NEWSLETTER
Spring in New York State means the return of baseball, popular festivals, and bursts of flower power at botanic gardens. From outdoor festivities to indoor amusement, the season is all about new beginnings, so get inspired by these fun-filled spring weekend trips throughout New York! Photo credit: @wilddaisy78 on Instagram
Updated: 03/04/2025 | Originally published 02/27/2023
JUMP TO: March 22-23 | March 29-30 | April 5-6 | April 12-13 | April 19-20 | April 26-27 | May 3-4 | May 10-11 | May 17-18 | May 24-25 | May 31-June 1 | June 7-8 | June 14-15
Tap into Maple Weekend in Thurman, March 22-23 (Adirondacks)
WHAT TO DO: The “Maple Capital” of Warren County is pulling out all the sticky stops throughout March with Thurman Maple Days. New York State is second only to Vermont when it comes to maple production in America, and Thurman is home to five commercial maple farms including Toad Hill Maple Farm and Hidden Hollow Maple Farm. March right into maple magnificence and savor samples of maple candy, cotton candy, cream, and of course maple syrup. Enjoy free tours of maple sugaring operations, tastings, demonstrations, and shop for sweet souvenirs. Now that you’re in a maple-induced sugar rush, what better time to use that energy to explore the peaks, valleys, and lakes within the expansive Adirondack Park. Venture to the historic Fort William Henry Museum on Saturday for Battles & Beverages, and afterwards stroll the scenic lakefront walkway, in the heart of Lake George. Looking for indoor adventure? Slip and slide around the Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark.
WHERE TO EAT: Locally-sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and homemade desserts can be enjoyed at The Bond 1786. Fine dining and surf & turf is on the menu at the Caldwell House Restaurant & Martini Bar. Olde Log Inn serves up high quality pub food in an Adirondack cabin environment.
WHERE TO STAY: Courtyard by Marriott Lake George offers a look into the life of a local as it’s nestled in the heart of Lake George Village. Enjoy a stay steeped in history at the Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center. Live in the lap of luxury at The Sagamore Resort.
Catch Orchids in Bloom and Baseball in The City, March 29-30 (New York City)
Photo courtesy of: Jen Davis
WHAT TO DO: Batter up! The New York Mets 2025-2026 season begins on March 27 with home games at Citi Field (pictured) starting on April 4. The New York Yankees season also starts on March 27 with home games on March 29 and 30 at Yankee Stadium. Before you catch a game, stop and smell the orchids at The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden. The show, now in its 22nd year, features the theme “Mexican Modernism,” where you can wander through the vibrant collections of orchids inspired by the bold, multicolored designs of Mexican modernist architect Luis Barragán When the sun goes down, immerse yourself in a new mesmerizing view during Orchid Night. Continue your sight-seeing with visits to popular Queens attractions including Museum of the Moving Image, MoMA PS1, Fort Totten, and The Noguchi Museum. After your fill of culture and history, have a roaring good time at the Queens Zoo. Round off your weekend with a jaunt around the fourth largest park in NYC and site of two twentieth century World's Fairs, Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
WHERE TO EAT: Elevate your appetite with a Michelin-star authentic Mexican dinner at Casa Enrique. Grab a bite and brew at the oldest beer garden in NYC, Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, and enjoy Czech and craft beers alongside a menu of grilled fare and Czech and Slovak favorites. For the area’s best Dim Sum, there’s no place like Asian Jewels Dim Sum in Flushing’s vibrant Chinatown.
WHERE TO STAY: Enjoy lavish amenities including a library, rooftop bar, and floor to ceiling windows when you stay at Boro Hotel. Bring the pup along to the pet-friendly Home2 Suites by Hilton, or opt for the Ramada by Wyndham conveniently right near Citi Field.
