Yes, NYC can easily monopolize all of your vacation time, but don’t sleep on the incredible landscapes that await you in New York State. We have all the information you need on how to get there and around.
There are many options for exploring the cities, beaches, and beautiful landscapes of New York State: trains to the easternmost point of Long Island, buses through the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes, flights to Syracuse and Niagara Falls, and more.
No matter how you get around New York State, one thing is certain—the path you take will be stunning in any month, with fall foliage, snowy mountains, green spring landscapes, and summer lushness delighting travelers throughout the year.
Take in New York State’s Varied Scenery Along the Rails
Outside of urban subway tunnels, New York State’s beauty looks glorious through the window of a train carriage.
How to Get to Long Island by Train
New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates the subway and two commuter-rail networks stretching well beyond the city limits. For all points east, hop on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
From its Manhattan hub at Penn Station, 947 daily trains snake out across 700 miles of track along 11 lines covering almost all of Long Island. The longest LIRR line terminates at Montauk, which is the easternmost point of Long Island and the state, approximately 120 miles from the city.
How to Get to Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Rockland County by Train
The MTA also runs the Metro-North Railroad, taking passengers north from the majestic Grand Central Terminal. Three lines branch out from there: the Harlem line travels through Westchester and up to Dutchess County; Hudson line trains follow a stunning riverside track in the Hudson Valley up to Poughkeepsie; while the New Haven line snakes east to New Haven, Connecticut. Two additional lines cross New Jersey into Rockland County, on the west side of the Hudson.
For both the LIRR and Metro-North, fares depend on peak (NYC-bound trains from 6–10 am; outbound trains from 4–8 pm) and off-peak travel times as well as distance.
How to Get to Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and Niagara Falls by Train
If you’re heading to areas further out, Amtrak goes the distance. Its north-south line stretches from New York City to just shy of the Canadian border, while an east-west line connects Albany with Niagara Falls.
As with all Amtrak tickets, buying early improves chances for lower fares; be aware that some last-minute fares can cost more than a plane ticket. While seats are unreserved in coach class, be prepared to pay a fine if you board without a ticket.
Both Amtrak and Metro-North serve the Hudson Valley; however, fares on Metro-North are generally lower.
Hopping on the Bus is a Budget-Friendly Option
Numerous bus companies connect cities and towns throughout New York State.
Greyhound has about 60 stations in the state, serving visitor-friendly places like Buffalo, Cooperstown, Ithaca, Lake Placid, and Saratoga Springs. Each coach includes free wi-fi, power outlets, and extra legroom.
A low-cost competitor, Megabus, offers extremely cheap rides—sometimes as low as $1 if you book early—across the state. Trailways also has an extensive network, especially in the Catskills.
Save Time by Catching a Flight Across the State
New York State spans a considerable distance. If you need to get between New York City and an upstate city quickly, consider a flight from LaGuardia, Kennedy, or Newark Airports, even though they’re not the most environmentally friendly option.
United offers nonstop flights to Ithaca, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse from Newark; JetBlue serves Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse from JFK, while Delta also covers various New York State destinations.
Take a New York State Road Trip
Renting a car can be beneficial for getting around New York State. Much of the state’s natural beauty lies in its mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, making having your own vehicle practical.
Major car rental brands operate throughout the state, usually at airports and city centers. Consider rental services that allow you to choose from private vehicles, often with delivery options.
New York State requires car rental companies to rent to any licensed driver 18 years and older, although a surcharge may apply for those under 25.
Accessible Transportation in New York State
While New York has varying requirements for accessible public transportation, most train, plane, and bus services typically accommodate various mobility issues. Nonetheless, if traveling further from a major city, it’s advised to check ahead regarding accessibility options from local transportation providers.
