Make 2025 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 2025. So what are you waiting for?! Start planning your trip today.  

1. Get Up Close to a Wonder of the World (Greater Niagara)

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Dubbed the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” in the late 1800s for its romantic grandiosity, Niagara Falls sees more than 12 million visitors each year. Get closer to the waters of Niagara Falls than you thought possible at the Cave of the Winds experience–a tour through the Niagara Gorge and wooden walkways that bring you just 20 feet from underneath the waters of Bridal Veil Falls. Ride along the gorge and under the falls on the iconic Maid of the Mist, feel the thrill of Devil’s Hole class 5 whitewater rapids and the magnitude of the Whirlpool at Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, and see the falls from on high with Rainbow Air Helicopter Tours. Shuffle up to nearby Buffalo to explore top attractions including Canalside, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, Buffalo Zoo, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, and Frank Llloyd Wright’s Martin House and Graycliff, and attend can’t-miss events like the Juneteenth Festival, marking its 50th year in 2025.

2. Plan a Late Season Ski Trip (Multiple Regions)

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New York has the most ski resorts of any state, meaning world-class skiing and snowboarding are always nearby, from the scenic Adirondacks slopes at Whiteface and Gore to Catskills favorites such as Hunter Mountain and Windham, plus family-friendly runs at Holiday Valley and Peek ‘n Peak in Chautauqua-Allegheny. Many mountains also offer adaptive skiing for all abilities. Savor the slopes before the snow melts with a spring skiing trip when warmer days mean skiing in lighter gear, soaking up the sun, and reveling in the beauty of snow-covered peaks. 2025 also brings exciting events to the slopes supporting the LGBTQ+ community including the first-ever Adirondack Winter Pride in Lake Placid and second annual NYS Pride Ski Weekend at Belleayre.

3. Celebrate 100 Years of Gatsby on a Gold Coast Getaway (Long Island)

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Step back in time and explore the glitz and glamor of Long Island’s famed Gold Coast that inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald’s great American novel. Grand estates once frequented by society’s elite during the Roaring Twenties are now open to visitors who wish to relive history. Tour mansions once home to the Guggenheims at Sands Point Preserve, or the “East Egg” in The Great Gatsby.  You can stay overnight at OHEKA Castle, a majestic estate on the highest point of Long Island. Old Westbury Gardens features an extravagant English-style house as well as 200-acres of formal gardens featured in HBO’s “The Gilded Age”. Enjoy a tour of Sagamore Hill, home to President Theodore Roosevelt’s summer residence, dubbed the “Summer White House.”

4. Blossom into Spring (Multiple Regions)

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Shed your winter coat and usher in the arrival of spring and its brilliant blooms in New York State! Spring into adventure with the new New York Blooms Report and come witness the state’s botanical beauty as you discover picture perfect cherry blossom spots from the  Japanese Garden at Delaware Park to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, frolic through fields of tulips, and experience floral fun at annual events like Rochester’s Lilac Festival and the Mohonk Tulip Festival.

5. Get Out on the Canals (Multiple Regions)

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Discover history, culture, and fun on the Erie Canal—an adventure 200 years in the making! 2025 marks the Erie Canal Bicentennial and will feature a year full of incredible celebrations, including a series of performances by the Albany Symphony Orchestra and a full size replica of the Seneca Chief, the inaugural boat to open the Erie Canal in 1825, reenacting the first voyage from Buffalo to NYC. There’s even more ways to experience the canal and its charming towns from paddling through locks and lift bridges, cycling through stunning scenery, cruising on historic vessels, strolling charming main streets, and attending beloved events like Fairport Canal Days and Oswego Harborfest. 

6. Find your groove at a summer concert (Multiple Regions)

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Experience the ultimate summer soundtrack in New York State with an array of unforgettable outdoor concerts and music festivals! Don’t miss Mountain Jam’s triumphant return, offering epic vibes from headliners Khruangbin and Mt. Joy  in a breathtaking Catskills mountain setting at Belleayre, and experience the ultimate summer kick-off in New York City as more than 60 artists perform across three stages at Governors Ball. New York’s beloved summer concert venues have an exciting lineup for the summer of 2025 including Avril Lavigne at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, site of the Woodstock Music Festival, Thomas Rhett and Rod Stewart at the iconic Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and the seaside Jones Beach Theater welcomes Creed, Nelly, and more.

