I Love New York Blog

New York is home to many well-known, world-class attractions. But it’s also a state filled with hidden gems that don’t attract big crowds—waterfalls, hiking trails, and lakes that you can have practically all to yourself! Check out these outdoor destinations that will expand your knowledge of New York State while allowing for safe recreation. Even though you might not see many people on your trip, 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 attraction websites and social media for the most current information on openings and amenity availability while staying as local as possible.

Credit: Brooklyn Botanic Garden

New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Here are six attractions that offer programs specifically designed for travelers who are blind or have low vision. 

Note: due to the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry, some of these programs may be temporarily unavailable and venues may be closed. Please check directly with individual attractions for updates before making plans. By Executive Order, all visitors over the age of two, and able to medically tolerate one, are required to wear a mask or face covering when social distancing is not possible at any location in New York State. Individual attractions may have additional safety measures and guest requirements. ​ …

New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, and many have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Here are nine attractions that offer programs specifically designed for travelers who are Deaf or have a hearing loss. 

Note: due to the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry, some of these programs may be temporarily unavailable and venues may be closed. Please check directly with individual attractions for updates before making plans. By Executive Order, all visitors over the age of two, and able to medically tolerate one, are required to wear a mask or face covering when social distancing is not possible at any location in New York State. Individual attractions may have additional safety measures and guest requirements. …

New York State is home to hundreds of family-friendly attractions, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Here are nine sensory-friendly attractions that offer programs specifically designed for travelers with autism and developmental disabilities.

Note: due to the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry, some of these programs may be temporarily unavailable and venues may be closed. Please check directly with individual attractions for updates before making plans. By Executive Order, all visitors over the age of two, and able to medically tolerate one, are required to wear a mask or face covering when social distancing is not possible at any location in New York State. Individual attractions may have additional safety measures and guest requirements. 

These great books all have one very special thing in common: New York State! From classic literature to page-turning nonfiction to accounts of major historical moments and figures, these books offer insights into what makes New York such a special place. Add these to your summer reading list, or enjoy them in any season, and even inspire a future visit to an attraction based on these 11 great books set in New York State! Note: Some attractions featured here may be temporarily closed or may feature reduced amenities. Please check directly with individual attractions before making plans. 

Credit: @chopan585 on Instagram

Black culture has a deep impact on New York State. Jazz and hip-hop, art and dance, sports, literature, history, film, food, and fashion—all of these worlds look a lot less interesting without the contributions of Black New Yorkers. There are many ways and places to experience Black culture in New York State today whether at an important historical site, a legendary restaurant, an influential music venue, or a well-known museum. Some of these attractions have had to move their activities online due to COVID-19, but others are open—though it’s best to call ahead and to check the attraction’s website or social media channels before planning a visit to celebrate and commemorate Black culture in New York. 

Looking for a safe and fun New York road trip close to home? Check out these great New York State roadside attractions! With a variety of offbeat destinations, ranging from the artistic to the curious, from goofy to downright mysterious, there’s something to delight everyone, and the entire family will enjoy getting out of the house to seek out these eye-opening one-of-a-kind treasures only found here in New York. Of course, you should check directly with attractions or venues to make sure they are open or available for viewing, and always be sure to keep six feet apart from others not in your household. Bring a mask or face covering to wear when it’s not possible to maintain social distancing and enjoy a New York road trip featuring one of these unique roadside attractions! …