Experience the great outdoors with Choice Hotels. Our New York hotels are conveniently located near a number of picturesque gardens, stunning parks, and astounding wildlife. Take a look at the scenery and greenery that New York offers.
In New York City
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
1000 Washington Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11225
718-623-7200
Some of the most beautiful plant species in the world are on full display at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, located along beautiful Prospect Park. The gardens have been hailed as the best in the region, and the diversity of plant life to be found there is almost certain to astound you. Whether you’ve an avid interest in botany or not, an impression will be made upon you when you visit the gardens.
Central Park
Between Central Park West and Fifth Avenue
From 59th Street to 110th Street
The world’s most famous park can be found on the island of Manhattan. In fact, it’s parked smack-dab in the middle of the island – and as such, provides the bustling community of New York City with the escape it sometimes needs from an all-too-frenetic world. Vacationers to New York City will want to explore the park and its beautiful Victorian-style layout, which includes fountains, bridges, several ponds, and a giant reservoir.
New York Botanic Garden
200th Street at Kazimiroff Boulevard
Bronx, NY 10458
718-817-8700
This garden is one of the most hailed gardens in the world. In fact, the impressive collection of plant life housed in its walls has garnered it a place in the National Historic Landmarks Registry. The diversity will astound you, as ecosystems which are displayed at the gardens range from rain forest to desert.
In Long Island
Belmont Lake State Park
Belmont Lake State Park
Babylon, NY 11702
631-667-5055
Visitors to Long Island will surely want to take in the picturesque surroundings which abound on this stretch of land. We say there’s no better place to do that than at Belmont Lake State Park, which features a full host of facilities to keep the eager naturist at peace. Boating and fishing on Belmont Lake are definitely an option, and horseback riding and skiing will allure even the tamest adventurer into a day of beauty and excitement.
Wildwood State Park
Hulse Landing Road
Wading River, NY 11792
631-929-4314
What better way to experience the beauty of Long Island than on a park which encompasses 600 acres of dense hardwood forest? Well, Wildwood State Park has just that, but also more – a stunning vista over the Long Island Sound will entrance guests into staying the whole day. Hungry? Head down to the picnic area, where beautiful flatlands await your bread-and-cheese moments. Playgrounds, swimming, fishing, hiking, skiing and more – and only at Wildwood State Park, on beautiful Long Island, New York.
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Sunrise Highway
Oakdale, NY 11769
631-581-1005
Beautiful flora and fauna await guests on travel to New York who want to witness the natural beauty of the area which seduced the settlers of scores of years ago. Now you can see the charming wildlife of the Long Island region as Connetquot River State Park Preserve is so bountifully dedicated to preserving it. Snake down 50 miles of hiking trails, or don a saddle and giddy up down a horseback trail. Cross-country skiing as well as fishing along the riverfront make this Long Island destination a favorite.
In Hudson Valley
6 ½ Station Road Sanctuary
6 ½ Station Road
Goshen, NY 10924
845-294-3674
A certified member of the Orange County Audubon Society, the Sanctuary is sure to provide birdwatchers both young and old alike the chance to reacquaint with nature and spend a day with our feathered, winged friends, the birds.
Algonquin Park
Powder Mill Road and Route 52
Newburgh, NY 12550
845-562-8413
Vacationers traveling to New York State who find themselves in the Hudson Valley and wish to revisit nature in a pristine setting are advised to make a stop at Algonquin Park, where history and natural beauty converge in an unbeatable setting. 42 sprawling acres comprise the park, and picturesque features include three ponds, a stream, and beautiful wooded areas which typify the gorgeousness of the Hudson Valley. Hungry? Unpack at the picnic area while you unload the kids at the children’s playground.
Brookfield Trail System
Moscow Road
Brookfield, NY 13314
607-674-4036
Just how long can you hike for? We’re willing to bet no matter what your answer, Brookfield Trail System has enough mileage to keep your feet entertained – over 130 miles of trails wind through the Hudson Valley. But don’t leave your eyes out of the entertainment – take in the steep, rocky trails and beautiful forested vistas which you snake your way through. Other entertainment includes horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
In Central Leathstocking
Secret Caverns
Caverns Road
Howes Cave, NY 12092
518-296-8558
Vacationers from all around the world are drawn into the gait of New York’s geological richness in the Central Leatherstocking region, where some of the world’s most interesting earthly wonders can be found. And if you find yourself here, you’re encouraged to take a subterranean trip into the earth at Secret Caverns, where you’ll be led through a natural entrance into an ancient underground cave. Explore fossil remains, see a massive underground waterfall, and more at these wondrous caverns.
