By now, you’ve heard the news that WorldPride is coming to New York State (and the US) for the first time ever! It’s the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and celebrations are being held across the state. Eleven LGBTQ New Yorkers have been selected to act as New York State WorldPride 2019 Ambassadors, which you can learn more about here. We’ve asked the NYS WorldPride Ambassadors about the destinations they

You know about the M&Ms store in Times Square, we’ve told you where to get some of the best chocolate-covered donuts in the state, and we’ve even spilled the (chocolate) beans on where to find world-winning chocolate in the Catskills, but there’s even more to New York’s chocolate scene than what we’ve already shared. You can have some pretty unique chocolate adventures in New York State, and we’ve

We all scream for ice cream—and New York State, where the ice cream sundae was invented, has some of the very best. From trendy artisan-run shops, featuring unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else, to classic roadside stands pumping out soft serve made from locally sourced ingredients, these are some of the best places to satisfy your cravings across New York, along with some things you might want to do in town when you

If you visit New York City without visiting at least one outer borough, you’re not really seeing New York City. While Brooklyn gets a lot of attention, we’d like to introduce you to Queens. Queens is the most culturally diverse county in the US so you can bet your taste buds will be pleased. The borough is also home to world-class museums, exciting sports, and excellent views. Here's how to spend a weekend in this diverse,

Credit: @renegade_nomadYour dreams of walking outside to reach incredible scenic views are closer than you think! The Catskills are calling and you can answer by taking one of these hiking itineraries in Delaware and Sullivan counties for a spin, each a short drive from NYC. We’ve also included where to eat, drink, and play around the hikes to help plan your perfect day.Sign up for small group guided hikes featured in the itineraries b

‘Tis the season for hiking! The Catskills region of New York State is one of the best areas to smell the fresh air, take in the scenery, and get those legs moving. Greene County in the Northern Catskills is a short drive from NYC, which makes it perfect for your weekend adventures. We’ve rounded up five of the best hiking trips you can take to have your best day ever in the great outdoors, along with some indoors-y things too.&#

A short drive from New York City is a magical land of forests and streams, restaurants serving food made from ingredients sourced at nearby farms, and rustic-chic lodging (including camping) for any budget. Welcome to Ulster County in the Catskills, home to a variety of hiking experiences, from pulse-pounding climbs in the mountains to tranquil strolls around lakes, plus a wealth of activities at trail's end.Sign up for small g

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​. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines

Syracuse’s prime location along the Erie Canal helped establish it as an industrial powerhouse, but today, the powerhouses in the city are barbecue, family fun, and college basketball. With scenic parks surrounding Onondaga Lake, world-class museums, and an up-and-coming dining scene on historic streets, you’re guaranteed a great weekend. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by&#x

Syracuse is an incredibly kid-friendly city where you’ll find a great zoo, fun ways to learn, plenty of physical activities, and gorgeous nature to discover. Read on to see where the kids will have a blast exploring, eating, and playing.The Great New York State FairOne of the BIGGEST events happening in New York each summer is right here in Syracuse and it’s got something for everyone. The Great New York State Fair claims the ti

New York State has played a key role in many of music’s most groundbreaking moments. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Janis Joplin or Nat King Cole, or listening to the opening aria from "La Traviata" in an open-air amphitheater where the acoustics make you feel like you’re part of the performance. This is New York State’s musical legacy. It is the home of the revolutionary spirit of the Woodstock Music

From horseracing to hot air balloons, and from musical performances to mouthwatering barbecue, summer in New York State is filled with fun activities and events! Explore a new genre of music or experience tasty new dishes at one of the many festivals happening this summer. Here are just a few of the best events to check out in New York State this August.Phoenicia Festival of the Voice (Catskills)Credit: Phoenicia Festival of the Voi

If you haven't given much thought to state fairs since the days where you could slam down multiple chili cheese dogs and funnel cakes with zero remorse, we get it. But with the Great New York State Fair kicking off August 21, it's as good a time as any for a gentle reminder of what you've been missing since then. Here, we round out our list of 13 not-to-be-missed indulgences at this year's Fair.Fried BreakfastFried Special

For those who seek it, New York State has a darker side to show off to fans of the offbeat, eerie, or macabre. Discover ghosts, haunted hotels, and creepy graveyards when you check out these spooky spots. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available.Updated 08/31/21Discover the paranormal on the Haunted

The southern shore of Lake Ontario covers more than 200 miles of prime New York State waterfront, offering exciting getaway ideas for families, fishing enthusiasts, history buffs, and more. It leads into the St. Lawrence River and the remarkable Thousand Islands-Seaway region, a fishing, boating, and sightseeing paradise. Read on for ideas on how to spend a weekend enjoying this Great Lake and scenic river, as well as the citie

Credit: Photo by Lenny Catalanotto, Photo Courtesy of Discover Long IslandLighthouses 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, lak

Labor Day is just around the corner so celebrate the last days of summer with a New York State weekend getaway. Discover hidden lakes and live music, sunny beaches and bountiful vineyards, or parasailing and island kayaking. Whatever this summer has been to you, make this weekend count with these easy Labor Day Weekend getaways. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines. Call ahead and che

As autumn brings a chill to the air, haunted houses, hayrides, and attractions all across New York can send a chill down your spine. Here are the freaky, spooky, and the not-too-scary things you need to check out for Halloween. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available. Updated 08/31/21Spooky and Sca

Credit: @adksocialmedia on InstagramNew York State is covered in beloved hiking trails that guide trekkers through its diverse natural terrains. Popular hikes are well-traveled for good reason, but don’t sleep on New York’s hidden gem hikes! Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature mostly to yourself with these hikes organized by easy, medium, and difficult. Be aware of weather conditions before heading out, and familiarize

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 tuning in for 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, plane