23 Vacation Spots In NEW YORK (Relaxing, Satisfying, & Fun)
Enjoy your well-deserved vacation to some of New York’s popular vacation spots!
It would be best if you had a break from your daily stresses.
Schedule your “me time” and unwind through New York’s beautiful places.
A vacation purely at home is so last season, spice things up, ditch the usual and go outdoors!
History, entertainment, and picturesque views are waiting for your arrival.
Take the chance to learn about some of New York’s proud past and present!
With that said, prepare your luggage; here are 23 vacation spot recommendations to add to your list of potential vacation destinations.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Picnic Spots in New York.
Vacation Spots in Albany, New York
1. Albany Pine Bush Preserve
A day spent with nature is a day of fulfillment and peace.
Spend your vacation at the tranquil land of nature and history, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve!
This vacation spot is situated between the Catskill and Adirondack mountains.
Its majestic 3,350-acre preserve will surely amaze you and have you coming back to see the variety of rare plants they shelter.
Visiting the place, you can see their famous gently rolling dunes and even take a picture of the rare and endangered Karner blue butterfly!
Furthermore, visitors of all ages are welcome to join the fun learning and discovery experience, so feel free to invite as many companions as you’d like!
They are open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Address: 195 New Karner Rd, Albany, NY 12205
2. Historic Cherry Hill
Dive deep and immerse yourself in history!
Historic Cherry Hill is waiting to be discovered!
Visitors may look into the lives of the Van Rensselaer family, who resided in the house for numerous generations, by visiting Historic Cherry Hill, a maintained historic residence.
This home was first constructed in the late 18th century, and throughout time, it received additions and modifications that reflected many architectural styles and the shifting preferences of its occupants.
The Van Rensselaer family’s original antiques, furniture, works of art, and papers are on display at the museum, giving visitors a glimpse into their way of life, social standing, and everyday activities.
Furthermore, the house’s numerous rooms, including the parlor, bedrooms, kitchen, and servant quarters, have all been painstakingly rebuilt and outfitted to depict various historical eras.
The historic site of Cherry Hill also provides tours, so schedule your trip now and don’t miss this trip full of fun facts!
Address: 523 1/2 S Pearl St, Albany, NY 12202
3. Ten Broeck Mansion
Visit this mansion that shelters a fascinating past and great structure!
The Ten Broeck Mansion, built in 1797 for Abraham Ten Broeck, a well-known local person, and Revolutionary War general, is a superb example of Federal-style architecture.
This mansion is On the National Register of Historic Places.
The home is renowned for its elegant architecture, which includes symmetrical facades, exquisite craftsmanship, and a majestic entrance.
Furthermore, the inside of the home has antique furniture, works of art, and decorative accents that depict the Ten Broeck family’s way of life and preferences in the early 19th century.
The parlor, dining room, library, and bedrooms are just a few of the rooms that guests of the Ten Broeck Mansion may visit during guided tours.
These spaces are all furnished with era-appropriate antiques and provide insights into the Family’s everyday life.
Visiting the mansion, you’ll find yourself invested in its unique backstory and interested in learning more about the life of its owner from the past!
Address: 9 Ten Broeck Pl, Albany, NY 12210
4. Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Have you gotten yourself invested in having trips to historic sites?
Worry not; you can explore another historical site during your vacation!
A significant character in early American history and Revolutionary War commander Philip J. Schuyler’s residence, the Schuyler Mansion was constructed in the 18th century.
The home, run as a historic state site, is located in Albany’s famed South End district.
This magnificent Georgian mansion also displays the Schuyler family’s way of life and belongings in the late 18th century.
The formal parlor, dining room, grand entry hall, and bedrooms are among the areas guests of the Schuyler Mansion can view on guided tours.
Insights into the life of the Schuyler family, their participation in the Revolutionary War, and their contributions to the political and social fabric of the country are provided through the museum.
Hence, schedule a visit now and explore this popular attraction!
You’ll indeed be leaving as a historical advocate after your visit!
Address: 32 Catherine St, Albany, NY 12202
Also see our article on Family Vacations in New York.
