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Category - Hudson Valley

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.

Strong Museum of Play - Photo by Sam Horine
CREDIT: SAM HORINE

New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities, including programs specifically designed for travelers who are autistic or have developmental disabilities. A number of cultural institutions are also offering live and taped accessible virtual events led by trained educators. 

An aerial view looking over the bright and colorful buildings of Kingston

Credit: @bentley.potter.photography on Instagram

Dating back to the 17th century, New York’s first capital of Kingston is now as vibrant as it is historic. This once traditional manufacturing city just 91 miles north of New York City and 59 miles south of Albany, is home to three lively and diverse districts bursting with award-winning restaurants, internationally recognized museums, historic sites, and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. There’s never a shortage of adventure to be had — here’s how to make the most out of your time in the charming city of Kingston. 

New York Public Library

Book lovers, pack your bags for a literary adventure in New York State! From browsing the iconic stacks of the New York Public Library, to hunting for treasures in a Catskills book village, to visiting the homes of Washington Irving, Walt Whitman, and other famous authors, get ready to write your own chapter of bookish bliss with these literary destinations in New York State.

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 picture of the Eleanor Roosevelt House and pond

To highlight iconic women in history in New York and their impact, from Susan B. Anthony's Suffrage movement to Eleanor Roosevelt's human rights work to Lucille Ball's entertainment industry firsts, below are eight places to experience women’s history in New York.