It's time to start getting excited for Christmas in New York! Some of our more eager residents may already be planning where to put up their lights and decorations for the season, while others will follow through with the annual traditions of hanging up holiday cheer right after turkey day. If you're wondering what Christmas lights in New York will be worth seeing this year, worry not! We've planned a Christmas road trip for you that's absolutely magical. This will put even the most grinchy of Grinches into the Christmas spirit.
This trip will take you all the way across the Empire State to see the most magical Christmas lights in New York. Use Google Maps to see the route.
We'll start our winter in New York trip off at the Hamburg-Erie County Fairgrounds. Here, you'll take a one-mile drive through the best Christmas lights in NY. This one's open the whole month of December, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas day. It's Western New York's largest holiday festival. You can experience fun activities like a 10,000-square-foot walkthrough that leads visitors to the North Pole, and much, much more.
Visiting Buffalo's Canalside is a great way to spend the day outside any time of year. But during Christmas in New York, it's absolutely magical. The Connecting Terminal Grain Elevator is lit up each night, putting on a light display unlike any other in the Empire State. During the holidays, the light display is filled with Christmas cheer. The magical holiday-themed show is delightful no matter your age. If you want to keep yourself busy until nightfall, you can enjoy ice skating or check out shops in the area.
Lights on the Lake is the best holiday attraction in New York! This one is one that's been around for over 30 years. The two-mile holiday drive-thru in New York will take you through all kinds of interesting areas, like the Larger-Than-Life Land of Oz and Twinkling Fantasy Forest. This is a great family-friendly Christmas activity. Please note that vehicle passes must be purchased in advance online.
The Capital Holiday Lights display is a Capital Region favorite, right in Albany's Washington Park. You can drive through the entire park to take in the sight of over 100 light displays. Stop in at the Lake House to find refreshments, crafts, and other holiday activities. NY at Christmas has never been so sparkly.
This fun annual holiday event is perfect for the whole family. With a seemingly endless list of delights and fun to be had, this spectacular NY Christmas tradition is part of what makes the season merry and bright.
The Westchester Winter Wonderland is a drive-thru Christmas lights display in New York that has quickly won over our residents with its enchanting light displays. The 1.2-mile drive-thru event features thousands of lights and a 40-foot Christmas tree.
Did we forget your favorite light display that you think should be added to this Christmas road trip of lights in New York? Share your suggestions in the comments: you never know, maybe you'll see them in a future article. For more seasonal cheer, remember: it's not Christmas in New York until you do these 12 enchanting things!
The Adirondack Mountains are spectacular. Take a New York Adirondacks road trip to see these majestic landmarks. These mountains cover nearly 5,000 square miles and they are more than 5 million years old. Since 1892, the area they cover has been designated as Adirondack Park and is a protected area, but 200,000 people live in it seasonally, and 132,000 live there year-round.
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As you can imagine or may already know, there is much to explore on an Adirondack road trip. It's a great place to visit for a number of reasons, but one of the biggest draws is its stunning natural beauty. Many people underestimate the Adirondacks, but after visiting, they find that they have fallen in love with the scenery and the environment. Once you've tried it, we are sure you will agree that this mountain trip is one of the best road trips in New York.
Adirondack Park is the largest park in the contiguous United States. Its 9,375 sq. mile area is 1/3 of New York state; it's bigger than Vermont. It's impossible to see it all, but this 250-mile road trip will give you a great overview of the region and its incredible beauty.
There are so many sights and views in the Adirondacks that will amaze and excite you. Between the mountains, rivers, lakes, and forests, there's something for everyone to love. You'll see all of these things and more.
This road trip begins in Wells at the John Van Alstine and Caroline Ramersdorfer Sculpture Park. Stroll near interesting, large-scale, modern art pieces by the park's namesakes on eight acres along the Sacandaga River.
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Although this art is man-made, the way it is placed in the sculpture garden invokes much connection with the natural world. This is a great place to start for this very reason, as you move away from the hustle and bustle of your life and into the serenity of these mountains.
Take Route 30 north to Route 8 to Wevertown and then head south on Route 28 to Lake George. Here, you can drive to the top of Prospect Mountain for great views of the lake.
From there, drive north on Route 9N along the western shore of Lake George. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the state at any time of the year. Once you arrive at the gorgeous Bolton Landing, you will see some truly mind-blowing views.
