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Category - Hudson Valley

Eternal flame at chestnut ridge_Bob Lennartz

Expect the unexpected when you explore New York State’s mysterious marvels. The best slice of pizza might just be waiting for you in the concourse of a NYC subway station. Your new favorite concert

Rows of colorful chocolates behind the glass in a shop
Credit: @onlyheretoeat on Instagram

You know about the M&Ms store in Times Square, we’ve told you where to get some of the best chocolate-covered donuts in the state, and we’ve even spilled the

Bright red, white, and blue fireworks decorate the sky over east river
Credit: @clickforthekingdom on Instagram

Festivals, parades, and air shows, oh my! There’s so much to do in New York State this summer. Try delicious new foods, jam out to live music in beautiful outdoor amphitheaters, take a spin on midway rides, celebrate rich culture and community, watch hot air balloons take flight, and more, all season long. Mark your calendars. Here are some Empire State events you don’t want to miss! 

Niagara Falls State Park - Photo Courtesy of Beautiful Destinations

Flow into spring in New York State by exploring gorge-ous waterfalls! With snowmelt and spring showers, the waterfalls come to life with roaring cascades. Whether you're a nature lover, photographer,

Riders enjoying the Viper roller coaster at Six Flags Darien Lake

Get ready for liftoff because your summer plans are about to get a serious boost! Strap in for some of the steepest, twisty-turniest, most gut-wrenching roller coaster rides and water slides around—but don’t worry, there are also plenty of family rides that won’t make you lose your lunch.

Waterfalls surrounded by greenery in Letchworth State Park
Credit: @kb.hikes on Instagram

Summer is the time to create long-lasting family memories in New York State. Exciting opportunities for fun await, from state-of-the-art theme parks to activities on the water to kid-friendly picturesque parks. Thrill-seeking families will find mountain coasters and those in search of relaxation can visit beaches or take gentle hikes to waterfalls. There’s literally something for everyone to make a New York State family vacation one of the most memorable of a lifetime.

A family of four gathered around a touch tank while a boy holds a crab at the Long Island Aquarium

Moms deserve the world! From a whitewater rafting family adventure to cooking classes at The Culinary Institute of America to vibrant flower festivals, New York has something special for every mom and maternal figure in your life. Read on for some unique ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in the Empire State. 

The entrance to LEGOLAND New York

Credit: @kathybucciotv on Instagram

Tucked amid the gentle rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, the quaint village of Goshen, which dates back to the early 1700s, is full of history, architectural gems, and a charming walkable downtown that make it easy to see why Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the best small towns in the U.S. to visit. There’s plenty of fun and adventure to be had at the Northeast’s first LEGOLAND theme park

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels flying through the sky at an air show in New York

Get set for an exciting May in New York State, where an array of delightful experiences awaits food enthusiasts, birdwatchers, motorcyclists, music aficionados, pirates, and more! Savor the finest

A few people walking along the shore at the beach at sunset.
Credit: @lotuslove28 on Instagram

Gather your friends together and celebrate summer in the Empire State! There are so many destinations to choose from and activities sure to thrill everyone. You