7. Spend a Day at the Races (Capital-Saratoga)

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Saratoga’s motto is “health, history, and horses,” and it’s no wonder why. Famous for its mineral baths, artisan stores, and historic sites, Saratoga also has horse racing sewn into the town’s DNA. Since 1863, the Saratoga Race Course has been welcoming thousands of locals and tourists from all across the globe to its historic grandstand, especially in the summer months. The world famous Belmont Stakes comes to Saratoga, with the third leg of the Triple Crown being held on June 7. If you’re in town in August, be sure to see the prestigious Travers Stakes (also called the Midsummer Derby), the most popular racing event of the year. For upcoming races and full stakes schedules, visit NYRA Saratoga. 

8. Get to know the Thousand Islands (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

Discover the breathtaking Thousand Islands-Seaway, where over a thousand islands dot the sparkling blue waters of the St. Lawrence River—a destination all about life in, on, and around the water. Clayton is home to the Antique Boat Museum, featuring the largest collection of antique and classic boats on display in North America! Learn about boating history on the St. Lawrence River, row a St. Lawrence skiff in French Bay, tour George Boldt’s 1903 106-foot houseboat, and take a speedboat ride through the islands in a triple cockpit runabout. Head out on the water on a fishing adventure, take a glass-bottom boat trip with Clayton Island tours, and spend your evenings in Alexandria Bay on the go-karts or at a drive-in movie theater.

9. Visit Cooperstown, the Home of Baseball (Central New York)

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Get a dose of Americana and celebrate all things baseball in the picturesque village of Cooperstown. Fans of the sport can witness magical moments frozen in time through exhibitions, archive collections, and special events at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. With an idyllic setting amid rolling hills, Doubleday Field (pictured) plays host to more than 350 baseball games each year, ranging from youth baseball to collegiate tournaments and senior leagues. Main Street embraces its baseball legacy with shops selling memorabilia, collectibles, souvenirs, and merch. In July, don’t miss the jam-packed Hall of Fame Weekend featuring time-honored events from the Parade of Legends to the Induction Ceremony, and the Legends of the Game Roundtable at Doubleday Field. Remember to book early as hotels sell out well before the event!

10. Tee up for a golf getaway (Multiple Regions)

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New York State will be at the center of the golf world when the Ryder Cup comes to Bethpage State Park’s world-renowned Black Course on Long Island in September. Get your tickets to watch the best golfers in the world compete and while in town, explore Long Island’s vibrant attractions, from beautiful beaches to award-winning wineries. Whether you’re looking to tee up at public golf courses like Saratoga Spa, Green Lakes, and James Baird or hit the greens on a golf trip to Sagamore Resort and Otesaga Resort, a golf getaway in New York State is sure to be a hole in one.

11. Paddle and fish New York’s newest water trail (Central New York and Finger Lakes)

Photo courtesy of New York Susquehanna Basin Water Trail

Plan your next outdoor adventure along the New York Susquehanna Basin Water Trail, a new haven for paddlers and anglers stretching from Cooperstown to Corning. Spanning 190 miles across the Susquehanna and Chemung rivers, this trail winds through stunning landscapes of rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and charming river towns. Add paddling or fishing to your itinerary as you plan trips to iconic attractions like the National Baseball Hall of Fame or the Corning Museum of Glass. Launching Memorial Day weekend, the conceptual trail debuts alongside the renowned General Clinton Canoe Regatta, a 70-mile canoe race down the Susquehanna River that draws thousands of paddlers each year.

12. Explore New York State’s Capital (Capital-Saratoga)

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Embark on a journey through time exploring Albany’s history spanning more than four centuries— from its humble beginnings as a small Dutch settlement to the vibrant capital city it is today. Start at the French chateau-style New York State Capitol (pictured) and see how many faces you recognize out of the 300 portraits hand carved into the stone of the “Million Dollar Staircase.” Catch breathtaking views of Corning Tower and Albany’s uniquely-shaped performance space, the Egg, as you stroll across Empire State Plaza’s marble walkways. The New York State Museum takes you all the way back to the Ice Age while the Albany Institute of History & Art displays works by influential artists from New York and beyond. If you plan to visit in the spring, don’t miss one of the Northeast’s biggest and most beloved annual events: the colorful Albany Tulip Festival in Washington Park during Mother’s Day Weekend.

