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Category - Chautauqua-Allegheny

A girl in a yellow life vest kayaking in a clear bottom kayak at Green Lakes State Park
Credit: @ddm_foto and @visitsyracuse on Instagram

Whether you’re planning a long holiday break, bestie birthday weekend, or just want to spend quality time with friends, the Empire State is the place for your next BFF getaway. From surfing on Long Island to laughing at the National Comedy Center to rock climbing in the Hudson Valley, these budget-friendly plans are sure to make it out of the group chat. Check out these 11 unforgettable and affordable friends getaways in New York State. 

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, memorable exhibits, and natural beauty returning to its most vibrant state.

Cherry blossoms on a tree with a white-columned building in the background

Experience an array of diverse and enchanting events for everyone this April in New York State. At the heart of the month's excitement is a celestial spectacle that occurs in the same spot only once every 400 years – a total solar eclipse! Beyond this celestial marvel, the state is brimming with cultural, culinary, and recreational experiences.

A view of Manhattan from the green landscape of Governors Island

Credit: @kingy27nyc on Instagram

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! 

Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium

Have you ever found yourself gazing toward the sky on a clear night and wondering which planets, stars, and constellations are looking back at you? Whether you’re preparing to experience the total solar eclipse happening in April 2024, Earth’s once-a-year brush with a meteor field, or plan to polish up on your constellation trivia, New York State offers a multitude of educational and interactive sites to stargaze and learn more about the night sky—visit these observatories, planetariums, and dark sky destinations. 

Aquarium of Niagara

For many of you, spring break is just around the corner! But we know that you’re busy and don’t have time to plan the perfect New York getaway—so we did the hard work for you! These trip ideas are quick, easy, and filled with fun activities to please the whole family. We’ve rounded up kid-friendly lodgings and activities to help you make the most of the warmer weather and free time. Don’t sit out spring break, go find some adventure! Or relaxation. You’ve got options.

A couple standing in the middle of a rows of pink cherry blossoms
Credit: @aiaiaicchi on Instagram

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. 

Tulips and other colorful blooms on display at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens' Spring Flower Exhibit

March is a month of celebration in New York State. Commemorate Women’s History Month by exploring the state’s rich history of the Women’s Rights Movement. Join the revelry of St. Patrick’s Day at one of the many parades and festivals taking place from New York City to Buffalo.

An aerial view of Sagamore Resort on the edge of bright blue Lake George with the Minne Ha Ha ship passing before it
Credit: Courtesy of Sagamore Resort

Get ready for some eggcellent springtime fun with colorful events, festive brunches, and more across New York State. With Easter taking place March 31 and Passover from April 22 through April 30 this year, and events taking place the week before the both holidays, there’s tons of exciting opportunities to celebrate. Here’s where you can find holiday activities and events in the Empire State.

Syracuse St. Patrick's Day Parade - Photo by James Cahill

How do you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day? Whether you hail from Irish ancestry or just want to get decked out in green, here are some St. Patrick's Day parades and festivals in New York State to make this holiday the best one yet. Céad míle fáilte to New York!