• Accessibility
Menu Close
Author: Ross D. Levi

Ross D. Levi is the Executive Director & VP, NYS Division of Tourism / Empire State Development. He also did marketing in the film industry for studios including Universal, Miramax and 20th Century Fox, and is a published author and lecturer on cinema.

The entrance to LEGOLAND New York

Credit: @kathybucciotv on Instagram

Tucked amid the gentle rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, the quaint village of Goshen, which dates back to the early 1700s, is full of history, architectural gems, and a charming walkable downtown that make it easy to see why Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the best small towns in the U.S. to visit. There’s plenty of fun and adventure to be had at the Northeast’s first LEGOLAND theme park

Santa's Workshop - Photo Courtesy of Santa's Workshop

Thoughts unavoidably turn to the North Pole this time of year, and the lesser-known North Pole sits in the shadow of Whiteface Mountain in New York's Adirondack Park. It's a real town (hamlet, actually, in the town of Wilmington) in the state's northeast corner, just about 12 miles from Lake Placid. Appropriately, it's home to Santa's Workshop, believed to be the nation's oldest theme park.

Hunter Zipline, Hunter Mountain

Updated: 1/9/2023

Anybody can do dinner and a moviebut how about impressing that extraordinary someone in your life with an extraordinary date?  With Valentine’s Day soon approaching, planning a special romantic outingwhether it's an evening or a weekendis a sure way to make you a hero, and New York State provides a breathtaking array of activities that will help you break the ice on a new romance or warm up a lifelong partnership.

Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines. Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available.

A giraffe licks a hand at Animal Adventure Park
Credit: @slevels07ec on Instagram

In New York State, cute critters are more than internet clickbait; they can be part of a great getaway for every member of the family. Your choices aren’t limited to zoos and aquariums, though New York has a world-class collection of those across the state. There are also farm experiences, animal sanctuaries, nature preserves, and even online animal encounters, all providing unique animal experiences and chances to interact with wildlife. No two visits are ever the same, not only because living creatures are unpredictable, but because these destinations are constantly adding new exhibits, experiences, and even residents! Here’s what’s unique when it comes to meeting irresistible furry, feathered, and finned friends across New York State.