13. Stay in a “Great Camp” (Adirondacks)

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Visit (and spend the night in) the grandiose summer homes of New York’s late 19th-century jet setters, including Gilded Age magnates Rockefeller and Vanderbilt. Where American craftsmanship meets Swedish chalet design, these classic family cabins in the Adirondacks are the epitome of a relaxing lakeside vacation in the heart of the wilderness. Great Camp tours, lakeside activities, and overnight stays are available at The Point, White Pine Camp, Great Camp Sagamore, Lake Kora, and more. Find out more about Adirondack Great Camps at Visit Adirondacks.

14. Experience “The Queen of American Lakes” in Lake George (Adirondacks)

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Lake George is known as the birthplace of the American vacation. In the mid-1800s when a Boston preacher penned a book about his adventures in the Adirondacks wilderness, city dwellers flocked to the woods to experience the joys of hiking, camping, and fishing. A vacation paradise ever since, Lake George attracts visitors to its glistening waters and 109 miles of coastline year-round, but especially in summer. The possibilities for fun are endless. Take a relaxing paddleboat cruise with the Lake George Steamboat Company (pictured), camp under the stars on a secluded island (make sure to book your site early!), go up, down, and all the way around at Six Flags Great Escape and Hurricane Harbor, see life-sized dinosaurs in the Magic Forest, experience history at Fort William Henry, and more! Lake George holds some of the biggest events in the Adirondacks including Americade, the Adirondack Food & Wine Festival, and Lake George Music Festival. Don’t miss frosty fun at the annual Winter Carnival and foliage cruises in the fall.

15. Explore the underground world of Howe Caverns (Central New York)

Photo Courtesy of Howe Caverns

One of New York’s oldest and most popular tourist attractions dating back to the 19th century, Howe Caverns offers visitors the chance to explore caves without any advanced equipment or spelunking knowledge! Today, the Caverns are only part of the attraction at this vast complex that includes cave visits, an on-site motel, glassworks, a seasonal ropes course, and escape room experience. Of course, cave visits remain a main draw, with scenic, breathtaking views up to 156 feet underground, and tours that include a boat ride on a subterranean river!

16. Laugh It Up in Jamestown, the Home of Comedy (Chautauqua-Allegheny)

Laugh your socks off in Jamestown, the birthplace of Lucille Ball that is now home to two museums entirely dedicated to comedy greats past and present. Tour over 50 immersive exhibits, explore the lives of legendary comics, or try your hand at working the room like a professional on the stage at The Stand-Up Lounge at the National Comedy Center. “I Love Lucy” fans can learn about the iconic TV couple at the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum (pictured), see props, costumes, and other artifacts from the show, and snap a photo in Lucy and Ricky Ricardo’s New York City apartment and their Hollywood hotel suite, both of which have been recreated and brought to life in the museum. Plan a trip in August for the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, featuring special events and a line-up of today’s biggest names in comedy.

17. Embark on an Enlightening Retreat at Chautauqua’s Summer Camp for Grown Ups (Chautauqua-Allegheny)

Looking for an adult version of summer camp where you can immerse yourself in arts and culture while enjoying lakefront recreation? Book a stay at the renowned Chautauqua Institution (pictured), which blossoms every summer with nine enriching weeks of programs and events, including dance, opera, concerts, author lectures, theater, and more. More than 100,000 people attend the seasonal events and activities each year, so plan your visit now! Accommodations can fill up quickly, so make sure to book your stay early at the historic Athenaeum Hotel or rent a lake house near the grounds of the institution. Daily gate passes are available during the summer season, with free admission on Sundays.

18. Splash around at New York’s largest indoor waterpark (Catskills)

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Find the best of the beach in the middle of the mountains on an ultimate family getaway to Kartrite, a 324-suite resort that’s home to the largest indoor water park in New York State! Surf the perfect wave on the Endless Summer Flowrider, take a wild ride down the Krakken and Nor’Easter water slides, or float along the lazy river. The impressive indoor park also features a pool that is accessible for visitors with disabilities and several smaller slides and play sections for the wee ones. Once you dry off, enjoy s’mores outside by the fire, find everything from a buffet feast to fine dining to a hopping bar scene at the resort’s restaurant options, and discover more family fun activities from bowling to rock climbing.

