For all the spectacular sights and wonderful opportunities that exist in New York City it should be remembered that there is a lot more to New York State than just the Big Apple. There are a further 5 large cities with populations of over 100,000 including Buffalo, Rochester and the capital Albany. Traveling around the Empire State - as it commonly known - is straight forward even by road, although internal flights are popular. The world famous Niagara Falls attract millions of visitors each year, but other spots such as Finger Lakes and the Catskills also receive a great number of visitors.
Best time to take a vacation to New York
The climate of New York State is one of complete contrasts through the seasons. Summers are very warm and humid in the big cities, but the winters can drop well below freezing. New York City itself is always several degrees higher than the rest of the state. The best time to visit is either the late spring or early fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are a little less, although you probably will not notice the difference if you are in Manhattan. Annual events include the May Tulip Festival in Albany and the International Jazz Festival in Rochester each June.
Popular New York experiences
Broadway
Pick up a cheap ticket and catch a show at one of the dozens of theaters on the world famous Broadway.
Central Park
Stroll through Central Park in New York City and be amazed at the sights and sounds of this famous open space.
Lake Erie
Jump aboard a Lake Erie bound barge and travel up the waterways between Albany and Buffalo.
Museum of Modern Art
Take in the impressive and diverse collections of paintings at the Museum of Modern Art better known as MoMA.
New York State Museum
Visit the New York State Museum in Albany with fascinating memorabilia from all across the state.
Niagara Falls
Put on your blue poncho and sail the Maid of the Mist boat tour straight into the magnificent Niagara Falls.
Rockefeller Center
Climb to the top of the Rockefeller Center and get the very best views anywhere of New York City.
the Finger Lakes
Enjoy wine tasting at the Finger Lakes region incorporating 4 different wine trails … best not drive!
Times Square
Sample the amazing sights of Times Square with the colors and neon lighting filling the area.
Insider tips for New York travel
Baldino's Italian restaurant
Eat at Baldino's Italian restaurant in Plainview where the beautiful veal has to be tasted to be believed.
Ground Zero Museum
Visit the Ground Zero Museum Workshop regarded as the biggest little museum in New York.
Stony Creek
Go hiking at Stony Creek in the southern Adirondacks amongst some of the most natural beauty in the state.
Williamsburg Flea Market
Spend a Sunday morning at Williamsburg Flea Market in Brooklyn right down on the waterfront and pick up a bargain.
Top rated hotels for your New York vacation
Paramount Times Square
4 out of 5
235 West 46th Street, New York, NY, 10036
Free Cancellation
Reserve now, pay when you stay
181.64 mi from city center
The price is $122 per night
$122
per night
May 31 - Jun 1
A stay at Paramount Times Square places you in the heart of New York, within a 10-minute walk of Broadway and Times Square.
The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel
4 out of 5
790 7th Ave, New York, NY, 10019
Free Cancellation
Reserve now, pay when you stay
181.64 mi from city center
The price is $104 per night
$104
per night
May 30 - May 31
A stay at The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel places you in the heart of New York, within a 10-minute walk of Rockefeller Center and Broadway.
Hyatt Grand Central New York
4 out of 5
109 East 42nd Street, at Grand Central Terminal, New York, NY, 10017
