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Author: Emma Frisbie

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

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. 

A woman with her hair tied up in a towel lounging in a hot tub
Credit: @kristenkoz16 on Instagram

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and take a break in New York State without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer a soak in the healing mineral waters of Saratoga, a relaxing seaside-inspired massage on Long Island, or a rejuvenating session in a salt cave, you deserve to treat yourself to a day of relaxation. No doubt enjoying a spa day is a luxury experience, but here’s a few ways to make getting pampered a bit more affordable. 

Two female and one male dancer dressed in white dance in front of a blue backdrop at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

From New York City to Buffalo, the Empire State is packed with rich Black art and culture. Witness riveting performances from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, explore Black-owned art galleries, or take a walking tour through Jackie Robinson’s Harlem. Whether you prefer a beautiful art museum or a lively festival, here are some great places to celebrate, honor, and commemorate Black art and culture throughout the state. 

A person in a hat, white jacket, jeans, and tan boots walks down a snow-covered path toward a wooden treehouse covered in white lights
Credit: @michaelscott87 on Instagram

Love is always in the air in New York State! Whether you’re deciding where to take your Valentine, planning a memorable first date, or celebrating a monumental anniversary, surprise your partner with a unique date without breaking the bank. From museum date nights to igloo dining under the stars to tasty food tours, plan your next date in the Empire State. 

Two hot air balloons soar through the blue skies over the green forests at Letchworth

From private helicopter rides and hot air balloon flights to behind-the-scenes tours and over-the-top stays, get the VIP treatment in the Empire State! It’s no secret that New York is packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures, but if you're looking for something a little more exclusive, we’ve got you covered. Cruise through Finger Lakes Wine Country on a private boat, have a castle all to yourself in the Thousand Islands, and much more. Photo credit: @balloonsoverletchworth on Instagram