I Love New York Blog

This year, I LOVE NY is thrilled to welcome exciting new additions to our dedicated team of spotters for the Fall Foliage Report. Meet the “Official I LOVE NY Leaf Peepers” who will be reporting expected changes in fall color from across New York State throughout the season. Follow along on the I LOVE NY Instagram (and their personal accounts!) as they share their most mesmerizing fall color shots and the best areas to find New York State’s spectacular autumn leaves! …

Why is New York in the fall so magical? The leaves change from deep green to dazzling shades of orange, red, and yellow. The warm air turns crisp and cool. The activities offer fall family fun for everyone, with apple picking and scenic drives, colorful hikes, and romantic small-town getaways. For many New Yorkers, fall is a favorite season—a time to get out the cozy sweaters and scarves and to explore the state’s natural beauty, a time for change and new beginnings. Here are 10 things to make you fall in love with New York all over again.

When visiting, remember to keep six feet apart from others not in your party and wear a mask or face covering, and call ahead or check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available while staying as local as possible. 

Want to treat yourself to a local getaway for a little fun, rest, and relaxation? You don’t have to go far for an escape from your everyday routine. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway (or two!), there are thousands of miles of natural wonders to explore, hundreds of hidden gems to discover, and world-class resorts to experience nearby on your New York State staycation! …

New York City is home to the best museums in the world, and many have reopened or are about to reopen following temporary closures due to COVID-19. These museums and cultural institutions are welcoming visitors again with exciting new exhibitions and safety protocols in place—and in many cases, free or reduced admission for a limited time! Read on for news about the reopening of favorites like MoMA, the American Museum of Natural History, El Museo del Barrio, and more! Just remember to keep six feet apart from others not in your party and that wearing a mask or face covering is mandatory inside all museums and cultural institutions. Call ahead and check individual attraction websites for further information on openings and amenity availability. Advanced reservations for time tickets are required and must be made online via attraction websites. Be advised that there is a travel advisory in effect, which requires anyone entering New York from certain states to quarantine for 14 days upon entering New York State.

Credit: @bethel2008 on Instagram

No matter where you go in New York State, you are sure to find beautiful art decorating the sides of buildings, electrical boxes, train cars, fences, and streets. From…

Labor Day weekend is a great time to get out into nature with family and friends in New York State. The long weekend offers more opportunities to explore while staying as local as possible. Near the Catskills? Go for a hike, a swim, or a mountain bike ride! Closer to Buffalo and Niagara Falls? Experience the region’s natural beauty and architectural history. Want to make a splash? Find a hidden beach in the Adirondacks or on Long Island. Here are options for Labor Day activities throughout New York State. Just remember to keep six feet apart from others not in your party and bring a mask or face covering to wear when it’s not possible to maintain social distancing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available; advance reservations may be required. Be advised that New York has a travel advisory in effect, which requires anyone traveling from certain states to quarantine for 14 days upon entering New York State. 

Credit: @bluewatermanor on Instagram

New York State has hundreds of options for outdoor dining with a view, from patios overlooking lakes and rivers to vineyard restaurant terraces to tables on a farm. The following restaurants with outdoor seating all have a few things in common: great food, magnificent views, and plenty of room to socially distance. (All offer curbside takeout for those who aren’t ready to eat at the restaurant yet.) When visiting, remember to keep six feet apart from others not in your household and wear a mask or face covering, and call ahead or check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available while staying as local as possible. 

New York State offers many activities for those wanting to get outdoors and enjoy nature. From hiking trails to swimming beaches to picnic areas with a view, there’s something for everyone. It is up to all visitors to help maintain these beautiful outdoor spaces, as well as to ensure the safety of others. Here are the important things to remember when heading out into the great outdoors in New York State! …

New York State’s spectacularly colorful fall foliage season is about to get underway, and you’re invited to become an Official I LOVE NY Leaf Peeper to join our statewide team of volunteers that help…

Craving a getaway with a unique twist? These New York State vacation rentals and places to stay differ from the usual hotel experience with private entrances, remote locations, and lots of outdoor space for recreation. From rustic cabins to luxury hideaways to glamping in the city or in the country, these lodgings offer ways to get away from it all. Just remember to keep six feet apart from others not in your household and bring a mask or face covering to wear when it’s not possible to maintain social distancing. Call ahead or check websites and social media for the most current information on availability while staying as local as possible. Additionally, keep in mind that if you have recently been to or are coming from a state on the COVID-19 travel advisory, you will be required to complete a 14-day quarantine when you arrive in New York.