Vacation Spots in New York City, New York
1. Central Park
Enjoy the soft breeze and calm atmosphere of this peaceful vacation spot!
This place is a great location to pour your stresses and worries out!
One of the world’s most famous and often visited urban parks, Central Park, is one of the largest (843 acres/341 hectares) gardens.
Fifth Avenue and Central Park West form the park’s east and west boundaries, extending from 59th Street to 110th Street.
Landscape designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux created Central Park, which was made public in 1857.
Wooded regions, meadows, lakes, ponds, and recreational facilities are among the diverse landscapes and characteristics present in the park.
In addition to strolling, running, biking, picnics, boating, horseback riding, and ice skating (in specific sections throughout the winter), Central Park offers a wide range of leisure activities.
Additionally, the park holds several activities year-round, such as concerts, plays, and festivals.
During your visit, bring your journal if you must!
This place will inspire you to write down your feelings and reflect on your days!
Address: Central Park, Manhattan, New York, NY 10022
2. Times Square
What better way to spend your vacation than visiting the widely known New York Times Square?
This place will entertain you with various activities and shops you can check out!
Times Square is renowned for its vibrant energy, brilliant neon lights, massive digital billboards, and crowds of people. A common name for it is “The Crossroads of the World.”
The region, which stretches from West 42nd Street to West 47th Street, is defined by the confluence of Broadway and Seventh Avenue.
Millions of people worldwide go to Times Square for its famous New Year’s Eve celebration, which features a considerable ball drop at midnight on December 31.
The Broadway theater district’s center is the plaza, flanked by multiple theaters, and hosts many well-known plays and musicals.
There are also some stores, eateries, hotels, and entertainment venues in Times Square.
Hence, think no more and visit the locally and internationally loved Time Square now!
And be sure to dress nicely; you might bump into your favorite celebrity here!
Address: Times Square, Manhattan, New York, NY 10036
3. Empire State Building
Feast your eyes on this!
This popular vacation spot will indeed prove its worthy of popularity!
Including its antenna, the Empire State Building has a height of 1,454 feet (443.2 meters).
From 1931 to 1970, it held the record for being the tallest structure in the world.
The structure was finished in 1931 and formally inaugurated on May 1.
William F. Lamb and Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates, who were responsible for the architecture, created the Empire State Building in the Art Deco style.
Midtown Manhattan, between West 33rd and 34th Streets, is where it can be found at 350 Fifth Avenue.
The Empire State, a common moniker for New York State, is where the structure’s name comes from.
From its viewing decks, the Empire State Building provides expansive vistas of New York City.
With that said, prepare to be blown away by the magnificent architecture you’ll witness and the beauty its location holds!
Address: Empire State Building, 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118
4. Statue of Liberty
This is your sign to visit one of the world’s most well-known attractions and vacation spots!
Take advantage of your vacation; choose this as your priority destination!
The Statue of Liberty is a massive neoclassical sculpture France sent to the United States as a gift.
Its ceremony was held on October 28, 1886.
The statue, created by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, stands at 305 feet (93 meters) from the ground to the tip of its torch. Gustave Eiffel constructed the statue’s structure.
It holds a torch and a tablet bearing the date of the American Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), which depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom.
Furthermore, the Statue of Liberty is revered worldwide as a representation of the United States and has become an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy.
So make your inner child happy and finally meet the Statue of Liberty you used to only see on your TV screen during movie intros!
Address: Statue of Liberty National Monument, Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
Also see our article on Places to Visit in New York.
Vacation Spots in Buffalo, New York
1. Niagara Square
Witness yet another architectural masterpiece created by genius minds and expansive imaginations!
Buffalo’s Niagara Plaza is the city’s primary civic and ceremonial plaza at the Delaware Avenue and Niagara Street junction.
Niagara Square also proudly presents the impressive structures it has on display!
Buffalo’s government is centered around the plaza, which has several significant governmental structures.
A prominent bronze monument of President Abraham Lincoln unveiled in 1907, is in the middle of Niagara Square. Furthermore, the memorial honors Lincoln’s 1861 trip to Buffalo.
Important government structures surround the area, including Buffalo City Hall, a well-known Art Deco structure that serves as the seat of Buffalo’s municipal administration.
