10. Watkins Glen State Park
Schuyler County
This 100-acre park has been open for tours since the Civil War. Centered around a giant gorge created by a glacier, Watkins Glen State Park has views like none other. The park has multiple hiking trails, all connected to the Finger Lakes Trail. Be sure to snap a picture at Rainbow Bridge.
(image via Wikimedia)
9. Bathtub Gin
New York City
A Victorian-style bar tucked away behind a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin is designed to look and feel like a Prohibition-era speakeasy. As the name would suggest, the bar specializes in gin cocktails. If you go on the weekends, however, expect there to be a wait.
(image via Instagram)
8. Socrates Sculpture Park
New York City
In this park and outdoor museum, local artists are encouraged to display their own artwork. Because of this, the exhibits at Socrates Sculpture Park are constantly changing. Much of the work is interactive, so be sure to add your own personal flair to the sculptures.
(image via Instagram)
7. Darwin D. Martin House Complex
Buffalo
Designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright at the beginning of the 20th century, the Darwin D. Martin House Complex is considered to be one of his most important accomplishments. In 1992, it was completely restored and is now a fascinating museum dedicated to Wright’s unique eye for beauty.
(image via Flickr)
6. New York State Capitol
Albany
Blending Romanesque Revival and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles, the New York State Capitol building is one of the most beautiful in the nation. Built in 1899, it was the most expensive government building ever constructed at that time. It’s not difficult to see where that money went.
(image via Wikimedia)
5. Landmark Theatre
Syracuse
Once a booming movie palace, the ornate Landmark Theatre serves as a venue for visiting concerts and stage productions. Built in 1928, the theatre has seen many changes in the arts. It was in danger of being demolished in the 1970s until singer Harry Chapin hosted a benefit concert to save the venue.
(image via Facebook)
4. Cave of the Winds
Niagra Falls
Named for the natural cave that once stood behind the waterfall, Cave of the Winds is a tour that takes you right up next to Niagara Falls. Guides lead groups of tourists down a series of wooden walkways, giving all a chance to experience the power of nature. Warning: you will get wet.
(image via Instagram)
3. The Strong National Museum of Play
Rochester
The Strong National Museum of Play is every kid’s dream. This interactive collection of entertainment has live exhibits looking into fictional worlds such as those of Sesame Street and the Berenstain Bears. It even includes an extensive arcade and educational experiments—all hands-on, of course.
(image via Flickr)
2. National Baseball Hall of Fame
Cooperstown
A must for any fans of the sport, the National Baseball Hall of Fame has numerous exhibits chronicling the achievements of the game’s greatest players. Because of its relatively isolated location, the museum is often simply referred to as “Cooperstown.” It isn’t difficult to see why more than 300,000 people visit each year.
(image via Facebook)
1. The High Line
New York City
Built on an abandoned section of the New York Central Railroad, this elevated park stretches nearly a mile and a half. Vegetation was planted along the tracks to offer an escape from the surrounding man-made structures. Since it was opened in 2009, the High Line has become an increasingly popular attraction in the city and has inspired countless copycats throughout the nation.
(image via Flickr)