I Love New York Blog

Located east of New York City, just off the southern edge of Long Island, 31-mile-long Fire Island is home to some of the most spectacular, pristine beaches in the United States. Its proximity to NYC…

Corning, New York is the perfect stepping stone to explore the southern Finger Lakes. You’re probably most familiar with the name as a tribute to glass art and innovation, thanks to the famed Corning Museum of Glass, a must-see while in town—but you’ll find much more to love in this charming city along the Chemung River. Due to Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) establishing residence in 1868, the town’s nickname is “Crystal City” and the quaint downtown is dubbed “The Gaffer District,” gaffer being a term for a professional glassblower. Come for the glass but stay for the inventive cuisine, boutique shopping, and nearby Finger Lakes wine country.

While every Pride is meaningful and special, this year’s is a particularly big deal: 2019 marks the 50-year anniversary of the historic Stonewall Riots, when the LGBT community rose up in protest against police raids at the Stonewall Inn in New York City's West Village. The epicenter of the anniversary festivities will be right here in New York State, and it's the first WorldPride in the United States. Events will take place all throughout the month of June and continue into July, both in the city and around New York State. See what’s coming up and make plans to stick around because there’s too much joy to contain in just a day or a week. Of course, everything is open to locals, travelers, friends, partners, families—all are welcome. …

We’ve made it through the winter and April’s showers will soon be forgotten—get ready for May flowers and perfect weather throughout New York State. This year, we’re celebrating special occasions like Walt Whitman’s 200th birthday and the 50th anniversaries of both the Stonewall Uprising and Woodstock with a variety of events leading up to this summer. Other activities of note across the regions will get you exploring nature and outer space (kind of), playing on carnival rides, and feasting on cupcakes, apple butter, and cuisines from around the world!…

Watkins Glen in the Finger Lakes is a wonderful example of a small town in upstate New York with a big story (other good examples are Seneca Falls and Cooperstown). While there may be fewer than 2,000 year-round residents, Watkins Glen is also home to world-class attractions like gorge-ous Watkins Glen State Park and Watkins Glen International, the only place to watch NASCAR in the state. 2019 brings something even more exciting to Watkins Glen: Woodstock 50, the official celebration of the 50th anniversary of the historic festival. Jay-Z, Miley Cyrus, Santana, Maggie Rogers, Imagine Dragons, and many more are set to perform from August 16 to 18. Don’t worry about the planning, we’ve done it all for you.

The Greater Niagara region has been a hot spot for travelers for a loooong time. After all, if Niagara Falls isn’t on your bucket list, you probably don’t have a bucket list. The region is also full of art, culture, history, flora-and-fauna-and-Americana, and signature sandwiches oozing with flavor. You’re about to find out that this region is much more than waterfalls and wings—but definitely get in on both of those during your visit!…

We have a winner! In ILOVENY.com's fourth annual Bracket, we rounded up some of the most popular and beloved destinations across New York State to find the #1 fan choice and YOU chose Maid of the Mist, the iconic boat tour of Niagara Falls USA! Stay tuned for news about the lucky winner of the annual Bracket sweepstakes, who will get to select one of the amazing travel packages listed below in the guide to this year's contestants. Read on to see where you should plan your next New York vacation!…

Bye, snow boots, bye, winter coat! We’ve been over the cold weather for a minute, and now that spring is finally here, it’s time to celebrate. New York is about to blossom with lively activities and festivals, memorable exhibits, and natural beauty returning to its most vibrant state. Read on for your complete New York State Spring Bucket List to ensure that you have a blast this season.

Mother's Day weekend is coming up fast! Looking to really wow the mother figures in your life this year? No problem—make memories to last a lifetime with our guide to some of the best Mother's Day activities across New York State. Think fun outdoor adventures, exceptional spas, music, and shopping that won't break the bank—here are some inspirational suggestions for the May 12 mom-focused holiday.

Amazing things are made in New York State, from craft beverages to award-winning chocolate, brilliant art, and popular TV shows—now you can see how they come to life. We’ve compiled a list of tours and demonstrations that shed light on some of New York’s cherished creations. Tour factories, distilleries, and kitchens, watch live glass molded right before your eyes, and go behind the scenes on the sets of your favorite TV shows. We’re lifting the curtains, so come see where the magic happens!…