11 day trips worth taking in New York in 2021

If you want to spend 2021 as richly as possible and at the same time discover different sides of New York, then save this selection of 12 state trips from the publication Only In Your State.

Here's a list of 12 amazing day trips to do around New York State.

1. Albany

Albany is a must-see city, if only because it is the oldest city in the state of New York.

You can enjoy free guided tours of the Capitol, or go for dinner at one of the historic sites, such as an English pub or Albany Pump Station. You will definitely love it.

2. Beacon

Beacon is one of the most interesting places to visit in the Hudson Valley. You can get to it by train. There really is a lot to see here. To get started, you can head to Pandorica, a Doctor Who-themed restaurant, or the Roundhouse to enjoy dinner overlooking the picturesque waterfalls.

In addition, there is Dia: Beacon, an art museum from the Dia Art Foundation.

3. Wilmington

Any of the cities in New York's Adirondack Park will make your day trip unforgettable. But those who visit Wilmington will discover amazing sights. For example, New York's own North Pole, as well as amazing natural wonders in parks such as High Falls Gorge. If you are looking for a scenic day trip then this is the place for you.

4. Cooperstown

Most people travel to Cooperstown at one point or another to discover the National Baseball Hall of Fame. But beyond that, Cooperstown has mouth-watering food at the Cooperstown Diner, which serves some of the best and biggest burgers in central New York.

Those who want to explore the hidden treasures of the Empire State can take a boat trip called the Glimmerglass Queen Boat Tours to enjoy the sights of the little-known castle, or even visit Glimmerglass State Park and stroll along New York's oldest covered bridge.

5. Rochester

If you want to explore western New York then start in Rochester. For a family vacation, it is recommended to head to the Strong Museum - you will find much more entertainment in it than you can imagine. The museum even has its own butterfly garden.

Those who are ready to spend some time outdoors during their stay in Rochester can head to Turning Point Park with its endless boardwalks.

6. Cape Vincent

Here you will find one of the most charming lighthouses you will ever see. Each July, Cape Vincent, along the St. Lawrence River, hosts the French Festival, opening up an exciting side of New York.

If you happen to arrive at a different time of the year, you can visit the award-winning Cape Winery wineries, the historic Tibbets Point Lighthouse and many other attractions on the city's promenade.

7. Watkins Glen

The Finger Lakes area is full of charming lakeside towns. One of the most beautiful - Watkins Glen - has even more to offer than the famous park of the same name. The breathtaking city along Seneca Lake is home to attractions such as one of the state's few port hotels, Watkins Glen International Racetrack and even a fantastic yarn shop.

8. Montok

One of the most beautiful coastal cities in New York City, Montauk is a great day trip destination. Here you can spend the whole day and visit amazing places, including Gurney's Resort. It has its own heated igloo complex, the country's oldest working ranch, Deep Hollow Ranch, and more.

9. Foenicia

It is considered one of the coolest small towns in the country, but Phoenicia is one of the best places to visit. Especially if you want to spend time in the Catskills. For a true mountain adventure, book a table at Kate's Lazy Meadow.

10. Ithaca

Ithaca is a real hippie town and also a city of waterfalls. This is a city that has everything you could dream of. If you're on a day trip here, take time to shop at places like Found In Ithaca, walk the Fall Creek Suspension Bridge, or take a dip in the natural pool at Robert H. Treman State Park.

11. Binghamton

An underrated neighborhood in New York State - Binghamton - really deserves attention. On State Street, you'll find secret doors leading to the amazing 205 Dry Underground Bar, while on East Front Street, you can enjoy one of New York State's iconic sandwiches at Spiedie & Rib Pit.