6 Attractions To Visit in New York (That Aren’t in NYC)

The iconic phrase 'I Love New York' dons T-shirts, hats, and bumper stickers, with almost every American having either visited NY or wanting to in the future.

A lot of the time some people think this phrase is meant for New York City only, but the truth is the entire state has plenty of fun attractions for travelers, from Niagara Falls to the iconic National Comedy Center.

Here are 6 Attractions to Visit in New York (That Aren't in NYC).


  1. National Comedy Center - Jamestown, New York

    Named one of the 'World's Greatest Places to Visit' by TIME in 2019, Jamestown's National Comedy Center is an institution certainly worth the visit! Congress has named this center the official cultural institution and museum dedicated to the vital story of comedy in the United States, the center showcasing comedy's great minds and unique voices of comedy through props, costumes, and other archival objects. The over 50 immersive exhibits inside will take you on an interactive journey through comedy in America, from Vaudville to viral memes. See Seinfeld's 'puffy shirt', Joan Rivers stand-up notes and George Carlin's archives while here.

    Other major attractions in Jamestown:
    Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum, Fenton Historical Center, Lucille Ball Gravesite (Lakeview Cemetery), Audobon Community Nature Center, Fifties Grille and Dairy
    Hours from NYC: 6.5


  2. Corning Museum of Glass - Corning, New York

    If you are at all interested in the art of glass blowing, or maybe just art in general, Corning is an excellent city to explore in New York! The Corning Museum of Glass is dedicated to the art, history, and science of glass, the highly recognizable brand seen on several household and industrial glass items. It was founded in 1951 by Corning Glass Works and holds more than 45,000 glass objects, some over 3,500 years old! You can participate in live glass blowing demos and Make Your Own Glass experiences while here.

    Other major attractions in Corning:
    The Rockwell Museum, Spencer Crest Nature Center, Gaffer District, Vitrix Hot Glass Studio, The Celler, Palace Theatre

    Hours from NYC:


  3. Niagara Falls - Niagara Falls, New York

    This is a destination that can speak for itself, the city bordering Canada and holding one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls. The falls themselves are truly a sight to see, the power and magnitude something you simply have to experience yourself. There is a seemingly endless list of things you can do while here, both on the United States side and Canadian side. There is absolutely no way you will get bored here!

    Other major attractions in Niagara Falls:
    Horseshoe Falls, Skylon Tower, Cave of the Winds, Clifton Hill, Bridal Veil Falls, Maid of the Mist, Niagara Jet Boats, Old Fort Niagara, Journey Behind the Falls

    Hours from NYC: 7


  4. The Adirondack Mountains - Adirondack, New York

    The absolutely gorgeous Adirondack Mountains are about 160 miles in diameter and 1 mile high, taking up a large portion of northeast New York state. The Adirondack Mountain region is one of the most gorgeous and most hidden attraction zones in the entire state of New York, the region filled with outdoor recreation options, fun dining experiences, and unbeatable New York state scenery. In particular, we think Adirondack, New York, is an excellent city to visit for fun 'hidden-gem' attractions abound.

    Other major attractions in Adirondack:
    Whiteface Mountain, Adirondack Museum, Fort Ticonderoga, Blue Mountain Lake, Adirondack Chocolates, Adirondack Artist Guild

    Hours from NYC: 4


  5. Erie Canal Museum - Syracuse, New York

    Located toward the center of the state, Syracuse makes an excellent 'in-between' city stop for almost any trip through the state. One of the coolest things to see in the city is the Erie Canal Museum, the institute dedicated to one of America's most impressive infrastructure innovations. The museum is set in the only remaining Weighlock buildings and explores the impact and history of the iconic canal system. Of course, there is much more to do throughout the city as well!

    Other major attractions in Syracuse: Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Everson Museum of Art, Museum of Science and Technology, Onondaga Park, Great New York State Fair, Destiny USA, NBT Bank Stadium
    Hours from NYC: 4


  6. Boldt Castle & Boldt Yacht House - Alexandria Bay, New York

    Located in the Thousand Islands region of New York state, the Boldt Castle is one of the areas top sights to see, the gorgeous castle built in 1900 by hotel magnate George C. Boldt. It was a summer dream home, comparable to European castles of the time, though, as you will learn during your visit, tragedy struck Boldt and all construction was ceased before completion. The castle and Yacht House sit on a 5-acre island, the attraction only accessible by boat. The attraction also serves as a port of entry for Canadians.

    Other major attractions in Alexandria Bay: Heart Island, Just Room Enough Island, Bay Drive-In Movie Theatre, 1000 Islands Tower, Alex Bay 500 Go-Karts
    Hours from NYC: 5.5