The McKinley Monument, a large granite obelisk built in memory of President William McKinley, who was slain in 1901, is another feature of the area.
So grace your cameras and take many pictures of this vacation spot worth appreciating!
The hard work of its creators should not be left unnoticed!
Address: 30 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202
2. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
Meet another architectural milestone and appreciate the mind of its creator.
The Martin House offers the perfect vacation attractions, especially if you are interested in history and architecture!
Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright created the Martin House Complex as a residence for Darwin D. Martin and his Family.
Its construction started in 1903 and was finished in 1905.
The Martin House is one of several interconnected structures in the complex, together with a carriage house, a gardener’s cottage, a pergola connecting the main house to the conservatory, and a restored glass-roofed conservatory.
Furthermore, the Martin House exhibits Frank Lloyd Wright’s distinctive Prairie School architectural style and is regarded as one of his most significant early works.
Its defining features are low horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, and interaction with the landscape.
Address: 125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214
3. Canalside
Another vacation spot worth visiting with your Family is waiting for you!
Take your kids with you if you have one. They’ll surely enjoy this attraction!
The historic Erie Canal Harbor, where Canalside is located, was essential to Buffalo’s industrial and transportation history.
Along the water’s edge, Canalside has a sizable open area with several pedestrian-friendly walkways, parks, and green spaces.
The area is a favorite with both locals and tourists since it provides a variety of leisure, cultural, and entertainment activities.
Throughout the year, various events and activities are held in the region, including family-friendly activities, ice skating in the winter, outdoor fitness classes, concerts, and festivals.
Children may engage in educational activities and interactive displays at the Explore & More Children’s Museum, which is situated in Canalside.
Nearby, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park displays vintage ships, including the USS Little Rock and USS The Sullivans.
With that said, don’t keep your eyes off your kids. They might get too excited about exploring this attractive attraction!
Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202
4. Buffalo Riverworks
Get the chance to see this fantastic manufactured work in Buffalo!
Buffalo RiverWorks is housed in a former grain storage and milling facility, the GLF Elevator, which has been converted into an industrial space.
In addition to indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a restaurant, bars, event spaces, and waterfront access, the complex also provides many other services.
Two ice rinks are available at the site for public skating, figure skating, and ice hockey. The rinks are transformed into roller derby courses in the summer.
An all-purpose grass field that may be used for soccer, lacrosse, flag football, and other sports is part of Buffalo RiverWorks’ indoor sports complex.
There is an outdoor sports facility with fields for outdoor sports, including football and soccer.
Your vacation trip will be well-spent here, so plan and spend a fun time at the Buffalo Riverworks and the activities you may do here with your friends!
Address: 359 Ganson St, Buffalo, NY 14203
Also see our article on Trampoline Parks in New York.
Vacation Spots in Ithaca, New York
1. Buttermilk Falls State Park
This mouth-gaping, eye-catching work of the earth will keep you visiting every summer!
Just southwest of Ithaca’s center, in the Finger Lakes area of New York, is where you’ll find Buttermilk Falls State Park.
The park, which is 811 acres in size, is well-known for its beautiful waterfalls, hiking paths, and leisure activities.
Buttermilk Creek, which runs through the park and cascades over several waterfalls to create a breathtaking natural display, gave the park its name.
The park’s main draw is the 165-foot-tall Buttermilk Falls, created by a succession of cascades.
Visitors may take in the splendor of the falls and even swim in the natural lake at their feet.
Numerous recreational pursuits are available in Buttermilk Falls State Park, including hiking, camping, picnics, fishing, and nature observation.
So if you are a fan of greens and outdoor ventures, this vacation spot is perfect for you!
Address: 112 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
2. Robert H. Treman State Park
Nature’s works are truly unique and breathtaking, aren’t they?
Well, they are much more impressive when seen in person, hence pack your luggage and travel to the beautiful boast of nature, the Robert H. Treman State Park!
Six miles south of Ithaca in the Finger Lakes area of New York is where you’ll find Robert H. Treman, State Park.
This park is a well-liked location for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers since it covers more than 1,100 acres and has rocky gorges, picturesque waterfalls, and lovely woodlands.
