The two major considerations to take into account when planning a trip to New York State are seasons and size. As a state in the extreme northeast of the country, New York is not a year-round destination for everybody; some destinations are season-specific (as well as sport-specific). Summer is perfect for most types of trips, especially for families, but spring and fall (particularly the latter for leaf-peepers) can be best of all. New York is the third biggest state in the U.S. by population and is the largest state in the northeast, and while it may not be as large as some states out west, its size and geography mean that zipping from New York City upstate to the Adirondacks or Finger Lakes may not be the simple matter some believe it to be. Crossing the state takes time and effort, making regional vacations the way to go for most travelers. Most people want to include New York City on their itinerary, and it can easily be combined with a trip to another region, whether that means Long Island, the Hudson River Valley, the Catskill Mountain Region, or even something farther removed in upstate New York.
Of course, New York City requires its own unique preparation. Travelers should be prepared for the expense of staying and eating in the city, which in most cases is considerably higher than other parts of the state, as well as the sheer size and bustle that many people from smaller hometowns may not be familiar with (though for a city of its size, New York is considered very safe). Getting around the city requires a mastery of public transportation, walking, or the added expense of taxis, while traveling beyond the city requires renting a car or taking a combination of trains and buses. International visitors will find themselves at home in New York City, an extremely international city with many languages spoken; the rest of the state is much less so.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
