a race at the legendary Saratoga Race Course.
Relax in the mineral waters of Saratoga Spa State Park.
Stroll through downtown for unique shops and cafes.

The Hudson Valley

Stretching along the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany, the Hudson Valley is a picturesque region known for its rolling hills, historic estates, and vibrant arts scene. This area is a dream for food lovers, offering farm totable dining, vineyards, and apple orchards perfect for autumn visits.

One of the top attractions is Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park set against stunning landscapes. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate, provides a glimpse into the opulent lives of one of America’s wealthiest families. The valley is also home to some of the best hiking trails in the state, including the challenging yet rewarding Breakneck Ridge.

Highlights:

Visit Storm King Art Center, a massive outdoor sculpture park.
Explore Kykuit, the historic Rockefeller family estate.
Hike Breakneck Ridge for panoramic Hudson River views.

Letch worth State Park

Often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letch worth State Park is home to dramatic gorges, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls. The Genesee River flows through the park, carving out breathtaking cliffs that rise as high as 600 feet. The park’s three major waterfalls Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls are must-see attractions, with scenic overlooks offering jaw-dropping views.

Letch worth is a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers, offering hiking, whitewater rafting, and even hot air balloon rides for a unique perspective. In the fall, the foliage transforms the park into a vibrant masterpiece, making it one of the best spots for autumn leaf-peeping.

Highlights:

Hike the Gorge Trail for stunning waterfall views.
Take a hot air balloon ride over the park for an unforgettable experience.
Visit during fall for some of New York’s best foliage views.

The Erie Canal

A masterpiece of engineering, the Erie Canal played a vital role in America’s early economic expansion, connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. Today, it offers a scenic route for boating, cycling, and exploring charming canal towns.

Visitors can take a relaxing cruise through the locks, learning about the canal’s history at the Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse. The adjacent Erie Canalway Trail is a favorite among cyclists, offering picturesque views and access to historic towns like Fairport and Lockport.

Highlights:

Cruise through the locks and witness how boats navigate elevation changes.
Visit the Erie Canal Museum to learn about its historical significance.
Cycle the Erie Canalway Trail for a scenic and historic ride.

Cooperstown

Best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown is a charming village offering a mix of history, culture, and small-town charm. Baseball fans from around the world visit to explore exhibits dedicated to the sport’s greatest players and moments.

Beyond baseball, Cooperstown boasts the stunning Otsego Lake, perfect for boating and picnicking. The Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum showcase the region’s artistic and agricultural heritage, making Cooperstown a great destination even for non-sports fans.

Highlights:

Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame for an iconic sports experience.
Enjoy a lakeside retreat at Otsego Lake.
Explore the Fenimore Art Museum for American folk and Native American art.

Watkins Glen State Park

One of the most visually striking state parks in New York, Watkins Glen State Park is known for its incredible waterfalls and deep, winding gorges. The highlight is the Gorge Trail, a scenic path that passes behind cascading waterfalls and through narrow rock passages, creating a magical, fairytale-like experience.

Beyond hiking, Watkins Glen is located near Seneca Lake, making it a great base for exploring the Finger Lakes region. Wine lovers can visit nearby wineries, while adventure seekers can take a boat cruise on the lake or enjoy auto racing at the Watkins Glen International Speedway.

Highlights:

Walk the Gorge Trail for breathtaking waterfall views.
Visit nearby Seneca Lake for wine tasting and scenic cruises.
Watch a race at the Watkins Glen International Speedway.

Albany

As the capital of New York State, Albany is rich in history, architecture, and culture. The city is home to the stunning New York State Capitol, a grand 19th-century building with impressive Gothic and Romanesque designs. A guided tour through its lavish interiors offers a fascinating look at the state’s political history.

Albany also boasts vibrant museums, including the New York State Museum, which covers everything from natural history to the Erie Canal. Visitors can take a stroll along the scenic Hudson Riverfront, explore the trendy Lark Street arts district, or visit the famous Empire State Plaza, which features striking modern architecture and an ice-skating rink in the winter.

Highlights:

Tour the historic New York State Capitol building.
Visit the New York State Museum for insights into the state’s history.
Explore the Empire State Plaza with its unique architecture and public events.

Final Thoughts

New York State is a diverse and stunning destination, offering everything from breathtaking waterfalls and mountain adventures to charming villages and historical landmarks. I hope that these 13 locations showcase the best of what the Empire State has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the beauty of New York beyond the city skyline!