I Love New York Blog

Spring into romance in New York State! From intimate B&Bs to cozy cabin retreats to lovingly-restored historic mansions, it’s the perfect time to surprise your sweetheart with an unforgettable romantic escape. Whether you prefer a springtime stroll through colorful tulips or a romantic dinner aboard a sunset cruise, your love is sure to bloom this season with these 11 romantic spring getaways. Photo Credit: @aiaiaicchi on Instagram. 

February in New York State is brimming with excitement, both indoors and out! Celebrate Lunar New Year, Valentine's Day, and Black History Month with a variety of special events. Indulge in a chocolate and wine festival, groove to live music, and get your adrenaline pumping with winter sports in the Adirondacks.

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! …

Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or pop culture enthusiast, New York State's world-class museums are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. What better way to warm up during the winter months than by spending the day exploring an exciting exhibit? From the first ever exhibition dedicated to Long Island native Billy Joel to an exhibit with larger-than-life-sized animal sculptures made entirely from LEGO® bricks, there really is something for everyone. Be sure to add these must-see Empire State exhibits to your winter itinerary before they're gone! …

It’s not everywhere that you can experience so many diverse wine regions all in one state! Sip, swirl, and relax in New York, home to over 35,000 acres of wine country and the nation’s third-largest wine-producing state. From Long Island’s superb reds and sprawling farmland vineyards to the Finger Lakes’ internationally-acclaimed whites and dazzling lakeside views, New York’s wine regions are waiting for you to explore! Here’s how to make the most of your time in Empire State wine country. 

From cultural cuisines to jazz music, bookstores, dance, and sweet treats, shop local during your next New York State getaway and support New York’s Black-owned businesses this month and every month! …

Get set to celebrate the Lunar New Year in New York State! The Lunar, or Chinese, New Year is celebrated for 15 days, from New Year's Eve on January 28 to the Lantern Festival on February 12. 2025 marks the Year of the Snake, specifically the wood snake, which is associated with traits of wisdom, knowledge, intelligence, intuition, and creativity. Here are just a few ways you can celebrate the Lunar New Year in New York State!…

Credit: @michaelscott87 on Instagram

Love is always in the air in New York State! Whether you’re deciding where to take your Valentine, planning a memorable first date, or celebrating a monumental anniversary, surprise your partner with a unique date without breaking the bank. From museum date nights to igloo dining under the stars to tasty food tours, plan your next date in the Empire State. 

Credit: @roydotschneider on Instagram

Taking a winter train trip from New York City can showcase the very best of the Empire State’s picturesque scenery from inside the window of your cozy railcar. During wintertime, Metro North, Long Island Railroad, and Amtrak all have routes that chug along different parts of New York State, with station stops that can make for a day trip, an overnight stay, or a quick getaway. These rail-linked destinations can offer many fun experiences from museums to outdoors adventures to shopping and fine dining.

From private helicopter rides and hot air balloon flights to behind-the-scenes tours and over-the-top stays, get the VIP treatment in the Empire State! It’s no secret that New York is packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures, but if you're looking for something a little more exclusive, we’ve got you covered. Cruise through Finger Lakes Wine Country on a private boat, have a castle all to yourself in the Thousand Islands, and much more. Photo credit: @balloonsoverletchworth on Instagram…