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Category - Summer

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

Pride is always an exciting time in New York, and 2024 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.

Green tree-lined mountain ranges lining the glimmering river within the Adirondacks on a sunny day

Trust us, if you don’t plan ahead, summer will be over in the blink of an eye. Be sure to make the most of the gorgeous weather and longer days. We’ve rounded up everything for your most adventurous and memorable summer to-do list, from beaches to county fairs to music festivals, and plenty of getaways into the beautiful outdoors.

Riders enjoying the Viper roller coaster at Six Flags Darien Lake

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.

Waterfalls surrounded by greenery in Letchworth State Park
Credit: @kb.hikes on Instagram

Summer is the time to create long-lasting family memories in New York State. Exciting opportunities for fun await, from state-of-the-art theme parks to activities on the water to kid-friendly picturesque parks. Thrill-seeking families will find mountain coasters and those in search of relaxation can visit beaches or take gentle hikes to waterfalls. There’s literally something for everyone to make a New York State family vacation one of the most memorable of a lifetime.

Aerial view of Mirror Lake and surrounding foliage and mountains in summer

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

A few people walking along the shore at the beach at sunset.
Credit: @lotuslove28 on Instagram

Gather your friends together and celebrate summer in the Empire State! There are so many destinations to choose from and activities sure to thrill everyone. You

Colorful fireworks light up the sky over Niagara Falls

If you’re wondering how to plan the seemingly endless things to do in New York State in the summer, look no further. We’ve planned your weekends for you, allowing you to sample the best of everything

Fort Ticonderoga

Memorial Day is just around the corner, marking the unofficial start of the summer season. Welcome the warm weather with an unforgettable long weekend in New York State. Beaches and parks are officially open, the sun is out, and everyone is ready to celebrate. Whether you’re with a significant other, family, friends, or all of the above—here are some great destinations to kick off your summer right!

Blue ocean waves crest in front of the Montauk Lighthouse
Credit: @saltyvisionz on Instagram

It’s no secret that the Empire State has it all. Just hours away from the city that never sleeps is an abundance of outdoor adventures, pristine white sand beaches, scenic hiking trails, family-friendly amusement parks, idyllic small towns, and more. Whether you’re experiencing the Big Apple for the first time and want to extend your trip or you’re a native New Yorker looking for a brief escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 trips you can easily take from New York City this summer.

Family camping in Adirondacks

Whether your family loves bumming at the beach, exploring charming little towns, or soaking in the natural beauty of mountains and lakes, you can find it all in New York—no matter your budget. We found top-notch local escapes all over New York with lodging for less than $200 per night, with affordable family-friendly activities nearby. So read on and get excited: Summer will be here before you know it!