New York isn’t just a place of towering skyscrapers and bustling streets; it offers an incredible variety of tours that showcase its diverse charms. Whether you’re an animal lover, history enthusiast, foodie, or seeking family-friendly fun, the city and its surroundings have something special for you. We especially enjoy guided farm visits like the Lilymoore Alpaca Farm Tour for its intimate encounter with farm animals, and the Museum of the City of New York for exploring NYC’s past without the hassle of long lines. These experiences offer a genuine taste of local life and culture that’s perfect for all ages.
From scenic wine tastings in the Hudson Valley to immersive food tours in Nyack and Buffalo, this list highlights the most interesting and fun tours in and around New York. Whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend or planning a longer stay, these options will make your trip memorable.
Quick Overview
This guide features a wide array of tours in New York, including animal farms like the Lilymoore Alpaca Farm, cultural visits such as the Edward Hopper House Museum, and food adventures like the Taste the Hudson Valley Gourmet Beacon Food Tour. For wine lovers, there’s the Ultimate Tasting Experience, and for families, LEGOLAND® New York offers a full-day of brick-building fun. The list also includes scavenger hunts, farm experiences, and city explorations, catering to a variety of interests and ages. Dive into the details below to find the perfect tour for your trip.
1. Guided Lilymoore Alpaca Farm Tour
At number 1, the Guided Lilymoore Alpaca Farm Tour offers a charming and family-friendly way to enjoy a slice of rural New York. Priced at just $16.95 per person, this one-hour tour takes you through lilymoore farm, where you’ll meet alpacas, llamas, and even a miniature pig. The farm’s friendly animals are eager to interact, making it ideal for children and animal lovers alike. The guide provides insider info on animal care, feeding, and quirks, while plenty of time is available for petting and photos. Reviewers love how social and adorable the animals are, and it’s a perfect quick escape from city life.
The highlight? Frolicking with goats, snapping photos with an alpaca, and experiencing a hands-on farm visit. This tour’s appeal lies in its personal touch and relaxed pace, making it a top pick for families or anyone wanting a peaceful rural experience. Bottom line: A delightful, affordable way to meet farm animals and learn about farm life.
2. Museum of the City of New York General Admission Ticket
For around $20.52, the Museum of the City of New York offers a flexible way to discover NYC’s past, present, and future. Pre-booked tickets ensure you avoid long lines, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The museum’s key exhibits include New York at Its Core, which explores the city’s history through objects and multimedia displays, and Activist New York, showcasing stories of activism in the boroughs. A 28-minute multimedia documentary called Timescapes offers a captivating journey through 400 years of city life.
Guests praise the well-curated exhibits and engaging multimedia features. The museum is suited for history buffs, curious locals, and visitors wanting an enriching experience without wasting precious time. Bottom line: A must-visit for a comprehensive yet manageable deep dive into New York’s story.
3. Taste the Hudson Valley with Gourmet Beacon Food Tour
At number 3, the Gourmet Beacon Food Tour invites you to explore Beacon, NY—voted the “#1 Coolest Small Town in America.” For about $135, this 3.5-hour walk features tastings from local farms and bakeries, including cheeses, olive oils, and chocolates. You’ll also enjoy a signature sandwich at Beacon Bread Company, with fresh in-house baked bread and rib-eye steak. The tour’s focus on regional specialties and scenic views of rolling hills, farms, and the river makes it a foodie’s dream.
Tour guide Kelly shares insights about the region’s history and food culture, making this not just a tasting but an educational experience. It’s perfect for those who love local flavors and picturesque towns. The limited small group size ensures an intimate and engaging experience. Bottom line: A flavorful, scenic, and expertly guided culinary outing.
4. Ultimate Tasting Experience Wine, Whiskey or Hard Cider
Number 4 on our list is the Ultimate Tasting Experience, a relaxed hour and a half in Queensbury. For just $64.20, you’ll sample seven handcrafted wines, or opt for whiskey or cider. The friendly Wine Concierge guides each taste, explaining the nuances of each drink. Finish with a dessert wine or reserve selection, and take home a premium wine glass as a souvenir. Customers appreciate the cozy ambiance and the variety of options, which make for a perfect wine or spirit tasting.
