After you've done your research on New York, you can begin the decision making process of planning your vacation. Having gathered information about your vacation destination, you'll be well equipped to make important choices about your upcoming retreat.
One of the most important things that you'll have to decide for your vacation is where you want to stay. Since there are so many cities and different regions of New York this may not be an easy decision. Other things you'll need to keep in mind when making decisions about your trip are how you'll get there, what kind of activities you want to enjoy during your stay, and what means of transportation you'll use once you're there.
Where to Go
New York is a large state that can be broken down into several different regions: the Greater Niagara and Chautauqua-Allegheny Regions, which are located in the western area of the state; the Finger Lakes and Central-Leatherstocking regions in the central area; the northern area of the state, which includes the 1000 Islands Region and the Adirondack Region; to the south, the Capital-Saratoga Region; the Catskill and Hudson Valley Regions lie north of New York City; and to the southeast, you will find Long Island.
Throughout the mountainous Adirondack Region, travelers can enjoy activities like kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting. Snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, horseback riding, bicycling or rock climbing are available, too. You can drive up a mountain then take an elevator to the top, try a gondola ride, or enjoy 18 holes of golf, as well as go on a shopping spree.
The Capital-Saratoga region is home New York's state capital, Albany. The capital city's Dutch heritage and neighborly feel dates back hundreds of years, evident in the city's architecture. Modern attractions, restaurants, and shopping blend with history in Victorian Saratoga Springs.
The Catskills are the ideal getaway spot for adventurous travelers who want to spend time outdoors. Visitors can enjoy such pursuits as horseback riding, rock climbing, canoeing, rafting, and year-round hiking. This region also boasts a nice selection of fine dining restaurants and entertainment venues.
Central Leatherstocking is well known for its ABC's: Antiques, Baseball, and Caverns. This is an exciting region where vacationers will discover all kinds of attractions, including nature trails, museums, and even an observatory where you can get a glimpse of the universe. While in this region, vacationers can visit the tempting local wineries or catch a soccer match at the Soccer Sport Center.
Chautauqua-Allegheny is rich in culture and history, combined with traditional attractions and plenty of outdoor fun. The region's terrain is vast open land with lakes and lush forests. Vacationers can explore the culture of the Amish people in Amish Country, or find intellectual stimulation the Chautauqua Institution, a summer community promoting the arts, education, religion and recreation.
The Greater Niagara region features a historic zoo, top collections of modern art, major league sports, shows, exciting events, beautiful scenery, and both natural and theme parks. Vacationers will have plenty of lodging and dining options while staying the Greater Niagara region, as well as the chance to enjoy casinos, boat rides, and many more entertaining regional attractions.
The Hudson Valley region is home to the state capital of Albany, a very popular tourist destination in the Empire State. Here travelers can visit historic mansions and museums, plus enjoy the performing arts and a host of other attractions.
Another region vacationers can visit in the state of New York is Long Island. This is a romantic region, perfect for vacationing couples. Go on a picnic, or take a hot-air-balloon ride over the countryside as a part romantic getaway while visiting this region. Other attractions to Long Island are its great regional seafood dishes and vineyards.
New York City is a destination full of wonder. There are so many attractions, landmarks, activities, and events in this region you may not be able to see it all in one trip. Nightclubs, museums, and fine dining restaurants are just a few of the attractions to this region.
The Thousand Islands area is a bright and sunny region of New York. Visitors can tour castles, visit historic battlefields, take a sightseeing cruise, or just relax and enjoy a cool breeze. Explore the area's tiny islands, or check out well-known places like the Erie Canal and Eisenhower Lock.
Once you have decided which region of New York you want to vacation in, you can then decide on the city or cities you want to visit.
Once You're There
There are plenty of choices when it comes to lodgings and activities in New York. When deciding on hotel or resort accommodations, keep in mind what's most important to you on your vacation. If you plan to spend a lot of time shopping or visiting museums, you may want to book your stay with a hotel in a bigger city, near a metropolitan area. If you enjoy outdoor activities and nature watching, then you may want to stay at a lodge close to the mountains.
If you're traveling with others, keep their likes and dislikes in mind when deciding where to stay and what to do. Some of your companions may enjoy exciting nightlife, while others may prefer a quiet, relaxing trip. Try to find a happy medium so that everyone can enjoy their stay in New York. Also, if you're traveling with the family, you may want to look into kid-friendly accommodations and activities.
New York is so diverse in terrain and what it offers vacationers, no matter which region you choose to visit you're sure to find plenty of fun activities on your vacation to the Empire State.
