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Category - Central New York

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. 

A fancy lunchtime spread of white wine, crackers, cheese, and almonds at Moosewood Restaurant along with a couscous salad
Credit: @adriannainewell and @moosewood_restaurant on Instagram

Ah, fall. The cooler air and shorter days signify that harvest season is here! Throw on your favorite flannel and celebrate this special time of year in New York State by discovering tasty treats and fresh delicious eats

The Canandaigua Lady, a replica of a 19th-century double-decker paddlewheel boat, on the lake at sunset surrounded by fall foliage

Get out on the water and see New York State’s marvelous fall foliage from a different perspective! Witness the beautiful shades of autumn reflected on the water’s surface as you cruise along historic canals, pristine lakes, and tranquil rivers

Coney Mountain from Route 30 in Tupper Lake

New York State transforms into a patchwork of luscious red, orange, and yellow foliage in the fall, but the magic won’t last long! To help you plan your fall getaway, here's a look at where to see

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! 

Purple lavender plants grow in front of a white barn on a sunny day
Credit: @bristolhillslavenderandflower on Instagram

New York is in bloom! Frolic through fields of wildflowers, tiptoe between rows of colorful tulips, and inhale the scent of fresh lavender in stunningly scenic countrysides from Long Island to the Finger Lakes. Spend a fun-filled day on the farm picking flowers, capturing vibrant photos, taking hay rides, petting farm animals, playing mini golf, and more at these picturesque flower farms across the state!

A black a white huskie puppy with a blue bandana stands in a field of bright orange tulips at the Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden Tulip Festival
Credit: @afoxandherdood on Instagram

New York State welcomes the first full month of spring with an exciting roster of diverse and fun activities for all. Enjoy all things LEGO®, savor pure maple

Cooperstown - Photos Courtesy of ThisIsCooperstown.com

While the National Baseball Hall of Fame has given Cooperstown a sporty reputation, there is far more to discover in this town beyond the outfield. Imagine award-winning craft beer, art galleries,

A photo of a spread of food from Phoenicia Diner: a burger, toast with baked beans and sausage, french toast with strawberries, bacon, and coffee
Credit: @newyorksherpa on Instagram

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. 

Harbes Family Farm

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.