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Author: Emma Frisbie

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

Exterior of a family walking by a building surrounded by green vegetation at the New York Chinese Scholar's Garden at Snug Harbor

If you think you know Staten Island, think again! New York City’s most under-the-radar borough is filled with all kinds of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. From magical gardens and enthralling

Exterior of a walkway lined with white pillars and various shades of pink roses.

Looking for the perfect place to pop the question? There’s no denying that in New York State we ❤️ love. Niagara Falls is the honeymoon capital of the world, New York City is the country’s most romantic city to propose in, and romance can be found around every corner of the state. Whether you choose a dramatic waterfall in the Finger Lakes or a luxurious castle in the 1000 Islands, your partner is bound to say “yes” with these 36 stunning New York proposal spots. 

A smiling child slides down a hill in a blue tube at Windham Mountain

Snow-covered mountain tops, cozy cabins, and winter sports galore, the Catskills are truly magical this time of year. Whether you prefer watching the snow fall while sitting in front of a crackling fireplace with tasty Catskill cuisine or embarking on a blood-pumping ski or snowmobile adventure, the Catskills promise unforgettable frosty fun for all. What are you waiting for? Check out these cold weather activities and plan your winter wonderland getaway to the Catskills! 

Purple lavender plants grow in front of a white barn on a sunny day
Credit: @bristolhillslavenderandflower on Instagram

New York is in bloom! Frolic through fields of wildflowers, tiptoe between rows of colorful tulips, and inhale the scent of fresh lavender in stunningly scenic countrysides from Long Island to the Finger Lakes. Spend a fun-filled day on the farm picking flowers, capturing vibrant photos, taking hay rides, petting farm animals, playing mini golf, and more at these picturesque flower farms across the state. 

Aerial view of shops and a church in Lake Placid covered in snow with the Adirondack Mountains in the distance

Home to unforgettable Olympic history, a main street fit for a Hallmark movie, and epic winter adventures, there’s snow place like Lake Placid! While this postcard-perfect village in the Adirondacks promises year-round wonder, winter here is magical, when snow decorates the streets and cozy fireplaces crackle. Explore the sites that hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, ski down the greatest vertical east of the Rockies, indulge in a diverse dining and craft beverage scene, and so much more. Here’s your guide to spending a winter weekend in Lake Placid. 

A couple standing in the middle of a rows of pink cherry blossoms

Spring into romance in New York State! From intimate B&Bs to cozy cabin retreats to lovingly-restored historic mansions, it’s the perfect time to surprise your sweetheart with an unforgettable romantic escape. Whether you prefer a springtime stroll through colorful tulips or a romantic dinner aboard a sunset cruise, your love is sure to bloom this season with these 11 romantic spring getaways. Photo Credit: @aiaiaicchi on Instagram. 

A view of Manhattan from the green landscape of Governors Island

Are you looking to get in touch with nature this Earth Day? New York State is the place to visit! Home to more than 250 state parks, recreational trails, and boat launches with wilderness spanning 700,000 acres in the Catskill Mountains and 6 million acres in the Adirondack Park, New York has no shortage of forever wild experiences. For those with electric vehicles, charge up at stations across New York State, or hop on public transit and head to these eco-friendly destinations throughout the state!

Blue, green, yellow, and orange ceramic bottles on display

Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or pop culture enthusiast, New York State's world-class museums are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. What better way to warm up during the winter months than by spending the day exploring an exciting exhibit? From the first ever exhibition dedicated to Long Island native Billy Joel to an exhibit with larger-than-life-sized animal sculptures made entirely from LEGO® bricks, there really is something for everyone. Be sure to add these must-see Empire State exhibits to your winter itinerary before they're gone! 

A bottle of wine sits next to two glasses of white wine on a wooden table in front of a view of Seneca lake

It’s not everywhere that you can experience so many diverse wine regions all in one state! Sip, swirl, and relax in New York, home to over 35,000 acres of wine country and the nation’s third-largest wine-producing state. From Long Island’s superb reds and sprawling farmland vineyards to the Finger Lakes’ internationally-acclaimed whites and dazzling lakeside views, New York’s wine regions are waiting for you to explore! Here’s how to make the most of your time in Empire State wine country. 

The original torch in the Statue of Liberty Museum with the Statue of Liberty in the background.

New York City is one of the world’s most famous cities for a reason. Home to iconic landmarks, world-renowned museums, and a food scene like no other, you’ll find it all in the Big Apple. But this city is also full of amazing hidden gem destinations and off-the-beaten path activities. Admire the Statue of Liberty’s original torch, visit one of only two authentic classical outdoor Chinese Gardens in the country, enjoy a meal from a restaurant run by grandmothers, and more. Read on to get the scoop on New York City’s coolest secrets.