New York State Flights and Travel Guide

From upstate in Albany to the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York state offers something for everyone. While its main draw is the urban culture of Manhattan, some travelers booking flights to New York know of a few hidden treasures far away from the yellow cabs and mobs of people in New York City.

Just a short distance from Manhattan is Long Island where New York visitors can take in the beaches and boardwalks that make this island ideal. Home to the Hamptons – made famous by hobnobbing socialites and Hollywood superstars – Long Island is appealing to anyone’s taste.

While native New Yorkers have discovered (and rediscovered) the peacefulness of the Catskill and Adirondack mountains, visitors booking flights to New York are finding their way to “upstate,” too. Known as upstate New York, the area is perfect for outdoor adventures. Skiers, snowboarders and nature-lovers will enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and the small-town feeling of the country that is often forgotten in urban New York.

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New York State Climate

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When to Fly to New York State

Peak Season:

New York City’s peak season is October through December, which is the beginning of the cultural season. New Year’s Eve is a big draw and many travelers booking New York flights and accommodations need to plan ahead. Spring and summer are also busy, but reduced rates on flights to New York and hotel rooms can be found.

Peak season in the Hamptons is the summer months. Visitors planning vacations in the Hamptons need to book New York flights and rental homes at least six months in advance.

Off Season:

Except for Valentine’s Day, the best time to find cheap flights to New York and discounted hotel rates is January through March.

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Getting Around New York State

New York City has a great subway and bus system and taxis are fairly easy to hail. Although it may appear to be straightforward, this is one place where driving is best left to the professionals. In New York City, the subway system is easy to use and often the best mode of transportation. Take the Long Island Railroad to points in Long Island from Manhattan.

For Buffalo and Albany it’s a good idea to rent a car. Downtown Albany is easy enough to get around on foot or by bus or trolley, but you may find that driving is better, especially outside the city center.

Depending on the distance you’re covering, the number of airports in the Mid-Atlantic area make flying an option and catching a discount New York flight fairly easy. There are numerous small airports throughout New York state that cater to travelers.

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New York State Insider Information

• There’s no mistaking that New York City is one of the most exciting places to be. This island has some of the best performing arts, museums, galleries, and shopping in the country. You can find nearly everything from exclusive stores, funky Village shops, and hard-bargaining street vendors. The best part is that the city accommodates any budget from whirlwind spending to a student stipend.
• Buffalo was once a millionaire’s city. Although not true today, the Frank Lloyd Wright houses, H. H. Sullivan and E. B. Green buildings, and Olmsted’s Delaware Park all speak of an affluent past. The city is also home to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, world-famous for its collections of modern works, particularly recent American and European works.
• First settled by the Dutch as a trading post, Albany is the oldest continuous settlement of the original 13 colonies. Well-known for Nelson Rockefeller’s Empire State Plaza, modeled on Brasilia, the city also bills itself as a weekend getaway, offering visitors early American architecture, historical homes, museums, music halls, art galleries, skiing, hiking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Head to the Hamptons and join the be-and-be-seen crowd during the summer. Homes in the Hampton's book up fast so if you're planning on spending some time there during the summer, book New York flights and Hampton homes early on.

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New York State Airports

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Passport/Visa

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Entry Requirements

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