New York State of mind for all

Letchworth State Park | © NYSDED

You may have visited the iconic “city that never sleeps”, but have you gasped at the tremendous power of the water at Niagara Falls, tasted delicious local wines in the Finger Lakes and Hudson Valley, strolled on white sandy beaches on Long Island or climbed forest-clad mountains in the Adirondacks? There is a whole host of Upstate New York just waiting to be explored.

What makes New York State especially appealing is the diversity of its attractions which make it an ideal destination all year round, perhaps for those seeking a train journey full of surprises, or a leisurely, stimulating self-drive holiday.

The state has 11 beautiful and unique regions. While New York City lies at the southern tip, Upstate New York forms a large and relatively little- known area with spectacular scenery extending as far as the borders with Canada.

Here we take you on a whistle-stop tour around New York State, highlighting just some of the big draws of the region. Take your pick from charming small towns to unmissable summer landscapes, fun trips for all the family, and outdoor adventures. Find out where to sample delicious wine and the best spots for “leaf-peeping” in the fall.

Summer fly-drive

Explore authentic America across New York State with its charming small towns, local markets, beautiful landscapes, state parks, scrumptious food, and delectable vineyards, wineries, and cellar doors.

This will all feel like a million miles from the hustle and bustle of New York City, while still being easy to reach with its open roads, scenic byways, and well-maintained highways.

Head for Albany by road or rail. The city grew from a small Dutch settlement into New York State’s capital. Revel in the region’s rich history and architecture and sample some craft beers.

And why not embark on a once-in-a-lifetime family road trip from Albany to Niagara Falls – as witnessed online, here: www.iloveny.com/blog/post/best-summer-family-road-trips-in-new-york-state.

This three-day trip reveals New York State’s widest expanse and is ideal for those who want to see all the sites. Start in Albany and begin your journey on US Route 20, nicknamed “America’s Main Street”.

And why not sample Syracuse along the way – www.visitsyracuse.com/things-to-do/outdoors-seasons/summer – for festivals, outdoor music and fun, including Taste of Syracuse. End the season with a big splash, and tour the Great New York State Fair.

Family fun

For adults, children, and the young at heart, New York State is ideal for adventures and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Cliffside Mountain Coaster, Mount Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid | © NYSDED- Photo by Mark Hamilto

Dive into deep-sea fun at the Long Island Aquarium, or climb treetops on the Wild Walk at the Wild Center. Have a thrilling time on LEGOLAND’s signature rides and seasonal events, go underground at Howe Caverns, or make a splash at Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – the state’s largest. Join the rides at mountain coaster at Holiday Valley, pop aboard a train at Arcade & Attica Railroad, and enjoy history at interactive museums, such as The Strong National Museum of Play.

Montauk Lighthouse | © NYSDED-Photo by Darren McGee

Be sure to spend some time on Long Island which has a great choice of activities for the whole family. Attractions include watersport activities, animal encounters, museum exhibits, outdoor parks, and unique entertainment.

And the area has a rich history to explore, from the historic houses of the Roaring ‘20s to re-enactments. Long Island is famous for its white, sandy beaches – perfect for long, sunny days with the family. Famous spots include Jones Beach, Robert Moses, Coopers Beach, Main Beach, Fire Island, and many more.

Tickle your tastebuds with local wines

Don’t miss out on a chance to explore New York State’s enticing wine regions to sample tantalising flavours, while taking in beautiful vineyard views.

Visitors can experience a stunningly diverse range of wine regions for just one state. It is home to more than 35,000 acres of wine country, and is America’s third-largest wine-producing state. Sample luscious reds from Long Island and acclaimed whites produced in Finger Lakes.

Sip international-medal winners, such as Pellegrini Vineyards and Bedell Cellars, on Long Island. In Finger Lakes, explore the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Keuka Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Lake Ontario Wine Trail, featuring delightful produce from Colloca Estate Winery and Casa Larga Vineyards.

Millbrook Vineyards and Winery in the Hudson Valley | © NYSDED- Photo by Darren McGee

Hudson Valley – go online and see travelhudsonvalley.com/things-to-do/craft-beverages/wineries – was the first wine-producing region in the US. Its family-owned wineries produce excellent vintages, while artisanal breweries, cideries, and distilleries have popped up along both sides of the river.

Buffalo is bookended by a fine pair of wine trails, thanks to the ideal microclimates and soil conditions that exist along Lake Erie, the Niagara Escarpment, and Lake Ontario. To the south, you’ll find the Lake Erie Wine Country, while to the north lies the Niagara Wine Trail.

‘Leaf-peeping’ season in fall foliage

New York State has one of the longest and most colourful fall foliage seasons in the US, making it a fabulous destination for “leaf-peeping”.

It’s easy to escape the crowds to explore the state when it’s at its most vibrant.

When planning a fall visit, be sure to check out the weekly I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Report online to find peak leaf-peeping locations.

The Adirondacks has millions of trees and plenty of beautiful lakes, rivers, and streams, making it perfect for family holidays, thrillseekers, couples, and friends seeking adventures.

With its magnificent scenery, historic mansions, cultural treasures, and much more, it’s unsurprising that National Geographic Traveler listed Hudson Valley in its Top 20 Best of the World Destinations. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss out on a visit to Innisfree Garden.

Visitors are drawn to the Catskills for its rolling hills and tree-covered mountains, which are particularly appealing in the fall. Explore the mountain trails in the Catskill Preserve and hike on its peaks.

Paddling the North-South Lake at Catskill Forest Preserve | Supplied

Catch the stunning waterfalls in the forests of idyllic Letchworth State Park, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”.

Don’t miss Fenimore Farm and Country Village in central New York State for fall-themed events, including Fiber Arts Weekend, Harvest Festival and Tractor Fest.

To find out more, including the best places to stay, please visit:

◆ ILoveNY.com – www.iloveny.com

◆ North America Travel Service – www.northamericatravelservice.com

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◆New York Discovery – North America Travel Service

◆ American Affair –www.americanaffair.com. Telephone: [phone]

◆ New York City, Beautiful Hudson Valley & the Beaches of Long Island - American Affair

◆ Trips Beyond – www.tripsbeyond.co.uk Telephone:[phone]. Should be

◆ Discover New York State - Trips Beyond

◆ America As You Like It –www.americaasyoulikeit.com. Telephone: [phone].

◆ Fall Colours and Flavours of Upstate New York – America As You Like It