Hostels in New York

New York is a large state on the eastern coast of the United States of America. From east to west, you could experience a culture shock just going from one part of the state to another.

Although there are a few cities in the central area of New York state, most travelers will best appreciate either the eastern border or the western border. On the east you'll find New York City, the largest city in the United States and a huge hub for hostel travelers of all backgrounds. On the western side, you'll find hostels numerous cities and towns, many with hostels, including Buffalo. Obviously, services and pricing for hostels in New York will vary depending on which city and area you stay in.

New York City is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, and is both a historic and modern city. Among many landmarks, perhaps the most notable is the Statue of Liberty, a large green lady welcoming overseas travelers from her home on Liberty Island. Other attractions include Ellis Island, The World Trade Center (rebuilt to be the tallest building in the United States after the September 11th attack), Broadway theaters, Radio City Music Hall, Fifth Avenue, and the Empire State Building. It is also known for shopping and fashion as the home of many flagship stores. Hostels are offered in each of the boroughs, so you won't have to stay too far away from what you want to visit.

While most international travelers try to include New York City on their North American itinerary, central New York state provides a better feel of typical America. Smaller towns are spaced out by farmland, and some Amish communities even exist in this area. The northern parts of the state border other New England states which also have much to offer. The excitement begins to pick up again in the Great Lakes area.

New York state shares borders with two of the five Great Lakes: Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Between these two lakes is Niagara Falls. The famous waterfalls are the namesake of the international cities. Here you can walk between New York, United States and Ontario, Canada. The surrounding area includes state parks and other natural marvels. There are several options for hostel accommodations after a day of adventuring here.

You could visit New York state again and again, and still never see all this diverse state has to offer!

Handwritten by local expert for New York hostels Jessica Lippe