

Car Hire New York State USA






Welcome to the Empire State!
New York State, the Empire State, offers an impressive mix of vibrant urban life, stunning natural beauty, and a rich history that is best explored by car. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene beauty of the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes, renting a car opens up the possibility to discover everything this incredible state has to offer. Whether you're enjoying the art, culture, and cuisine in the Big Apple or driving through picturesque rural landscapes, a hire car gives you the freedom to explore New York State at your own pace. From its iconic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered along the road, the state has it all. First, buzzing New York City, known as the City That Never Sleeps, and a world unto itself. With a rental car, you can explore the endless attractions of this iconic city. Start your adventure at Times Square, where dazzling lights and billboards provide a sensory overload. From there, head to Central Park, a sprawling urban oasis offering tranquil lakes, wooded paths, and cultural landmarks like the Central Park Zoo and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Drive through the diverse boroughs, each with its unique character: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. If you're looking for history, visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or pay a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. If you're flying into New York, you’ll likely arrive at one of the city's three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Each airport offers easy access to rental car services, ensuring your journey begins seamlessly. Driving through New York City in a rental car will give you the flexibility to reach many of the city's outer attractions, including the historic Coney Island and the charming neighbourhoods of Brooklyn. Don't forget to cross the Brooklyn Bridge for one of the most picturesque views of Manhattan’s skyline.
New York State is known for its natural beauty, and a rental car allows you to explore its landscapes at your own pace. Head north to the Adirondack Mountains, a vast wilderness perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With your hire car, you can drive through charming towns like Lake Placid, famous for hosting the Winter Olympics, or drive around the tranquil waters of Lake George. The Adirondacks offer excellent hiking, skiing, and stunning views that change with the seasons, from the vivid colours of autumn leaves to the snowy peaks in winter. The Finger Lakes region is another must-visit area, known for its crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and wineries. A leisurely drive around the Finger Lakes will take you to scenic towns like Ithaca, where you can visit the spectacular Taughannock Falls, or head to the Corning Museum of Glass for a fascinating cultural experience. Wine lovers can visit the numerous vineyards dotted along the lakes, offering scenic views and excellent wine tastings. Further west, explore Niagara Falls, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. A road trip to the falls takes you through charming towns and lush farmland before arriving at the breathtaking sight of Niagara’s thundering waters. From here, you can drive along the Niagara Wine Trail or take a scenic route along the shores of Lake Ontario.
Driving in New York
New York State is well-connected by a network of highways and scenic byways, making it ideal for a road trip. One of the most famous is the Hudson River Scenic Byway, which takes you through lush farmland, historic towns, and offers dramatic views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains. This 145-kilometre (90-mile) route provides a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, with several stops along the way, including the charming town of Cold Spring and the historic estates of the Hudson River Valley. Another popular drive is the Lake Ontario Wine Trail, which takes you around the shores of Lake Ontario, offering stunning views and the chance to visit local wineries. The trail covers approximately 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the Canada border down to Rochester, providing a scenic and culturally rich journey. For a more adventurous drive, head to the Taconic State Parkway, which runs through the forests and mountains of the Hudson Valley and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The parkway is particularly stunning in the autumn when the leaves turn vibrant red and orange. New York State is steeped in history, and a rental car provides the perfect way to visit its many historic sites. Head to the Hudson Valley, known for its stunning scenery, charming villages, and historical landmarks. The area is home to the historic town of Kingston, once the capital of New York State, and the grand mansions of the Gilded Age. Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion or the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library in Hyde Park for a glimpse into the state’s rich past. Further south, explore the Catskill Mountains, a region known for its natural beauty and historic significance. The Catskills are home to scenic hiking trails, mountain streams, and the famous Kaaterskill Falls. The area also offers unique small towns like Woodstock, known for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement, where you can enjoy art galleries, quaint shops, and a laid-back atmosphere.

New York State offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. From hiking in the Catskills to skiing in the Adirondacks, there’s something for every type of nature lover. Drive to the Catskill Park for miles of scenic hiking trails, or visit Thousand Islands, a stunning region on the Saint Lawrence River that offers beautiful landscapes, kayaking, and unique castles on small islands.
State Parks such as Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," offers scenic views, waterfalls, and hiking trails. With over 200 state parks in New York, you’ll have no shortage of natural beauty to explore.
Tips and FAQs
Exploring New York State by hire car is one of the best ways to see it all. With so many scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks, renting a car gives you the freedom to experience the best of the Empire State. Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, especially in the winter months, where snow and ice can affect driving in some regions. In the summer, popular tourist spots can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to book your rental car in advance.
New York State, USA
Population: Approximately 19.8 million
Annual Visitor Figures: Over 60 million
Average Summer Temperatures: 15°C - 30°C (59°F - 86°F)
Average Winter Temperatures: -7°C - 5°C (19°F - 41°F)
Main Airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Time Zone: GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST)

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