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The top of the Empire State Building lit up in the colors of the Pride flag

From historic and cultural sites to energetic and inclusive neighborhoods, New York’s role in LGBTQ history is unrivaled. In fact, New York is the birthplace of the modern Pride movement and is consistently ranked as the favorite destination in the world for LGBTQ travelers.

Fireworks light up the night sky at Oswego Harborfest

Summer in New York State heats up in July with food, music, sports, and unforgettable celebrations! Cheer on elite athletes in the Adirondacks, soak in the sounds of bluegrass in the Catskills, marvel

A guide leads three smiling women on a forest trail by a lake, surrounded by lush green trees. The mood is lively and adventurous.

Lace up your shoes and round up the kids for an adventure at some of New York State’s most kid-friendly hiking destinations. These shorter, easy-to-follow trails feature gentle terrain, scenic views,

Historical reenactors in period attire march across a grassy meadow, carrying muskets and gear with misty mountains in the background during a Real Time Revolution event at Fort Ticonderoga.

From the scenic shores of Lake Champlain to the bustling streets of Lower Manhattan, New York State served as a critical battleground in the fight for American independence. One-third of the

a little boy in a turquoise shirt plays with Legos at the LEGO Ferrari Build & Race attraction. Behind him a giant Lego figure dressed in a red Ferrari outfit holds a green sign that says "Go Build"

No place does summer quite like the Empire State! With new attractions, restaurants, exhibits, and hotels opening in all corners of New York, summer 2026 is sure to be one to remember.

Jazz At Lincoln Center _ Photo by Marley White - Courtesy of NYC & Co

From jazz and spoken word to rock 'n' roll, R&B, and hip-hop, Black music is a global language and innovation. Rooted in soul, rhythm, storytelling, resistance, and joy, it has shaped how people celebrate, express love, build identity and community, and imagine freedom.

June is Black Music Month, a time to honor the artists, sounds, and culture that have shaped generations and New York State’s soundscape. From Harlem, Queens, and the Bronx to Buffalo, Rochester, and Long Island, experience the cultural landmarks, festivals, museums, and theaters that continue to preserve and celebrate this legacy. 

downtown Schenectady

Travel to Schenectady for a weekend rich in history, art, and fun. It is here where Thomas Edison founded the General Electric Company, where New York State named its first historic district, and it’s home to Proctors Theatre, a former vaudeville house where countless famous artists have performed.

American Roots Music Festival

Get your sunscreen ready… it’s music festival season in New York State! From jazz to blues to indie rock to classical to country, there's a festival to satisfy every music taste.

Saranac Lake

Ordinarily quiet streets suddenly buzz with energy, patios of local cafes fill with visitors, world-renowned amphitheaters welcome premiere performances, and once frozen lakes now sparkle beneath

Bright red, white, and blue fireworks decorate the sky over east river
Credit: @clickforthekingdom on Instagram

Festivals, parades, and air shows, oh my! There’s so much to do in New York State this summer. Try delicious new foods, jam out to live music in beautiful outdoor amphitheaters, take a spin on midway rides, celebrate rich culture and community, watch hot air balloons take flight, and more, all season long. Mark your calendars. Here are some Empire State events you don’t want to miss!