These New York Road Trips Will Lead You To Places You Ll Never Forget

The state of New York is full of surprises, and for road trip enthusiasts, every new place is a reminder of the diverse culture and beauty of its cities, towns and landscapes. Mountains, beaches, big cities, small towns; New York has it all, which is a big part of what makes it such a special state. If you’re looking for your next destination, here are a few hot spots throughout the state that make for a stellar weekend of exploration.

Minnewaska State Park and Preserve, located in the heart of the Shawankgunk Mountain Ridge, is a short 23 miles from Poughkeepsie and is one of the most beautiful natural land preserves in the state.

Doug Kerr Creative Commons

Hike to your heart’s content in this gorgeous wilderness.

Doug Kerr/Creative Commons

The village of Lake Placid is tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. It’s the perfect home base for anyone looking to hike, mountain bike, and ski come wintertime.

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If you’re looking for more of a city adventure that also has access to outdoor activities, Ithaca might be your best bet. It’s located in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes Region.

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Check out the stunning waterfalls in the area, or spend a day exploring the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.

Johann H/Tripadvisor

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You’d be hard-pressed to find a more charming town than New Paltz, which was first established as a French settlement in 1678. The town is home to a vibrant downtown, the historic Huguenot Street and is located right across the river from the Mohonk Preserve.

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Beacon has become a hugely popular destination for New York City residents looking for a fun day trip, and Beacon’s arts community draws tourists from all over the state. Art galleries, a robust selection of restaurants, live music, and the area’s great hiking trails make Beacon worth the trip. Plus, it’s only a 90-minute train ride from New York City.

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This is just a start to get your wheels turning, because there are countless parks, lakes, nature preserves and cities full of character and beauty that make New York great. From the Adirondacks to just outside New York City, there’s something for everyone.