Contrary to what most New Yorkers might tell you, there is actually a whole wide world that exists outside of New York City. Upstate New York is reclaiming its spot in the limelight with a renaissance of new restaurants, exquisite food options, locally-produced craft beverages and quaint outdoorsy activities so wholesome that they belong in a rom-com. From apple picking in the Hudson Valley to horseback riding in the Catskills, we’ve compiled the ultimate New York itinerary to experience the entire state in a whole new light.
Thrill seekers can get started with the haunted Adirondack Trail in New York state, perfect for an October road trip through eerie lake towns, ghost mysteries and UFO sightings.
Best time to visit New York state
The best time to visit New York City and its surrounding areas depends on what you have planned as part of your New York itinerary – but it’s safe to say that there’s loads to do throughout the year. Spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) in New York City are perfect for breezy weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Upstate New York showcases its natural beauty throughout the year, but summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and camping. Winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing holidays in the Adirondacks or Catskills, and for experiencing the festive holiday season in NYC with its twinkling Christmas lights and picturesque holiday markets.
Dive deeper into the best times to visit New York City for the smallest crowds, lowest prices, the best weather and more.
New York itinerary days 1-2: To the city that never sleeps
Once you arrive at New York City’s JFK Airport, head straight into the heart of the city, grab a cup of coffee to-go, and ease yourself into New York’s frenetic pace with a leisurely stroll through Central Park. The iconic park features sprawling meadows, tranquil waters, rolling hillsides and dense forests – park yourself on a bench for some next-level people-watching, or wander over to one of the park’s famous landmarks like the Belvedere Castle, or the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial. Spend your first night in the big city indulging in a gourmet meal at the Michelin-starred One White Street in the legendary Roxy Hotel, a 19th-century townhouse that was John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s favourite hangout once upon a time. The restaurant showcases a seasonal menu featuring uber-fresh produce sourced from their farm in upstate New York.
Here’s your guide to NYC’s best Indian restaurants for that spicy treat.
You’re spending day 2 of your New York itinerary in midtown Manhattan at MoMa – the Museum of Modern Art – wandering through the worlds of Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet and Matisse, and soaking in the museum’s fascinating exhibitions – don’t miss popping into the iconic gift shop. If you’re a first-timer to NYC, no visit is quite complete without a Broadway show – take a moment to wander through the blinding lights of Times Square, before catching a truly spectacularly produced show on Broadway.
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton via Agoda.com
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New York itinerary days 3-5: Taste your way through Hudson Valley
Start day 3 with a stunning drive from New York City to Robibero Winery in Hudson Valley, a quaint vineyard with magnificent views of the Shawangunk Mountain Range. Take a stroll through the property with its breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and distant mountains, or try a tasting tour to sample the vineyard’s handcrafted wines – fresh, crisp whites and robust reds – learning about the area’s unique terroir and winemaking history.
Also read | This Gorgeous Coastal Region Of New York Has Beaches Worth Visiting Every Season
With the craft beverage boom in the area, Pennings Farm Cidery is your next stop on day 4, to spend a crisp autumn morning in the orchard picking apples and then rewarding yourself with an ice-cold pint of locally handcrafted cider made from those very same apples. Depending on the season, the family-owned cidery also hosts live music events and has a restaurant on-site with wonderfully fresh local produce and farm-to-table dining.
Day 5 of your New York itinerary is dedicated to the culinary excellence of upstate New York – head to Warren Street in Hudson for a host of delectable dining options starring seasonal ingredients sourced from farms in the surrounding areas. Swoon Kitchenbar is a must-try for its cosy atmosphere set in a charming 19th-century building, and an inventive menu featuring super fresh local ingredients – try the local duck leg with ginger-cashew butter, hon-shimeji, locally sourced carrot, hijiki and duck jus, or the house-made pappardelle made with Kinderhook Farm beef bolognese.
Also read | This Farm-Chic Resort In Upstate New York Is One Of The Best New Hotels
New York itinerary days 6-7: Into the wild Adirondacks
Dedicate day 6 of your New York itinerary to the wild undiscovered terrain of the Adirondacks – a vast mountainous region known for its pristine wilderness, crystal clear lakes, bucolic rivers and jaw-droppingly beautiful hiking trails. Get an early morning start and head to Whiteface Mountain for a truly glorious sunrise hike, or rent a cabin by Lake George and spend the afternoon kayaking and swimming in the sunshine.
On Day 7, stay at Deer’s Head Inn in Elizabethtown, the oldest tavern in the Adirondacks established in 1886 and nestled between the peaks of the eastern mountains. The historic inn has a warm old-world charm, with cuisine that features local produce sourced fresh from farms in the area.
