New York State is one of the most popular holiday destinations for local and foreign tourists. Its state capital, New York City, is also the most popular American city worldwide. Interestingly, the state of New York was originally called New Amsterdam under the Dutch, who discovered it. Later, the British conquered the state and changed its name to honor the Duke of York. Despite being home to the United Nations headquarters in New York City, the state has other attractions that make it a must-visit for families. Here are 8 amazing attractions that vacationers will enjoy in Upstate New York.

8 Thousand Islands

The name "thousand islands" is a little misleading because this destination has 1,800 islands. Some Islands stretch into Canada. The best way to get around these islands is by boat, which is great if the family is dying for such a trip. There's also a scenic cruise ready to take tourists around the islands as they explore castles, mansions, and lighthouses. The coolest part about the Thousand Islands is that they used to host real-life pirates. A trip around old structures is also educational. Aside from boating, the islands have plenty of hike trails on land. Kids can fish in the Mary Island State Park as adults hold retreats.

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7 Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is an ideal travel destination for families looking to explore artifacts and structures associated with the Mohawk Indian Tribe. The mineral waters of the Springs are thought to be one of the key reasons why the tribe settled in the area thousands of years ago. Thankfully, families on vacation can enjoy all that Saratoga Springs offers as most of the property is restored and protected. The experience is therapeutic as drinking water from the mineral springs is allowed. It is complemented by the freedom to cleanse off in dozens of spas found at the state park. The destination is great for families that want to bond over historical artifacts.

6 Cooperstown

Families that love sports will find a haven in Cooperstown, which is one of the most sought-after small towns to travel to in America. While there is little evidence suggesting that baseball was invented here, Cooperstown is considered the mecca of sports in America. Its main sight and greatest attraction is the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Apart from sports, families will enjoy memorable experiences such as visiting the Fenimore Art Museum, which features breathtaking art. Those who would rather explore something closer to a rural setup can visit the Farmer's Museum, which has amazing local agriculture exhibitions. Cooperstown is a rich destination for art, architecture, drinks, and food. Families will not run out of places to visit, from the breweries to the wineries and neoclassical buildings such as the Hyde Hall.

Related: 5-Day Bucket-List Road Trip Circuit: Explore Upstate New York

5 Shelter Islands

Families that need to escape the chaos of city life and relax by the ocean will not go wrong vacationing at the Shelter Islands. They're located between the South and North forks of Long Island. It's one of the best places to experience the rich aviary of New York State as one-third of the Shelter Island is the Mashomack Preserve. Bird watchers can spot more than 200 bird species as they stroll on the beaches of Shelter Island. Taking long walks with kids is fun and safe since there are hiking trails between the salt marshes and meadows. Accommodation is top-notch as the island features exquisite Victorian-style buildings for families.

4 Ithaca Town

Cornell University and Ithaca College are two of the most popular educational centers in upstate New York. What's more interesting is that they are designed to attract learners and tourists. Ithaca college town features stunning natural beauty for kids and adults. For example, the town has more than 150 waterfalls that families can visit on holiday. The forests and gorges around Ithaca are dense. They have a bike and walking trails, making Ithaca a great destination for a weekend. Families that would rather fish will enjoy themselves on the Cayuga Lake, where they can also boat.

3 Letchworth State Park

Upstate New York is almost synonymous with gorges, explaining why the Letchworth State Park is quite popular. This destination is great for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The extensive nature of the park makes it a must-visit. With a 66-mile hiking trail, Letchworth State Park serves as a healthy break from daily chores. Other cool activities for adults and kids include rafting, kayaking, biking, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and biking. Even better, the park is great for winter sports such as snowmobiling, and skiing.

2 Syracuse

Syracuse is a perfect travel holiday destination for families and couples. Visitors will enjoy art galleries, historical attractions, and art venues that history buffs like. Sports fans in the family will be treated to electric matches at the NBT Stadium or the Carrier Dome. To top it off, little ones will have the time of their lives at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, feeding and playing with different animals.

1 Long Island

No trip to Upstate New York is complete without visiting Long Island's spectacular places. It's a perfect place for families to relax on sandy beaches. The Jones Beach State Park is a good venue for families since it has a mini-golf course, shuffleboard areas, and a swimming pool. Adults can enjoy drinking lots of wine at the beach and in the parks, as Long Island has 73 wineries. Long Island's restaurants and other eateries are known for serving international delicacies, which is great for travelers from outside of New York.