Places to see in New York vacation sights in New York Explore things to do in New York

Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in New York with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore New York sites or check out the sites in another state.

You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in New York that have become local favorites easily with our site.

We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in New York whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.

Rochester Museum and Science Center

Rochester, NY

The Rochester Museum & Science Center stimulates broad community interest and understanding of science and technology, and their impact, past, present, future, on our lives.

American Museum of Natural History

New York, NY

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. Since its founding in 1869, the Museum has advanced its global mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition. The Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections, which serve as a field guide to the entire planet and present a panorama of the world’s cultures.

Memorial Art Gallery

Rochester, NY

A visit to the Memorial Art Gallery is a journey through more than 5,000 years of art history. From the relics of antiquity to works in the vanguard of contemporary movements, the Gallery offers a panorama of the world’s art. The Gallery’s permanent collection of more than 12,000 objects has been called the best balanced in the state outside of metropolitan New York City. In addition to its collection, the Gallery offers a year-round schedule of temporary exhibitions, lectures, concerts, tours and family activities.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Syracuse, NY

Founded in 1914, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is among the top 10 percent of zoos in the country as an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is dedicated to connecting people to the natural world by providing engaging guest experiences, exceptional animal care, and unparalleled conservation education. The zoo actively collaborates with Friends of the Zoo to provide its guests “the best day ever,” ensuring experiences that excite, memories that endure, and knowledge that inspires worldwide conservation.

Breakout Games

East Syracuse, NY

This isn’t your average outing or everyday experience, Breakout is for those who would rather solve the mysteries than watch someone else have all the fun. With different rooms that follow unique story-lines, you and your friends will have 60 minutes to escape at your adventure of choice by cracking codes, solving puzzles and following clues. Part problem solving, part adrenaline, end-to-end fun.

Albany Institute of History & Art

Albany, NY

Founded in 1791, the Albany Institute of History & Art is one of the oldest museums in the United States. It also is the major repository for the region’s heritage, with nationally significant collections. The museum shop is open during regular museum hours and offers a selection of items that reflects current exhibitions, items from the collections, and the work of local artists and craftspeople.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House Complex

Buffalo, NY

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House Complex preserves, interprets and promotes a world class, master-piece built for Wright’s significant patron and friend.

Museum of Modern Art

New York, NY

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Buffalo, NY

The Botanical Gardens is a national historic site, education center and tourist destination full of exotic horticulture treasures from around the world. Today, the Botanical Gardens is thriving. Over 100,000 people visit annually to enjoy the amazing architecture and the indoor and outdoor garden sanctuaries. It is a gathering place where visitors can find peace and harmony and enjoy the simple power of the natural world. Some visitors also see it as a place for spiritual healing, meditation and reflection.

The Battery

New York, NY

Encompassing 25 acres of waterfront parkland, the Battery is the largest public open space Downtown. The Battery hosted Dutch settlers when they came to Manhattan Island and established New Amsterdam. Now the Battery is truly the cradle of New York history, the front lawn of the Downtown district, and a hub of harbor access and cultural tourism. Over four million people, including residents, office workers, school groups, and tourists from around the world annually visit the park and its major landmark, Castle Clinton National Monument.