Top 5 Adventure Things to do in New York

May 6, 2025

New York may be famous for its skyline and bagels, but c'mon—there's a lot more to this state than yellow cabs and lights on Broadway. For the thrill-seekers, the agitated, and the weekend warriors, New York is a hidden playground of wild adventure. Whether climbing cliffs in the Hudson Valley or soaring over the Catskills via zipline, adventure isn't something you come looking for here—it's something you pursue. And believe me, it pursues you in return. So, if you're ready to abandon the tourist path and leap headfirst into the unencumbered spirit of the Empire State, here are 5 must do things to do in New York.

1. Skydiving Over the Shawangunk Mountains

All right, so let's begin big—i.e., leap-out-of-a-plane big. Skydiving over the Shawangunk Mountains (people just refer to them as the "Gunks") is one of upstate New York's most unforgettable experiences and a must-do things to do in New York. The freefall itself is a heart-stopping, face-blasting, scream-your-head-off experience. But after that parachute deploys? Bliss. Underneath you, the Hudson Valley stretches out in a quilt of forests, farms, and rivers. Autumn is like falling through a rainbow of color. Skydive the Ranch is one of the most popular spots. Tandem jumps are available for first-timers, and the crew is known for being both chill and highly professional—a combo you’ll definitely appreciate at 13,500 feet.

2. Whitewater Rafting on the Hudson River

If you thought the Hudson River was just all that brownish muck running by Manhattan, think again. Up in the Adirondacks, it's a wild, churning, adrenaline-fueled monster. Each spring (particularly April through early June), mountain snowmelt makes the Upper Hudson one of the Northeast's top whitewater rafting rivers. Look for Class III to V rapids, enormous waves, and some serious teamwork that will be bonding you all together forever or have you in hysterics clinging to your paddle for dear life. Operators such as Beaver Brook Outfitters and Adirondack River Outfitters provide full-day guided tours with pros who know how to make it exciting—but not dangerous.

3. Ziplining in the Catskills – New York Zipline Adventure Tours

Next in line in things to do in New York is ziplining in the catskills. It's the fantasy of soaring over a forest at highway speed that makes ziplining in the Catskills so alluring. New York Zipline Adventure Tours at Hunter Mountain has the longest and highest zipline in North America. The SkyRider Tour (the crown jewel) reaches speeds of up to 50 mph, with some lines stretching over 3,000 feet long and suspended 600 feet above the forest floor. You’ll literally be zipping across mountain peaks like some kind of superhero.

4. Rock Climbing in the Shawangunks

There are a lot of things to do in New York. The “Gunks” are a mecca for climbers—right up there with Yosemite and Red River Gorge. This place has a reputation: short approaches, strong rock, and some of the most legendary trad climbs in the U.S. Even for beginners, there are instructive climbs and lessons to be learned (see Alpine Endeavors or Rock and Snow). For experienced climbers, climbs such as "High Exposure" provide cutting-edge thrills—imagine zany exposure, crack climbing, and goofy overhangs, all with vistas stretching miles. Reality Check: The climbing here isn't about brawn—it's a psychological mind fudging game. Having faith in your equipment, your belayer, and your footing 150 feet above the ground? That's the real stuff of bravery.

5. Cave tours at Howe Caverns or Secret Caverns

Time to go underground. Last but not the least in the list of things to do in New York is a cave tour. Howe Caverns is quite possibly the state's most well-known cave system, and it's easy to see why. It offers guided tours along twisting limestone passages, through stalactites, and even a boat ride underground along a crystal-clear river. If the mood strikes for something spooky (and less crowded), take a kick out of Secret Caverns just down the highway—known for its offbeat atmosphere and 100-foot underground waterfall. Also a special mention - while you are in New York, you should also visit Las Vegas for a memorable experience. Last Words: Welcome to NY's Wild Side As per latest news, by 2034, the travel and tourism industry in the United States was expected to grow to a value of $3.1 trillion. New York's not so much about what's on Broadway or when the pizzerias are open (although we thank you for that). There are a lot of things to do in New York. It's cliffs, caves, rivers, woods, and adrenaline that beats like a drumbeat through every square inch of it. The good news? You don't need to be an ultra-athlete or bushcraft guru to take part. Most of these adventures are beginner-friendly with guides who'll hold your hand (and harness). Just be ready to say yes. So grab a GoPro, leave your comfort zone in the rearview, and find a whole new side of New York that'll have your heart racing. Contact us for information.