Dominated by the “Big Apple”, New York State stretches from the shores of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie to the eastern tip of Long Island. It’s been nicknamed the “Empire State” and was one of the 13 original colonies that formed the United States. Beyond New York City, it encompasses the rural farms and wineries of the Finger Lakes, the rugged wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains and thundering Niagara Falls.
Things to do in New York
Buzzing metropolises, spectacular natural wonders and a rich colonial history - New York State offers something for all travellers.
Sightsee in New York City. Home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, New York City centres around bustling Manhattan. Photograph the Statue of Liberty, gaze up at the Empire State Building and stroll the leafy trails of Central Park before experiencing Williamsburg’s hipster culture.
Witness Niagara Falls. Straddling the border with Canada, Niagara Falls encompasses the most powerful waterfall in North America, Horseshoe Falls. Take in its roar from the dramatically positioned Observation Tower and learn about its natural history at the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center before coming face-to-face with Humboldt penguins at the Aquarium of Niagara.
Explore the Finger Lakes. Comprising 11 glacial lakes in central New York State, the Finger Lakes region features scenic state parks for enjoying the great outdoors. Admire the artwork on display at the Corning Museum of Glass or get hands-on at the Strong National Museum of Play before visiting the wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
Visit Albany. Serving as the capital of New York State, Albany is home to the 19th-century Capitol building and the impressive New York State Museum. Admire the Hudson River School paintings on display at the Albany Institute of History and Art or coincide your visit with a performance at the architecturally striking complex known as The Egg.
Getting around New York
John F. Kennedy International Airport is the main aviation gateway to New York City, with international airports also serving Albany, Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo-Niagara. Trains connect major cities throughout the state while buses serve smaller towns and villages.