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Posts from May 2023

Sam Patch canal boat ride along Erie Canal in Pittsford

The New York State Canal system of waterways and trails provides a unique opportunity for hikers, bikers, and boaters to experience unparalleled history and stunning nature up close throughout upstate New York.

Montauk Point Lighthouse - Photo by Lenny Catalanotto, Photo Courtesy of Discover Long Island
Credit: Photo by Lenny Catalanotto, Photo Courtesy of Discover Long Island

Lighthouses are more than just beacons of light to warn sailors of shallow waters and rocky shorelines. They are landmarks with storied pasts, towers from which you can take in stunning scenery, and some are even places you can spend the night! New York State happens to have a unique collection of historic lighthouses. You’ll find lighthouses along the ocean, lakes, in the middle of rivers, and in state parks—and many have become tourist destinations. Here are 15 beacons across the state to light up your travels!

Waterfalls cascade down jagged rocks at watkins glen state park

The Finger Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. In 2022, Travel + Leisure named the region “one of the best places to travel”, and it’s easy to

Clouds reflected on the water's surface at Kenneth L. Wilson Campground
Credit: @billypinkerton33 on Instagram

Pack your hiking boots, bathing suits, and sunscreen and get out into the great outdoors for an unforgettable and affordable camping trip in New York State.

A wine glass stands on a wooden table with a green lawn and tents in the background at the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival
CREDIT: @ADKWINEFESTLG ON INSTAGRAM

The first month of summer brings an amazing variety of cultural, historic, sporting, and foodie events to New York State. Join in Pride celebrations statewide,

A close up of musubi with a gathering crowd in the background at the Queens Night Market

From a historic inn brimming with Filipino hospitality to a museum focused on the Chinese American story, New York State is ripe with opportunities to immerse yourself in history and culture during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

The Empire State Building lit up in rainbow colors for Pride
Credit: Getty Images

Pride is always an exciting time in New York, and 2023 is bringing a jam-packed lineup of fun and meaningful events all across the state. Highlights include the iconic NYC Pride March, illumination of Niagara Falls in Pride colors, and Pride Night with the Syracuse Mets. At these and other Pride events in New York, LGBTQ New Yorkers and visitors will come together again in the birthplace of the modern movement to show love for each other, for the community, and for New York! 

Cream cheese and lox on a bagel
Credit: @cbudzruns on Instagram

New Yorkers know good food. And they’re not afraid to let you know it. From iconic dishes branded as the best of New York across the world to lesser-known inventions

Bright red, white, and blue fireworks decorate the sky over east river
Credit: @clickforthekingdom on Instagram

Festivals, parades, and air shows, oh my! There’s so much to do in New York State this summer. Try delicious new foods, jam out to live music in beautiful outdoor amphitheaters, take a spin on midway rides, celebrate rich culture and community, watch hot air balloons take flight, and more, all season long. Mark your calendars. Here are some Empire State events you don’t want to miss!