This experience is ideal for casual connoisseurs, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions. The intimate setting and expert guidance make it a worthwhile, value-packed activity. Bottom line: A laid-back, educational tasting that’s perfect for unwinding and discovering new favorites.
5. Edward Hopper House Museum Entry Ticket
Step back into the life of one of America’s most beloved artists with the Edward Hopper House Museum. For only $10, you get access to his childhood home in Nyack, just 25 miles from Manhattan. The museum showcases Hopper’s early work, family artifacts, and exhibits inspired by his style. Visitors enjoy the rotating displays and the immersive environment that influenced Hopper’s use of light and color.
Reviewers praise the enthusiastic staff and the opportunity to connect with the artist’s origins. It’s a perfect stop for art lovers or those interested in learning about Hopper’s roots. The house provides a quiet, personal glimpse into his formative years. Bottom line: An affordable, insightful visit for art fans and curious travelers alike.
6. 1.5 Hour Immersive Farm Experience in Adirondacks
At number 6, the Immersive Farm Experience offers a hands-on farm tour for just $20. You’ll learn about composting, animal care, and local food systems while exploring the Cook Farm. The guided experience includes feeding goats, collecting eggs, and possibly grooming some animals. It’s perfect for those wanting a practical farm visit that emphasizes real farm chores and sustainable practices.
Guests love the small-group feel and the personal connection with farmers and animals. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to fit into a day. Bottom line: An authentic, educational tour ideal for families or anyone interested in sustainable farming practices.
7. 1 Hour Guided Farm Tour in the Adirondacks
For a quick, meaningful farm visit, the Adirondacks Guided Farm Tour is a great choice. In just an hour, you’ll learn about the farm’s practices and see animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. The small tour setting allows plenty of questions and interaction. The guide shares insights into sustainable farming and local food production.
It’s an affordable and relaxed experience, perfect for families or those short on time but eager to learn about farm life. The tour starts at 2 pm and ends back at the meeting point. Bottom line: A brief but engaging introduction to farm living and sustainable practices.
8. Buffalo New York Food Tasting Tour
Number 8, the Buffalo Food Tasting Tour, takes you through Williamsville’s lively historic village. For $89, enjoy tastings at six local restaurants along with three alcohol pairings. The tour includes iconic spots like the Waterfall that drove tourism and local history connected to early 1800s architecture. It’s a three-hour journey into Buffalo’s culinary scene and history.
Participants rave about the delicious food and the knowledgeable guide, making it a rich experience for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. This tour is best suited for those wanting a late lunch or early dinner combined with cultural insights. Bottom line: An enjoyable, full-flavored way to explore Buffalo’s culinary and historical gems.
9. Nyack 2-Hour Guided Food Tour with lunch included
The Nyack Food Tour is a fantastic way to explore this charming town. For $89, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour walk with a local guide, sampling Italian and Filipino dishes from local chefs. The tour includes lunch and offers a chance to meet culinary experts, making it perfect for foodies seeking a personal, intimate experience. With a small group limit of 10, it remains friendly and engaging.
Reviewers mention the warm hospitality and flavorful tastings, making it a memorable outing. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of local culture without rushing. Bottom line: An authentic, flavorful way to discover Nyack’s culinary scene.
$89
10. Plattsburgh Prowl Scavenger Hunt
For something truly different, check out the Plattsburgh Prowl, a 2-hour interactive scavenger hunt. With a remote host guiding you through your phone, you’ll explore the town’s sights while tackling creative challenges. Perfect for families or groups, it’s a modern twist on sightseeing that combines exploration with fun. The price is $21.60 per person, making it an affordable and engaging way to see the area.
Participants enjoy the mix of tour, challenge, and social interaction. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want to experience the town in a playful way. Bottom line: A smart, fun alternative to traditional sightseeing tours.
$21.60 per person
11. Radical Rouses Point Scavenger Hunt
Next up, the Radical Rouses Point Scavenger Hunt offers a 2-hour adventure exploring local landmarks through a creative challenge. Like the Plattsburgh prowl, it features a live remote host and interactive tasks, making it exciting for families or groups seeking something outside the usual tourist track. Costing $27 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to combine sightseeing and fun.
People love the social aspect and how it keeps everyone engaged. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy puzzles and discovering lesser-known spots. Bottom line: A lively, puzzle-based way to explore Rouses Point with friends.
