The Beat

Historic 306.3 Million Visitors Explored the Empire State in 2023 – the Most in New York State History

Tourism Generated $88 Billion in Direct Spending and $137 Billion in Total Economic Impact, Exceeding Previous Highs in 2022

Ahead of Fall Travel Season, I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Reports Begin on September 12 

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York welcomed a record-setting 306.3 million visitors in 2023, while also setting new historic highs for direct visitor spending and total economic impact associated with the state's tourism industry. Visitors to New York State contributed to a record-high $88 billion in direct spending, and supported a historic $137 billion in total economic impact across the state. The Governor made the announcement at the Great New York State Fair, a perennially popular seasonal tourism attraction and economic driver. This data, compiled in a series of reports prepared by Tourism Economics, represents significant gains over the then-record-setting numbers from 2022, and far surpass the highest numbers achieved prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Project To Extend Walkway From Gorge to Prospect Point

Part of Governor Hochul's Summer Campaign to Help Kids and Families "Get Offline, Get Outside"

Renderings Available Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced construction is set to begin on the extension of the ‘Crow’s Nest’ at Niagara Falls State Park. The expansion project includes the construction of new stairs and an overlook structure which will connect the existing ‘Crow’s Nest’ feature to Prospect Point at Niagara Falls State Park, providing a new close-up view of the Falls. Today's announcement builds on Governor Hochul's summer campaign to help kids and families “Get Offline, Get Outside.”…

World-Class Recreational Trail in Heart of the Adirondacks Now Open from Lake Placid to Floodwood Road, Final Section of Rail Trail Remains Closed for Construction

Winning Bidder for Phase Three Construction Announced

Drone Footage of New Trail Portion Available Here  

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of construction and the ahead-of-schedule opening of the second phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail from Saranac Lake to Floodwood Road. In addition, New York State recently awarded the contract for rail trail construction from Floodwood Road to Tupper Lake and work will begin immediately on the final phase of the 34-mile, multi-use recreational corridor for outdoor adventurers between Tupper Lake and Lake Placid.

Long Island State Parks: A History from Jones Beach to Montauk

Charleston, SC—Arcadia Publishing is pleased to announce the publication of Long Island State Parks: A History from Jones Beach to Montauk, a new history of the area by author Kristen Matejka.

About the Book

Each year, tens of millions of people visit Long Island’s state parks. Most visitors are unaware that each one of the state parks has its own fascinating chapter in the region’s storied history.

Three Saturday afternoon programs on October 26, March 29, and April 26 at Spa Little Theater

Saratoga Springs, NY (August 15, 2024) – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) welcomes Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) back to Spa Little Theater for its 2024-2025 fall and spring seasons from October 26, 2024- April 26, 2025. Part of its year-round presence in Saratoga Springs, the three-concert series kicks off with “Beethoven with the Calidore Quartet,” (October 26) featuring the composer’s legendary string quartets.

New York, NY – Clear your calendars, New Yorkers! The city that never sleeps is about to get a whole lot tastier. The NY Latin Food Fest is set to make a splash at Hudson River Park’s Pier 76 on September 13th and 14th, promising two days of unmatched culinary and cultural experiences. This isn’t just another food fest; it’s a celebration of the vibrant Latin and Caribbean cultures that pulse through the heart of NYC.

Latham, NY (August 19, 2024) –The Friends of Pruyn House will celebrate the 40th anniversary of our annual “Old Fashioned Sunday” at the Pruyn House, 207 Old Niskayuna Rd., Latham NY, on Sunday September 8^th from 12 noon to 4pm. The public is invited to this FREE event which will be held rain or shine.

Moriah, NY (August 21, 2024) – The Town of Moriah M3usicfest is set to return on Saturday, September 7^th, 2024 as an end of summer celebration, featuring five bands, food trucks, and vendors. This free festival will take place from 2:00 – 8:00 PM at the Witherbee Park Bandstand located at 28 Park Place in Port Henry, NY.

New York, NY (Wednesday, August 21, 2024) - Broadway en Spanglish, the highly anticipated musical project by Florencia Cuenca and Jaime Lozano, is set to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an electrifying album release concert at the renowned 54 Below in New York City. The concert will take place on Sunday, September 22 at 7pm, offering an unforgettable evening of iconic contemporary tunes.