Discover the experiences New York State has to offer.
As a trend, cultural tourism is on the rise. According to a recent article by Finn Partners exploring top travel trends for 2024, cultural immersion and authentic connections are top priorities for travellers. New York State offers various activities that are trending for 2024, including rich history and cultural experiences.
New York State is experiencing a significant tourism shift. Regions like Central New York, the Catskills, and the Adirondacks have seen a remarkable 80% surge in tourism spending since 2019, according to City & State New York.
Discover the diverse range of experiences New York State has to offer with this travel itinerary – expertly crafted for art and culture lovers.
Stop 1: Broadway, New York City
If you’re new to New York City, consider exploring some iconic sights before diving into your trip. JFK International Airport is just over an hour and a half from Manhattan, so you could easily spend a few days enjoying Broadway and the city’s vibrant energy before continuing your journey upstate.
Stop 2: Long Island’s Gilded Age and artistic heritage
Long Island, appropriately named the “Gold Coast,” is a place of history, opulence and natural beauty. Home to former presidents, renowned artists, and old-world wealth, it’s a captivating destination. A Mansions of the Gilded Age tour is a perfect place to begin your cultural education. To fully appreciate Long Island, plan to spend at least three days here. Begin your journey with a tour of the Vanderbilt Mansion in Centerport, a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture that houses a marine and natural history museum, as well as a planetarium. The Great Gatsby opened on Broadway this year ahead of the book’s 100 anniversary in 2025.
Beyond the mansion, Long Island is known for its farm-to-table dining, so you’ll want to dine at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants and savour the local produce. Coffee Pot Cellars is an excellent choice and is known for its winning blend of good wine, sustainability initiatives and art.
Stop 3: Hudson Valley mansions, modern art and natural beauty
Continue your exploration of the Gilded Age with a visit to the Lyndhurst Mansion in the Hudson Valley. This Gothic Revival estate offers a classic mansion tour through 16 rooms, featuring impressive stained-glass windows.
While you’re in the Hudson Valley, a trip to the Dia Beacon Contemporary Art Museum is a must. Located on the banks of the Hudson River, the museum features a collection of art from the 1960s to today. The building once served as a factory, offering a contrast between industrial architecture and cutting-edge art.
Experience art in a unique setting at the Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park located in the picturesque Hudson Valley. Storm King shows beautiful landscapes including hills, meadows and forests of its site.
Stop 4: Buffalo and Niagara Falls
Buffalo is known for its proximity to Niagara Falls, however, the city offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into America’s industrial past. Begin your day at the newly renovated Buffalo AKG Art Museum, one of the oldest public art institutes in the United States, with an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Join one of their free guided tours.
For architecture enthusiasts, a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic house is a must. The renowned architect’s signature style is shown in this remarkable residence and is one of the many special gems that can be found throughout the city.
Of course, no trip is complete without experiencing the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls. Just a 25 minute trip from Buffalo, it’s a natural wonder that’s worth a visit. The US side, with a State Park, is a much more relaxed alternative to the Canadian side.
Stop 5: New York’s unique towns
New York has many cities that are rich in history and charm, such as Jamestown. It was once a thriving industrial hub and has transformed into a destination of history and culture. One of the best things to do is visit the National Comedy Centre, a museum dedicated to the art of comedy, featuring over 50 interactive exhibits.
Just over a two-hour drive away is the city of Corning. The city is known as America’s Crystal City and the home of glass and innovation and home to one of America’s most picturesque Town Squares. No visit is complete without a trip to the iconic Corning Museum of Glass, which includes an extensive glass art and history collection.