You'll continue to follow Route 9N all the way along the edge of the lake until you get to Ticonderoga at the top. Here, you can visit historic Fort Ticonderoga. This fort was built by the French in the French and Indian War and was later used in the Revolutionary War, too.
Next, take Route 74 west to I-87 north, then take 28N west to NY-30 north to Tupper Lake to visit The Wild Center.
This natural history museum on 115 acres has informative exhibits about the Adirondacks. The biggest draw here, though, is the Wild Walk. It's 1,000 feet of bridges and platforms that allow guests to get above the trees on foot for incredible and unique views.
Now take NY-30/State Rte 3 E to Lake Placid. This mountain town was the home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. There are two lakes, actually. Mirror Lake is small and still and reflects the mountains around it. It's the lake the town is primarily built around. Larger Lake Placid is more active and recreational, but also quite breathtaking.
Finally, on one of the most scenic road trips in New York, you'll take NY-86-E to NY-9N north to Ausable Chasm. This incredible sandstone gorge is a surprising sight in New York. It was created by the Ausable River. It's privately owned so you'll have to pay for entry, but you can walk the trails or take a raft or tube through the canyon if you'd like for an additional fee.
You'll be amazed at all the magnificent sights that you'll see on this Adirondacks road trip. This one-of-a-kind road trip is a great way to explore the stunning sights you will find in our beautiful state. Adirondack Park is a remarkable scenic drive in New York and it's likely that you'll want to come back time and time again. It's different and special in all seasons, so visiting this area is well worth it no matter the season or month of the year.
From the fall's fantastic autumn foliage to the summer's lush greenery and winter's snowy wonderland, there is so much to love all year long. Share the fun with your family and friends to really make some unique memories, and be sure you bring your best camera to capture all the lovely vistas all around you. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Adirondack road trip today! If you need some ideas of what to pack, check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide. That way, you will be extra prepared for all the fun you're going to have.
There are so many wonderful experiences to enjoy in New York State aside from all the excitement of the Big Apple. The Empire State has some truly great road trip opportunities, and we’ve gathered 11 of the best road trips in New York you can explore! Whether you’re looking for an escape from New York City, or you live in New Jersey or Pennsylvania and are ready to embark on a road trip that isn’t too far from home, we’ve got some amazing options below. Here are some of the best road trips in New York:
This itinerary features Route 23A, a scenic drive in New York state that can easily be enjoyed in one day. Covering about 34 miles, this route showcases waterfalls, such as Kaaterskill Falls, as well as some beautiful hiking trails that will make you feel a world away from NYC. The trip concludes in the village of Tannersville- a charming small town that is the perfect end to this short and sweet getaway if you're looking for quick road trips in New York.
Route: Watkins Glen>Bethel>Hunter>Albany>Keene>Saranac Lake
Distance: 428 Miles
Trip Time: 8 Hours And 9 Minutes Driving Time
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Next up, this itinerary is one of the best weekend road trips in New York that can be split up over a few days. You’ll begin in the Finger Lakes Region and end in the Adirondacks! First, you’ll visit Watkins Glen, one of the most beautiful sights in the state. Your next stop will be at the Museum Bethel Woods, which is where the very famous Woodstock festival was held in 1969. You’ll then make your way to Kaaterskill Falls before stopping to see the state capitol building in Albany. Next, you’ll drive on to Keene, which is home to the tallest mountain in the state (Mt. Marcy). Finally, the journey will come to an end at Saranac Lake. The small town is home to some very quaint experiences, and the lake is magically beautiful.
This road trip itinerary features some of the best pie shops and bakeries on the East Coast, and they all happen to be on Long Island! You’ll begin at Hallock's Cider Mill in Laurel, a pie shop known for its amazing mini pies. You’ll then move on to the family-owned Alpine Pastry Shop in Smithtown, followed by the Hometown Bakeshop in Centerport, which offers a menu of sweet and savory pies. Next, you’ll drive on to Kerber's Farm in Huntington, which is more than just a bakery- they offer cooking classes, host year-round events, and even have accommodations if you’d like to stay overnight. Moving on to Jericho Cider Mill in Muttontown, you can visit the shop that’s been open since the 1800s, and try the same family recipe that’s been used since the beginning! And last, you’ll finish the trip with a stop at Youngs Farm in Old Brookville- a shop known for its amazing produce and, of course, pies.
