Generation X played a pivotal role in shaping Brooklyn into the hipster haven it is today, and these are the best Brooklyn bars for Gen Xers
New York
Travel blogs, travel photos and features from New York State
New York Travel Guide
The ultimate guide to the best things to do and see in New York
Home to perhaps the most famous city in the US, the Empire State has a lot more to offer than the Big Apple! Start here with my basic New York travel tips, or jump down below to read my latest New York travel blogs.
When to Visit
Almost half of the visitors to New York State come in the summer months, so this is obviously the busiest time of year to visit, but for good reason: the weather in New York State in summer is gorgeous, with long, sunny days, high temperatures and blue skies for days. Fall, starting in September, is also a very popular time to visit when the leaves start changing, making it quite beautiful once you get out of the cities. Winters are cold and snow is usual, so come prepared if you’re visiting between December and March!
Top Places to Visit
Niagara Falls – You probably thought that the largest waterfall in North America was entirely in Canada, but it’s actually right on the border between upper New York State and the Canadian province of Ontario. The US side of Niagara Falls is generally speaking less developed than the Canadian side, which is home to many swanky hotels and casinos, and so the US side offers a cheaper, more low-key visit to the falls.
Buffalo – Not far from Niagara Falls is the much bigger city of Buffalo, known for its hockey team. With some classic taverns serving up locally brewed beer, great shopping opportunities, some delightful parks and outdoor spaces, a varies array of art venues and a small but happening LGBT scene.
Albany – The state capital, Albany is a cool and laid-back city. It’s home to several history museums such as the Irish American Heritage Museum and the New York State Museum and is surrounded by lush forests and outdoor spaces worth exploring. Albany also has a strong performing arts culture and checking out a performance at the Palace Theatre is definitely worth your time.

Catskills
Hudson Valley – A creative arts community a short drive from New York City, Hudson Valley is a hub of cool and creative things to see and do. From the historic Woodstock (where the iconic 1969 festival was held) to the picturesque Kingston (and surprisingly hipster) community, there’s something for every type of traveler in and around the Hudson Valley. Get more travel tips in this useful Hudson Valley travel guide.
LGBTQ – Gay New York Travel Guide
Of course, New York City is one of the biggest gay-friendly cities in the world, but there are plenty of gay-friendly establishments outside of the city in upstate New York and these are a few of the best.
Waterworks Pub, Albany – A classic gay bar in the early evening that becomes a dance club later at night. There are often games nights, shows and live music, and it’s a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone.
Betty’s, Buffalo – A mainstay of the brunch circuit in Buffalo, this place allows for a leisurely start to any weekend, and serves up typical American brunch food as well as some healthy options too!
NuBar, Farmingdale – Probably the oldest gay bar on Long Island, this is a great place to come for some campy fun. There are regular karaoke nights (with the tagline “no judgement, just plenty of applause”!) and often special offers on drinks.
More gay travel resources here.
Follow @travelsofadam on Instagram for more travel tips!
New York State Travel Blogs
A Brooklyn neighborhood guide on the best places to stay in Williamsburg – from the hipster bars in East Williamsburg to the pretty waterfront & parks
Hudson Valley and the Catskills — Just north of New York City in Southeastern New York State, the region is famous for its inspiring landscapes
Discover the best of Dutchess County tourism on this 3-day itinerary for exploring the Hudson River Valley cities of Beacon & Poughkeepsie
My personal favorite 10 gay bars in Hell’s Kitchen for fun (and sometimes wild) nights out in Manhattan – the best of HK from a gay guy’s perspective
Late night walks in NYC are an opportunity to discover new things in familiar places — a chance to fall in love with the city’s secrets
Gay strip clubs flip the switch on what an adult entertainment venue could or should be. My etiquette guide & favorite strip clubs in NYC & elsewhere
Discover 10 influential gay artists with NYC connections. Artists love NYC — from Warhol’s Pop Art to Haring’s activism, their creative voices shape the city
My expert tips for finding the perfect landlord and building superintendent. Qualities to look for and how to navigate NYC rental apartments
My very real tips on how to find an apartment in NYC based on months’ of research while looking for my dream place to live in NYC — a hipster apartment in Brooklyn