I Love New York Blog

Flow into spring in New York State by exploring gorge-ous waterfalls! With snowmelt and spring showers, the waterfalls come to life with roaring cascades. Whether you're a nature lover, photographer,…

Get ready for liftoff because your summer plans are about to get a serious boost! Strap in for some of the steepest, twisty-turniest, most gut-wrenching roller coaster rides and water slides around—but don’t worry, there are also plenty of family rides that won’t make you lose your lunch.

Whether you’re searching for a serene lakeside escape, adventure on the water, or both, New York State has a lake for you. From remote retreats ensconced in mountainous forests to charming, walkable…

Credit: @balloonsoverletchworth on Instagram

From private helicopter rides and hot air balloon flights to behind-the-scenes tours and over-the-top stays, get the VIP treatment in the Empire State! It’s no secret that New York is packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures, but if you're looking for something a little more exclusive, we’ve got you covered. Cruise through Finger Lakes Wine Country on a private boat, have a castle all to yourself in the Thousand Islands, and much more. 

New York is home to many well-known, world-class attractions. But it’s also a state filled with hidden gems that don’t attract big crowds—waterfalls, hiking trails, and lakes that you can have practically all to yourself! Check out these outdoor destinations (as well as additional opportunities to get close to nature) that will expand your knowledge of New York State while allowing for safe recreation.

CREDIT: SAM HORINE

New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities, including programs specifically designed for travelers who are autistic or have developmental disabilities. A number of cultural institutions are also offering live and taped accessible virtual events led by trained educators. 

Credit: @coreyoutdoors and @huttopiacanadausa on Instagram

Glamping takes one of life’s simple pleasures—sleeping in the great outdoors—and elevates it with creature comforts and modern conveniences. There’s no tent to set up, no hard rocks underneath your sleeping bag…

Credit: @kingy27nyc on Instagram

Are you looking to get in touch with nature this Earth Day? New York State is the place to visit! Home to more than 250 state parks, recreational trails, and boat launches with wilderness spanning 700,000 acres in the Catskill Mountains and 6 million acres in the Adirondack Park, New York has no shortage of forever wild experiences. For those with electric vehicles, charge up at stations across New York State, or hop on public transit and head to these eco-friendly destinations throughout the state! …

Have you ever found yourself gazing toward the sky on a clear night and wondering which planets, stars, and constellations are looking back at you? Whether you’re preparing to experience the total solar eclipse happening in April 2024, Earth’s once-a-year brush with a meteor field, or plan to polish up on your constellation trivia, New York State offers a multitude of educational and interactive sites to stargaze and learn more about the night sky—visit these observatories, planetariums, and dark sky destinations. 

We present some of the best places to feast al fresco in New York State. From a riverbank overlooking whitewater rapids to spacious, landscaped parks, get outside and discover New York State’s most picnic-perfect places! All travelers in New York State are encouraged to recreate safely, responsibly, and locally when enjoying the outdoors​.