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Category - History

Two people biking along the canal where a tour boat floats by

Did you know that the New York State Canal System is the nation’s largest inland waterway? At nearly 200 years old and 524 miles of navigable waterways, including the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca Canals, the canal system has seen it all, transporting much of the nation’s agricultural and industrial products as well as playing a vital role throughout American history. Today, experience the canal for yourself! Paddle through locks and lift bridges, cycle through stunning scenery, cruise on historic vessels, stroll charming main streets, and more. 

When Anthony Met Stanton statue. Photograph by Ethan LaCroix

From July 19–20, 1848, a group of 300 women and 42 men came together in Wesleyan Chapel in Seneca Falls for the first-ever women's rights convention in the U.S. They began laying the groundwork for what would lead to women's suffrage in New York in 1917, three years before the nation followed. It has been over 100 years since​ the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. The Wesleyan Chapel stands at the corner of Fall and Mynderse streets, anchoring a charming strip in a Finger Lakes town that makes for a perfect weekend getaway.

New York Public Library

Book lovers, pack your bags for a literary adventure in New York State! From browsing the iconic stacks of the New York Public Library, to hunting for treasures in a Catskills book village, to visiting the homes of Washington Irving, Walt Whitman, and other famous authors, get ready to write your own chapter of bookish bliss with these literary destinations in New York State.

A picture of the Eleanor Roosevelt House and pond

To highlight iconic women in history in New York and their impact, from Susan B. Anthony's Suffrage movement to Eleanor Roosevelt's human rights work to Lucille Ball's entertainment industry firsts, below are eight places to experience women’s history in New York.

Statue of Liberty at night

With so many exciting and thrilling attractions throughout the state, it’s hard to decide where to start. These dazzling destinations are popular for a reason with one-of-a-kind adventures around every corner, waiting for you to experience. We’ve put together a list of New York’s most popular attractions from award-winning Broadway shows and Bricktastic theme parks to scenic railroad rides and boat cruises that are 100% worth the hype (and the lines). 

View of Lake George from Buck Mountain

Make 2024 a year of new opportunities, and most important of all, new travel experiences! If you’ve been gazing wistfully at the stars wondering where on Earth you’ll set foot this year, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of must-see trips can’t-miss events to add to your calendar for 2024. So what are you waiting for?! Start planning your trip today.    

Harriet Tubman Home, Auburn

“I was the conductor of the Underground Railroad for eight years, and I can say what most conductors can't say; I never ran my train off the track and I never lost a passenger.”

A look at the One More River to Cross exhibit at the  Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
CREDIT: @JADEPHOTOGRAPHS ON INSTAGRAM

Museums, attractions, and cultural institutions across New York State are commemorating Black History Month this February with special programs and events honoring and celebrating the great contributions and achievements of African Americans. From art workshops to live performances to moving exhibits, find unique and meaningful ways to celebrate and understand Black history, culture, and heritage with these family-friendly events.

An old cannon sitting on a snowy field in front of Old Fort Niagara

There’s plenty to explore this Presidents Day Weekend! From winter festivals to Presidents Day celebrations, historical sites, holiday specials, and more. So take advantage of the long weekend to take

Chautauqua Institution on a sunny summer day surrounded by green grass and trees
Credit: @hasanelahi on Instagram

New year, new New York State happenings! 2024 promises an exciting lineup of new attractions, exhibits, restaurants, and more to explore throughout the Empire State.