New year, new adventures—and no better place than New York! 2019 is the year to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Woodstock, stand at the top of Niagara Falls, taste new foods, and meet a world-famous giraffe. Make the most of the cold weather at the country’s premier ski destinations and savor summer by kicking back on idyllic beaches. We’ve pulled together some of the most quintessential New York experiences in the state for you to check off your bucket list this year. So read on and start planning your 2019 travels!…

New York is dotted with waterfalls that are lovely (and highly Insta-worthy) any time of year. But there’s something extra special about these natural wonders in winter. The frozen water and mist look truly spectacular—​even with #nofilter—​and there are fewer folks competing with you for the perfect shot. Here are just a few of New York’s most picturesque waterfalls that will be putting on quite a show for the next few months. Now get out there and start taking your own pics—​and don’t forget to share your shots with us using #iSpyNY and #NYLovesWinter!…

Nevermind the chilly weather, December is filled with enough cheer to keep you feeling warm. All over the state, New York whips up their jolliest, most festive ways of enjoying the holidays. Read on to find out where to meet Santa, how to celebrate Christmas traditions of yore, and which new experiences to try for your most memorable holiday season yet!…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially in New York State. Every winter, New York turns into one big wonderland. We have more ski resorts than any other state, brilliant museums for adults and children who want to warm up indoors, incredible cold-weather wildlife, and endless ways to stay moving all season long. Check out our ultimate New York bucket list of items to have the most exciting, memorable winter yet!…

Who’s feeling festive?! We know we’re not in the full swing of holiday season just yet, but with all the festivals, craft fairs, parties, and parades happening this month—not to mention our nation’s beloved eating marathon (Thanksgiving)—November is packed with fall fun. Read on to find events happening all over New York State to keep you in high spirits.

Leaves are vibrant shades of orange and red, sweaters are on, pumpkin spice lattes are in hand—it is definitely feeling like fall! And October offers up all the feel-good autumn activities without freezing your toes off just yet. It was tempting, but we kept the Halloween activities to a minimum (we’ll have other posts all about it, don’t worry!) because there are so many great cultural and food festivals happening all over New York State that you’ll have plenty to do before the 31st.

Miles Wine Cellars, Credit: @Amityphotos.com

The Finger Lakes are a treasure trove of secrets and stories. Did you know that at one time, Native Americans told the story that the Finger Lakes themselves were created when a spirit put his hands on the earth, leaving indentations at each of his fingers? Or that there are 11 Finger Lakes and not 10, as one might suspect from their name? Or that the ice cream sundae was invented at an ice cream fountain in Ithaca in 1892? (By the way, we recommend Purity Ice Cream if you’ve got a craving.) The secrets don’t end there. But here are some you can visit today:…

Even if you’re with the family, you can still enjoy some of New York’s award-winning wines, beers, and ciders. Many of the state’s wineries, breweries, and cider mills welcome children—and sometimes even well-behaved pets. It’s no wonder they’ve become popular destinations for families. Added amenities and activities for kids, caregivers, and designated drivers make it easy for everyone to have fun together.

You already know that the official (and free!) I LOVE NEW YORK mobile app can be your best friend on the road in New York, pointing out attractions, restaurants, and events in the area. But did you know that it also now offers four audio walking tours? Each of the following tours dives into the stories and the secrets of a famous town or city within New York State and will pop up on your screen when you access the mobile app in these areas. The tours can be paused and restarted whenever you’d like so you can take your time exploring the many exciting stops along the way.

Why is New York in July the best? Because no one celebrates the Fourth of July like New Yorkers. We have firework shows over the ocean, live music on the lakefront, and more! Check out these 10 celebrations to make your holiday memorable.   …