New York State offers a surprising variety of tours that go beyond the typical city sights. From the peaceful, artsy town of Woodstock to the scenic vineyards of Long Island, the state showcases a diversity of experiences that cater to music fans, wine lovers, students, and thrill-seekers alike. We especially love the Woodstock: Rock n’ Roll History Tour for its engaging stories of legends like Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin, and the Canandaigua Lake Wine Tasting Tour for its beautiful vineyard visits and local flavors. Whether you’re looking to learn about musical history or sip some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes, New York’s tours provide authentic, memorable experiences.
To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the best tours in New York State, covering everything from cultural explorations to outdoor adventures. Read on for detailed descriptions to find the perfect fit for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of cultural, wine, university, and outdoor adventure tours. You’ll find a 2.5-hour walk through Woodstock’s legendary music scene, a relaxing full-day wine tasting tour in Canandaigua Lake, and a student-led tour that explores Cornell University’s campus. For wine enthusiasts, Long Island’s East End Wine Tour and private winery trips offer a variety of tastings and scenic landscapes. For thrill-seekers, the Spooky Outdoor Escape Room combines puzzle-solving with outdoor fun in Schoharie County. Each experience offers something distinctive, whether it’s the intimate charm of a private tour or the lively history of Woodstock.
Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours in detail.
1. Woodstock: Rock n’ Roll History Tour
At number one, the Woodstock: Rock n’ Roll History Tour is a must for music fans. For just $47 per person, you get 2.5 hours exploring this legendary town, famous for its 1969 festival and the many musicians who called it home. The tour is guided and focuses on stories about Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and other iconic artists who spent time in Woodstock or performed nearby.
The tour takes you to historic sites and hangouts that played a part in shaping the rock ’n’ roll scene. Your guide shares fascinating anecdotes about the town’s role as a creative hub in the 1960s and beyond. Unlike larger, more commercialized tours, this one offers a personal touch, with stories that bring the past alive. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to see the spots where legendary musicians once hung out or performed.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on music lore and historic sites in a quiet, scenic town that’s still connected to its bohemian roots. It’s perfect for music lovers who want an intimate experience and a chance to walk in the footsteps of legends.
Bottom Line: For $47, this tour offers a captivating, music-focused glimpse into Woodstock’s storied past, led by an engaging guide sharing stories that resonate with fans.
2. Canandaigua Lake: Wine Tasting Tour plus Lunch
At number two, the Canandaigua Lake: Wine Tasting Tour plus Lunch offers a full day immersed in the Finger Lakes’ renowned wine culture. For $309 per person, you’ll spend around 7 hours visiting four wineries, sampling a range of wines from dry whites to luscious desserts. The tour includes a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, paired with a glass of wine, providing a relaxed and flavorful experience.
This guided tour makes logistics easy, offering round-trip transportation from select area hotels, so you can focus on enjoying the wines without worry. The wineries—though not named specifically here—are known for their high-quality offerings and scenic vineyard settings. The tour emphasizes variety and local craftsmanship, making it ideal for wine connoisseurs or anyone curious about the region’s viticulture.
Reviews highlight the hassle-free experience and the opportunity to taste some memorable wines in a breathtaking landscape. It’s a great choice if you want a full-day outing that combines sampling, scenic views, and local cuisine.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, relaxing wine trip that offers a taste of the Finger Lakes’ best wines and a hearty lunch, perfect for lovers of fine drinks and beautiful scenery.
$309 per person
3. Ithaca: Cornell University Student-Led Campus Tour
Number three on our list is the Cornell University Student-Led Campus Tour. For $160, you get a 2-hour deep dive into one of America’s most prestigious campuses. The tour explores the Arts Quad, McGraw Tower, Uris Library, and more, with insights from current students who share their personal experiences.
This tour is particularly special because it offers an authentic student perspective, revealing student life, traditions, and innovations. It’s a fantastic way to see Cornell beyond its brochure images, learning about its sustainability efforts and notable alumni. The guide’s personal stories make the history and architecture more engaging than a standard self-guided walk.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the university’s commitment to research and sustainability, making it insightful for prospective students or anyone interested in higher education. The campus itself is beautiful, with scenic spots perfect for photos and reflection.
