Are there many places more iconic in the United States than New York?
The city itself is a world-famous tourism destination for millions of American and international visitors each year.
But while the city grabs much of the limelight, the rest of New York state is also well worth your time as a traveler.
Don’t believe us? Perhaps the fact that New York state saw its all-time highest number of visitors in 2022 will persuade you that it’s worth the effort to visit.
That’s just shy of 300 million visitors in one year, which is an explosion in popularity that’s pretty hard to ignore for the curious traveler.
So, why is this happening, and why should New York state be high up on your future destinations list?
The Big Apple
Any state that is home to arguably America’s most famous destination is bound to attract visitors in big numbers.
I don’t need to patronize you by naming the sights and attractions of New York City, but a trip to the city doesn’t necessarily have to be cliched.
You can enjoy some lesser-known boroughs of the city with its tourist pass, and benefit from slightly cheaper flights and accommodation at this time of year compared to the peak times in summer and Christmas.
Despite recent restrictions placed on Airbnb by the local authority, there are still plenty of accommodation options to choose from in NYC, from affordable hostels through to two hotels recently named among the best in the world.
And if you have any concerns about visiting the ‘Big Apple’, you can take some advice from our NYC-native travel experts.
Seaside Secrets
New York State boasts some pretty impressive seaside towns and beaches in the Long Island area.
Within driving distance of New York City, this varied peninsular features plenty of places to find peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle, as well as several state parks and nature reserves.
You can find a slower pace of life in Long Island yet still enjoy days out in New York City if you require.
A Gateway To Canada
As if having New York City wasn’t enough for this state in terms of globally renowned attractions, in the far northeast corner, you can witness the impressive Niagara Falls.
If the feeling takes you (and you’re a travel geek like me), you can even cross the bridge on foot into Canada and get an extra stamp in the passport.
Back on the American side, this area of New York state is famous for its wines, amazing hiking in the Letchworth Gorge area, and buffalo wings, which were invented in the city of Buffalo.
Breathtaking Nature
In the far north of New York state, you will find some breathtaking natural landscapes that are particularly impressive to visit in the fall.
The Adirondack Mountains contain more than 100 peaks and are perfect for hiking or just enjoying the vistas from down below in the Lake Placid region.
In the winter, this area is home to 50 different Alpine ski trails and is a great place to rent out a cozy cabin and watch the wintery world go by outside.
History At Every Turn
New York State has a long and interesting history, with no fewer than 500 historically significant sites listed on its New York Path Through History trail.
Highlights include the imperious Boldt Castle on Heart Island, the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, and the National Women’s Hall of Fame, all of which can be found in this fascinating state.
Big Investments Made
New York State Governor Kathy Hochul helped to launch a financial package for the state entitled ‘Bring Back Tourism, Bring Back Jobs’, which involved huge investment in the tourism infrastructure in the state.
It included everything from better marketing to supporting local businesses and investing in hosting events and the winter sports sector.
When an area makes a deliberate effort to support tourism, then you know as a visitor that it will be easier to find information and smoother to get around when you’re there.
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