The Enfield Glen, a large valley cut out by Enfield Creek, is one of the park’s principal draws.
Furthermore, the canyon Trail, which goes through 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot-tall Lucifer Falls, and provides breathtaking vistas and photo possibilities, allows visitors to explore the canyon.
In the park, visitors may go hiking, camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing, and birding, among other things.
Visiting this park, you’ll be a nature advocate in no time as you appreciate its wonders!
Address: 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
3. The Commons
Are you seeking a vibrant neighborhood like those you read in your romance novels?
Search no more as you learn about The Commons!
Ithaca’s downtown has The Commons, a lively and bustling pedestrian-friendly neighborhood that spans four blocks of East State Street.
With various stores, eateries, cafés, bars, and entertainment options, it is a well-liked meeting spot for locals and tourists.
The area is well-known for its vibrant vibe, outdoor dining, street acts, and neighborhood gatherings.
Many retail establishments in The Commons include boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, gift shops, and specialty shops.
Visitors may browse numerous products and discover exclusive goods.
The Commons is a focal point for various cultural festivities and events all year, such as musical performances, art exhibits, culinary festivals, and holiday gatherings.
So dress well, and spend a great day on the joyous roads of The Commons!
Address: E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
4. Cayuga Lake
Cool down alongside the blended beauty of nature and civilization.
Cayuga Lake is more than pleased to give you a vacation to remember!
The longest Finger Lake is Cayuga Lake, which spans 61 kilometers (38 miles) from north to south.
Ithaca is at its southern end, and Seneca Falls is at its northern end.
It is situated in the center of the Finger Lakes area.
The Cayuga tribe, one of the local indigenous peoples, is honored by the lake’s name.
Furthermore, the surrounding area of Cayuga Lake is noted for its breathtaking natural beauty, including scenic shorelines, undulating hills, and wineries.
It is one of New York State’s deepest lakes, with a maximum depth of around 435 feet (133 meters).
On the lake, visitors may go boating, fishing, swimming, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, among other activities.
Here, you’ll be one with water and absorb its personality, peacefulness, and fluidity!
Address: Ithaca, NY
Also see our article on Water Parks in New York.
Vacation Spots in Syracuse, New York
1. Onondaga Lake Park
Relieve your stresses and unwind through the comfort and peace of the beautiful Onondaga Lake Park!
Onondaga Lake Park is located near downtown Syracuse on the lake’s shoreline.
The park provides various outdoor activities and services for guests of all ages.
This park also has a paved track around the lake called the “West Shore Trail” that offers a beautiful route for strolling, running, bicycling, and rollerblading.
Stunning views of the lake and its environs may be seen from the walk.
The park contains several other recreational routes, such as the “East Shore Trail” and the “Spencer Street Path,” which link to local communities and points of interest.
Visitors can hire paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes at the marina in Onondaga Lake Park to explore the lake.
The park also has spaces for picnics that include tables and grills.
So leave your home and explore a new environment!
The Onondaga Lake Park opens its arms to provide you with the best vacation experience!
Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088
2. Clinton Square
Hurry and hold your cameras.
This vacation spot contains endless corners of beauty and history!
DeWitt Clinton, an American statesman and the sixth governor of New York is honored by having Clinton Square bear his name. It is a crucial landmark in the city and a hub for gathering for locals and tourists.
Many notable structures surround the plaza, including the Onondaga County Courthouse, the Erie Canal Museum, and numerous retail and business buildings.
The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, also known as the Clinton Square Fountain, is a sizable fountain in the middle of Clinton Square.
This fountain honors those who served in the conflict and has a statue of a Civil conflict soldier on top.
Beautifully manicured with trees, flowers, and seating, the square offers a relaxing setting for unwinding and mingling.
This place seems perfect for tossing a blanket on the ground and reading your favorite books!
Address: 161 W Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202
3. Carrier Dome
Enjoy a lovely vacation in Syracuse’s popular spots like the Carrier Dome!
You deserve a day with no stress and worries!
One of Syracuse’s most recognizable structures, the Carrier Dome, is the home field for several of the university’s sports teams, including football, basketball, and lacrosse.
