I Love New York Blog

Credit: @rmdragon on Instagram

What’s one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of New York’s scenery? Having your breath literally taken away while flying through it! That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best of the aerial adventure parks and zipline adventures across the state.

Spend some island time in New York State! Whether you prefer an island with a mysterious history, beachfront ambiance, or an elegant castle fit for royalty, New York’s islands are waiting for you to explore. Unlock an up-close view of Niagara Falls, zoom down a 700-foot oceanside zipline, island camp under the stars, and more, from Long Island to the Thousand Islands. Read on for 23 New York islands to add to your next island-hopping adventure! …

Feel liberated while you hike through New York State this fall. From the Appalachian Trail to the Catskill Mountains to Adirondack Park, there is endless natural beauty - and foliage - across our great state, and now is the time to experience it!…

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,…

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.

Summer is all about hitting the beach and New York has some amazing ones! From the sandy coast of Long Island to the serene lakesides of the Adirondacks, and the seemingly endless horizon of Lake Ontario. (Fun fact: New York is the only state with coastlines on an ocean as well as the Great Lakes.) Check out some of New York’s most stunningly Instagram-worthy waterfronts below, then grab some sunblock, a beach towel, and your camera, and get yourself to a New York beach. 

Whether you’re searching for a serene lakeside escape, adventure on the water, or both, New York State has a lake for you. From remote retreats ensconced in mountainous forests to charming, walkable…

Credit: @renegade_nomad on Instagram

Your dreams of walking outside to reach incredible scenic views are closer than you think! The Catskills are calling and you can answer by taking one of these hiking itineraries in Delaware and Sullivan counties for a spin, each a short drive from NYC. We’ve also included where to eat, drink, and play around the hikes to help plan your perfect day. 

Credit: @balloonsoverletchworth on Instagram

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. 

New York is home to many well-known, world-class attractions. But it’s also a state filled with hidden gems that don’t attract big crowds—waterfalls, hiking trails, and lakes that you can have practically all to yourself! Check out these outdoor destinations (as well as additional opportunities to get close to nature) that will expand your knowledge of New York State while allowing for safe recreation.