Now that long days spent working are a thing of the past, it’s time to start planning your next chapter of adventure! In New York State, there are plenty of unforgettable trips for retirees looking to travel, whether you’re searching for a relaxing spa retreat in the Finger Lakes or a thrilling journey to the base of the mighty Niagara Falls. Check out these 11 amazing New York State destinations to reward yourself for your hard years of work and embrace your retirement era. 

Niagara Falls (Greater Niagara)

Niagara Falls at sunset on a family-friendly getaway to Greater Niagara, NYCredit: @alexandralucero on Instagram

Is Niagara Falls on your retirement travel bucket list? Let’s make those dreams a reality! Head to Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the country, where you’ll find a variety of ways to experience the falls. The vintage-style Niagara Scenic Trolley provides guided tours throughout the park on wheels, stopping at top attractions. Journey to the base of American Falls and basin of Horseshoe Falls on a Maid of the Mist boat cruise or don the famous blue ponchos for a 175-feet descent into the awe-inspiring Niagara Gorge to Hurricane Deck on a Cave of the Winds tour. While in the area, be sure to check out the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. If you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal, head to the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute’s student-led Savor restaurant for dishes made from some of the area’s top chefs or sign up for one of the cooking classes and learn from the pros.

Manhattan (New York City)

Bright pink cherry blossoms in Central Park frame green trees and skyscrapers in New York City

Iconic sight-seeing, world-class museums, spectacular Broadway performances, and more, it’s time to cross New York City off your retirement travel bucket list! Take a stroll through 800-acre Central Park, boasting an array of splendid sights like Delacorte Theater, Belvedere Castle, the Bethesda Terrace, and Wollman Lake. Over 40 Broadway theaters are scattered throughout the Theatre District, so there’s no shortage of musicals, plays, and special events to enjoy. Where else can you visit the world’s most famous museums all in one place? Top spots like The Met, MoMA, Guggenheim, and American Museum of Natural History are waiting for you to explore! Admire city skyline views on a scenic cruise out to the Statue of Liberty where you can admire the view from below or climb to the pedestal or crown. While visiting, be sure to pay a visit to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Not only is admission included in your ticket, it’s also the country's official museum chronicling all eras of American immigration.

Chautauqua (Chautauqua-Allegheny)

The Athenaem Hotel at the Chautauqua Institution on surrounded by green grass and blue skies on a Chautauqua-Allegheny New York getawayCredit: @hasanelahi on Instagram

Lakeside grandeur, superb wine, and a rich arts scene await in Chautauqua! The famed Chautauqua Institution’s nine week summer season (June 21-August 24) is a must for those looking to experience exceptional art and culture, so why not use your new free time from retirement and stay for a week or two (or all nine)? Check out the schedule to snag tickets for a variety of concerts, lectures, dance performances, classes, and more with special guests like Morgan Freeman and Smokey Robinson. In the off season, you can roam the beautiful Institution grounds for free. Venture into Lake Erie Wine Country and explore more than 40 miles of vineyards along Lake Erie like Noble Winery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, and 21 Brix Winery. Dive even deeper into the region's grape-growing history at the Grape Discovery Center with exhibits and displays exploring its 150-year past. If you want to spend some time out on Chautauqua Lake, book one of the Chautauqua Belle’s dinner, lunch, fall foliage, or evening cocktail cruises.

West Point (Hudson Valley)

United State Military Academy at West Point

Looking to fill your retirement with art, history, and scenic sights? West Point is the trip for you. Start off with a relaxing two-hour sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River with Pride of the Hudson, where you’ll get to soak up stunning views along the river like Bannerman’s Castle, Storm King and Breakneck Mountains, Cold Spring, and West Point. Back on land, hear the story of West Point and the United States Military Academy from its role in the Revolutionary War to today with West Point Tours. Throughout the bus tour, you’ll make stops at Trophy Point, the Battle Monument, and Plain and the Cadet Chapel. Explore even more history with a visit to the West Point Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits highlighting the academy’s role in American history. A 20-minute drive north will land you at the magnificent Storm King Art Center. This 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden nestled in the picturesque Hudson Highlands is perfect for a relaxing stroll and features a stunning collection of modern sculptures.  

Sylvan Beach (Central New York)

View of the sun setting over Oneida Lake from the patio at a bar restaurant at The Cove at Sylvan Beach in Central New YorkCredit: @soundshoremoms on Instagram

In search of an easy retirement vacation that requires little planning? Located on the shores of Oneida Lake is the cozy resort village of Sylvan Beach. The Cove is the ultimate all-season getaway with cozy cottages, beachfront access to the sparkling lake, a pool, fire pits, fishing, and more, all in one place. If you’re an avid angler, rent a boat with Sylvan Beach Supply Co. and head out onto the lake, which is best known for its walleye and yellow perch fishery. For a unique experience, book a private excursion with Bassmaster Pro elite fisherman Jamie Hartman! Off the resort, take a deep dive into the rich history of the Oneida People through a variety of engaging exhibits, art work, and more at the Shako:wi Cultural Center. Put your luck to the test at more than 2,000 slot machines at Turning Stone Resort Casino and if you’re looking to de-stress, pay a visit to the award-winning Skana spa. 

