The Beat

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — Discover Saratoga is proud to announce it has been recognized with three 2026 New York State Tourism Excellence Awards from the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA). The awards recognize outstanding achievements in tourism marketing and destination stewardship across New York State and will be presented during a special ceremony on September 17 in Corning, New York.

A 7-1 vote directs $1.5 million in visitor-funded lodging tax revenue toward an innovative program that meets travelers and residents where they are.

Liberty, N.Y. — The Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association continues its tourism investment in connecting visitors to our destination and inviting them back to an industry icon. For two centuries, the Sullivan Catskills has drawn people looking for something they cannot find at home. Hudson River School painters and city dwellers escaping the summer heat came here in the 1820s for the same thing today’s visitors do. A sense of place, a slower rhythm, and a feeling of belonging.

Long Island, NY  (June 25, 2026) -  Discover Long Island (DLI), the region’s only accredited destination marketing organization, today announces the appointment of Sharon Wyman, CDME, as its new President & Chief Executive Officer following a comprehensive search conducted by the organization’s Board of Directors.

Cayuga County, NY — Tour Cayuga recognized seven partners and community leaders with the 2026 Commemorating America 250 Tourism Awards during its annual Where Tourism Meets Community luncheon on June 17 at Emerson Park Pavilion on Owasco Lake.

From Tall Ships and Naval Vessels to Fireworks and Waterfront Viewing Parties, Circle Line Offers Front-Row Access to One of the Largest Maritime Celebrations in U.S. History 

New York, NY (June 17, 2026) – As New York Harbor prepares to host the largest tall ships gathering in a generation, Circle Line Cruises, America’s Favorite Boat Ride, is giving guests an unmatched lineup of five different ways to experience America's 250th Anniversary celebration from the water and along the waterfront from July 3-8.

Saratoga Springs, NY – Led by Georgia Horner, “Post Time!” explores the area surrounding the Saratoga Race Course. On Sunday, June 28 at 10:30AM, uncover the stories of the exclusive Reading Rooms, the personalities who shaped racing culture, and the spaces where the sport’s history continues to unfold. From the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame to the Oklahoma Track and the Fasig-Tipton Sales Pavilion, this tour reveals the traditions, rivalries, and rituals that define Saratoga’s racing scene. This walking tour will give you a fresh perspective on Saratoga’s world of racing—beyond the grandstands and finish lines.

Lake Placid, NY (June 8, 2026) – The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) Board of Directors approved two new members at its recent annual meeting. Board Chair Jon Donk introduced Emily Brown and Paul Hai as the most recent additions to the board. “We’d like to welcome Emily and Paul to the ROOST Board of Directors,” he said. “Their backgrounds, expertise, and local knowledge will provide benefit and insight to ROOST as we continue to focus on our destination marketing and management work.”…

Nation’s longest single-state, multi-use trail attracts 9.75 million annual visits, strengthening communities across New York State

Albany, NY – A landmark statewide economic impact study finds that New York’s 750-mile Empire State Trail is delivering transformative economic, health, and environmental benefits to communities across the state, generating $1.87 billion in economic activity while connecting millions of residents and visitors to safe outdoor recreation.