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Author: Emma Frisbie

Emma Frisbie is the Digital Content Coordinator for ILOVENY.com.

Yellow, green, and brown wood boat docked in Rochester at sunrise

The Erie Canal turns 200 in 2025! This monumental anniversary presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the engineering marvel that transformed the nation. Whether you’re looking to kick off canal season with a lively festival, paddle through towering locks, or catch the Seneca Chief replica canal boat on its journey from Buffalo to New York City, lock in all kinds of fun for everyone all season long! Read on for your guide to celebrating the Erie Canal Bicentennial and be sure to visit the Erie Canalway website for a full calendar of events

Two women in robes clinking wine glasses, sitting in Adirondack chairs overlooking nature

Plan the ultimate bachelor or bachelorette weekend in New York State! Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, stress-relieving retreat, or combined bachelor-bachelorette celebration, there’s an unforgettable getaway for every spouse-to-be and “I do” crew. From an all-inclusive dude ranch in the Adirondacks to the bright lights of New York City to Long Island’s tropical, sandy beaches, bring your bach party dreams to life with these 11 amazing New York State destinations.

Brick Exterior of the Old Westbury House surrounded by bright green plants and pink and white flowers

Shed the winter coat, it’s time to experience all things spring in New York State! From breathtaking flower festivals to majestic waterfalls, there’s something for everyone and every budget. Whether you prefer a stroll through 100,000 tulips in Albany, a scenic hiking challenge in the Adirondacks, or a spring cruise on the Erie Canal, let adventure bloom without breaking the bank with these 11 affordable spring getaways in the Empire State.

Two seniors lookout at a view of fall foliage over the Adirondacks from Giant Mountain Keene Valley

Now that long days spent working are a thing of the past, it’s time to start planning your next chapter of adventure! In New York State, there are plenty of unforgettable trips for retirees looking to travel, whether you’re searching for a relaxing spa retreat in the Finger Lakes or a thrilling journey to the base of the mighty Niagara Falls. Check out these 11 amazing New York State destinations to reward yourself for your hard years of work and embrace your retirement era. 

Statue of Liberty at night

With so many exciting and thrilling attractions throughout the state, it’s hard to decide where to start. These dazzling destinations are popular for a reason with one-of-a-kind adventures around every corner, waiting for you to experience. We’ve put together a list of New York’s most popular attractions from award-winning Broadway shows and Bricktastic theme parks to scenic railroad rides and boat cruises that are 100% worth the hype (and the lines). 

Two people biking along the canal where a tour boat floats by

Did you know that the New York State Canal System is the nation’s largest state-run inland waterway system? With 524 miles of navigable waterways, including the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca Canals, the canal system has seen it all, transporting much of the nation’s agricultural and industrial products as well as playing a vital role throughout American history. 2025 marks the Canal’s Bicentennial commemoration, presenting a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience this engineering marvel! Celebrate at lively events, paddle through locks and lift bridges, cycle through stunning scenery, cruise on historic vessels, stroll charming main streets, and more. 

A close-up of a hand pulling long life noodles from a bowl

From world famous chef-run establishments to farm-to-table hidden gems, New York’s dining scene is unlike any other. Better yet, why not embark on a culinary journey without ever leaving your hotel? You may find yourself indulging in an elegant meal in the Hamptons or dining alongside the majestic sights and sounds of Niagara Falls! Check out these 21 hotel restaurants with food worth staying for and plan your next New York State getaway.

A pink cherry blossom tree blooms in front of Lyndhurst Castle on a bright spring day

From sugary-sweet maple celebrations to blooming floral festivals, there’s so much to do in New York this spring! Admire the vibrant hues of tulips on Long Island, celebrate a ski season send off in the Finger Lakes, sample superb craft beverages in Chautauqua-Allegheny, and much more. Get ready to clear the schedule! You’re going to want to pack your spring calendar with these can’t-miss festivals.

A bride and groom sit on a ski lift that reads "Just Married" on the back while looking out over the Catskill Mountains

Plan the wedding of your dreams in New York State! Now that you’ve found your forever person, it’s time to find a venue as beautiful as your love story. Whether you’re envisioning a luxurious celebration at a castle pulled straight from a fairytale, a lowkey gathering with loved ones at the base of a waterfall, or anything in between, there’s a venue for every couple. Check out this lineup of awe-inspiring locations and tie the knot in the Empire State. Congrats!

A woman walks through a pool in a candle lit room at AIRE Ancient Baths NYC

As the temps get colder and the days get shorter, why not treat yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway in New York State? Whether you prefer an indulgent massage at an award-winning spa, a screen-free stay at a mountain lodge, or a stress-reducing sesh with friendly farm goats, there are all kinds of places to unwind in the Empire State from Long Island to the Adirondacks. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your own winter wellness getaway in New York State.