Places To Go In New York That Aren’t NYC
This content may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our disclaimer.
The state of New York has much more to offer than just New York City. From scenic mountains and lakes to historic towns and charming villages, the state is full of destinations worth visiting. This post highlights some spots outside NYC that are great for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and small-town charm.
Saranac Lake, New York
Want to Save This Post?
Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get more great travel guides.
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Daily Life Travels
Saranac Lake is a scenic village located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in northern New York. It sits about 10 miles west of Lake Placid and roughly 50 miles south of the Canadian border. Surrounded by pristine lakes, rolling peaks, and endless forest, it’s a favorite destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. I loved the history in the downtown area and hiking Baker Mountain (which is pictured here).
Read about my trip: Fall Trip To Saranac Lake, New York
Hunter, New York
Hunter is located in the Catskill Mountains and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. In the winter months, you can ski and snowboard at Hunter Mountain Resort. In the warmer months, Kaaterskill Falls (pictured here) is a popular spot to go for a hike. The area also offers scenic views, local dining, and seasonal festivals that showcase the region’s culture. Be sure to grab donuts from Fred’s Coffee & Donuts!!
Greenport, New York
Greenport is a historic village on the North Fork of Long Island. Between 1795 and 1859, Greenport became a major whaling port with twenty-four whaling ships making a total of 103 voyages. There’s plenty to do in town from dining to museums. I only made a brief visit during a day trip to Long Island from New London, Connecticut, but I’d love to go again!
Ulysses, New York
This town is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes. Most people visit this town to go to Taughannock Falls State Park, which is known for its stunning waterfall, but it also has access to Cayuga Lake. Be sure to also visit Trumansburg, the historic village center.
Old Forge, New York
This hamlet within the historic town of Webb is a great home-base for a trip to the Adirondacks. This town offers plenty of photo-worthy views and it’s great to visit year-round. In the warmer months, you can relax by Old Forge Pond, ride a rail bike, or take a scenic chair lift ride at McCauley Mountain Ski Center. In the winter months, the ski center offers activities for those who are into winter sports.
Cooperstown, New York
If you love museums, history, and great views, Cooperstown needs to be on your list of places to visit. I recently visited the town to go to see Linda McCartney’s photos at the Fenimore Art Museum. During my visit, I also toured Hyde Hall and checked out Glimmerglass State Park, which is accessible from Hyde Hall. If you’re a baseball fan, don’t miss the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Lewiston, New York
I briefly stopped in this historic village on the United States/Canadian border. We dined in the cute downtown area during our visit and then enjoyed river views from Lewiston Landing Park. We also watched the sunset from the park and checked out the Freedom Crossing Monument.
Canandaigua, New York
This year, I found myself in Canandaigua for a paid content shoot. This town has a beautiful waterfront that is extremely accessible to the public, which is not always the case for many lakes. During my time there, I walked along the lake in Kershaw Park every day. You can take a ride on the Canandaigua Lady steamboat right from the park as well.
If you’re looking for lakefront accommodations, there are two great spots in town. I stayed at Hotel Canandaigua, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. But, I also checked out the luxury hotel The Lake House on Canandaigua, which is truly right on the water. Both have plenty to offer from dining to relaxation.
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid in upstate New York is one of those places you have to visit in the Adirondacks. The village is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, and you can still explore the Olympic sites and stroll along the charming Main Street. Lake Placid offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
Rochester, New York
Rochester is a city in western New York located along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. Visitors can explore cultural attractions such as The Strong National Museum of Play and the George Eastman Museum, as well as the scenic High Falls area downtown. If you were to ask my brother about things to do here, he’d tell you to check out one of their many breweries.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
Sleepy Hollow is a historic village in New York located along the Hudson River. It is closely associated with Washington Irving, who set his famous story in the area, and visitors often stop at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery where he is buried. Due to “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Washington Irving, the town is known for the Headless Horseman. It’s a very popular spot to visit during October with a ton of spooky events, much like Salem, Massachusetts.
Buffalo, New York
Buffalo is a great place to visit if you love lighthouses, history, and beer. There are a lot of lighthouses you can see in Buffalo, and an insane number of breweries for one city. We spent two days in Buffalo, and we did not come close to visiting all of the breweries. As for the lighthouses, I think we did manage to see all of them, even if they were a bit in the distance from land. The best way to see the lighthouses up close would be to get on a boat.
During our time in Buffalo, we also checked out the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. I want to make it clear that this was not his house (some people on the tour came thinking that’s what it was, and they were disappointed when it was not). It was just where Teddy Roosevelt was inaugurated for his presidency. There are many other museums to check out in the city as well.
Cape Vincent, New York
Cape Vincent, New York is another town that is right by the Canandian border. It has a cute little downtown that’s located right by the shore of Lake Ontario. We were in town to visit the brewery since my brother is working his way through the New York Beer Trail. While we were in town, we also checked out the Cape Vincent Historical Museum and Tibbetts Point Lighthouse.
Perry, New York
Perry is a village in western New York located near the northern edge of Letchworth State Park. Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants in the village center, and attend community events throughout the year. Perry also provides convenient access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and sightseeing in the surrounding countryside.
Fire Island, New York
Fire Island is a barrier island off the southern coast of New York known for its beaches and seasonal communities. Much of the island is preserved within Fire Island National Seashore, which offers dunes, maritime forests, wildlife habitats, and a historic lighthouse. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore.
Ithaca, New York
Ithaca is a city in upstate New York located at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake. It is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, which contribute to the area’s cultural and academic life. The biggest draws for many are the waterfalls and gorges. As most of their tourism advertising says, Ithaca is GORGEous (because of all the gorges).
Hyde Park, New York
Hyde Park is known for its historic sites along the Hudson River. From exploring the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site to enjoying local parks and eateries, it offers a mix of culture and relaxation. Be sure to also check out the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site if you’re interested in historic mansions!
Cold Spring, New York
Cold Spring is another town worth visiting along the Hudson River. It’s known for its historic charm, antique shops, and stunning river views. With easy access to hiking trails and a walkable main street, it’s ideal for both outdoor lovers and casual explorers. If you’re looking to enjoy the river, shopping, and great restaurants, there’s really no need to leave the downtown area. If you’re looking for a nice hike with waterfalls and history, check out West Point Foundry Preserve.
Kingston, New York
Kingston is a vibrant city with a rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse food options. From its historic waterfront to its lively uptown district, there’s plenty to explore in a day or weekend. Be sure to check out Kingston Point Park for great water views and to see Rondout Lighthouse.
Lake George, New York
Lake George is located in the Adirondack Mountains and sits on the shores of Lake George. You can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming, or take a scenic cruise on the historic steamboat to see the lake and surrounding mountains. The town also offers hiking trails, local shops, and attractions like the Fort William Henry Museum. To get to a nice overlook of Lake George, drive up Prospect Mountain.
Poughkeepsie, New York
Poughkeepsie offers a mix of scenic views, cultural attractions, and hidden gems in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Whether you’re walking across the iconic Walkway Over the Hudson or exploring local restaurants and museums, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the Locust Grove Historic Site where you can tour an Italianate style mansion, explore the gardens, and hike trails on the 200-acre property.
Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is a city in New York situated on the Canadian border. This town is most known for the famous Niagara Falls. In addition to the visiting the waterfall, you can explore neighborhoods, local restaurants, and nearby attractions. And if you have your passport, you can easily cross over into Canada from here.
There are so many gorgeous places in New York. It’s a pity people only talk about the city. Lake Placid always reminds me of that crocodile movie, though.