We all want a solid two-week block of vacation days in the summer, but even if you can’t get that much time off, you can still get some R&R! Read on for 11 magical summer getaways right here in New York State that will only take a weekend to have you feeling refreshed and revived. Note: Some attractions featured here may be temporarily closed or may feature reduced amenities. Please check directly with individual att

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. You’ll never have to spend another summer day wondering what to do.1. Ge

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!Set up camp (Hudson

Summer is nearly here, and that means it’s time to hit the beach! And New York has some amazing ones, from the sandy coast of Long Island to the serene lakesides of the Adirondacks, and the seemingly endless horizon of Lake Ontario. (Fun fact: New York is the only state with coastlines on an ocean as well as the Great Lakes.) Check out some of New York’s most stunningly Instagram-worthy waterfronts below, then grab some sun

Credit: Mountain Jam PhotographerIt’s almost officially summer! Well, June 21 is the official start of it, but as far as we’re concerned summer begins on June 1 at 12:01 AM. Now, what to do with all this magnificent sunny weather? Read on for this month’s roundup of the best ways to get out and explore all around New York State. From music festivals to motorcycle rallies, sporting events, and more, we’ve got you co

Summer in New York State gets kicked up a notch this year with new attractions and activities at every turn. Families looking for enriching getaways can experience the state's biggest new indoor waterpark, a massive new children's museum, not one but two dinosaur adventures, and much more!Dare to try the tallest ride in the state, the new SkyScreamer at Six Flags Darien Lake (Greater Niagara)This popular amu

It’s music festival season! Summer concerts in New York cover every genre of music you'll want to jam out to, from jazz to country to pop to folk. This summer will be especially festive, with the 50th anniversary of Woodstock (a Woodstock 50 concert is reportedly in the works for Watkins Glen August 16–18), a revamped Central Park SummerStage experience in New York City, and much more. Read on to find the types of music and

The ice has thawed. The sun is shining. It’s spring, and that means festivals and events—a lot of them—all across New York. And things are only going to get hotter this summer. All season long you can groove to music under the stars, watch glass get made al fresco, sample delicious food, and get your kicks on midway rides. Here are your family's must-catch things to do across the Empire State this summer. M

The name of the Thousand Islands is not an exaggeration—there are more than 1,800 islands straddling the US-Canada border in the freshwater St. Lawrence River. The gorgeous coastline, spectacular castles, and the opportunities for boating and fishing make this region something of a best-kept secret in itself. Read on to discover some of our favorite hidden gems within the hidden gem that is the Thousand Islands.A celebrity farm! (Kind

Credit: NPA Photo/  J.PetersLong Island is world-famous for its stunningly scenic beaches. From the rockier shores and calmer waters of North Shore to the white sands and perfectly surfable waves of South Shore, there are so many options it’s hard to choose where to start! That’s why we’ve created your summer guide to Long Island beaching featuring where to go and what to do. Check out these eight destinations which

Happy (almost) Father’s Day! We appreciate all different types of dads, so instead of one-size-fits-all plans, read on for ideas on where and how to treat the unique dad in your life. From outdoor activities to unique museums, from gardens and restaurants to historical attractions and even spas, find the best way to show Dad you appreciate him.The Outdoorsy OneDad can’t spend enough time in the fresh outdoors? Good thing yo

Why are the Catskills one of the hottest destinations in the US right now? Stylish resorts, acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants, and country-chic boutiques are the recently added attractions, but the region’s beauty is the template. There’s no better way to experience the Catskills than with a hike on its trails, which offer something for every type of outdoor adventurer, from those looking to get their heart rates up to those i

Whether you prefer your donuts filled or ring-shaped, glazed or powdered, for breakfast or as a dessert, or even whether you spell them “donuts” or “doughnuts," one thing everyone can agree on is that these masterpieces of sweet fried dough are a delicious treat. We’ve rounded up some of New York State’s finest doughy delights in honor of National Donut Day on June 4.Cider Belly (Capital-Saratoga)P

Summer Fridays—and weekends—are incredibly precious, and most of us wait all year for them. Need inspiration for how to get the most from your summer weekends in New York State?  Pick and choose from these destinations to plan your ideal weekend getaways, or become the ultimate New York explorer and try them all!June 21: Hudson (Hudson Valley)Summer officially begins! Head just two hours north of New York City to the charmi

Looking for a getaway that packs in plenty of fun and also happens to be completely wheelchair accessible? Look no further than New York State! From majestic waterfalls to captivating mansions and some of the best displays of modern art in the country, there are lots of things to see and do that are accessible to all. Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines. Call ahead and check websites and socia

New York State has a wealth of award-winning wineries, breweries, and cideries in every corner of the state, many of which welcome children—and sometimes even well-behaved pets. Added amenities and activities for kids, caregivers, and designated drivers make it easy for everyone to have fun together. Vineyard-side tasting rooms often double as casual farm-to-table restaurants and some wineries offer unique lodging. The grounds are

No one celebrates the Fourth of July like New Yorkers do. For us, Independence Day means beach trips, fireworks over the water, picnics, and live music! Wear your red, white, and blue and get ready to “ooh” and “ahh” with these festive celebrations across the state.Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach (Long Island)A trip to Jones Beach State Park is already the perfect summer day—enjoy the beach, boardwalk,

Credit: Mountain Horse FarmGlamping 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, and no outhouses. New York State not only has gorgeous nature but truly charming and creative glamping options, including these five standouts. For more ideas, visit Spr

It’s summertime and the living is easy! At least in New York State it is, because there are so many events and fun things to do that being bored is not an option. July is a month full of amazing outdoor festivals celebrating everything from music to food, culture, horse racing, the anniversary of the moon landing, and lumberjacking! Read on for inspiration on how to live your best summer.Journey Along the Erie Canal (Capital-Saratoga)T

Craft brewing is not only a huge part of New York’s history but an important part of its present as well. Brewers increasingly draw on ingredients, from hops to seasonal fruits, which showcase New York flavor and creativity. Even better, nearly every spot on this list serves delicious beer-compatible local bites to pair with a pint. Read on for 11 of the best brewery experiences across the state, and remember to stay as local