Come Alive with Cooperstown, April 5-6 (Central New York)
WHAT TO DO: Marvel at the museums as April ushers in the reopening of the Fenimore Art Museum (pictured) which houses one of the country's most comprehensive and exceptional collections of American folk, fine, and Thaw Collection of American Indian Art. The Fenimore Farm and Country Village also reopens in April, and a visit there means experiencing the interplay among trades, village life and agriculture in New York State circa 1845. Spend the rest of the day swinging by the National Baseball Hall of Fame, what better time to visit than at the start of baseball season? No Sunday scaries this weekend, instead you’ll be in dreamland as you check out Glimmerglass State Park which overlooks the crystal-clear Otsego Lake. Before you head home, toast to a great weekend at the beloved Brewery Ommegang, a spot as famous for its live music as it is its brews.
WHERE TO EAT: Check out Bocca Osteria for an upscale Italian bistro, while Mel's at 22 serves up the best of American cuisine. The Cooperstown Diner offers all the beloved diner classics in a family-friendly setting.
WHERE TO STAY: The Inn at Cooperstown is an award-winning fully renovated historic hotel, originally built in 1874. Luxury accommodations can be found at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, rightfully earning the AAA Four Diamond Award. Stay in the neighboring town of Oneonta at the Courtyard by Marriott Oneonta.
Flowers, art, and wine in the Hudson Valley, April 12-13 (Hudson Valley)
Credit: @brnhay_design on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Start your weekend right with a floral-filled stroll through the Orange County Arboretum (pictured), found at Thomas Bull Memorial Park in Campbell Hall, and admire blooming cherry blossoms and other spring flowers. Equally as enticing is Brotherhood Winery which happens to be America’s oldest winery. Sign up for a tour and tasting and experience the historic Brotherhood atmosphere. Afterward, you’ll get to sample five of their award-winning wines. Explore Storm King Art Center, just 10 minutes away. This 500-acre outdoor sculpture park is renowned for its mostly outdoor large-scale art pieces. After your day of flowers and fun, save some energy to spend tomorrow at the awe-inspiring Bear Mountain State Park where you can picnic, bike, hike, and enjoy the park’s 5,000+ acres. The weekend may be coming to a close, but it’s not the end of the road until you’ve made a final pit stop at the Motorcyclepedia Museum.
WHERE TO EAT: Jones Farm is a destination for foodies and shoppers alike! Grab a specialty coffee, baked good, mac and cheese or soup at 2 Alices Coffee Lounge. Twins Eating House is a veteran-owned and operated venue serving American comfort classics.
WHERE TO STAY: Bear Mountain Inn is a historic 1915 inn that was recently renovated returning to its original rustic splendor, while another historic hotel, the Thayer Hotel at West Point has been a celebrated part of American history since 1926. Enjoy all of the classic amenities and offerings of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Middletown.
Baaaaask in Baby Animal Days, April 19-20 (Capital-Saratoga)
Credit: @INDIANLADDERFARMS on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Cuddle up with goats, piglets, ducklings, chicks, bunnies and more at baby animal days at Indian Ladder Farms. When you’re done petting precious creatures, stop in the farm market for their legendary cider donuts and apple cider, pastries, pies, local produce and so much more. Grab some grub at the tasting room and biergarten, which serves farm-to-table fare and a dozen hard ciders and beers made right on-site! Take a self-guided tour via the nature trails and view the pick-your-own fields, the Helderbergs in the near-distance, and even more animals as you venture around the farm. Just down the road from Indian Ladder Farms is John Boyd Thacher State Park, situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Ideal for hiking and picnicking, plus there’s a thrilling adventure course (reopening in May). The park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. Conserve your energy because Sunday is going to be just as fun-filled as Saturday. Head into Albany for some museum hopping at top spots like the Albany Institute of History & Art, New York State Museum, and USS Slater.
WHERE TO EAT: The outdoor dining patios are just as enticing as the menus at Olde English Pub, Iron Gate Cafe, Cafe Madison, and El Mariachi, all in downtown Albany.
WHERE TO STAY: In the heart of downtown Albany, stay at the Renaissance Hotel with luxury amenities, a stunning bar, and soaring views out of every window. Comfort and convenient accommodations can be enjoyed at the downtown Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hilton Albany.
