A fall trip to New York State – some might call it cliche, I call it classic.
I know, I know, the crowds can sometimes feel too suffocating to handle, especially now that New York’s just broken its all-time visitor record.
But if you take a moment to turn your attention away from The Big Apple and focus it on the many, many other incredible places the state has to offer, you’ll get a chance to take in all of that New York charm at a much more peaceful, enjoyable pace.
That’s why today, we’re forgetting all about Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building and exploring some of the most beloved surrounding destinations instead.
So buckle up.
You’re in for a ride.
Long Island
Even New Yorkers have often turned to Long Island as a refuge from the city’s day-to-day chaos, so why not book a trip and experience it yourself this year?
Whether you’re excited for a fun beach day in the Hamptons, a more laid-back getaway in Montauk, or a movie-like stroll along the Fire Island National Seashore, one thing’s for sure – Long Island will exceed your (probably already sky-high) expectations.
And try your best not to miss out on the region’s world-famous wine scene.
With dozens of wineries producing everything from award-winning Merlots to sparkling Rosés, a proper tour is in order – this one, in particular, comes highly reviewed.
Adirondacks
Looking for a more outdoorsy vacation instead?
You can’t go wrong with a trip to the Adirondacks, and if it’s your first time exploring the massif, Lake Placid is the perfect place to get settled in between hiking and trekking adventures – it can get a bit pricey, but there’s lots to do, and the views are just to die for.
If you do come here, exploring Mt. Van Hoevenberg is a must, so make sure to pack some comfy shoes and a light jacket (daytime temperatures in the area this time of year range between 50°F and 70°F or 10°C and 21°C).
Hudson Valley
Just a 2-hour drive from New York City, Hudson Valley promises the ultimate relaxing fall getaway, complete with picturesque restaurants, rolling hills, and historic estates.
Here, you can spend your days touring the Vanderbilt Mansion, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library, and the Rockefeller estate.
Make sure to work up an appetite because there are more amazing farm-to-table eateries and wineries in the area than you can count.
Must-tries include Brotherhood Winery (the oldest in the country), Blue Hill at Stone Barns, and Millbrook Vineyards & Winery, just to name a few.
Catskills
Can’t decide between an adventurous getaway and a more typical cultural retreat?
Catskills offers the best of both worlds.
Here, you’ll get to hike through Slide Mountain (which, though challenging, rewards you with the most jaw-dropping views), take in Kaaterskill Falls in all its glory, and go fly fishing in the Esopus Creek all while enjoying the more cultural side of the region in Woodstock, Tannersville, and even Windham.
Again, the local cuisine is too good to pass out on, especially when it comes to all the fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and farm-brewed beers – just try a meal at Farm Table and get back to me.
Finger Lakes
Named after its 11 long, narrow lakes that resemble, you guessed it, fingers, this central New York region serves as the ultimate paradise for all of you nature enthusiasts and artistic souls out there.
Boating, fishing, swimming, waterfall chasing – you name it, you can do it all!
Watkins Glen State Park, in particular, is not to be missed, and trust me when I tell you, it’s really as good as they say.
Hikers will also be happy to learn that there’s a 580-mile (933-kilometer) trail named after the region that takes you across some of the most scenic forests, waterfalls, and hills you’ve ever seen, but if you’re looking for something shorter and more practical, the Taughannock Falls State Park trail is an excellent choice, too.
Where will you experience the local culture in between all of these adventures, you might ask?
My top picks would be Ithaca, Geneva, and Canandaigua.
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