$27.00 per person
12. Wacky Warwick Scavenger Hunt
Similarly, the Wacky Warwick Scavenger Hunt promises another 2-hour adventure in a quirky town setting. With the same remote host setup, it challenges you to uncover Wacky Warwick’s secrets through creative tasks. Again priced at $27 per person, it’s ideal for playful groups wanting a memorable, interactive experience in a scenic setting.
Participants report it’s fun, family-friendly, and perfect for those looking for an active way to explore. Bottom line: A whimsical scavenger hunt that adds a dose of fun to your trip.
$27.00 per person
13. Wood Bat Mill Tour
Number 13 features the Wood Bat Mill Tour, a one-hour behind-the-scenes look at Leatherstocking Timber Products. For $60, you’ll see how professional baseball bats are crafted, from selecting hardwood to shaping and finishing. The tour includes a chance to ask questions and take home a souvenir bat. It’s an excellent choice for sports fans and anyone interested in manufacturing processes.
Guests highlight the fascinating robotics and craftsmanship involved. It’s a short, engaging tour that offers insight into a niche but compelling industry. Bottom line: Perfect for baseball fans and those curious about artisanal manufacturing.
$60.00 per person
14. Alpaca and Llama Trek in Pleasant Valley
Rounding out the list, the Alpaca and Llama Trek is a fun, one-hour outdoor activity. For $48, you’ll walk with these delightful animals, enjoying their quirky personalities and adorable faces. The experience is relaxing, humorous, and perfect for animal lovers who want a bit of humor and nature combined.
The animals are used to people, and the trek makes for great photos and memorable moments. Reviewers mention how entertaining the llamas and alpacas are, making it a real highlight for families. Bottom line: A lighthearted, scenic outing with plenty of cuddly photo opportunities.
15. All Inclusive VIP Wine or Beer Tour in Hudson Valley
Number 15, the VIP Wine or Beer Tour offers an extensive 8-hour day in the scenic Hudson Valley. For $235, enjoy visits to historic vineyards and breweries, tasting local wines, beers, cheeses, honey, and chocolates. The tour includes a fun photo with a giant wine glass prop and a delicious lunch. It’s perfect for serious connoisseurs or those wanting a comprehensive taste of the region.
Guests rave about the variety and richness of the experience, highlighting the opportunity to indulge in local products while enjoying panoramic views. This tour is best suited for adults who want a full-day, all-inclusive experience. Bottom line: A luxurious, deep dive into Hudson Valley’s wine and craft beer scene.
16. LEGOLAND® New York Theme Park Ticket
Finally, for families, LEGOLAND® New York offers a full-day of fun at just $50 per person. The ticket grants access to seven themed lands, including rides like the Dragon Coaster, educational activities, LEGO movies, and even a DUPLO PEPPA PIG Playground. The park is built to entertain children aged 2 to 12, with interactive attractions and opportunities to meet LEGO characters.
Reviewers describe it as “brick-tastic” and note the long lines but also say it’s worth the effort. It’s ideal for families needing a full day of entertainment, especially those with young children. Bottom line: A sprawling, imaginative park that guarantees hours of fun for little builders.
$50.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in New York
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests first. Want to meet cuddly animals? The Lilymoore Alpaca Farm offers a relaxed, family-friendly experience. Passionate about local history? The Museum of the City of New York provides a rundown without the wait. For foodies, the Hudson Valley Gourmet Tour and Nyack Food Tour are excellent choices, giving you a taste of regional and international flavors.
If you’re traveling with children, LEGOLAND® is a top pick, while outdoor enthusiasts might prefer the Alpaca & Llama Trek. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the shorter tours like the Farm Experience in Adirondacks or the 1-Hour Farm Tour.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure spots in popular activities. Think about your preferred pace, your interests, and whether you want a cultural, culinary, or recreational experience to guide your choice.
Final thoughts
From scenic farm visits and art museums to food tastings and family amusement parks, New York offers enough variety to fill any itinerary. If you’re a family with kids, don’t miss LEGOLAND® New York; for a peaceful escape, the farm tours are perfect. History buffs will love the Edward Hopper Museum, while food lovers should consider the Hudson Valley tasting tour. No matter your interests, booking in advance will help you make the most of your visit—so start planning now and enjoy all the wonderful experiences New York has to offer.