North Fork (Long Island)

A glass of red wine from Pindar Vineyards in front of a field of yellow sunflowersCredit: Anna Pakman

If your retirement travel goals include laying out on sunny beaches and sipping award-winning wine, we’ve got the trip for you! Kick off your visit by sipping through North Fork Wine Country, where you’ll find favorites like Pindar Vineyards, Kontokosta Winery, and Bedell Cellars. Amazing beaches can be found around every corner on Long Island, so be sure to soak up the sun at Orient Beach, located on the North Fork’s eastern point. It’s also home to a rare maritime forest with red cedar, black-jack oak trees, and prickly-pear cactus. Don’t miss out on a chance to explore one of the largest lavender farms in the country, Lavender by the Bay! Inhale the fresh scents of lavender, snap pictures among the blooming fields, pick some of your own, and check out lavender goodies. Weave some Long Island history into your trip at the East End Seaport Maritime Museum with displays on area lighthouses, the USS Ohio, USS Holland, model ships, and more.

Saranac Lake (Adirondacks)

Two people paddle in a canoe on the Saranac Lake Chain with a view of early fall colors throughout the Adirondack Mountains

Can’t decide between a luxurious retreat and a nature escape? Retirees looking to combine both can find it all in Saranac Lake. Indulge in the Gilded Age luxury of an Adirondack Great Camp at The Point Resort. Built a century ago by a Rockefeller, the Point is the only Adirondack Great Camp still open to the public, a Relais & Chateaux property, and Forbes five-star resort. Settle into one of the rustically-elegant guest rooms or suites, indulge in a world-class culinary scene, and experience all kinds of activities from in-room fireside massages to ice skating to hiking. Nearby, you’ll find the Wild Center & Wild Walk, where you can stroll across bridges and platforms looking out over the Adirondack forest and explore fun stops like a four-story treehouse and giant-sized bald eagle’s nest. There’s also plenty of paddling opportunities throughout the area including the three Saranac lakes (Upper, Middle, and Lower) and the tranquil Saranac River. For mountain town charm, head to Downtown Saranac Lake, a must-visit for shoppers, foodies, and art lovers alike.     

Sackets Harbor (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

Yellow and white house at Sackets Harbor Historic Site

Planning a retirement trip that includes the whole family? With historic sites, outdoor adventure, and scenic Lake Ontario vistas, there’s something for everyone in Sackets Harbor. History buffs can experience Sackets Harbor’s rich maritime and military history at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, which saw two battles in the War of 1812. Take a tour of the restored 1850 Navy Yard and Commandant’s House. In the summer, guides dress in 1813 military clothing to reenact the camp life of the common soldier. If you’re traveling with the grandkids, head to Old McDonald’s Farm, where little ones can meet more than 200 animals like cows, goats, and even reindeer! Everyone is sure to enjoy some time out on the water aboard your own private sailboat with an experienced captain with Sail Ontario. Lakeside dining is a must-do in this village. 1812 Brewing Co’s outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a bite and a flight of tasty brews, and the Sackets Boathouse serves up lunch, dinner, and signature cocktails from their tranquil deck overlooking the harbor.

Saratoga Springs (Capital-Saratoga)

A horse race in action at Saratoga Race Course

Well-known for world-class horse racing and its naturally-occurring healing mineral waters, Saratoga Springs is perfect for retirees looking for a blend of excitement and relaxation. Melt stress away with a soak in Saratoga’s naturally effervescent water at  Roosevelt Baths & Spa or unwine-d with a flight of tasty wines at Saratoga Winery’s Adirondack-style tasting bar. If you’re visiting in the summer, a trip to the famous Saratoga Race Course is a must, hosting some of horse racing’s biggest races like the Travers and Belmont Stakes. For even more horse racing history, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame takes you on a journey through the sport’s history with their collection of fine art, trophies, and historical artifacts. Keep the museum vibes going and stop at the Saratoga Automobile Museum with exhibits diving into the rich history, innovation, and cultural impact of the automobile. Lovers of the performing arts should head to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for world-class performances from resident companies like the New York City Ballet and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, plus concerts by Live Nation. 

Woodstock (Catskills)

Sign for a shop called "Woodstock Blues" on Woodstock's Tinker Street

Peace, love, and good vibes can be found in this friendly Catskills town, offering a lively, art-filled retirement getaway. While the famous festival that shares the town’s name took place about an hour and a half west in Bethel, Woodstock has always been a hub for all things art and culture. Experience the vibrant theater and music scene at hotspots like the Woodstock Playhouse, Colony Woodstock, or Bearsville Theater. You just can’t visit Woodstock without wandering Tinker Street! Stock up on Woodstock souvenirs at Happy Life Productions, pick out an organic and ethically-made candle at Remedies Herb Shop, or grab a bite to eat at a number of restaurants and cafes like Bread Alone or Silvia. Get a taste of spectacular Catskills views on an easy stroll around the Ashokan Reservoir or venture to Opus 40 in Saugerties, just 10 mins away, to experience a six-acre environmental bluestone sculpture built from an abandoned quarry by one man, Harvey Fite. 

Skaneateles (Finger Lakes)

Exterior of a snowy and lit up MirbeauCredit: @mirbeau on Instagram  

If rest and relaxation is at the top of your retirement getaway wish list, Skaneateles is the trip for you! Start off with a visit to Mirbeau Inn and Spa, where old world charm meets luxurious spa experiences. You can spend the night and experience all the Mirbeau has to offer, including the French bistro-inspired cafe, or purchase a day pass for access to the award-winning spa. If your version of relaxing is enjoying a delicious meal on the sparkling waters of Skaneateles Lake, Mid Lakes Navigation offers dinner, lunch, brunch, and sightseeing cruises. Downtown Skaneateles exudes small town charm and has all kinds of shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques with everything from antiques to brunch spots. You just can’t visit the Finger Lakes without exploring wine country, so be sure to stop by Anyela’s Vineyard for estate-crafted wines, spirits and warm hospitality.

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