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Author: Anna Pakman

Anna Pakman is VP of Digital Marketing for Empire State Development / NYS Division of Tourism. She’s an avid traveler and foodie.

 
Kids playing at the Strong National Museum of Play

Kids grow up fast—almost too fast. While you won’t be able to keep them little and cute forever, you will be able to create plenty of memories during a much-needed family getaway. Here’s our guide on where to take them every year in New York State.

A small sailboat with two people glides peacefully across a Lake George under a sunny sky, surrounded by distant green hills. Reflections ripple on the water.

The Adirondacks region of New York State is home to 6 million acres of protected wilderness, awe-inspiring views from its 46 High Peaks, and over 3,000 lakes and ponds. How much of it is wheelchair accessible? More than you would think!…

Donut

Whether you prefer your donuts filled or ring-shaped, glazed or powdered, for breakfast or as a dessert, or even whether you spell them “donuts” or “doughnuts," one thing everyone can agree on is that these masterpieces of sweet fried dough are a delicious treat. We’ve rounded up some of New York State’s finest doughy delights in honor of not one but two National Donut Days November 5 and June 5. 

Aerial view on Lincoln Center at dusk
Credit: @sg_uberdawg on Instagram
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Nikki Walsh of Adapt Fit using adaptive skiing equipment on a snowy slope at Windham Mountain Club, assisted by an Adaptive Sports Foundation instructor in green.

The Catskills have long served as a playground for winter outdoor adventure enthusiasts thanks to the region’s excellent ski mountains, picturesque hiking landscapes, cozy resorts, and happening farm-to-table dining scene that makes for the perfect ski and apres ski experience.

A hand holding up a blue plush toy in the likeness of a Labubu in front of Grand Central Terminal

Looking for your next New York State getaway but not sure which region fits your vibe? Let Labubu be your guide! The designer toys which have taken the world by storm each have their own personality, just like New York’s 11 diverse vacation regions.

Wild Center and Wild Walk

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! …

Three scoops of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate on a sprinkle waffle cone

We all scream for ice cream—and New York State, where the ice cream sundae was invented, has some of the very best.

Strong Museum of Play - Photo by Sam Horine

New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities, including programs specifically designed for travelers who are autistic or have developmental disabilities. A number of cultural institutions are also offering live and taped accessible virtual events led by trained educators. 

Two People Biking Along The Canalway Trail

Finding an outdoor adventure that is accessible for everyone in your crew is easier than you might think in New York State! From sandy shores of inclusion to skiing and adaptive hiking with all-terrain wheelchairs, there’s something for every interest and every ability in every season. Best of all, many of these activities are either free or available at a relatively low cost.