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Author: I LOVE NY Staff
Waterfalls surrounded by greenery in Letchworth State Park
Credit: @kb.hikes on Instagram

Summer is the time to create long-lasting family memories in New York State. Exciting opportunities for fun await, from state-of-the-art theme parks to activities on the water to kid-friendly picturesque parks. Thrill-seeking families will find mountain coasters and those in search of relaxation can visit beaches or take gentle hikes to waterfalls. There’s literally something for everyone to make a New York State family vacation one of the most memorable of a lifetime.

Colorful homes on the Canandaigua Pier

Credit: @thisnewyorkfamily on Instagram

While New York State is home to the Big Apple, New York City, it also boasts irresistible charm as found in its small towns. Set amidst majestic mountains, featuring wonderful wineries, and close to all sorts of outdoor adventure, New York's adorable small towns offer visitors a place to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. You’ll discover great places to eat, one-of-a-kind shops, and easy access to some of the state’s best outdoor experiences such as hiking, biking, boating, ziplining, and more! Plan your getaway to one of New York’s amazing small towns today with this guide to some of the best locations in the state. 

Family camping in Adirondacks

Whether your family loves bumming at the beach, exploring charming little towns, or soaking in the natural beauty of mountains and lakes, you can find it all in New York—no matter your budget. We found top-notch local escapes all over New York with lodging for less than $200 per night, with affordable family-friendly activities nearby. So read on and get excited: Summer will be here before you know it! 

A Japanese tree with twisted branches and a stone structure

New York is a great place to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. From visiting a treasured Buddhist temple in the Catskills to feeling the peace and wisdom of nature at a Hudson Valley Japanese stroll garden to enjoying Burmese cuisine in Buffalo, here are ways to learn about, appreciate, and experience Asian Pacific American culture and history in New York State! 

New York Botanical Garden

Mother's Day weekend is coming up fast! Looking to really wow the mother figures in your life this year? No problem—make memories to last a lifetime with our guide to some of the best Mother's Day

Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown

New York has an abundance of gorgeous natural views all across the state AND is well known for its culinary scene, so you won’t be surprised that restaurants have popped up in stunning spots. From

Six Flags Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom

Get ready for liftoff because your summer plans are about to get a serious boost! Strap in for some of the steepest, twisty-turniest, most gut-wrenching roller coaster rides and water slides around—but don’t worry, there are also plenty of family rides that won’t make you lose your lunch. New York is home to some of the country’s longest-running amusement parks, so you can savor a little dose of nostalgia along with your hot dogs and cotton candy. Read on to see where to get your thrills this summer, from the laziest rivers to the most vertical nose-dives and everything in between. 

Phoenicia Diner

Round up your crew and head out on the road this summer. New York State has a variety of adventures just waiting for you to arrive. We’ve pulled together some of our favorite scenic and fun-filled road trips so all you have to do is stock up on snacks and make some overnight reservations for the longer trips. It’s time to hit play on summer plans and that summer playlist! 

A field of pink tulips in bloom at Albany Tulip Festival

Bye bye, snow boots and winter coat! We’ve been over the cold weather for a minute, and now it’s time to celebrate spring. New York State is about to blossom with lively activities and festivals,

Glamping tents on Governors Island with a view of the Statue of Liberty at sunset
Credit: @pobz_iv on Instagram

Camping is one of the best and most affordable family vacations, immersing you in the peace and tranquility of nature. With warmer weather on the horizon, make reservations at one of New York State’s great campgrounds and plan a stay in the great outdoors.