Book your stay at The Deers Head Inn Tavern via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Deers Head Inn Tavern via Agoda.com
Views from the clouds on days 8-10
On day 8 of your New York itinerary, soak in some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the region at Letchworth State Park with a hot air balloon ride over the park’s deep gorges and stunning scenery. The gentle flight allows for a serenely surreal exploration of the park’s expansive wilderness, with the chance to catch occasional glimpses of deer and bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Also read | This Gorgeous City In New York’s Finger Lakes Has Incredible Waterfalls & Beautiful Wineries
Spend day 9 at the Syracuse Antiques Exchange for four incredible floors of curios and curiosities at the largest antique store in the state. Housed in a historic building, the exchange features multiple vendors specialising in a wide array of collectables, Victorian and mid-century furniture, art and jewellery.
On the last morning of your New York itinerary, start your day by horseback riding through the Catskill Mountains – book a private or group tour at Tiffani’s Ranch, and ride through 300+ acres of the farm’s majestic private mountain trails. The farm has been in operation for over 60 years, and the rides are suitable for all skill levels. Head back to the city to catch your flight out of JFK Airport, where you can squeeze in any last-minute shopping at the airport’s duty-free shops and bookstores, soak in the art and exhibits showcased throughout the terminals, or just unwind with a hot cuppa and a bite to eat at one of the airport’s many restaurants.
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, New York via Booking.com
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental New York via Agoda.com
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Things to remember while travelling to New York
- When considering a trip to New York, plan your itinerary with the state’s vast size in mind – familiarise yourself with the public transportation system since the subway and buses are incredibly efficient ways to get around.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes to be able to explore the city on foot, and dress comfortably for the weather since New York’s climate can vary significantly throughout the year.
- Be sure to be aware of your belongings in busy areas like Times Square to avoid pickpocketing incidents.
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(Feature image credit: nyker/Shutterstock)
Related | What To Do, Where To Stay And What To Eat: The Ultimate NYC Itinerary
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
To thoroughly explore New York State, including time in New York City and ample time to visit upstate regions and attractions, a minimum of 7-10 days would be ideal.
There are several day trips you can take from New York including visits to nearby destinations like the Hudson Valley for wine tastings and historic attractions, the Hamptons for beaches and upscale dining, or Princeton, New Jersey, for its university campus and charming town atmosphere.
When packing for your trip to New York City and state, pack comfortable walking shoes for walking around the city or hiking in upstate New York, layers of clothing suitable for both the city streets and for outdoor adventures in upstate regions, and essentials like a travel adapter for American plug points any necessary travel documents.
In New York City, the subway, buses, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are great ways to navigate the city. In New York State, renting a car is often required for exploring attractions and areas that are not well serviced by public transportation.
If you are a citizen of a country that is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you may not need a visa for short trips to New York or the United States, but you have to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before travelling. Citizens of other countries typically do need a visa - be sure to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before booking your trip.
New York State offers a variety of adventure activities - some popular options include hiking in the Adirondack or Catskill Mountains, skiing or snowboarding in resorts like Whiteface or Hunter Mountain during winter, kayaking or canoeing on the Finger Lakes or the Hudson River, rock climbing in the Shawangunk Mountains, hot air ballooning over the Hudson Valley, and exploring the Thousand Islands region by boat or kayak.
In New York City, you can find some of the best dining options in neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and the Lower East Side, where you'll discover a variety of trendy eateries, fine dining establishments, and international cuisine. In New York State, regions like the Hudson Valley, the Finger Lakes, and cities like Buffalo and Rochester offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, featuring farm-to-table dining, wineries, and unique local specialties.
In addition to sightseeing, New York City offers activities such as Broadway shows, visiting world-class museums like the MoMA or the American Museum of Natural History, dining at renowned restaurants, exploring diverse neighbourhoods like Brooklyn's Williamsburg or Harlem, and enjoying recreational activities in Central Park. In New York State, beyond sightseeing, activities include hiking in the Adirondack or Catskill Mountains, wine tasting in the Finger Lakes region, exploring historical sites like Hyde Park or Saratoga Springs, and experiencing outdoor adventures such as skiing or boating on the Hudson River.
From New York City, popular items to buy include designer fashion from Fifth Avenue, unique souvenirs from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Times Square, and specialty foods such as bagels, cheesecake, and gourmet chocolates. In New York State, especially in regions like the Finger Lakes and Hudson Valley, look for locally produced wines, artisanal cheeses, maple syrup, handmade crafts from local artists.
In New York City, some of the best hotels include The Plaza, The Peninsula, The Ritz-Carlton Central Park, and The Mandarin Oriental. In New York State, options like The Sagamore Resort on Lake George, Mohonk Mountain House in the Hudson Valley, and The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown provide beautiful settings with scenic views and recreational activities.
In New York City, some of the best restaurants that have earned themselves Michelin stars include The Modern, Jean-Georges, Le Pavillon, Chef’s Table At Brooklyn Fare and Daniel.
Written By
Nirupama Belliappa
Nirupama Belliappa is a features journalist and a classical harpist. She has previously worked at NDTV ..Read More
