Things to do in Western New York State

Western New York is chock full of interesting cultural sites, with tourism dominated by two immensely popular attractions. Niagara Falls is a celebrated honeymoon destination while the Finger Lakes attract hikers, campers, fishermen, and boaters from all over the US.

Another wonderful scenic attraction in the region is the Letchworth State Park, fondly named 'The Grand Canyon of the East'. The Allegeny State Park and the Allegheny Forest also offer ample space for outdoor recreation. Popular cities and towns include Rochester, Buffalo, Jamestown, and Niagara Falls, which all make good travel hubs. Rochester, famous for being the birthplace of amateur photography, is home to the Strong National Museum of Play and some celebrated theatres.

Buffalo's top tourist attractions include the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, and some lovely gardens and parks. The Six Flags Darien Lake theme park and concert venue, about half way between Rochester and Buffalo, also attracts throngs of visitors in the warm summer months.

Niagara Falls photo

Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls straddle the United States and Canadian border, 340 miles (547km) northwest of New York City. They are one of the most popular natural attractions in the country,…

Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls straddle the United States and Canadian border, 340 miles (547km) northwest of New York City. They are one of the most popular natural attractions in the country, attracting more than 20 million tourists a year. The river plunges over a cliff of dolostone and shale, forming one of the largest waterfalls on earth. While best appreciated via a boat trip, there are a number of different tours available that will probably touch on the numerous daredevils that have braved its drop. Many have gone over in barrels, while a tightrope crossing in 1859 has inspired scores of tightrope walkers to do the same.

Website www.niagaraparks.com

Finger Lakes photo

Finger Lakes

The 11 narrow Finger Lakes are popular getaways for boating and fishing, the surrounding rolling hills interspersed with waterfalls, gorges and parks perfect for Hikers, cyclists a…

Finger Lakes

The 11 narrow Finger Lakes are popular getaways for boating and fishing, the surrounding rolling hills interspersed with waterfalls, gorges and parks perfect for Hikers, cyclists and skiers. Its name comes from Native Americans believing the Finger Lakes formed when one of their gods reached out to bless their region, leaving behind an imprint of their hand. Known also for its wine industry, most of the vineyards sit on the Cayuga Wine Trail, overlooking the Cayuga Lake. They offer tours, tastings and a variety of tourist accommodation from luxury lodges to campsites.

Buffalo photo

Buffalo

Buffalo sits on the eastern shore of Lake Erie, serving as a good base for visiting Niagara Falls and for exploring the Finger Lakes region. The city has some noteworthy Victorian …

Buffalo

Buffalo sits on the eastern shore of Lake Erie, serving as a good base for visiting Niagara Falls and for exploring the Finger Lakes region. The city has some noteworthy Victorian architecture and good museums. Indeed, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery contains an impressive collection of works by American artists and hosts many great touring exhibitions, while the Buffalo Zoo is home to an exotic assortment of animals from all over the world. The nearby Letchworth State Park is popular with hikers and offers wonderful views over the Genesee River Gorge, promoted as the 'Grand Canyon of the East'.