I Love New York Blog

Sit back, relax, and soak up spectacular scenery on a boat cruise in New York State! Home to two Great Lakes, thousands of miles of rivers, the Atlantic Ocean, and historic Erie Canal (celebrating its 200th anniversary this year!), the opportunities to get out on the water are endless. Search for the gentle giants of the sea on a whale watching cruise in Montauk, navigate through locks on the tranquil waters of the Erie Canal, or explore the depths of the St. Lawrence River on a boat with a glass bottom. Put the wind in your sails and don’t miss the boat on these 12 summertime water tours and cruises in New York State. 

When fall rolls around, a wave of fiery oranges, bright yellows, and deep reds transform New York State into a foliage dreamland. From Central Park and the Catskill Mountains to the St. Lawrence River and Niagara Falls, every corner of the Empire State becomes decorated with the wonders of autumn. But, it won’t last for long. Get your cameras (and Instagram captions) ready to fully embrace fall at some of the best photo spots of the season throughout the state. 

Adaptive mountain biking and kayaking, waterfall chasing, and amazing outdoor adventuring, get ready for an accessible getaway unlike any other in the Finger Lakes! Accessible for travelers who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility, your expeditions may lead you to unforgettable experiences like traversing rugged trails in an all-action track chair or posing alongside New York’s tallest waterfall. Follow along with content creator Tara Shetterly, @tara_shett as she embarks on the ultimate Finger Lakes road trip and get inspired to plan your own outdoor adventure in New York State.

Scenic steamboat cruises, mountainside splendor, and outdoor adventure aplenty, an unforgettable family-friendly getaway awaits in the Adirondacks! Accessible for travelers with cognitive and developmental disabilities, your journeys may lead you to cool destinations like the Wild Center with an accessible trail of elevated bridges through the treetops or the Adirondack Rail Trail for a family e-bike ride through picture-perfect mountain towns. Follow along with the family behind @ourhuddybuddy as Melanie and her sons Colton (13) and Huddy (5), who has Down Syndrome, embark on an amazing Adirondack adventure and get inspired to plan your own family vacation in New York State. 

No place does summer quite like the Empire State! With new attractions, restaurants, exhibits, and hotels opening in all corners of the state, summer 2025 is sure to be one to remember.

Looking to give the kids unforgettable summer memories while visiting New York State? Sign them up for summer camp! Whether your youngster is a nature lover, budding artist, outdoor adventurer, or future scientist, there’s sure to be a camp that suits their style. While the kids spend an action-packed day at camp, we've included some ideas to help you craft your own adventure exploring nearby spas, wineries, museums, and more at some of the state’s coolest destinations! Unleash summer fun for everyone in New York State and check out this list of 14 unique summer camps for kids. 

Spend some island time in New York State! Whether you prefer an island with a mysterious history, beachfront ambiance, or an elegant castle fit for royalty, New York’s islands are waiting for you to explore.

Who says luxury has to come with an expensive price tag? In New York State, there are all kinds of ways to live your best life without breaking the bank! From world-class theater to serene spa escapes to Michelin-starred cuisine, check out these wallet-friendly hacks and add a little luxury to your next Empire State getaway. 

From magnificent mountain peaks to spectacular city skylines, there’s no place like New York State in the summer! If you’re looking to impress with some amazing photos, we’ve got you covered. Your photographic expeditions may lead you to luxurious Gold Coast mansions, fields of bright yellow sunflowers, or to the top of New York’s fifth-highest peak.

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. ​…