19. Go on a Catskills Glamping Adventure (Catskills)

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Take your camping trip in the Catskills to the next level. Go the retro route and stay in a decked-out classic Airstream at AutoCamp Catskills in Saugerties or TreeTopia in Athens. The Old Game Farm in Catskill has luxury tents set up with all the fixings on sites that meet your camping needs. Kick things up a notch with a stay in a luxurious Tiny House overlooking Catskill Creek in South Cairo or in a Scandinavian-style cabin at Eastwind Hotels in Windham and in the heart of the Oliverea Valley. 

20. Stay Overnight in a Real-Life Castle (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

 

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Be the King or Queen of your very own Gothic castle for the night at Singer Castle. Built in 1905 by the fifth president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, the grand 28-room castle sits on Dark Island, a 7-acre island accessible by boat several times a day. When you book an overnight stay, you and your royal party get an entire wing for your overnight stay, a catered cold plate dinner and continental breakfast that can be served in your room of choice, and a private tour. Explore the castle’s medieval entranceway lined with Knights of Armor, secret passages, hand-carved furnishings and decor, and more. If you’re only in town for the day, a 45-minute tour and narrative of the history of Singer Castle are available.

21. Go on a Foodie Adventure in the Hudson Valley (Hudson Valley)

With easy access to farm fresh produce, award-winning craft beverages, and gourmet artisanal goods, the Hudson Valley food scene is some of the best in the land with delicious destinations to suit all palates. Visit the stunning campus of The Culinary Institute of America, the Le Cordon Bleu of America that taught the likes of Anthony Bourdain, Michael Mina, and Roy Choi. Book a table at one of The CIA’s New York restaurants and be wined and dined by students and faculty chefs or immerse yourself in the perfect culinary vacation with a multi-day Boot Camp where you can learn to cook, bake, think, and taste like a professional chef. Nestled on 80 acres of pasture and cropland, the Michelin-starred Blue Hill at Stone Barns is the pinnacle of farm-to-table dining and one of the most sought after reservations.

22. Take a Kid-Friendly Trip to the Hudson Valley (Hudson Valley) 

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Build memories that will last a lifetime with an unforgettable family trip to the Hudson Valley.  With more than 50 rides and attractions spread across 150 acres, LEGOLAND®️ New York in Goshen is the ultimate theme park destination for kids ages 2–12 and their families. Ride the dragon coaster, become a firefighter, master the art of “Spinjitzu,” and more at the park’s seven “lands.” Discover awesome vacation packages and deals at the 250-room LEGOLAND hotel featuring pirate, ninja and other themed rooms, a free breakfast buffet, and in-room treasure hunts. The all-inclusive Rocking Horse Ranch in Highland offers four seasons of fun with an indoor waterpark, mountain climbing, horseback riding, ice skating, mini golf, laser tag, and nightly entertainment the whole family can enjoy.

23. Follow a Wine Trail in the Finger Lakes (Finger Lakes)

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Named one of America’s greatest wine regions, you’ll find award-winning wines around every corner in the Finger Lakes. Nestled between the scenic Keuka, Seneca, Canandaigua, and Cayuga lakes, the region is home to more than 120 wineries producing renowned cool climate wine varietals. Sip world-class wines beside picturesque, glacially-designed lakes and rolling hills at wineries in Finger Lakes Wine Country at one of its three distinct wine trails: Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Keuka Lake Wine Trail, and Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

24. Buckle up for The Go Bowling at The Glen (Finger Lakes)

Experience NASCAR’s annual race in the Finger Lakes at Watkins Glen International. The Go Bowling at The Glen will be August 10 and features some of the top NASCAR drivers. Get your tickets early as the reserved grandstand tickets sell out quick! During your visit, explore downtown Watkins Glen, less than five miles from the race track. Looking for a place to stay? Book a travel package or check out nearby Blackberry Inn Bed & Breakfast, Idlwilde Inn, Catharine Cottages, and Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, to name a few. Prefer to camp? There’s on-site camping available at The Glen. 

25. Get in touch with nature at New York’s state parks (Multiple Regions)

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There’s never been a better time to get outside and appreciate New York’s natural beauty. From the serene shores of Long Island to the mighty Niagara Falls, New York’s parks and historic sites offer unique experiences from ziplining at Jones Beach to hot air ballooning over Letchworth’s waterfalls to drinking from Saratoga’s mineral springs to exploring dramatic landscapes of the Chimney Bluffs. Turn your state park visit into an unforgettable getaway with a stay at a beach cottage at Long Island’s Heckscher State Park or a cabin retreat in Allegany State Park.

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