I Love New York Blog

If you want to stay somewhere really unique, you may want to consider one of New York State's farmstays. Help out with chores like milking cows and gathering eggs, enjoy a slice of country fun, or simply relax amid soothing green acres.

Is there anything better than diving into stacks of pancakes covered with maple syrup? Or savoring a milkshake made with local ice cream after a cheeseburger and fries? With great food, a friendly atmosphere and the occasional award-winning chef behind the counter, diners and luncheonettes remain some of the best places to grab a bite in New York State. From New York City to the Adirondacks and everywhere in between, these family-friendly mainstays are the stuff of mouthwatering memories. Discover original diners, where the atmosphere has been generations in the making, as well as award-winning hot spots that welcome all to linger over a meal. 

Every family has their classic vacation go-to destinations. But what about when your kids (and you) are craving something a little different? Give your crew a taste of something exciting and new when you venture to one of New York’s lesser-known treasures. Your next unforgettable escape is hiding right around the corner.

New York’s cemeteries are the final resting place for a number of famous figures in history. Many of their burial plots are also objects of beauty, with exquisite mausoleums…

Spring showers bring plenty of opportunities to step indoors and discover an amazing variety of exciting, educational, and tasty things to do in New York State. From skating on the famed Olympic oval to relaxing at a renowned spa, discovering niche museums, and more—find new inspiration with these unique rainy day experiences.

With waterfront parks, open-air restaurants, vintage boutiques, and historic downtowns, these New York villages are storybook settings you can revisit time and time again. Explore these walking-friendly, charming locations and see why people are falling in love with New York's villages.  …

Credit: @sandrafoyt on Instagram

Updated 8/10/26

Troy sometimes gets overlooked as a small city outside of Albany (just 15 minutes up and across the Hudson River from the capital), but it has come into its own in recent years as enterprising newcomers aim to boost this city of 50,000 on the map. A former steel and textile manufacturing center, Troy once produced detachable collars for men’s shirts, thus you’ll see the nickname “Collar City” around town. At the peak of the Industrial Revolution in the late 1800s, Troy was the 4th-richest city in the United States. Today, another revolution has arrived as Trojans passionate about revitalizing their hometown have gone all in on farm-to-table dining, trendy breweries, unique shopping, and performing arts, all while preserving a mix of Victorian, Greek-Revival, Gothic-Revival, and Georgian architecture. Here’s how to enjoy a weekend in an emerging enclave that’s on the verge of evolving from hidden gem to hip destination.

Credit: @abovealbany & @Amityphotos.com

The Capital-Saratoga region is well-known for its Revolutionary War history, farming communities, and craft beverage scene. But did you know that the potato chip was invented right in Saratoga or that the character of Uncle Sam is said to be modeled after a former resident of Troy? Settle in as we take you through 11 more secrets of the Capital-Saratoga region for foodies, history lovers, appreciators of art and architecture, and travelers looking to get off the beaten path.

Excited about the Grammy awards? So are we! New York State has been the muse for many a songwriter, so we put together this playlist of some of our favorites to serve as inspiration for your next…