New York may be known for the towering skyline of Manhattan, but step beyond the city limits and you’ll discover a state rich with natural wonders, charming towns, rolling vineyards, lakeside retreats, and mountain escapes. From the Adirondacks to the Finger Lakes, here are 15 of the most beautiful places in New York State you won’t want to miss.
1. Adirondack Mountains
Why it’s beautiful: Covering over six million acres, the Adirondacks are a wilderness lover’s paradise, filled with pristine lakes, dense forests, and majestic peaks.
Top things to do: Hike the 46 High Peaks for sweeping views, paddle across Lake Placid or Saranac Lake, and visit Lake George for classic lake-town charm. In fall, the foliage is jaw-dropping.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Why it’s beautiful: This otherworldly gorge in the Finger Lakes region features 19 waterfalls cascading through narrow cliffs, stone bridges, and lush greenery.
Top things to do: Walk the 2-mile Gorge Trail to experience waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade, then head into the village of Watkins Glen for dining and shopping. Don’t miss the nearby Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
3. Letchworth State Park
Why it’s beautiful: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth offers dramatic cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and sweeping river vistas.
Top things to do: Visit the three major waterfalls (Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls), take a hot air balloon ride, or hike over 60 miles of trails. In autumn, the park explodes with color.
4. Hudson Valley
Why it’s beautiful: Rolling hills, historic estates, and charming river towns line the Hudson River, all backed by the scenic Catskill and Shawangunk mountains.
Top things to do: Tour historic mansions like Vanderbilt or Kykuit, visit the Storm King Art Center, or explore towns like Hudson, Rhinebeck, and Cold Spring. The valley’s farm-to-table food scene is exceptional.
5. Finger Lakes Region
Why it’s beautiful: Eleven long, narrow lakes stretch across central New York, surrounded by waterfalls, wineries, and peaceful farmland.
Top things to do: Taste award-winning Rieslings at Seneca and Keuka Lake wineries, kayak or sail on the lakes, and hike to Taughannock Falls—taller than Niagara. Ithaca and Skaneateles are top towns to visit.
6. Niagara Falls
Why it’s beautiful: One of the most iconic waterfalls in the world, Niagara’s massive, thundering cascades are both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Top things to do: Ride the Maid of the Mist boat to get up close, visit the Cave of the Winds, and explore nearby Niagara Falls State Park. For a more tranquil experience, stay in nearby Lewiston.
7. Lake Placid
Why it’s beautiful: Nestled in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is a serene mountain village with a sparkling lake and Olympic history.
Top things to do: Paddle Mirror Lake, hike Cobble Hill for easy views, tour the Olympic facilities, or ski Whiteface Mountain in winter. The quaint Main Street is perfect for shopping and dining.
8. Thousand Islands
Why it’s beautiful: This archipelago of over 1,800 islands scattered across the St. Lawrence River is a boating and photography dream.
Top things to do: Take a boat tour to see castles like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle, kayak through the channels, and visit charming river towns like Alexandria Bay and Clayton. Sunsets here are unforgettable.
9. The Catskills
Why it’s beautiful: A haven of waterfalls, hiking trails, and quiet forests, the Catskills are a classic New York retreat just a few hours from the city.
Top things to do: Hike to Kaaterskill Falls, explore the artsy towns of Woodstock and Phoenicia, and relax at cozy cabins or chic lodges. The Catskills are perfect for fall leaf-peeping or winter escapes.
10. Chautauqua Lake & Institution
Why it’s beautiful: Surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages, Chautauqua Lake is peaceful and picturesque.
Top things to do: Visit the Chautauqua Institution for arts, lectures, and cultural programs in the summer, enjoy water sports on the lake, and explore nearby vineyards along Lake Erie’s wine country.
11. Montauk
Why it’s beautiful: At the far tip of Long Island’s South Fork, Montauk combines rugged Atlantic coastlines, pristine beaches, and a laid-back surfer vibe.
Top things to do: Climb to the top of the Montauk Point Lighthouse, explore Hither Hills State Park, and dine at a waterfront seafood shack. The sunrise views over the ocean are spectacular.
12. Taughannock Falls State Park
Why it’s beautiful: Home to one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rockies, this park is a serene gem near Cayuga Lake.
Top things to do: Hike the gorge trail for an easy and stunning view of the 215-foot waterfall, picnic by the lake, or rent kayaks for a peaceful paddle. Nearby, the town of Ithaca offers arts, food, and outdoor fun.
13. Green Lakes State Park
Why it’s beautiful: This hidden gem near Syracuse features two glacial lakes with strikingly clear, teal-green water surrounded by old-growth forest.
Top things to do: Walk the trails around Green Lake and Round Lake, swim at the beach in summer, and enjoy golf or disc golf. It’s a peaceful escape for families and nature lovers alike.
14. Shelter Island
Why it’s beautiful: A tranquil island between the North and South Forks of Long Island, Shelter Island feels like a secret coastal haven.
Top things to do: Explore Mashomack Preserve’s coastal forests and salt marshes, bike around quiet country roads, and stay in a charming inn or cottage. It’s ideal for a slow-paced summer retreat.
15. Ausable Chasm
Why it’s beautiful: Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” this dramatic sandstone gorge features waterfalls, cliffs, and a winding river.
Top things to do: Hike through the chasm on scenic trails, raft or tube down the river, and explore caves and rock formations. It’s a thrilling natural adventure just south of Plattsburgh.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.