Fun Days Out In New York State

Fancy a trip to New York but don’t have enough money for New York City? You’ll still find plenty to do in the rest of the state! In fact, it is possible to enjoy fun days out in New York State without going to its world-famous city. And the best thing is, most sights and attractions out of The Big Apple are very reasonably priced! Here are some of the most fun days out in New York State.

Niagara Falls

These striking waterfalls are right on the American-Canadian border. But you can still see plenty of the falls without leaving the country. Take a trip on the iconic Maid of the Mist boat trips that take people right up to the flowing water. You can also explore behind the waterfalls by exploring the Cave of the Winds. Try and time your trip to the falls for when the popular illumination and firework displays are on.

Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands are 1,800 small islands located in the St. Lawrence River. The islands cross the border between Canada and America, and there are plenty of attractions on the American side. Spend some time exploring Bolt Castle. This German-style castle is accessible by boat, and visitors can wander around at their own leisure. The historic Rock Island Lighthouse houses a museum and cute gift shop.

Fort Ticonderoga

There’s plenty to do at the expansive Fort Ticonderoga. Kids can run around its fall corn maze while the adults soak up some history at one of the daily re-enactments. There are also loads of chances to get active. Why not hike one of the fort’s nature trails or rent out a canoe to go along the winding river. You’ll also love the regular boat cruises that take visitors on a trip around the Ticonderoga peninsula.

Albany

If you want to experience city life but don’t have deep enough pockets for New York City, head to the state’s capital, Albany. Visit the Empire State Plaza to see its large collection of modern art. There are also plenty of shows to watch at the plaza’s performing arts centre. The city is also home to the New York State Museum, where you can learn about the history of the state and see a variety of artworks by local artists.

Ithaca

If you want to get out and about in the New York landscape, head to Ithaca. The Finger Lakes and the vast Cayuga Lake are fantastic for fishing and hiking. There are also a number of good wineries around the lakes that are open to the public. The Museum of the Earth showcases artefacts from ancient times as well as many fossil exhibitions. To see some of the state’s native flora, head to the botanical gardens at the Cornell Plantations.

So next time you’re struggling to think of things to do in New York, come back to this blog post for these excellent tips. You’ll save a lot of money compared with a day in New York City!