Whether you’ve lived your whole life in New York or our wonderful state gave you the desire to transplant here, we can all agree that there’s an endless supply of attractions to keep us lively and busy. With so much to do and so much to see, plenty of hidden gems in New York can be found by those who are looking to discover new adventures. Let’s explore the list below and see if you recognize any of these hidden gems in New York that you must check out:

1. Albright-Knox Art Gallery
David Barnas/Flickr
Paul L./Yelp
Officially founded in 1862, this particular museum is known for showcasing quite innovative works of art. Celebrating 150 years back in 2012, this gallery remains refreshing by changing its installations several times throughout the year, giving you the perfect excuse to come back again soon! Here's more on why it's one of the must-visit art galleries in New York.
2. Grimes Glen
Rich Engelbrecht/Flickr
Rich Engelbrecht/Flickr
The youngest attraction on our list, this New York state park only officially became a park back in 2008! The 32-acre stretch of land was once home to the historic fossilized Naples Devonian Tree, discovered in the late 1800s. With stunning waterfalls and serene beauty everywhere, this area is great for any of New York's adventurous residents. There's a lot to love about this family-friendly trail in New York.
3. Adirondack Animal Land
Fotini C/TripAdvisor
Fotini C/TripAdvisor
For over 70 years New York's Upstate region was won over by the family-favored zoo, Catskill Game Farm. While it's been ten years since the Catskill attraction has closed, many residents are still left searching for the next best thing to fill our animal-loving void. Covering more than 90 acres of land, this Adirondack treat offers you a wide variety of animals, playgrounds and even a Western Town! The best part about your visit to Adirondack Animal Land? The amazing safari ride, where you'll literally be greeted face to face with adorable camels that are fully prepared to make you laugh and warm your heart. Everyone should visit this unique animal park in New York at least once.
4. Lucifer Falls
katie wheeler/Flickr
katie wheeler/Flickr
This breathtaking 115-foot waterfall will have you grabbing for your camera! Out in New York's Finger Lakes region, you can find this gorgeous waterfall inside the Robert H. Treman State Park. Here's more on why hiking Lucifer Falls is one of the best New York adventures.
5. Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
seasideNorthCarolina/TripAdvisor
Patricia F./TripAdvisor
Ready for one of the most exciting things on our list of hidden gems in New York? The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome has a mission of restoring and maintaining historical era aircrafts and artifacts. Established in 1966, at the aerodrome you can check out the museum, jaw dropping airshows and even plane rides! Plus, there's a lot to love about the town of Rhinebeck.
6. Cornell Botanic Gardens
bearlee/TripAdvisor

Related Stories

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Glazed & Confused Donuts In New York

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Glazed & Confused Donuts In New York

 With Retro Video Games And Comic Books, This Incredible Restaurant In New York Is Perfect For Families

With Retro Video Games And Comic Books, This Incredible Restaurant In New York Is Perfect For Families

 Before Word Gets Out, Visit New York’s Newest Glamping Experience

Before Word Gets Out, Visit New York’s Newest Glamping Experience
251ceh/TripAdvisor
Filled with amazing greenery and peaceful surroundings, the botanical garden and nature preserve at Cornell Botanic Gardens are truly wonderful. Offering up tons of education on how to protect New York's native plants, these gardens will take your breath away. For more information, you can check out the official Cornell Botanic Gardens website.
7. Ausable Chasm
Dianapat22/TripAdvisor
MountainsLover192/TripAdvisor
Known to many as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, this incredible site has been fascinating our residents since 1870! One of New York's oldest attractions, a walk through this 500 million year old rock canyon will give you unforgettable memories. Did you know that you can take a float tour of Ausable Chasm?
8. Montgomery Place
jjctraveler/TripAdvisor
jjctraveler/TripAdvisor
A home fit for a president? Not quite. Built in 1803, this estate was made for the Chancellor Livingston, the man who administered the oath of office to our very first president! This 380-acre property is open the public, featuring guided tours, gardens and amazing trails. Truly, it's one of the most fascinating historical places in New York.
9. Southwick Beach State Park
sparklerblue/TripAdvisor
One of the best hidden gems and bodies of waters in New York, this beautiful state park is best known for its sandy beach! While the amazing water and spacious beach are this park's main attraction, it also features picnic areas, campsites and trails that are worth exploring as well. Learn more about Southwick Beach State Park and the surrounding area.
10. Katonah Museum of Art
istolethetv/Flickr
Noah S./Yelp
A great place to bring the family, this museum of art offers tons of educational programs. Find out more about the Katonah Museum of Art.
11. Camillus Erie Canal Park
cnymike/TripAdvisor
cnymike/TripAdvisor
Established in 1972, this scenic area is the perfect place to unwind after a long day indoors. With an exhibit showcasing a fully restored steam powered plant boat ride and even a local cat named Midnight that's known to hang out around the area, this place is truly a hidden gem.
12. Whitaker Park
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Ready for some of the most stunning views of the Black River Valley? Open from May through September, this New York park features serene waterfalls and plenty of wooded trails. Visit the official website to learn more about Whitaker Park.

Have you ever had the chance to visit one of these hidden gems in New York? If so, tell us all about your adventures in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

hidden gems in New York

Beth C. | August 13, 2021

What are some little-known attractions in New York?

New York is a vast state, and there are hidden gems tucked away in every region. No matter if you're searching for an underrated restaurant or a hidden-away trail, you'll find that the Empire State is positively brimming with little-known attractions. Some of the coolest places in New York that not nearly enough people visit include the following: the Olde Country Store in Cohocton, Grafton Peace Pagoda in Petersburg, Pindar Vineyards in Peconic, Adirondack Scenic Railroad in Utica, Pratt Rock in Prattsville, Stonecrop Gardens in Cold Spring, Natural Stone Bridge and Caves in Pottersville, Mid-Lakes Navigation in Skaneateles, Highland Park in Rochester, Avalon Park in Stony Brook, and Fox Run Vineyards in Penn Yan.

Is there a secret waterfall in New York?

You bet! New York's unofficial nickname could be the Waterfall State, and we've got plenty of places to prove it. If it's a secret waterfall you're after, one of the most beautiful is Lampson Falls in Clare. In the northern Adirondacks, this lovely waterfall can be accessed via a charming trail measuring less than a mile. Here's more information about this secluded waterfall trail you'll want to take ASAP.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Buffalo AKG Art Museum, 1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA
Naples, NY 14512, USA
Adirondack Animal Land, 3554 NY-30, Gloversville, NY 12078, USA
Lucifer Falls, Enfield, NY 14850, USA
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, 9 Norton Rd, Red Hook, NY 12571, USA
Cornell Botanic Gardens, Forest Home, NY 14850, USA
Ausable Chasm, NY 12911, USA
Montgomery Place, Montgomery Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA
Southwick Beach State Park, Ellisburg, NY 13650, USA
Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St, Katonah, NY 10536, USA
Erie Canal Park, 5750 Devoe Rd, Camillus, NY 13031, USA
Whitaker Place, Whitaker Pl, Staten Island, NY 10304, USA