Spring into the season at the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival, April 26-27 (Greater Niagara)
Credit: @URBAN_BEDOUIN on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Bloom into spring at the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival, held at the Japanese Garden in Delaware Park and Buffalo History Museum (pictured). The festival’s highlights include a ‘hanami’ (cherry blossom viewing) in the garden, live music, pink boat rides, taiko drumming, pink parade, origami, Japanese cultural displays, and food trucks. A pop-up tea ceremony will also take place on the Portico of the Buffalo History Museum. Now that you’re showered in flowers, the roaring waters of Niagara Falls State Park will make for a refreshing next stop. The fantastic flora doesn’t stop at the cherry blossom festival, spend the next morning at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, and then save some time for a walk on the wild side at the Buffalo Zoo. Before you head out, check out charming and lively Canalside, the heart of downtown Buffalo's waterfront revitalization where you can grab a bite before you hit the road.
WHERE TO EAT: Grab a slice to-go at Joe's New York Style Pizza, or sit down at an upscale, inviting dining atmosphere at Dapper Goose, or check out the beloved Betty's, an eclectic venue serving global cuisine.
WHERE TO STAY: The picturesque InnBuffalo offers a dozen suites within a historic boutique hotel. For convenience and comfort, opt for the Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown or Hyatt Regency Buffalo, both conveniently close to downtown.
Stroll among the Cherry Blossoms at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, May 3-4 (New York City)
Credit: @aiaiaicchi on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: There’s no better time to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (pictured) than in the height of cherry blossom season and Weekends in Bloom. Enjoy casual, pop-up music and dance performances, morning programming for kids and families in the Discovery Garden, and Garden tours. Check out the cherry watch page to get a preview for what to expect when you visit. One of the best spots to view the blossoms is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. Other spectacular scenes within the BBG include the Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Lilac Collection, and Discovery Garden. Later, walk next door to the Brooklyn Museum, one of the oldest and largest art institutions in the country featuring collections of Egyptian, American, Asian, and Islamic art. Before you wind down for the day, take a picturesque stroll around Prospect Park. Wake up refreshed for a walk of some of the best city skyline views on the legendary Brooklyn Bridge. Close out a wonderful weekend by catching a live classical music performance on Sunday at Bargemusic.
WHERE TO EAT: Shane's Brooklyn is a staple for a bountiful brunch, while Cheryl's Global Soul offers diverse globally-inspired fare. Barboncino Pizza is the place to go for a classic slice of Brooklyn.
WHERE TO STAY: For a boujee experience with a rooftop bar and sweeping views, stay at the Hotel Le Bleu. For more budget-friendly stays, opt for the Comfort Inn Prospect Park-Brooklyn or Hilton Brooklyn New York.
Head into the Woods in Woodstock, May 10-11 (Catskills)
WHAT TO DO: The spirit of the 1960s and early 1970s is alive and well in Woodstock, where peace, love, understanding, art, and music still reign in this quaint village nestled in the Catskill Mountains. Venture into majestic woods and check out some incredible outdoor spectacles like the Overlook Mountain House (pictured), a hike offering a unique combination: a historic fire tower, mountain house ruins, and impressive views of the Hudson River Valley and Catskills. Descend from the Overlook summit and ease into a light hike or bike along the Ashokan Reservoir which shows off panoramic views of the Catskill mountains and the reservoir that services New York City’s water supply. Rest up and save some energy for tomorrow so you can rock out at Opus 40, a must-see, six-acre environmental bluestone sculpture built from an abandoned quarry by one man, Harvey Fite. If you’re more in the mood for a little R&R, retreat to the beautiful and serene Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. Finish your weekend with spectacular sights at the world’s largest kaleidoscope in nearby Mount Tremper.
WHERE TO EAT: Phoenicia Diner is an Instagram-popular food spot for its classic diner aesthetic and even more picturesque eats. SILVIA features an open-kitchen environment with locally-sourced, fresh ingredients. For fresh, organic, vegan fare stop by the Garden Cafe Woodstock.
WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Dylan is the ideal setting for those seeking to unwind and explore the majestic Hudson River Valley. Tucked behind a waterfall along a babbling brook, the Woodstock Way Hotel is a contemporary 12-room hotel just steps away from Woodstock’s iconic town center. For a family and budget-friendly stay, try the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Saugerties.
