New York

Take a Maid of the Mist boat tour to get close to these famous waterfalls, or get doused by them on the Cave of the Winds’ Hurricane Deck. Visit the Discovery Center and Adventure Theater to discover the history of this powerful natural wonder.

Once an 1868 railroad bridge, today’s walkway spans the Hudson River from Poughkeepsie to Highland and is one of the largest pedestrian pathways in the world. Walk or bike the loop trail, where Discovery Zones point out geographical and cultural features.

Located in Albany, the enormous New York State Capitol has been around since the 1880s. Take a tour to learn about the 19^th century architecture, artistry and history embodied by this unique institution. Special exhibits are available throughout the year.

The Thousand Islands in the St. Lawrence River play host to this Rhineland-style castle on Alexandria Bay, complete with 120 rooms and accessible by tour boat only. Spend the day exploring Alster Tower as well as the castle’s interior and its mystical gardens and grounds.

This museum devotes itself to telling the story of glass, and there is no shortage of gorgeous examples of the material throughout. Marvel at the museum’s architecture, learn to make your own glass and discover all kinds of fascinating creations, from mosaics and sculptures to glass eyes and artworks that prominently—and often curiously—feature the substance.

The USA’s most enduring pastime gets its due in this Cooperstown institution. Since 1939, the site has been honoring baseball’s greatest figures and their stories through exhibits, interactive displays and artifacts. Take a self-guided tour through the Hall of Fame.

This historic canal sprawls over 800 kilometers through the National Heritage Corridor. Explore 34 historic landmarks and places as well as national parks, forest and refuges. Cycle scenic trails, boat, fish and visit communities shaped by this important waterway system.

Enjoy brilliant autumn foliage from a road trip along the Adirondack Scenic Byway. Bike, hike and even dive shipwrecks here, take a brewery or winery tour or just relax on a log cabin porch. Don’t miss climbing – or simply viewing – the 46 Adirondack High Peaks.

Perched on Long Island’s easternmost point, Montauk’s historic landmark is also home to a museum within its 1860 Keepers House. Climb 128 steps to the top of the tower to see the lantern room as well as the pretty hamlet of Montauk below and the Atlantic Ocean.

For year-round recreation, head to Hunter Mountain, set in the Northern Catskills. Ski or snow tube in winter, take a Skyride or zip line tour in summer and enjoy fishing, hiking, golf, shopping and dining when you aren’t on the mountain.