Bottom Line: For those interested in academia, architecture, or student life, this tour offers a personal, insider’s look at Cornell’s campus with a knowledgeable guide.
$160 per person
4. Long Island: East End Wine TOUR from NEW YORK CITY
The East End Wine Tour from NYC is a full-day adventure into Long Island’s wine country. Priced at $209 per person for around 8 hours, it includes stops at Bridge Lane Tasting Room and Pindar Winery. You’ll sample a variety of award-winning wines—reds, whites, and everything in between—in a picturesque setting.
The tour’s highlights include the chance to taste different styles of wine and learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff. The landscapes are as enjoyable as the wines, with rolling hills and vineyards that make the experience relaxing. The tour emphasizes local craftsmanship and scenic beauty, perfect for casual wine lovers and those wanting to escape the city for a day.
Reviews note the seamless transportation, making the day stress-free, and the friendly guides who share insider tips. This tour is especially suitable for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free wine tasting experience in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for wine lovers wanting to explore Long Island’s renowned vineyards without the hassle of driving.
$209 per person
5. Private Luxury Winery Trip of Long Island, New York, USA
Number five, the Private Luxury Winery Trip of Long Island, elevates the experience with a customizable, private tour costing about $198 per person for 7-9 hours. This is ideal for travelers seeking a tailored, exclusive outing with a local guide. You can choose which wineries to visit, making it perfect for special celebrations or discerning tastes.
The tour offers inside tips on the best places to eat and drink, plus the flexibility to adapt the itinerary to your preferences. The scenic vineyards and personalized attention make this a standout experience. Reviews praise the customization and insider knowledge, making it feel like a private tasting in a friend’s backyard.
This option is best suited for those who want a more intimate, flexible experience and are willing to pay a bit extra for personalized service. It’s a good choice for wine enthusiasts who value exclusivity and tailored experiences.
Bottom Line: For a private, flexible wine adventure with insider tips, this luxurious tour provides a personalized day in Long Island’s vineyards.
$198 per person
6. Spooky Outdoor Escape Room
Finally, for those seeking an outdoor adventure with a spooky twist, the Spooky Outdoor Escape Room is perfect. Costing only $35 per person, this 2-hour game takes place across 5 acres in Schoharie County. Participants solve puzzles and find clues in a setting that’s set in 1986, with a spooky summer camp theme.
The experience is designed to be dog-friendly, so you can bring along your furry friend as you explore the woods and uncover the story. The outdoor escape room combines puzzle-solving, exploration, and adrenaline, making it a popular choice for groups or families looking for something active and fun.
Reviews note the immersive environment and the challenging puzzles, which appeal to fans of outdoor games and mystery solving. It’s a great option if you prefer hands-on experiences over passive touring.
Bottom Line: An exciting, puzzle-based outdoor activity that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and puzzle lovers, especially when traveling with dogs.
$35 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting the best tour in New York State, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If music history is your passion, the Woodstock tour offers an intimate, storytelling experience. For wine aficionados, both the Canandaigua Lake tour and Long Island vineyard trips provide memorable tastings and scenic views—check out the Canandaigua Lake tour. If you’re a student or curious about academia, the Cornell campus tour gives a personal look at one of the country’s top universities. For outdoor thrill-seekers, the Spooky Outdoor Escape Room offers a fun, active challenge.
Consider your travel style too. Private tours, like the Luxury Winery Trip, suit those craving personalized service, while group tours are more social and budget-friendly. Timing matters—spring and fall typically offer the best weather for vineyard visits and outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts
New York State’s diverse offerings ensure there’s a tour for every taste. For history lovers and music fans, the Woodstock tour is a must. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the rich flavors and scenic vineyards of Finger Lakes and Long Island. Adventure seekers can enjoy puzzles and outdoor fun in Schoharie County.
If you’re planning a trip, think about what excites you most—whether it’s sipping wine in scenic vineyards, exploring a famous university campus, or uncovering rock ’n’ roll legends. Many of these tours fill up quickly, so booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall.
No matter your interest, these carefully selected experiences highlight the best of what New York State has to offer. Pick one that suits your style, and enjoy a memorable adventure in the Empire State.