Our trip to NYC & upstate New York 🗽

Our Trip to NYC & Upstate New York 🗽

Exploring New York City and upstate New York in one trip gives you the best of both worlds: the vibrant city life and the scenic, peaceful landscapes. NYC is known for its towering skyscrapers, iconic sights, and bustling energy, while upstate New York offers serene countryside, charming towns, and natural beauty. This itinerary let us dive into both experiences, soaking in the unique character each region offers.

Day 1-3: New York City

We started in NYC, and there’s no better way to kick off the adventure than by exploring Manhattan. Our first stop was Times Square, where the flashing lights and constant activity made it clear that we were in the heart of the city that never sleeps. We visited the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where we spent hours admiring masterpieces, and we couldn’t resist stopping by the Rockefeller Center to catch a panoramic view of the city from the Top of the Rock.

Of course, we also had to visit Central Park—a peaceful contrast to the surrounding hustle and bustle. We spent an afternoon here, walking the trails, watching street performers, and even renting bikes to explore more of the park’s quiet corners. The food was a major highlight too! We made sure to grab a classic NYC bagel and lox for breakfast, and later, a slice of famous New York-style pizza for lunch. One night, we treated ourselves to dinner at a small Italian restaurant in the West Village—one of the city’s coziest neighborhoods filled with winding streets and historic brownstones.

On our last day in NYC, we went to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Seeing Lady Liberty up close was a moving experience, and exploring the immigrant history on Ellis Island added so much depth to our understanding of the city’s roots. Before heading upstate, we walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and took in the views of Manhattan from Dumbo, a perfect end to our city days.

Day 4-6: Upstate New York

After NYC’s high-energy pace, heading upstate brought a refreshing change. We rented a car and drove north, immediately feeling the difference as skyscrapers were replaced by mountains and open fields. Our first destination was the Hudson Valley, known for its historic mansions and wineries. We stopped in Beacon, a quaint town filled with galleries and artisan shops. We spent the afternoon wandering through the Dia Beacon museum, a converted factory now housing contemporary art installations.

One of the highlights of our upstate journey was visiting Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park nestled among rolling hills. Walking among these massive sculptures set against a backdrop of autumn leaves was surreal—it felt like stepping into another world.

From the Hudson Valley, we ventured further north to the Catskill Mountains. Our cabin was nestled deep in the woods, surrounded by hiking trails and scenic overlooks. We hiked to Kaaterskill Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New York. The crisp air and sound of water made for a peaceful experience, far removed from the crowded streets of NYC.

We also explored some local farms, picking fresh apples and sampling homemade cider. The farm-to-table restaurants in this region were amazing too—upstate New York is known for its seasonal, locally-sourced dishes, and we had one of the best meals of the trip in a small Catskills restaurant where the menu changes based on the day’s harvest.

Reflections

This trip highlighted the rich diversity of New York State. NYC brought us the excitement of a major metropolis, with art, culture, and iconic landmarks at every turn. Upstate New York provided the perfect balance, offering peace, natural beauty, and a chance to slow down and connect with nature. Each part of the state has its own rhythm, yet both feel distinctly “New York.”

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to discover new parts of the state, New York offers endless opportunities to explore, from its bustling streets to its quiet mountains and valleys. Our trip to NYC and upstate New York left us with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for everything this state has to offer.