The Perfect 7 Day New York Road Trip Itinerary
👉 Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Map | Tips | FAQ | Get Printable Version
New York State is practically designed to be the perfect destination for a road trip. The roads wind through endless mountains, you get a different experience with each season, and there are so many charming places to stop along the way.
Still, it can be difficult to plan a proper New York road trip itinerary if you don’t know the area well.
I grew up in New York and I’m well acquainted with road trips across the Empire State. Using that insight, I created this ultimate road trip itinerary through New York. It’ll take you from the gorgeous Hudson Valley, through some of New York’s cutest small towns, and over to the famous Niagara Falls at the Canadian border.
Let’s get going!
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7 Days New York Road Trip Itinerary
🖨️ Get a printable version of this itinerary here!
Day 1 – Hudson Valley
🛎️ Where to Stay: Hotel Twin Gables of Woodstock ($$$, right in the center of town), Nest Hudson ($$, spotless facilities, central location), Minnewaska Lodge ($$$$, stunning surroundings and upscale rooms)
📍 Google Maps | Where to Stay in Hudson Valley
Most of the state’s major airports are located near New York City, so it makes sense to start your road trip around there. Start by booking your rental car through Discover Cars and then making your way north to explore the long list of fun things to do in the Hudson Valley.
A two-hour drive from Manhattan, you’ll find a bunch of adorable towns scattered around this area. Such as Woodstock, Hudson, Beacon, and New Paltz, one of my favorite day trips from NYC.
First, grab lunch at Oriole 9 in Woodstock before hitting one of the local hiking trails. There are dozens of breathtaking NY hikes through the Catskill Mountains such as the quick 1.4-mile hike to Kaaterskill Falls.
As the sun sets, head over to New Paltz for dinner and drinks. Start the evening at Sideshow Kitchen & Bar before having a cocktail to close out the first day of your New York road trip itinerary.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: Hotel Twin Gables of Woodstock ($$$, right in the center of town), Nest Hudson ($$, spotless facilities, central location), Minnewaska Lodge ($$$$, stunning surroundings and upscale rooms)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: Cucina ($$$), Main Street Bistro ($), Sideshow Kitchen & Bar ($$)
- 🍺 Where to Drink:Jar’d Wine Pub ($) , Sweeney’s Irish Pub ($$)
Day 2 – Lake George
🛎️ Where to Stay: The Inn at Erlowest ($$$, mountain views and a gorgeous pool)
When you wake up on the morning of day two, grab a big cup of coffee from Bread Alone Bakery in Woodstock before setting off for your next stop.
Drive about two hours further along the Hudson River until you reach the famous vacation village of Lake George. Along the way, you’ll pass towns like Saratoga Springs and the New York State Capitol of Albany where you can stop for lunch or just appreciate the sites.
Upon arrival in Lake George, throw on a bathing suit and get some sun at Million Dollar Beach or Lake George Beach. After soaking up a sufficient amount of sunshine, go to a tasting at the Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with The Lagoon and its exceptional views of the lake as you dine. Turn in early for the night because the next few days will be busy.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: The Inn at Erlowest ($$$, mountain views and a gorgeous pool)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: Lake George Beach Club ($$), The Lagoon ($$)
- 🍺 Where to Drink: Adirondack Pub & Brewery ($$), 163 Tap Room ($$), Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery ($$$)
- 📚 Related Guides: Best New York Lakes
- 👉 Pro Tip: If you’re down for adding an extra hour to the second day of driving, you can stay the night in Lake Placid instead. It’s a little less touristy than Lake George, so it might be a better choice during the summer months. Lake Placid is also right near the Adirondack Mountains, so there’s a lot of nature to see nearby.
Day 3 – Syracuse
🛎️ Where to Stay: The Parkview Hotel ($$, super clean and centrally located), Hotel Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor ($$$, modern facilities and good breakfast)
It’s the morning of day three! Munch down on breakfast at Caffe Vero and then hop in the car. It’ll be a three-hour drive west to get to the next destination – Syracuse. Unlike the earlier stops along this itinerary, Syracuse has much more of a city vibe.
