Do you want to spice up your free time with weekend trips around New York State? Here are some excellent options for discovering the Empire State outside of New York City.
1: Ithaca
Ithaca is eye candy in New York State. The hippy town offers cute coffee shops, art stores, and boutiques. Meanwhile, stunning waterfalls and vineyards await those who venture outside of the 33,000-resident town.
2: Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain is one of the more well-known peaks in NY, offering its visitors much to do. The area features museums, zoos, and hiking. Bear Mountain is an excellent getaway for families. This destination offers three great accommodations for overnight stays: The Inn, the Overlook Lodge, and the Stone Cottages.
3: Lake Placid
Attention all winter sports enthusiasts! Lake Placid could be the perfect destination for you. The village in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains offers everything from fun skiing adventures to stunning summer and fall hikes. Lake Placid gained national attention in 1932 and 1980 for hosting the Winter Olympics and is a favorite spot for young athletes.
4: Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a great weekend trip in New York State for nature seekers. The area is infamous for its stunning waterfalls and other natural attractions. While it’s free to explore Niagara Falls State Park, taking a Maid of the Mist boat tour or a Cave of the Winds walking tour are adrenaline-pumping musts.
5: Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs is home to the Saratoga Race Course and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. The cozy destination has under 30,000 residents, a rich heritage that dates back to the 19th century, and is an excellent spot for creatives.
6: North Fork
A hidden gem in New York, North Fork feels like something out of a movie. The classy location offers guests homes, large farmlands, and plenty of wine. It takes under 2.5 hours to arrive there from Manhattan, and it’s considered the most preserved agricultural region in the state.
7: Lake George
Dubbed America’s vacation birthplace, the Lake George region is full of mountains and forests. The area offers its guests majestic beaches, museums, and waterfalls. Lake George is a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxing and relatively affordable weekend trip in New York State.
8: Shelter Island
Located in Eastern Long Island, Shelter Island houses under 4,000 locals. The tiny island is accessible by ferry and offers activities such as biking, hiking, and kayaking. Weekend trippers who visit will enjoy the area’s peacefulness, especially during the low tourist season.
9: Albany
As the capital of New York State, Albany delivers an ambiance of excitement. The city is full of rich history, dating back to the 1800s, and is a cultural hotspot for travelers. Albany is a great fit for weekend trippers seeking bustling city life without the over-the-top bustle of New York City.
10: Hampton Bays
Hampton Bays is located on Long Island. The quaint destination is home to around 13,000 residents. Perfect for boat enthusiasts, the area draws lots of visitors during the summer due to its beautiful waters, vacation stays, and marine-centric bays.
Kicking Back Upstate Style
Many people think of New York City when they hear the words “New York State.” But NY residents know that the state of New York is so much more than the City That Never Sleeps. Upstate NY is a great choice for nature enthusiasts and people looking for a slower pace of life in a countryside or mountainous setting.
Pinch a Penny
Although New York State can be expensive to visit, some areas are cheaper than others. The Finger Lakes made U.S. News & World Report’s list of the top 20 cheapest destinations to travel in the US, coming in at 12th place.
A Quiet Visit
June to August is the high tourist season in New York State, with another peak season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. So, avoid those times if you want to travel during the off-season.
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