If you go back to NY (and have more time), visit the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, and Niagara Falls and Goat Island. Outstandingly beautiful places. Finger Lakes are a bit red necky though.
I suggest a GPS so you avoid NYC all together.
<3
Downstaters are annoying and whiny. The only reason why it's surrounded by so much hyperbole is because of its massive, pretentious population. It has some good stuff but it's hardly the best place to spend your time in NY.