Our next road trip itinerary focuses on the Catskill Region of Southeastern New York. This route is a great day trip option, as it’s only a three-and-a-half-hour drive and is packed with a great variety of sights and experiences. You’ll start at the Saugerties Lighthouse, which is a historic landmark that’s recently undergone renovations and is now a Bed and Breakfast as well. Then, your next stop will be in Opus 40, an incredible sculpture park that’s still located in Saugerties. Moving on, you’ll travel to your next stop in Phoenicia to visit the charming Phoenicia Diner. Their operating hours at typically from 7:00 AM-5:00 PM, so do keep that in mind if you are starting this trip in the afternoon. Following the American diner, you’ll stop at the famous Kaaterskill Falls on the way to the Spruceton Inn in Spruceton. This Bed and Breakfast is a charming spot to stay and enjoy the picturesque surrounding landscape. Following Spruceton, you’ll make your way to the Windham Vineyard in Windham, which is a lovely winery that’s sort of a hidden gem in New York state. Next on the itinerary is Zoom Flume, which is known as one of the best waterparks in the state. You’ll then head to Catskill Game Farm, which is an abandoned zoo. Next, you’ll head to Cedar Grove, a historical building that celebrates the Hudson River School of Painting artist, Thomas Cole. Finally, this eventful trip will conclude at Barnwood Restaurant in Catskill- an eatery known for its bbq and pizza.
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a wonderful road trip to take in the Spring! There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy, as well as breathtaking scenery along the way. This scenic route begins in Atwater Vineyards, which is home to incredible views of the lake and an amazing wine selection. Next, you’ll head to Bagley's Poplar Ridge Vineyards in Hector: a family-owned winery that’s known for its wine slushies! Next, you’ll drive to Belhurst Castle in Geneva, which is an opulent winery and craft brewery that also offers overnight accommodations. After the castle, you’ll move on to the flea market at The Windmill in Penn Yam. This is one of the best markets in all of New York! Next, you’ll drive to Watkins Glen, and then onto Montour Falls. This area is known for being one of the most accessible waterfalls in the state.
Route: Long Lake Town Beach>Schroon Lake Town Beach>Rogers Memorial Park>Moreau Lake State Park>Moffitt Beach>Blue Mountain Lake Public Beach
Distance: 206 Miles
Trip Time: 4 Hours And 14 Minutes Driving Time
There are some truly amazing beaches in this state and the itinerary here explores some hidden gems you can enjoy further Upstate New York during the Summer. Starting off in Hamilton County, you’ll visit Long Lake Town Beach, which is known for its swimming and outdoor activities for guests of all ages. You’ll then head to Schroon Lake Town Beach, which offers amazing views and has lifeguards on duty. Next, you’ll travel to Bolton Landing to visit the wonderful Rogers Memorial Park, which is a part of Lake George. Then you’ll head to Moreau Lake State Park, where you can enjoy a lovely swimming beach as well as camp overnight. Next, you’ll visit Moffitt Beach in Lake Pleasant, which is a more remote location that features amazing views. Coming full circle, you’ll then return to Hamilton County to visit Blue Mountain Lake Public Beach- one of the best public beaches to enjoy during the warmer months.
Route: Wilmington> Whiteface Mountain> Lake Placid>Tupper Lake>Piercefield>North Creek>Old Forge>Thendara
Distance: 216 Miles
Trip Time: 5 Hours And 3 Minutes Driving Time
This weekend itinerary will inspire you to leave Manhattan and explore the Fall Foliage of New England without leaving the Empire State. You’ll start in Essex County at Whiteface Mountain, which offers some of the best scenery in the state during the Fall. Next, you’ll head to Cloudsplitter Gondola, where you’ll be able to float right over some of the most gorgeous views in the state. Following the gondola ride. you’ll move on to Lake Placid, which features a two-mile hike that’s surrounded by vibrant colors. While in Lake Placid, you’ll make a stop at Dancing Bears Restaurant. We recommend asking for a spot with views of the lake! Next, you’ll travel to Tupper Lake, which is home to the Wild Center. This an aerial walk that showcases amazing foliage in addition to being a family-friendly outdoor adventure. You’ll then drive to Mount Arab in Piercefield, followed by North Creek’s Gore Mountain- home to another gondola ride. Next, you’ll move on to Revolution Rail Company for a fun and scenic bike experience, and then drive to Old Forge Lake Cruises for a boat tour. Lastly, you’ll arrive in Thendara and visit Adirondack Scenic Railroad. There are scenic train rides happening in September and October that you won’t want to miss.
