Find 11 Bucket-List-Level Views in New York Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Looking for jaw-dropping views without a strenuous hike? Good news: You don't need to be an expert trekker to unlock New York State's most scenic panoramas. From the skyline of Manhattan to the peaks of the Adirondacks, the Empire State offers some of the most inspiring views from the roadside (or possibly just a short walk from your car). Here are 11 bucket list views in New York. 

1. Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway (Adirondacks)

If you visit the Adirondacks, don’t miss driving the Veterans Memorial Highway to the summit of Whiteface Mountain, one of New York’s tallest peaks at 4,867 feet. The drive takes you nearly to the top, where you can admire a 360-degree panorama of the High Peaks, Lake Placid, and Vermont on a clear day.

2. Terrapin Point and Prospect Point (Niagara Falls State Park)

Two viewing areas at Niagara Falls, Terrapin Point and Prospect Point, offer iconic scenery for tourists. Watch the massive sheets of water thunder down, and snap photos from multiple angles—all without hiking.

3. Gantry Plaza State Park (Queens)

You can’t beat these iconic views of the Manhattan skyline! Located in Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park has a paved walkway that overlooks the East River, Roosevelt Island, and Midtown Manhattan, including iconic structures like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Consider visiting during sunset for beautiful colors over the water. 

4. Letchworth State Park Overlooks (Livingston and Wyoming Counties)

Letchworth State Park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” for its dramatic Genesee River Gorge and three towering waterfalls. You can take in the scenery from multiple roadside or short-walk overlooks, including Great Bend, Inspiration Point, and Archery Field.

5. Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway (Adirondacks)

Driving 5.5 miles up the winding Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway, you’ll pass several scenic pull-offs along the way. At the 2,030-foot summit, enjoy sweeping views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains that stretch for miles in every direction.

6. Taughannock Falls Overlook (Finger Lakes)

Did you know this waterfall is taller than Niagara Falls? Located in the Finger Lakes region, Taughannock Falls plunges 215 feet into the gorge, and the overlook is easily accessed from the parking area. 

7. Bear Mountain Perkins Memorial Tower (Bear Mountain State Park)

Sure, you can get 360-degree views on top of Bear Mountain by hiking the popular 3.8-mile loop, which climbs 1,148 feet. But you can also drive to the summit seasonally and take a short walk to the Perkins Memorial Tower. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Hudson Valley, the Palisades, and (on clear days) the New York City skyline.

8. Kaaterskill Falls Lower Viewing Platform (Catskills)

The two-tier Kaaterskill Falls drops 260 feet. To admire the natural beauty without the hike, check out the lower viewing platform, which is only a few minutes away from the parking lot. You can also attempt the more challenging trail to the upper falls.

9. Montauk Point Lighthouse (Long Island)

Located on the tip of Long Island, Montauk Point Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean where it meets the Block Island Sound. Climb the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse, or enjoy the surrounding grounds for minimal effort. 

10. Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie)

For sweeping views over the Hudson River, trek across this wide pedestrian bridge in Poughkeepsie. Known as the Walkway Over the Hudson, it spans about 1.28 miles, and it’s perfect for a peaceful stroll no matter your ability level. 

11. Staten Island Ferry (New York City)

For a stunning view of Lower Manhattan, hop on the free Staten Island Ferry. The 25-minute cruise also provides views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Sit back and enjoy the waterscape! 

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