Experience The Rochester Lilac Festival, May 17-18 (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @ROCHESTERLILACFESTIVAL on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Live it up for the last weekend of the 10-day Rochester Lilac Festival in Highland Park (pictured). Now in its 127th edition, this is the largest free festival of its kind in North America, welcoming spring in upstate New York. Enjoy expansive collections of lilacs, featuring more than 1,800 bushes and over 500 different varieties. Additional activities at the festival include a kids’ zone, food booths, and exhibitors. There is no shortage of spring splendor in Rochester. Next up, visit your favorite animals at the Seneca Park Zoo, or play the day away at National Museum of Play at The Strong. Fill the rest of your stay taking snapshots of the world’s oldest photography museum and one of the oldest film archives, the George Eastman Museum, or booking a cruise along the Erie Canal aboard the Colonial Belle, offering rides beginning in May.
WHERE TO EAT: Nosh is a premiere evening dining destination, blending unique dishes and libations with a warm, inviting, social ambiance. The Gate House is known for its use of organic, artisan ingredients, and how it operates 100% on solar and wind power. Trata is the ideal spot for happy hour specials and upscale, contemporary American fare and cocktails.
WHERE TO STAY: The Inn on Broadway is Rochester's only and unique luxury boutique hotel, offering travelers an ideal location in the heart of downtown's East End Theatre District, while the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown and Comfort Suites of Rochester offer affordable and convenient locations to all of the best sites and bites in Rochester.
Feel the rush at the Jones Beach Air Show, May 24-25 (Long Island)
Credit: @sgm_photography on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Sky’s the limit at the Jones Beach Air Show! The U.S. Airforce Thunderbirds are headlining the 21st annual air show which offers free admission, taking place on the pristine Jones Beach. This event sees up to 200,000 people, so get there early (before 8:00am) for prime parking. While you’re there, get your adrenaline going at WildPlay, an aerial adventure park showcasing a 700-foot oceanside zipline. Ground yourself after a day of looking up and stroll along the spectacular 2-mile Jones Beach boardwalk. Spend Sunday at Long Beach, just a 20 minute drive from Jones Beach. Benefit from all that comes with being a beach bum by enjoying the sand, waves, boardwalk, live music, surfing, beach volleyball, and plenty of dining options.
WHERE TO EAT: For fresh seafood, there is no place better than DJ's Clam Shack Wantagh, while Dirty Taco + Tequila offers a hybrid of a Los Angeles taco truck and Miami liquor stand. Snaps American Bistro is a great spot to sit down in a casual, modern setting and enjoy classic American cuisine.
WHERE TO STAY: For a wide range of amenities and luxuries, book a stay at the Garden City Hotel, an iconic AAA Four Diamond-hotel, and member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts. Allegria Hotel is a year-round beachfront escape that embodies relaxed elegance, sophistication and style. For always-reliable accommodations and convenience head to the Long Island Marriott.
Tune into your creativity at Arts in Ithaca, May 31-June 1 (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @stacysouthard on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Appreciate the arts at Ithaca Festival, where this year’s theme is “Enchanted Ithaca!” This free festival takes place at Ithaca Commons and is designed to celebrate the artist in everyone. There will be great festival merchandise to purchase on site. A staple of the festival is the spring craft fair which features nearly 100 local and regional vendors showcasing their unique creations and small batch craft foods and beverages. An arts festival would not be complete without live performances, so you’ll get to enjoy over 70 performances throughout the city, from local community groups to touring artists. The itinerary for the rest of the weekend involves art in its most natural form– nature! Fall in love with Ithaca’s waterfalls (there are more than 150). A few of the most popular ones are Buttermilk Falls, Robert H. Treman State Park, and Ithaca Falls. Go with the flow and sip your way to the next destination, the nearby Six Mile Creek Vineyards, just one of the Finger Lakes’ many famed wineries. If you’d rather opt for the indoors, engage your mind through interactive exhibits and programs at the family-friendly Sciencenter.