Howe Cavernsg
I-88 Exit 22
Off Caverns Road
Howes Cave, NY 12092
518-296-8900
Don’t ask how, just head down to Howe Caverns, where you’ll see the stunning geology of the area’s rich natural history in full display – all in a 10-million-year-old underground cave. Take a trip below the earth and you’ll find numerous natural features that will stun and amaze you. Take a boat ride on a beautiful underground lake if your fancy so directs you.
Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park
173 David Road
Westford, NY 13488
607-547-8662
There’s no better place to experience the woodsy beauty that is to be found in the Central Leatherstocking region of New York State than at Betty and Wilbur David State Park, a beautiful refuge of natural sanctity. Come here for stunning views of the south and west of the region, or to hike down one of many trails which run their extensive courses throughout the park. Wind past streams and beautiful wooded forest, never missing an opportunity to adore the beautiful array of flora and fauna which peacefully await your arrival.
In Capital-Saratoga
Almy D. Coggeshall Plotter Kill Nature Preserve
Mariaville Road/Coplon Road
Schenectady, NY 12306
518-386-2225
How many acres can you ask for? The Almy D Coggeshall Plotter Kill Nature Preserve asked for 632, and they got them all. Now they have been put to good use, preserving the nature of the land and the sanctity of the flora and fauna which populate beautiful New York State. Hike through miles of gorgeous wooded lands, and you might come across one of three dazzling waterfalls which careen their way through this pristine forest.
Schenectady County Forest
Lake Road
Duanesburg, NY 12056
518-386-2225
Who wouldn’t want to witness the beauty of the land of New York in its perfectly preserved state? Make a visit to Schenectady County Forest, and you’ll see the lay of the land in full display over 100 acres of gorgeous land. Hike through the New York forest, or bring the skis in the wintertime from some prime cross-country action. Fishing and hunting are other popular activities at the forest.
Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park
Wilton Town Hall
22 Traver Road
Gansevoort, NY 12831
518-587-1939
This park’s existence centers around the preservation of the beautiful species of the Karner Blue Butterfly. Guests to the park will enjoy bountiful recreational and educational opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful species of plant and animal life which populate the preserve as you tread through miles of gorgeous trails.
In Greater Niagara
Bergen Swamp
6646 Hessenthaler Road
585-548-7304
Bergen Swamp is an unusual habitat which encompasses many species which one would rarely find outside of a preserved environment like the one found here. Sprawling over 1,900 acres, there is vast opportunity to acquaint oneself with the diverse and unique plant and animal life which populates the swamp. Dating over 125,000 years back, the swamp is home to countless rare and endangered species.
Big Six Mile Creek Marina
Whitehaven Road Way
Grand Island, NY 14072
716-773-3270
The choices you’ve got at your disposal at Big Six Mile Creek Marina are many, and the troubles you’ll find here are few. A popular New York State destination for boaters, the marina provides a launch which grants access for boating and fishing across the aquatic expanse found here. Also to be enjoyed are 134 seasonal boat slips, and delicious ice cream.
Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride
21 Main Street
Lockport, NY 14094
716-438-0174
Want to see the world through eyes you never thought you’d see through before? Take a trip down to Lockport Cave, where you’ll delve into the depths of the cavernous underground to witness some of nature’s most stunning offerings. Ride a boat through the waters of this subterranean environment, walk your way through a 1600-foot water-power tunnel, and learn about the history of the Erie Canal.
In Finger Lakes
Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary
159 Sapsucker Woods Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-254-2473
At Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary, guests are afforded a beautiful pond-feeding garden and 30-foot windows through which they’ll catch a glimpse of the natural action. Ongoing exhibits and theatre make this a choice outdoors destination, as do more than four miles of hiking trails through scenic wooded wetlands.
Cumming Nature Center
6472 Gulick Road
Naples, NY 14512
585-374-6160
Guests to the Cumming Nature Center will be delighted that over 15 miles of beautifully groomed trails await them. Snowshoe trails are also available, and snowshoe rentals provide a means to make the suitcase a little lighter. Biking and bird watching are also popular activities at the Cumming Nature Center.
Genesee Valley Greenway Trail
64 Main Street
Mount Morris, NY 14510
585-658-2569
The gorgeous thing about the Genesee Valley Greenway Trail is, well, everything. Frm the unforgettable wooded scenery it winds its way through to the historic route it follows along the Genesee Valley Canal and the Pennsylvania Railroad, a hike however long down this 90-mile recreational trail is sure to yield a positive experience for naturalists and newcomers alike.
In Adirondacks
Prospect Mountain
Prospect Mountain
Lake George, NY 12845
518-761-6366
When vacationers to New York State want to commune with nature, the prime destination they head for is the Adirondacks. Now you can see why at Prospect Mountain, where hiking trails wind their way along beautiful scenic woods and an old cable railway. At the top of the mountain, beautiful views of Lake George are to be garnered, and bird life abounds for those with an interested in our winged friends.