You’ll probably arrive in the late afternoon and be hungry for a good meal. Fill your belly at Strong Hearts vegan restaurant. Next, get ready to learn about the area at a few informative New York museums. Start off with the Emerson Museum of Art and the Erie Canal Museum. If you’re traveling as a family, don’t miss the Museum of Science and Technology.
If you need some outdoor time after all that, kick back at Onondaga State Park. Finally, make a reservation at Francesca’s Cucina for delicious Italian food and wine to finish off day three.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: The Parkview Hotel ($$, super clean and centrally located), Hotel Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor ($$$, modern facilities and good breakfast)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: Francesca’s Cucina ($$), Dinosaur Bar-B-Que ($$), Strong Hearts ($)
- 🍺 Where to Drink: Al’s Wine & Whiskey Lounge ($$), Wolff’s Biergarten ($$)
Day 4 – Finger Lakes Region
🛎️ Where to Stay: Savannah House Wine Country Inn & Cottages ($$, lake view and peaceful atmosphere), Los Gatos Bed & Breakfast ($$$, attentive hosts and lovely property), Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel ($$$$, luxury with a lake or village view)
You’re right in the middle of your car excursion through New York. Today, it’s time to take a quick hour-long drive further west to the Finger Lake region. As the name suggests, this area is known for its series of long, slender lakes.
To start the day off, have some brunch at The Elf in the Oak. Their waffle breakfast sandwiches are particularly mouth-watering.
Once you’re stuffed, head to Watkins Glen State Park in the afternoon. You can do a nice hike on the Gorge Trail to the picturesque Rainbow Falls of Watkins Glen. Buttermilk State Falls is also nearby if you want to hit all of New York’s best waterfalls.
In the early evening, discover what the Seneca Lake Wine Trail has to offer. There are plenty of drinks to sample while being surrounded by stunning natural views. You can keep the party going at Rhine House or Nowhere Special Libations Parlor.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: Savannah House Wine Country Inn & Cottages ($$, lake view and peaceful atmosphere), Los Gatos Bed & Breakfast ($$$, attentive hosts and lovely property), Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel ($$$$, luxury with a lake or village view)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: Stonecat: Regional Cuisine & Bar ($$), The Boar’s Nest 414 ($)
- 🍺 Where to Drink:LakeHouse Pub ($$), The Rhine House ($$), Nowhere Special Libations Parlor ($$)
Day 5 – Niagara Falls
🛎️ Where to Stay: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino ($$, close to falls and casino on-site), Gorge View ($, affordable dorm options)
📍 Google Maps | Where to Stay Near Niagara Falls
Day 5 might be the most exciting one of the whole trip because it’s time to visit Niagara Falls. This is a must for any good NY road trip.
From the Finger Lake area, it’ll only be a two-hour drive west on I-90 to reach Niagara Falls by the Canadian border. But first, get food at Scoops Restaurant. Preferably, a plate of pancakes and bacon. Then and only then, make your way to the famed Falls.
After taking your initial photos from above, get a better look at the natural wonder on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. You’ll get a pink poncho to protect your clothes as you ride right up to the roaring waters of the Falls. There are a few other things you can do here in the afternoon, like the funicular and ziplining.
Once you’re tuckered out from getting to know one of the most famous natural attractions in the USA, settle down and relax. Get a table at Nawab’s Indian Cuisine for dinner and wind down the day with a nightcap at Local.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay Near Niagara Falls: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino ($$, close to falls and casino on-site), Gorge View ($, affordable dorm options)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Mansion ($$$), Nawab’s Indian Cuisine ($$)
- 🍺 Where to Drink: The Craft Kitchen & Bar ($$), Local. ($$$)
- 👉 Pro Tip: If you want to get out of Niagara Falls for dinner, Buffalo is less than a 30-minute drive away. The city nestled next to Lake Erie has a bunch of top-notch, affordable places to eat and drink such as Tappo Restaurant and Mr. Goodbar. Plus, there are lots of great places to stay in Buffalo as well.
