One of the most visited states in the country, New York has countless iconic landmarks to entice travelers during their next vacation. Whether you are looking for a trip to the big city or some quiet time in rural areas, the Empire State has got you covered. While New York City alone could fill an entire list of must-sees, we focused instead on attractions that will give you a sense of what the entire state has to offer. More often than not, travelers want to take a getaway out of “the City.”
10. Watkins Glen State Park
(image via Wikimedia)
This 100-acre park has been open for tours since the Civil War. Centered around a giant gorge created by a glacier, Watkins Glen State Park has views like none other. The park has multiple hiking trails, all connected to the Finger Lakes Trail. Be sure to snap a picture at Rainbow Bridge.
9. Bathtub Gin
(image via Bathtub Gin NYC)
A Victorian-style bar tucked away behind a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin is designed to look and feel like a Prohibition-era speakeasy. As the name would suggest, the bar specializes in gin cocktails. If you go on the weekends, however, expect there to be a wait.
8. Socrates Sculpture Park
(image via Socrates Park)
In this park and outdoor museum, local artists are encouraged to display their own artwork. Because of this, the exhibits at Socrates Sculpture Park are constantly changing. Much of the work is interactive, so be sure to add your own personal flair to the sculptures.
7. Darwin D. Martin House Complex
(image via Reading Tom)
Designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright at the beginning of the 20th century, the Darwin D. Martin House Complex is considered to be one of his most important accomplishments. In 1992, it was completely restored and is now a fascinating museum dedicated to Wright’s unique eye for beauty.
6. New York State Capitol
(image via Wikimedia)
Blending Romanesque Revival and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles, the New York State Capitol building is one of the most beautiful in the nation. Built in 1899, it was the most expensive government building ever constructed at that time. It’s not difficult to see where that money went.
5. Landmark Theatre
(image via Syr Landmark)
Once a booming movie palace, the ornate Landmark Theatre serves as a venue for visiting concerts and stage productions. Built in 1928, the theatre has seen many changes in the arts. It was in danger of being demolished in the 1970s until singer Harry Chapin hosted a benefit concert to save the venue.
4. Cave of the Winds
Named for the natural cave that once stood behind the waterfall, Cave of the Winds is a tour that takes you right up next to Niagara Falls. Guides lead groups of tourists down a series of wooden walkways, giving all a chance to experience the power of nature. Warning: you will get wet.
3. The Strong National Museum of Play
(image via gardener41)
The Strong National Museum of Play is every kid’s dream. This interactive collection of entertainment has live exhibits looking into fictional worlds such as those of Sesame Street and the Berenstain Bears. It even includes an extensive arcade and educational experiments—all hands-on, of course.
2. National Baseball Hall of Fame
(image via National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum)
A must for any fans of the sport, the National Baseball Hall of Fame has numerous exhibits chronicling the achievements of the game’s greatest players. Because of its relatively isolated location, the museum is often simply referred to as “Cooperstown.” It isn’t difficult to see why more than 300,000 people visit each year.
1. The High Line
(image via David Berkowitz)
Built on an abandoned section of the New York Central Railroad, this elevated park stretches nearly a mile and a half. Vegetation was planted along the tracks to offer an escape from the surrounding man-made structures. Since it was opened in 2009, the High Line has become an increasingly popular attraction in the city and has inspired countless copycats throughout the nation.