Agers Falls
Lyonsdale road
Lyons Falls, NY 13368
315-376-2213
Agers Falls is one of the first places you’ll want to head in exploring the Adirondacks region’s natural beauty. Regionally renowned for its pristine setting and its vast water power, it has been appreciated by generations of vacationers and residents alike. Kayak the falls, or whitewater raft down their plummeting gorges and exciting drops. Hiking, picnicking, and more make this a versatile natural destination.
Point Au Roche State Park
19 Camp Red Cloud Road
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
518-563-0369
You’ll want to discover the beauty that awaits guests at Point Au Roche State Park, where gorgeous vistas of Lake Champlain await you. Play along the shore of Lake Champlain, or hike through the area’s various wooded sites and witness the gorgeous flora and fauna which make the Adirondacks New York State’s most famous natural destination.
In Thousand Islands
El Dorado Nature Preserve-Nature Conservancy
Grandjean Road
Henderon, NY 13650
315-387-3600
At the El Dorado Nature Preserve-Nature Conservancy, guests who love the outdoors and who have a curiosity for the wildlife and various flora and fauna of New York State are invited to view a unique environment full of a variety of waterfowl, birds, raptors, songbirds, and other fascinating animals which await you at this natural destination in the Thousand Islands region.
Robert G. Wehle State Park
315-938-5083
This is the newest park in the Thousand Islands region, and as such is sure to provide guests with loads of nature. One thing is for sure – it might be easy to get lost at Robert G. Wehle State Park, whose 1,100 sprawling acres offer stunning views of the Lake Ontario shoreline from cliffs high above the lake. Hike and bike through this gorgeous expanse and absorb the diversity of native wildlife which surrounds you.
Cedar Point State Park Marina
36661 Cedar Point State Park
Clayton, NY 13624
315-654-2522
This is one of the oldest parks in the New York State park system, and as such the recreational activities here are impressive and vast. Impressive also is the park’s natural beauty, which overlooks beaches, mountains and more. Gorgeous wooded areas are perfect for hiking, and fishing, boating and swimming is popular along the lakefront.
In Chautauqua-Allegheny
Luensman Overview Park
Thayer Road
Mayville, NY 14757
716-763-8928
Luensman Overview Park is one of the most idyllic settings in this region of New York State, and as such is a sprawling natural expanse covering over 70 beautiful wooded acres. Among the attractions that draw guests here are picnic grounds, a comfort station, BBQ grills and tables, along with a superlative view of Lake Erie.
Griffis Sculpture Park
6902 Mill Valley road
East Otto, NY 14729
716-667-2808
At Griffis Sculpture Park, one of the attractions you’re bound to enjoy is the gorgeous scenery which graces the park. Forest land, many scenic ponds, lush wetlands, and sprawling alpine meadows are a few of the biological wonders which present themselves to guests of the park. Also at the park are over 200 sculptures crafted by artists both regional and international.
Gooseneck Hill Waterfowl Sanctuary
5067 Townline Road
Delevan, NY 14042
716-942-6835
Hailed numerous times as a “Bird Lover’s Paradise,” the Gooseneck Hill Waterfowl Sanctuary specializes in bringing together the numerous and fascinating species of bird life which grace New York and the Chautauqua-Allegheny region with their aviary presence. From parrots to ducks and swans, this is truly a sanctuary worth seeing.
In Catskills
Catskill Revitalization Corp.
607-652-2821
Have you come to the Catskills to take part in the natural beauty for which this area is so famous? Catskill Revitalization Corp. has renovated a 19-mile-long trail called the Catskill Scenic Trail, which lies on a former railroad track. Featuring a gentle uphill grade and some of the most picturesque scenery not only in New York State but the world, we suggest you call the number above to find out more.
Kirkside Park
Main Street
Roxbury, NY 12474
607-326-3722
Not only is this site historic, it is also one of the most beautiful in the region. The site was formerly owned by Helen Gould Shepard, who then donated it to naturalistic causes. Guests to the park will want to check out the numerous nature activities which await them, including cross-country skiing, hiking, and fishing.
Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River
274 River road
Narrowsburg, NY 12764
845-252-7100
You’ll want to explore the bountiful beauty that is contained along the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, where you’ll enjoy activities which are in ample supply in a gorgeous natural backdrop. The Delaware is one of the least polluted rivers in America, and as such you’ll enjoy river-essential sports such as swimming, rafting and fishing. Also, look out for the bald eagles which populate this expanse in patriotic numbers.