The Beat

Dutchess County, NY: In a collaborative effort between Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Destination Dutchess (formerly known as Dutchess Tourism), and Arts Mid-Hudson, artists are invited to submit proposals for a commissioned mural to be installed at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in 2025. This exciting opportunity calls on artists to creatively respond to the theme: How does agriculture unite us?…

Utica, NY (April 7, 2025) – Oneida County Tourism (OCT), in proud partnership with the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSHTA), will host the first-ever Central New York Legislative Networking Breakfast on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Crystal Ballroom, Utica, 102 Lafayette Street. OCT is also pleased to collaborate with Oneida County Government, Mohawk Valley EDGE, the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, and The Genesis Group in bringing this important regional event to life.

Liberty, N.Y. - The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association (SCVA) will host its Annual Brochure Swap, providing SCVA members and local businesses the opportunity to network, exchange brochures, and prepare for the upcoming tourism season.

Celebrating Tourism Excellence

Utica, N.Y. (March 17, 2025) – Oneida County Tourism (OCT) will hold its 41st annual meeting Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 4:30 p.m.-7:15 p.m. at Munson, located at 310 Genesee Street, Utica. Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. and OCT Board President Chris Destito, Jr. will present the 2025 Christopher P. Destito Tourism Leadership Award to Frank Elias and Heather Delia, the visionary leaders of Utica Coffee Roasting Company. Members of the media are invited to attend in person to cover the meeting.

Cayuga County, NY (2/19/25) – Tour Cayuga, the organization dedicated to promoting Cayuga County as a visitor destination, is proud to celebrate February 19, 2025, as Destination Professionals Day to honor the people and organizations that drive tourism, economic growth and community vitality worldwide.

New app and custom itineraries highlight area attractions

Syracuse, N.Y. – In honor of National Plan for Vacation Day on Tuesday, Jan. 28, Visit Syracuse announced the launch of its Simple Wonders campaign, a new set of resources designed to help both locals and visitors alike explore the natural beauty and cultural wonders of Syracuse and the surrounding region.

Eighty-four percent of those surveyed believe tourism positively impacts their community

Lake Placid, NY (January 27, 2025) – The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism has compiled and released the results of its third annual tourism impact survey, conducted in late 2024. 

The survey gathered feedback from residents and business owners in Essex and Hamilton counties, as well as the villages of Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, regarding their perceptions of tourism's impact on the local economy and community.

Utica, N.Y. (January 23, 2025) – “Got an old mule and her name is Sal, 15 miles on the Erie Canal!” These famous lyrics from the classic song The Erie Canal remind us of the waterway’s rich history—and now, the canal is celebrating an incredible milestone: 200 years! 

To commemorate this bicentennial anniversary, Oneida County Tourism (OCT) is inviting you to share your love for the canal by entering the Oneida County Tourism Capture the Canal photo contest. This is your chance to showcase your talent, celebrate your community and make history right here in Oneida County. Winning photos will be featured in the OCT Destination Guide, on social media, and our website.

Clayton, New York (January 16, 2025) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM) is excited to announce the 2025 Spring session of The Captain School at ABM, led by experienced instructors Captain Tom Trovato and Captain Ken Kozin. This comprehensive program provides the essential training required to obtain a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. – To see a splash of color, head downtown to the Waldorf student art show at the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center. Art is an integral piece of the Waldorf school curriculum and accompanies every subject, including geometry, math, social studies, or science.