Day 6 – Ithaca
🛎️ Where to Stay: The Statler Hotel at Cornell University ($$$$, lovely views, big rooms, and pets permitted), Canopy by Hilton ($$$, unique space)
On day 6, mosey on over to Ithaca. It’s about 3 hours east of Niagara, so you’ll probably want to grab a bite to eat before you head out. Stop by Betty’s in Buffalo before you get on the I-90 East and make sure you try the biscuits and gravy specifically.
When you get to Ithaca, stop by the massive campus of Cornell University. The Ivy League is home to some really beautiful architecture and the Cornell Botanic Gardens. Then, head to Cayuga Lake and rent a kayak or canoe. It’ll feel great to get back in touch with nature after being in a car for hours every day.
If you happen to land in Ithaca on the weekend, take a stroll through the Ithaca Farmers Market to buy some local produce. You can find everything to make your own dinner here. Or, opt for a prepared feast by one of the excellent restaurants around the city like Moosewood or Maru Ramen.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: The Statler Hotel at Cornell University ($$$$, lovely views, big rooms, and pets permitted), Canopy by Hilton ($$$, unique space)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: Betty’s ($$), Moosewood ($$), Maru Ramen ($$)
- 🍺 Where to Drink: Ithaca Ale House ($$), The Watershed ($$)
Day 7 – Tarrytown
🛎️ Where to Stay: Castle Hotel & Spa ($$$$, gorgeous views and spa on-site), Courtyard by Marriott Tarrytown Westchester County ($$, well-located)
It’s going to be a bit of a long haul back to the southern tip of New York, so I hope you like scenic drives! It’ll take you around 3 hours and 45 minutes to get from Ithaca to Tarrytown.
Tarrytown is a good finishing point. It’s right next to New York City and easy to reach the NY airports or any car rental location from here. On top of that, Tarrytown is a chill spot with lots of places to unwind from your trip. When you arrive in the late afternoon, try some BBQ pulled pork tacos from The Taco Project.
In the mood to finish your trip with a bit of New York history? Carve out some time to see Washington Irving’s Sunnyside House and Lyndhurst Mansion. If you’re getting tired of visiting attractions, just grab a cappuccino from Muddy Water Coffee and relax.
To finish it all off, catch a show at the Tarrytown Music Hall followed by dinner at Mr. Nick’s Brick Oven and dessert at Main Street Sweets.
- 🛎️ Where to Stay: Castle Hotel & Spa ($$$$, gorgeous views and spa on-site), Courtyard by Marriott Tarrytown Westchester County ($$, well-located)
- 🍽️ Where to Eat: The Taco Project ($$), Lefteris Gyro ($), Mr. Nick’s Brick Oven ($$)
- 🍺 Where to Drink: Set Back Inn ($), Jazz Forum ($$)
New York Road Trip Itinerary Map
Here is a Google Map with all the stops, attractions, and hotels mentioned in this post.
New York Road Trip Itinerary Planning Tips
Tip #1 – Consider the Season
The changing weather in New York is no joke. It’s crucial to consider the best time to visit New York on road trips. Your adventure will look very different in December than it would in July.
In my opinion, the best time for a long drive through New York is late summer into fall, from mid-August to November.
If you stick closer to the summer months, it’ll be perfect swimming and camping weather. In the fall, you’ll get the fall foliage, have comfortable weather, and won’t have to worry about snow yet.
Tip #2 – Plan to Make Stops Between Destinations
Even if you’re only driving a few hours a day, you should plan to make stops. Between the destinations along the itinerary, there are lots of other sites to see. Like Black River Forest on the way to Syracuse. Or Binghamton on the journey out of Ithaca.
Tip #3 – Book Accommodations Ahead of Time
Hotels and Airbnbs in New York sell out fast and get rather expensive if you don’t book in advance. While it’s possible to book hotels along the way during your road trip, these places are usually less nice and much more pricey. Booking in advance is the best choice.
Tip #4 – Set a Budget Before You Leave
Taking a road trip is a favorite style of traveling because it can be cheaper. However, you’d be surprised how fast a road trip can get expensive if you’re not budgeting properly.
With accommodations, restaurants, and paying for activities, it can take a pretty fat chunk of change. Particularly in a costly state like New York. Set a budget ahead of time and stick to it.
