New York State Explorer - 10 Day Self Drive with flights

This morning, pick-up your rental car and begin your exploration of New York State with a 90 minute drive to the Hudson Valley. Designated as a National Heritage Area, the valley is steeped in history, natural beauty, culture, a burgeoning food and farmer's market scene and great shopping. Treat yourself with a visit to the world's premier culinary college - The Culinary Institute of America. While here, join a student guided tour, do a little shopping and be sure to enjoy the campus' award-winning restaurants and cafes.

Begin your journey east from the Hudson Valley to Syracuse, the eastern gateway to the Finger Lakes region. Explore downtown's Armory Square in the afternoon and evening, a revitalised neighbourhood boasting specialty restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment venues with a unique charm.

Dedicate the following day to shopping at Destiny USA, the sixth-largest shopping centre in the United States. Indulge in premier shopping, dining, and entertainment, from well-known brands to unique experiences like Go Karts at Pole Position, bowling, and high ropes courses. After your shopping spree, venture to the nearby village of Skaneateles for a delightful evening. This Finger Lakes gem offers fine boutique shopping, art galleries, wineries, and a scenic boat tour on Mid-Lakes Navigation.

On day six, start your morning at the Ska-nonh - Great Law of Peace Centre, a Heritage Centre focusing on the history of the native peoples of central New York, particularly the Onondaga Nation. Dive into the rich cultural narrative of one of the last sovereign Indigenous peoples in the US. In the afternoon, visit the Erie Canal Museum, dedicated to preserving the only existing weighlock building in the US. Explore hands-on exhibits and a full-size replica of a canal boat. Conclude your day with a feast at the original Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Syracuse, a legendary spot known for its critically acclaimed barbecue and live blues music lineup.

Today, hit the road on a journey to Buffalo, New York's second-largest city. Upon arrival, explore the gem of Buffalo, Canalside, situated on the shores of Lake Erie. This vibrant destination offers free events throughout the summer, inviting you to dine along the water, stroll the boardwalk, take historical boat tours, and partake in activities like kayaking or water biking. Visit the Naval & Military Park Museum, housing decommissioned US Naval vessels, and witness the spectacular sunset over the lake. As night falls, be enchanted by Buffalo's historic grain elevators transforming into a captivating light sculpture, visible from the boardwalk and Outer Harbor. Extend your exploration to the Riverworks Restaurant & Brewery for another scenic view before retiring to your hotel.

Dive into Buffalo's architectural wonders with a focus on Frank Lloyd Wright's designs. Begin with a tour of the Martin House, a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. Join the Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tour for a city exploration, filled with interesting facts and laughter. Explore outdoor delights by visiting craft breweries or using Buffalo's Brewcation Passport. Alternatively, explore The Buffalo Zoo or enjoy shopping and dining in the Elmwood Village.

On your final day, start your morning with a self-guided walking tour, discovering beautiful buildings and public art in Buffalo's neighbourhoods. Savour Buffalo Style Wings at the Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the original chicken wing. After lunch, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls at Niagara Falls State Park. Experience the falls up close with the Cave of the Winds or the Maid of the Mist boat ride. Capture the falls' majesty from the Observation Tower. In the evening, witness the falls transform into a mesmerising water and light masterpiece. Return to Buffalo, concluding your exploration of this dynamic city and the natural wonder of Niagara Falls.

Today marks the end of your exploration of New York State. Return your car to Buffalo International Airport in readiness for your return flight home.