With a seating capacity of about 49,250 for football games, 34,616 for basketball games, and 35,446 for lacrosse games, it is the biggest domed stadium on any college campus in the US.
A Teflon-coated fiberglass roof, part of the dome’s original architectural design, lets natural light through while giving it a distinctive look.
The Carrier Dome is called for its primary corporate sponsor, the Carrier Corporation, a pioneer in HVAC and refrigeration technologies.
Sporting activities at Syracuse University are also held here.
With that said, erase the other vacation spots on your Google history!
You have now found a perfect spot to spend your vacation in!
Address: 900 Irving Ave, Syracuse, NY 13244
4. The Salt Museum
Don’t settle for the usual vacations at the city hotels or trips to the mall. Explore more unique vacation spots like The Salt Museum!
The Salt Museum is in Onondaga Lake Park, a recreational area that encircles Onondaga Lake’s eastern coast.
This museum is located in a recreation of a salt blockhouse from the middle of the 19th century, which was first intended to store and shield priceless salt from the weather.
The museum chronicles the history of the Syracuse area’s salt industry, which had a considerable impact on the history and economy of the room.
In addition to learning about the history, science, and technology of salt manufacturing, visitors may also learn about the effects of the salt business on the neighborhood.
The museum showcases artifacts, images, hands-on activities, and instructional materials that shed light on the salt extraction, evaporation, and packaging processes.
So hurry and invite your Family!
The facts are waiting to be unraveled at The Salt Museum!
Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088
Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in New York.
Vacation Spots in Rochester, New York
1. Highland Park
Bless your eyes with the beauty the Highland Park proudly presents!
Over 150 acres in size, Highland Park is renowned for its beautiful scenery, gardens, and recreational facilities.
Frederick Law Olmsted, a renowned landscape architect best known for creating Central Park in New York City and several other illustrious parks, was responsible for the park’s creation.
In particular, Highland Park is well known for its lilac assortment. It is the site of the yearly Lilac Festival, a well-liked occasion that honors the May blossoming of hundreds of lilac plants.
The park’s Lilac Collection has about 500 distinct types of lilacs worldwide.
Guests may meander around the lilac garden throughout the festival and spring and take in the aromatic blossoms.
With that said, prepare your poses and choose the perfect outfit!
You’ll surely love a few photos of this attraction!
Address: 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY 14620
2. Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Shake hands with art and history as you visit the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House!
This attraction is worth graveling for!
The old residence of Susan B. Anthony, a significant player in the women’s suffrage movement and a pioneering fighter for women’s rights in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is now the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House.
This museum may be found in Rochester at 17 Madison Street, which served as Anthony’s home for 40 years until her passing in 1906.
The museum has exhibits that provide light on Anthony’s life, her support for women’s rights, and the more significant suffrage movement through relics, records, pictures, and interactive displays.
Additionally, the “Susan B. Anthony’s Trial” exhibit, which details her illegitimate voting arrest in 1873 and subsequent renowned trial, is one of the museum’s attractions.
So bring your notepads and pens.
The information you’ll be introduced to at this attraction is worth taking notes for!
Address: 17 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608
3. Ontario Beach Park
Spend your family day with the beautiful and picturesque Ontario Beach Park!
This park, which is 39 acres in size, offers a variety of recreational facilities and activities.
The sandy beach at Ontario Beach Park, a popular location for swimming, tanning, and constructing sandcastles, is one of the park’s primary attractions.
This park features a dedicated swimming area, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer to keep guests safe.
The park’s picnic sites include tables, grills, and open spaces for family and group get-togethers, so visitors may enjoy picnicking there.
Various recreational opportunities are available in Ontario Beach Park, including playgrounds for kids, basketball courts, and volleyball courts.
The Ontario Beach Park Carousel, a vintage carousel from the early 1900s, is a highlight of the park.
Here, you’ll forget the time as you get immersed in what the attraction offers!
Address: 4799 Lake Ave, Rochester, NY 14612
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best State Parks, Amusement Parks, and National Parks in New York.
Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best Vacation Spots in Illinois and California.