All of our residents know this to be true, New York is like one huge backyard full of beautiful waterfalls and marvelous mountains. Once you start exploring our state, the itch will never leave you to get back out and see more! To us, the list of breathtaking places to explore in New York feels endless, but there are quite a few places that everyone needs to take an adventure to at least once. Think you’ll be able to say you’ve tackled all 12 of the things on our list? Let’s find out!

1. Cross off Niagara Falls from your bucket list and enjoy exploring the Cave of the Winds, where Bridal Veil Falls will greet you with a wet welcome!
Mark L./Yelp
2. Put your claustrophobic fears to the test on the Labyrinth Trail, where you'll scramble through tight spaces to make your way to the unbelievable Skytop Tower. Did we mention this trail is commonly called the Lemon Squeeze?
Julie P./Yelp
3. A place that feels like nothing short of a fairytale, the Watkins Glen State Park waterfalls are two miles of pure bliss.
PROU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Northeast Region/Flickr
4. Everyone in New York has to take an underground adventure at least once, and what better place to do that than at Howe Caverns?
Andis/Flickr
5. The perfect safe haven by the ocean, Montauk Point State Park features our iconic lighthouse and picturesque views of the water that everyone must see.
Devin Stein/Flickr
6. New York's Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park is home to three major waterfalls that will steal your breath away.
Ryan Hyde/Flickr
7. Speaking of Grand Canyons, make sure you also take a day to explore the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, Ausable Chasm!
turbulentflow/Flickr
8. While taking on any one of our 46 High Peaks is an unforgettable experience, there's nothing like being able to say you've climbed the tallest mountain in New York, Mount Marcy.
Ryan H/TripAdvisor
9. Taking a trip to New York City is a must, but more importantly all of our residents should explore the over 800 acres of land that is Central Park.
this is et/Flickr
10. Adventure through some of our oldest forests and soak in the beautiful nature that can be found at Zoar Valley.
Andy Arthur/Flickr
11. Have your mind blown at Saratoga State Park where you'll find the only active spouting geyser east of the Mississippi River!
CCBubs/TripAdvisor
12. Spend a day in the Catskill Mountains and explore all around one of the highest waterfalls in New York, Kaaterskill Falls.
Lea Monroe/Only In Your State

How many of these places have you visited? Tell us your favorite place to explore in New York!

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