This Winter road trip itinerary is perhaps one of the best holiday light trails in the USA: it takes you across the entire state, all the way to the Canadian Border! Starting off with a bang, you’ll begin in Hamburg to visit the Festival of Lights, which is the largest holiday festival in Western New York state. Then, you’ll head to the Festival of Light in Youngstown, followed by the Lights on the Lake in Liverpool. Next, you’ll drive further East to visit Albany, which hosts the Capitol Holiday Lights drive-thru experience. Moving on to the Hudson Valley, you’ll then visit A Frosty Fest. This event offers plenty of activities for guests of all ages and is right off the Hudson River. Next, you’ll head to Westchester, which is home to the Winter Wonderland Experience. There’s so much to do here, such as a holiday circus, an ice skating rink, carnival rides, and more. You’ll then move on to the North Kensico Christmas Light Show in White Plains, where you can hear music timed to the light show from your car radio. Throughout this trip, there are many photo opportunities to take advantage of, as well as other fun stops that you can experience during the day.
Route: Chittenango>Syracuse>Rochester>Medina>Buffalo>Orchard Park
Distance: 212 Miles
Trip Time: 3 Hours And 59 Minutes Driving Time
The next itinerary on our list features some unique experiences in the Empire State that are suited for family adventures! You’ll begin at the All Things Oz Museum in Chittenango, which is a very specific experience, but any The Wizard of Oz fan or film lover will enjoy it. Next, you’ll drive to Syracuse to visit Destiny USA- a mall so large that it has its own zip code! In the mall, you’ll find WonderWorks, which is like an “amusement park for the mind.” Following Destiny USA, you’ll head to the Rochester Museum and Science Center, which has tons of interesting features and exhibits that’ll intrigue guests of all ages. You’ll then move on to the Medina Railroad Museum, which is home to one of the largest miniature sets in America, and then on to The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum of Buffalo. Lastly, you’ll visit the Eternal Flame Hiking Trail in Orchard Park, which features a flame that naturally burns behind a waterfall. This is one of the best road trips to take in New York if you have kids.
This four-hour road trip is one of the best ways to see some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the state. You’ll begin at the well-loved Kaaterskill Falls, and then move on to Schenectady's Central Park, which features a lovely rose garden. Then you’ll drive to Saratoga Springs, which is home to the stunning Saratoga Spa State Park, and then head to Cooper’s Cave. The cave is an important part of the novel “The Last of the Mohicans”, which may interest any book lovers. Then, you’ll journey to Ticonderoga to explore the Falls of the La Chute, followed by your last stop in Ausable Chasm. The chasm is often called the Grand Canyon of the East, and there are several activities to enjoy here, such as hiking and rafting.
Big cities like New York City, Boston, or Philadelphia might be what comes to mind when you think of this part of the country, but the small towns of the Empire State are certainly worth exploring. This six-hour adventure begins in Pittsford, which is a charming, small community along Lake Erie. Then you’ll head to Geneseo, which is a small town that has some really cool historical museums. Next, you’ll drive to the very small town of Angelica (home to roughly 1,000 residents) and enjoy the fabulous antique shopping and delicious eateries. Next, you’ll travel to Arcade, which is a small town in Western New York State that’s known for its amazing train rides through the country. You’ll then journey to Ellicottville, which is a tiny town of fewer than 400 people! This cozy community has plenty to do, however- there’s great shopping and other activities that New Yorkers love. You’ll then head to the small community of Clymer, which is especially fun during the Winter. Then you’ll move on to Westfield, which is a must-see wine town on the shores of Lake Erie. Then it’s off to Chestnut Ridge Park to see the Eternal Flame Waterfall, followed by the lovely town of Grand Island, where you can enjoy views of the Niagara River. And finally, you’ll end this small-town journey in Lewiston- a town with a rich history in Niagara County that’s sure to impress.
Have you been to any of these locations? Would you add any to this list? What do you consider the best road trips in New York? Let us know in the comments if any of these itineraries excite you or if you’d make extra stops on any of these road trips!
While traveling around New York, show off your state pride with apparel and accessories from our friends over at Wear Your Roots!
