22 things every New Yorker should do at least once

No matter how long you call New York your home, there are certain things that its residents should experience at least once. With the New Year just around the corner, it's time to start calculating what adventures you're going to cross off your to-do list in the coming months. Don't know where to start? Try narrowing down the list to these 22 things. Only in Your State.

1. Visit the Grand Canyon of the East to see three of New York's most spectacular waterfalls

Letchworth Park has three major waterfalls as well as other amazing natural wonders along the routes along the Genesee River in the city of Castile. Every true New Yorker visits this place in West New York at least once in their life to see all the beauty that is hidden here.

2. Head to the water to visit one of the historic lighthouses

You may not associate New York with beautiful lighthouses. But there are historical sites around our borders that have stood the test of time. From the banks of the Hudson River and Long Island to the shores of Lakes Erie and Ontario, one must visit.

3. Take a trip to the ends of the world to see the beautiful beaches of Long Island

Of course, it takes most of us endless hours to get to the island. But all residents should at some point see this magnificent corner of New York with their own eyes. A magnificent piece of heaven, you won't regret spending your days with your feet buried in the sand here.

4. Spend a holiday on one of the amazing lakes with family and friends

For many of us, spending the summer on the lake is a family tradition that we will never give up. There are thousands of lakes in New York, and all residents have a favorite place on the lake, where they get out as often as possible.

5. Climb at least one of our 46 high mountains

If you're a real New Yorker, you'll climb all 46 mountains in the region. But for most residents, climbing at least one of New York City's 46 tallest mountains, which can be found in Adirondack Park, is enough.

6. We also recommend climbing the steps to Mount Whiteface

Everyone's favorite White Face can be enjoyed in several different ways throughout the year. Whether or not you choose to climb this mountain, we all end up taking on the challenge of climbing the breathtaking steps of the Stairs Range trail.

7. Visit a haunted place surrounded by local legends

New York is just full of ghosts. There is no way around this! And when we're feeling brave, we visit haunted places with friends to see if the places really live up to their creepy reputation.

8. Take a tour underground to see the unique world that is right under our feet

From the famous Howe Caves and nearby secret caves to other underground locations like the Lockport Caves tours, there are several ways residents can explore the underworld. Most of us have been to Hou Caves at least once.

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9. Take an unforgettable gorge hike in Watkins Glen Park

The Gorge Trail is arguably the most beautiful place in all of New York. It impresses with its nineteen waterfalls. No matter how far away this park is, it's almost always the first major attraction new residents make sure to visit.

10. Take a trip to Albany to see our picturesque state capital

From a tour of the Capitol to seeing all that this unique city has to offer. All our residents should visit this historical region.

11. Head north to see the historic New York State Zoo in Watertown

Small but mighty, the zoo has been a treasure of the north since 1920. It is home to animals that you never thought you would find here.

12. Stop to take a photo of one of the many dizzying roadside attractions

You never know what you might find on the side of a New York road. From big ducks and gnomes to rocks and the tiniest church in the world. You can capture an extraordinary moment or scenery if you stay here long enough.

13. Feel like a kid again by visiting the New York State Fair in Syracuse

An annual celebration of the end of summer, the New York State Fair is a top reason to travel to the city of Syracuse.

14. Quench Your Thirst With a Finger Lakes Wine Tour

No one in New York does wine like our friends in the Finger Lakes area. With dreamy water views and luscious scenery, this is the perfect place to sample New York wine.

15. Go on an adventure on the shores of Lake Ontario at Chimney Bluffs Park

You won't find scenery like this anywhere else in New York. This stunning park is one of a kind. From here you have an endless view of the water. And you will never want to leave this place once you get there.

16. Feel like royalty as you explore one of the fairytale castles

New York is home to many castles and historic estates. They will make you feel like royalty the moment you step into them.

17. Feel the sporting spirit while visiting one of our favorite stadiums

Choose your sport and team, we should all experience the exciting frenzy of a trip to one of our stadiums.

18. Attend a Bethel Woods concert

Bethel Woods Art Center, home to the famous 1969 music festival Woodstock, is a great place for an outdoor concert. Everyone deserves to see one of their favorite artists perform here at least once!

19. Explore all the natural wonders of the Catskills

From breathtaking trails that will take you to stunning views and the most incredible waterfalls. There are so many adventures waiting for you in the Catskills.

20. Take a vacation to Niagara Falls for a light show that will leave you speechless

After a $4 million renovation, the Niagara Falls light show is more attractive than ever. Every evening you can see how the waterfall shines with all the colors of the rainbow.

21. Dive into the chaos that reigns in Times Square, just to say you've been there.

If there's a place in New York City that we can all say we've been to, it's Times Square. Sure, it might be one of the most chaotic places in the world. But there is nothing better than feeling small among all those bright lights.

22. Climb Top of the rock for a view of New York

Panoramic views that leave you speechless, every New Yorker should visit the observation deck located in top of the rock.