New York to Niagara Falls drive: 23 ranked stops, break in Hancock

Cult Buffalo-style pizzeria since 1946 with thick, cheesy, cup-and-char pepperoni pies that locals order for every celebration. Order: Pepperoni pizza.

a Poconos family resort with huge snow-tubing

a Delaware Water Gap overlook on the AT

the iconic Red Dot climb to the gap view

Longtime West Side celebration restaurant blending Italian, French and New American cooking with one of the city's coveted patios. Order: Handmade pasta.

Master Sommelier Christopher Bates seats just 24 at a communal table for a multi-course prix fixe, a James Beard nominee and national destination. Order: Prix fixe tasting.

a giant glacial balancing rock

Old First Ward tavern and brewery pouring house beer and slinging a legendary haddock fish fry on Wednesdays and Fridays. Order: Beer-battered fish fry.

Quaint village bakery and cafe turning out artisan breads, fine French pastries and specialty pies, a favored spot for breakfast in town. Order: Croissant.

reservoir and woods loop in the northern Highlands

East Aurora institution since 1967 that perfected two Buffalo staples, the beef on weck and the char-broiled jumbo wing. Order: Beef on weck.

Rochester tradition at the Sea Breeze amusement area serving its self-proclaimed World's Greatest Cheeseburger alongside hots and fries. Order: Cheeseburger.

A treeless links at Crystal Springs, often the state's top public.

Charming tavern across from the Aurora Inn serving creative pub fare, local brews and a seasonal menu on a shady patio with pool and darts. Order: Craft beer flight.