WHERE TO EAT: Moosewood is a must-try while in Ithaca, as it is an internationally famous restaurant which has produced a handful of vegetarian cookbooks (with over 5 million copies sold) highlighting their natural vegetarian, seafood, and ethnic cuisine. MIX is a vibrant spot offering eclectic small plates and craft cocktails. Viva Taqueria & Cantina is the place for margaritas and sangria to complement healthy and delicious Mexican dishes.
WHERE TO STAY: The Hotel Ithaca puts you directly in The Commons, you couldn’t ask for a better location for your stay. Bring the pups to Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons, a pet-friendly hotel with beautiful accommodations. For a getaway that offers deluxe accommodations, fabulous food, premiere wines, a destination spa and adventure experiences all in one, book La Tourelle Hotel.
Explore art outdoors at Griffis Sculpture Park, June 7-8 (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Credit: @kevin_lesika on Instagram
WHAT TO DO: Get outside and explore the grounds of the largest sculpture park in North America, Griffis Sculpture Park (pictured). This 450-acre park displays more than 250 large-scale sculptures dispersed through miles of hiking trails in a variety of natural habitats including forests, ponds, wetlands, and alpine meadows. After you’ve conquered the ground, take to the sky at Sky High Aerial Adventure Park, a playground in the trees featuring a series of platforms and bridges. Toast to a fun-filled day with beers and bites at Ellicottville Brewing Company, winner of multiple International World Beer Championship awards. Rest up so you wake up refreshed to start Sunday with a delightful walk along the trees and gardens of Nannen Arboretum. Continue your stroll from the arboretum directly to Washington Street, a quaint main street filled with shopping and dining options. Grab a sweet treat at Watson’s Chocolate, which has been locally loved for over 75 years and is famous for its sponge candy. Find a fun gift for a loved one (or yourself) when you walk into the whimsical Purple Doorknob, a vibrantly-colored storefront home to an eclectic curation of socks and fun accessories.
WHERE TO EAT: The Gin Mill is the ideal place to catch a game and be entertained, featuring big screens made for live sports, pub grub, draft beers, and live music. Dina’s is one of Ellicottville's finest restaurants, as it prepares satisfying, healthy foods that appeal to a health-conscious clientele.
WHERE TO STAY: Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino is a destination in and of itself, operating as a state-of-the-art resort with expanded world class gaming, an exclusive full-service spa, salon and fitness center, and a retail outlet. For budget-friendly accommodations with all of the standard amenities and conveniences, book at the Inn at Holiday Valley or Wingate by Wyndham Ellicottville.
Wine and dine at the Great New York State Food & Wine Festival, June 14-15 (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
Credit: 1000 ISLANDS RIVER RAT CHEESE
WHAT TO DO: Taste the best of New York at the Great New York State Food & Wine Festival, held at the Cerow Recreation Park Arena. Exhibitors come from every region of New York to offer their “Made in New York” goods including: candy, cheeses, nuts, sauces, herbs and spices, maple products, apple cider, cookies, ice cream, and of course, NYS wines. Once you’ve got your fill of sweet and savory treats, take to the seas and book a boat excursion to Boldt Castle and/or Singer Castle. Use Sunday to revel in the Thousand Islands’ rich culture and history, with visits to any of the notable museums: Antique Boat Museum, Thousand Islands Arts Center, and Thousand Islands Museum.
WHERE TO EAT: Koffee Kove Restaurant is a cozy, neighborhood diner with homestyle American grub and seasonal outdoor dining. For riverfront dining, fresh baked breads, and eclectic cuisine stop by Bella's. Handmade pasta and woodfired pizza combined with a stunning view of the St. Lawrence River makes Di Prinzio's Kitchen a must-try.
WHERE TO STAY: 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel is idyllically set on the banks of the St. Lawrence River and welcomes guests with luxury accommodations and unmatched hospitality. The Mckinley House Bed and Breakfast is a Queen Anne Victorian built in 1890, restored to its original grandeur, including a beautiful curved front porch. For a nautical stay, book the Riveredge Resort which boasts breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River from your own personal balcony.
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