Travel blogs, travel photos and features from New York State
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.
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!
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.
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.
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The Ali Forney Center, one of NYC’s premier LGBTQ nonprofits, is launching its first dance-a-thon fundraiser this month in Brooklyn. It’s a fundraiser to bridge nightlife, culinary treats, and LGBTQ entertainment during a full day of DJs, performances, food, and community. The money raised will directly support AFC’s LGBTQ+ homeless youth meals program On the …
The cool, hip Brooklyn borough of NYC is also one of the most queer places in NYC with something for everyone—no matter where you fit on the LGBTQ spectrum. Check out this guide to the best of LGBT Brooklyn bars, clubs, restaurants, and hotels
Inspired by and infused with the sights and sounds of New York City, Dreams Aren’t This Good is a new salsa brand available in NYC and online.
Feeling the stress and anxiety from COVID-19, I contacted the free NYC Well helpline to speak with a counselor about actionable coping methods
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
Located just a short distance north of NYC, Dia:Beacon houses the Dia Art Foundation’s collection of art from the 1960s to the present. See photos from a recent visit
Living in “the city,” I don’t need a car often enough to own one, but I have to admit: I do miss the freedom you get when you’ve got a car. That’s probably why this year I took more road trips than I took in the previous 5 years combined. Something about living in America, …
Last week was my birthday, and all personal drama from the week aside, I spent the evening of my actual birthday on a dance floor—which is literally all I wanted! I don’t usually write short blogs about my weekends out in Brooklyn, but the Kim Petras concert at Avant Gardner was just so much fun …
Finding love and romance in New York City isn’t impossible, but it’s also not always so easy. Here’s what I’ve learned after a year of dating in NYC—the things that made it a challenge, but also fun.