Tip #5 – Ask Locals About the Best Things to Do
One of my top New York travel tips for finding the best things to do is to ask the right people. Such as the locals. They have a lifetime of insight into the best things to do around their area.
Take a minute to ask your barista or hotel receptionist for their recommendations. They might enlighten you to a hidden treasure.
Tip #6 – Do Your Research If You’re Renting A Car
If you’re renting a car, do your research beforehand. There are lots of rental options out there at various price points. I’d recommend searching Discover Cars to compare prices before you commit to anything.
Tip #7 – Stop For Free Hikes and Viewpoints
Everyone thinks it’s impossible to visit New York on a budget because it has a reputation for being such an expensive state. One simple way to cut costs though is to do free stuff.
One of my favorite no-cost activities is appreciating the local viewpoints. You’ll pass tons of them organically driving through New York’s scenic routes. However, you can discover even more by setting off on a few hikes along the journey.
Tip #8 – Keep Your Loved Ones Updated
Whether you’re traveling alone or with other people, you should still keep someone at home in the loop when you’re out on the open road. You never know what can happen.
It’s always best to be on the safe side. Let a trusted friend or family member know your route and provide them with updates every step of the way.
Tip #9 – Prepare Your Vehicle For an Adventure
Driving around New York state isn’t the longest trip in the world. But you should still ensure that your car is prepared for anything on the road.
Check all the usual car things, like your tire pressure and lights. Do a deep cleaning on the inside of the vehicle to make sure you feel comfortable on the drive (unless it’s rented, of course). Basically, get your car ready to be put to good use for a week.
Tip #10 – Make a Playlist
Music is a crucial detail of a road trip. When you’re driving along in New York, changing the song is the last thing you want to worry about. Making a playlist in advance solves this issue.
Plus, it gives you the chance to cultivate a vibe for your trip. A good playlist can set the tone for the entire drive. Make that mood an upbeat one that can get you through a full week of driving.
Tip #11 – Resist The Urge to Eat Fast Food Every Day
Many people make the fatal error of eating unhealthy foods throughout a road trip. When you’re constantly passing fast-food places on the highway, it’s hard to resist.
However, these types of foods will make you feel tired and drained. That’s not the ideal condition for driving for hours on end. Instead, try to stick to local joints because they’ll probably be better anyway.
Tip #12 – Camp if You’re on A Tight Budget
Traveling on a budget through New York during the warmer parts of the year? You can lower the price of your road trip significantly by camping instead of booking hotel rooms.
There are exceptional spots to camp across New York State that provide natural beauty and a place to rest your head for a much cheaper price than a traditional hotel. Just make sure you do research beforehand because even certain free sites require a reservation.
Tip #13 – Be Flexible With Your Plan
The beautiful thing about road-tripping is that you can be spontaneous with your travels to a certain extent. As you’re driving between locations, you might pass an eye-catching attraction or a nice place to pull over and eat a picnic lunch.
Don’t shy away from unexpected fun just because it wasn’t part of the original plan. You might miss out on a lifetime memory if you aren’t flexible.
FAQs About Planning a New York Road Trip
Where should I go in upstate New York?
There are so many interesting places to go in upstate NY, including the Hudson Valley, Saratoga Springs, the Adirondack Mountains near Lake Placid, Tarrytown, Niagara Falls, and many more.
What is the prettiest place in New York?
Niagara Falls, the Catskill Mountains, and the Finger Lake region are some of the prettiest places in New York. However, there are lots of beautiful locations across the state, depending on what type of beauty you’re looking for. For more, see our full list of the best places to visit in New York.
How many hours should you drive a day on a New York road trip?
If you’re taking a short excursion around New York, you won’t need to drive more than 4 hours per day. If you’re doing a major trip, like the drive to California from New York, you’ll need to drive around 6 to 8 hours per day.
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That’s a wrap on my 7-day road trip itinerary through New York State!
Planning on stopping by the state’s (and maybe even country’s) most famous city? Don’t forget to read Niamh’s comprehensive list of the 82 Best Things to Do in NYC. Thanks for reading!
