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Author: I LOVE NY Staff
Fire Island National Seashore

Experience natural wonders, historic treasures, culinary delights, world-class beaches, and more on a short day trip to Long Island and Upstate New York! 

Macys 4th July 2015 - Photo by Barry Schwartz
Credit: Barry Schwartz

No one celebrates the Fourth of July like New Yorkers do. For us, Independence Day means beach trips, fireworks over the water, picnics, and live music! Wear your red, white, and blue and get ready to “ooh” and “ahh” with these festive celebrations across the state. 

The Wild Walk tree canopy walk at The Wild Center

Happy (almost) Father’s Day! We appreciate all different types of dads, so instead of one-size-fits-all plans, read on for ideas on where and how to treat the unique dad in your life. From outdoor activities to unique museums, from gardens and restaurants to historical attractions and even spas, find the best way to show Dad you appreciate him.

Credit: NPA Photo/  J.Peters

Located east of New York City, just off the southern edge of Long Island, 31-mile-long Fire Island is home to some of the most spectacular, pristine beaches in the United States. Its proximity to NYC

Crowd of people on the grounds of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in the Catskills
Credit: @bethelwoodscenter on Instagram

Summer will be here before you know it, and now is the time to start booking tickets and accommodations for some of the state’s hottest activities and attractions. Don’t wait until the last minute! Here are 11 summer trips to start booking now.

Green tree-lined mountain ranges lining the glimmering river within the Adirondacks on a sunny day

Trust us, if you don’t plan ahead, summer will be over in the blink of an eye. Be sure to make the most of the gorgeous weather and longer days. We’ve rounded up everything for your most adventurous and memorable summer to-do list, from beaches to county fairs to music festivals, and plenty of getaways into the beautiful outdoors.

Riders enjoying the Viper roller coaster at Six Flags Darien Lake

Get ready for liftoff because your summer plans are about to get a serious boost! Strap in for some of the steepest, twisty-turniest, most gut-wrenching roller coaster rides and water slides around—but don’t worry, there are also plenty of family rides that won’t make you lose your lunch.

Waterfalls surrounded by greenery in Letchworth State Park
Credit: @kb.hikes on Instagram

Summer is the time to create long-lasting family memories in New York State. Exciting opportunities for fun await, from state-of-the-art theme parks to activities on the water to kid-friendly picturesque parks. Thrill-seeking families will find mountain coasters and those in search of relaxation can visit beaches or take gentle hikes to waterfalls. There’s literally something for everyone to make a New York State family vacation one of the most memorable of a lifetime.

A family of four gathered around a touch tank while a boy holds a crab at the Long Island Aquarium

Moms deserve the world! From a whitewater rafting family adventure to cooking classes at The Culinary Institute of America to vibrant flower festivals, New York has something special for every mom and maternal figure in your life. Read on for some unique ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in the Empire State. 

A Japanese tree with twisted branches and a stone structure

New York is a great place to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. From visiting a treasured Buddhist temple in the Catskills to feeling the peace and wisdom of nature at a Hudson Valley Japanese stroll garden to enjoying Burmese cuisine in Buffalo, here are ways to learn about, appreciate, and experience Asian Pacific American culture and history in New York State!