I Love New York Blog

It’s officially awards season and New York State is home to some amazing award-winning destinations of its own! We’ve rounded up some of the state’s most recent achievements and accolades from new Michelin-starred restaurants to the nation’s best wellness retreats to the top-rated state park in the country. Read on to discover some of the Empire State’s acclaimed attractions and destinations and add these spots to your must-visit list. 

February in New York State is brimming with excitement, both indoors and out! Discover Black History Month and Valentine's Day events, indulge in a chocolate and wine festival, groove to live music, and get your adrenaline pumping with winter sports in the Adirondacks.

Museums, attractions, and cultural institutions across New York State are commemorating Black History Month this February with special programs and events honoring and celebrating the great contributions and achievements of African Americans. From art workshops to live performances to moving exhibits, find unique and meaningful ways to celebrate and understand Black history, culture, and heritage with these family-friendly events.

Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or pop culture enthusiast, New York State's world-class museums are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. What better way to warm up during the winter months than by spending the day exploring an exciting exhibit? Walk through original studio sets from Everybody Loves Raymond at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, learn about American history through the lens of still life paintings at the Memorial Art Gallery, or celebrate six decades of Barbie at the New York State Museum–there’s something for everyone! Be sure to add these must-see Empire State exhibits to your winter itinerary before they're gone.

Winter in New York State is magical! When the snow starts to fall, the fun heats up with festivals, carnivals, and events showcasing the best of the snowy season. Watch fireworks erupt over dazzling ice castles, warm up with vibrant jazz performances at NYC Winter Jazzfest, or cheer on Team USA from two-time Olympic host city Lake Placid ahead of the 2026 Milano Cortina Games. Add some of these 28 can’t-miss winter carnivals, festivals, and events to your winter bucket list and plan your next cold-weather adventure in New York State. 

Make 2026 a year of new opportunities, and most important of all, new travel experiences! If you’ve been gazing wistfully at the stars wondering where on Earth you’ll set foot this year, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of must-see trips and can’t-miss events from America 250 to the FIFA World Cup to add to your calendar for 2026. So what are you waiting for?! Start planning your trip today.  …

A snow-draped escape awaits you and your furry friend this winter in New York State. Leaving home is never easy when you’re met with puppy-dog eyes, but luckily for you and your pup, destinations…

From luxury hotels to must-visit attractions, New York State offers all kinds of ways to save in January! Unlock unbeatable winter offers on Broadway shows, restaurants, hotels, and more during NYC Winter Outing, splash into winter savings for the whole family at Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark in the Catskills, or bundle and save on a ski-and-stay getaway to top ski areas like Holiday Valley. Read on to check out some of the state’s best January deals and discounts.

If you’re looking to experience the magic of winter in the Catskills, look no further than Hunter. This picture-perfect ski town offers everything you’d want in a winter escape: snow-dusted main streets, cozy lodges with crackling fireplaces, and a mountain known for having some of the most reliable ski conditions in the East. 

Say hello to 2026 in style in New York State by warming up with a variety of fun, exciting, and delicious events! Whether you want to take in a two-for-one show on Broadway, groove to the smooth…