NY Destination Ranks #3 in Country for Outdoor Getaways

Did you know that over 30% of Americans want to go on an adventure in 2025? With more people looking to unplug and explore the great outdoors, Yardbarker has unveiled its list of the 22 best U.S. destinations for an active getaway. Whether it’s hiking through the mountains or kayaking along the coast, these spots are perfect for anyone craving adventure and fresh air.

And for those who think New York is all about cities and subways, it’s time to rethink that. Upstate New York is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Finger Lakes region just landed at #3 on Yardbarker’s list of the 22 best destinations in the U.S. for an active, outdoor getaway. With breathtaking landscapes, endless trails, and countless water activities, it’s no wonder this hidden gem is climbing the ranks among adventure seekers.

Finger Lakes, NY Ranks #3 for Outdoor Travel in the U.S.

Yardbarker highlights the Finger Lakes for its variety of outdoor activities, stating,

"For out-of-staters, New York might seem like an odd choice for a nature-oriented getaway. "However, it isn’t just Brooklyn and Manhattan. Upstate is full of amazing places to enjoy fresh air."The Finger Lakes are home to many bike trails, walking paths, golf courses, and tennis courts."

That’s just the beginning. The Finger Lakes has over 11 beautiful lakes, some of the best waterfalls in the Northeast and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, or just soaking in the scenic beauty, there is something for every outdoor adventurer.

Why the Finger Lakes Deserves Its Spot

Ranked just behind Bend, Oregon, and San Luis Obispo, California, the Finger Lakes ranks #3 for best outdoor destinations in the country. Here’s why:

Hiking & Biking Trails – Explore Watkins Glen State Park, Letchworth State Park (often called the Grand Canyon of the East), and the Finger Lakes Trail.
Water Sports Galore – From sailing and fishing to stand-up paddleboarding, the region’s lakes offer endless opportunities to get on the water.
Scenic Beauty & Wildlife – Birdwatching, nature photography, and wine tours with a view make this an ideal retreat.
Year-Round Adventures – While summer is perfect for lake activities, fall brings stunning foliage, and winter offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Plan Your Next Getaway

If you’re looking for a destination that offers relaxation and adventure, the Finger Lakes should be at the top of the list. With a perfect mix of outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and charming small towns, it’s no surprise that this region is getting national recognition.

The Full List: 22 Top Outdoor Destinations in the U.S.

Yardbarker’s complete list includes:

Bend, Oregon
San Luis Obispo, California
Finger Lakes, New York
Park City, Utah
Boulder, Colorado
Joshua Tree, California
Juneau, Alaska
Stowe, Vermont
Indiana Dunes, Indiana
Bellingham, Washington
Glen Arbor, Michigan
Newport, Rhode Island
Boundary Waters, Minnesota
The Florida Keys, Florida
Flagstaff, Arizona
Bozeman, Montana
Columbia, South Carolina
Big Bend, Texas
Bar Harbor, Maine
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
The White Mountains, New Hampshire
Hocking Hills, Ohio

15 Impressively Romantic Upstate New York Hotels

Sometimes you need a romantic getaway. Upstate New York has arguably some of the most romantic weekend getaways in our country.

Here's a look at 15 of the top reviewed hotels on Trip Advisor that claim to be some of the most romantic in the state.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

17 Towns Across New York State Are The Best Towns To Raise Kids

A list titled "Best small towns to raise a family" was recently compiled by Stacker, who used data from Niche to come up with the Top 50 small towns across the country that would be the ideal place to put down roots and raise some kids. They looked at various factors, including public schools, jobs, and the cost of living in towns across the U.S. with a population under 5,000.

We are proud to report, New York owned this list. We took 17 slots! Here's who made the list:

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler