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Author: Emma Frisbie

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

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

Exterior of a Lushna Cabin in the snow at Eastwind Hotel Oliverea Valley

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and cozy up in one of New York’s charming boutique hotels! Whether you prefer a luxe cabin-style lodge in the “forever wild” Adirondacks, a trendy industrial-chic retreat in Brooklyn, or a luxurious seaside getaway in the Hamptons, you can’t go wrong with these unforgettable stays. Plan for your next adventure and check out these 19 unique and boutique New York hotels.

A family of four skis down Bristol Mountain

Looking for winter family fun without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered! Winter in New York State means exploring dazzling ice palaces, traversing magical landscapes, experiencing world-renowned museums, and so much more. Get the family out of the house and get ready to make unforgettable memories with these 13 affordable winter weekend activities.

A person in a pink and grey winter coat, white hat, and black snow pants prepares to ski down Gore Mountain

From ski trail debuts to grand hotel openings, there’s always something new to discover in New York State! Spend a wintry weekend on a farm in the Hudson Valley, get your holiday shopping done at a new holiday market in the Finger Lakes, zoom down one the Catskills’ steepest ski trails, and more. Whether you’re planning a wonderful winter weekend getaway or just looking to make magical memories, be sure to add the Empire State’s latest and greatest to your winter must-do list. 

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

Thanksgiving is a special time for family, friends, and celebration, so why not spend the holiday in the Empire State? There’s truly something for every type of traveler, whether you’re spending Thanksgiving solo on a self-care getaway to the Catskills, indulging in a delicious turkey dinner from a decadent dining room in Lake George, or admiring dazzling floats at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Gobble up this guide and plan an unforgettable Thanksgiving in New York State. 

Gallery inside the Parrish Art Museum

Charming coastal villages, world-class wineries, and fresh seafood galore await on an accessible weekend getaway on Long Island. You may find yourself exploring a Gold Coast Mansion, shopping in the Hamptons, or admiring artwork at a renowned art museum! Check out disability activist Paula Carozzo’s visit to Long Island and get ready to plan your amazing accessible weekend. 

Niagara Falls at sunset on a family-friendly getaway to Greater Niagara, NY

From the mighty roar of Niagara Falls to world-class art collections to Grammy-award-winning orchestra performances, incredible experiences await in Buffalo and Niagara Falls for visitors who are blind or have low vision.

Front entrance to Franklin D. Roosevelt's Springwood home in Hyde Park

From charming and inclusive communities to world-renowned culinary experiences to moving museums and historic sites, amazing adventures await travelers who have autism and other developmental disabilities.

Rochester's High Falls surrounded by the city at sunset

Home to a vibrant dining scene, world-class attractions, and a welcoming Deaf community, Rochester is filled with all kinds of unforgettable adventures for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Grab a bite to eat at a Deaf-owned cafe, explore a state-of-the-art gallery showcasing artwork by Deaf artists, take an ASL tour of the National Susan B. Anthony House, and more! Check out the video of deaf travel creator Lily Yu's visit to the city and plan your Deaf-friendly weekend in Rochester.  

Aerial view of the Bear Mountain Bridge in the snow

From the snowy shores of Lake George to the frozen falls of the Finger Lakes to the spectacular cityscapes of New York City, all corners of the Empire State transform into a winter wonderland.