Tag Archives: NYS tourism

camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, New York State tourism, Uncategorized

Get Outdoors & Get Together Day’ Celebrations Take Place Across New York State, June 14

Inclusive and Accessible Family-Friendly Recreation at State Parks and DEC Lands Across New York State

Hiking in the North-South Lake Campground. New York State is celebrating “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” with activities scheduled in parks and recreation across the state on June 14 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York’s “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” celebrations will be held on Saturday, June 14 this year with events happening at more than 20 locations across New York State as part of the Governor’s initiative to “Get Offline, Get Outside,” and to ensure inclusivity of access to state public lands. The events bring people of all abilities, ages, identities, and backgrounds together for a day of fun and healthy activities. 

“Get Outdoors & Get Together Day is an opportunity for every New Yorker to visit our world-renowned state parks and public lands, and gather with family and friends while learning something new,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “My Administration has prioritized accessibility and our state parks and lands are here for all New Yorkers to enjoy, no matter their background or abilities. Everyone is welcome.”    

This year’s event is hosted by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Perseveration (Parks), in partnership with the Office of the Chief Disability Officer, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS), the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.  

At 23 locations across the state, participants will be encouraged to discover new skills and enjoy a range of introductory-level outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, nature walks and hikes, birding, archery, paddling, camping demonstrations, and more. Each event will highlight ways to enjoy the outdoors safely and sustainably. All locations will offer a selection of accessible activities, and use of adaptive equipment and demonstrations will be provided at many sites, including trail and beach mobility aids, archery assist stands, arm supports for fishing, and more. Certain sites will also feature sample assistive technology device loans from New York’s regional Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) centers.

New York’s Get Outdoors & Get Together Day coincides with National Get Outdoors Day, an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun. Most “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” celebrations will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a few exceptions. Exact times and locations are available on the Parks and DEC websites.  

2025 DEC-led Programs: 

Activities at DEC facilities may include the following:  

  • Camping 101: Visitors can try their hand at camping basics by pitching a tent on the lawn and learning how to pack for a camping trip. 
    • Birding: Participants can learn how easy and fun it is to enjoy birdwatching almost anywhere. 
    • Hiking: Participants can take a short hike and learn the basics of finding the perfect trails on their own. 
    • Outdoor safety: Learn the basics of being prepared and safe so all outdoor adventures are good ones. 
    • Accessible outdoor recreation: Experience and learn about accessible outdoor recreation opportunities on State lands including hiking, camping, birding, fishing and boating. 
    • Select locations will also include I Fish NY catch-and-release clinics with rods and reels available for loan, introductory paddling on the water, and introductory archery, including important safety tips.  

Wheelchair-accessible features, including restrooms, as well as activities and select recreation opportunities are offered at all locations. Please contact the event coordinator directly with accommodation requests and to find out about the adaptive equipment and activities offered at each site. Details, including schedules and activity lists, can be found on the DEC’s website on the “Outdoors Day” page. 

2025 State Parks-led Programs:  

Program and scheduling details for each location can be found by visiting parks.ny.gov. No parking fee will be charged during event times. For details about visitor amenities at each location, visit parks.ny.gov.  

The New York City and Long Island events located at Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park, Mount Loretto Unique Area, Hempstead Lake State Park, and Sunken Meadow State Park are very popular, and there is no parking available for oversized vans accommodating larger groups at these sites with the exception of Sunken Meadow State Park. If you have a bus or oversized van you need to park at any park or DEC site, please contact the facility directly to inquire about parking availability in advance of your arrival.

The Department of Environmental Conservation manages five million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with us on Facebook, Bluesky, X, Flickr and Instagram.  

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518-474-0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.

The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities provides high quality person-centered support and services to people with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, and other neurological impairments. OPWDD provides services directly and through a network of not-for-profit providers. OPWDD’s mission is to help people live richer lives that include meaningful relationships, good health, personal growth and a home that supports them to participate in their community. For more information visit opwdd.ny.gov or connect with us on Facebook, X and Instagram.  

The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services serves New York’s Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families, connecting them with benefits, services, and support. All who served should contact the Department at 888-838-7697 or via its website – veterans.ny.gov – to meet in-person or virtually with an accredited Veterans Benefits Advisor to receive the benefits they have earned. Follow DVS on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

The New York State Office of Mental Health is committed to promoting the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances. The agency oversees a large, multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals annually. OMH operates 3,597 inpatient beds at 23 psychiatric centers statewide, while also overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. In addition, the agency is tasked with regulating, certifying, and overseeing more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies, which are dedicated to serving individuals and families living with mental illness.

The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for vulnerable populations by protecting the health, safety, and dignity of all people with special needs. For more information on the agency, visit: justicecenter.ny.gov.

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Historic Places, Historic Preservation, New York State tourism

Erie Canal Bicentennial Navigation Season Kicks Off with Investment to Secure Next Century of Operation

The Erie Canal, marking its 201st year of navigation, turned New York into the Empire State and made the United States an industrial and financial power. Today, countless enjoy taking a canal boat and biking the Erie Canalway, while commercial uses – like floating wind turbines –  are also making a comeback as the state makes investments to secure its vitality for the next century. Among the many ways to experience the Erie Canal is by renting a live-aboard canalboat from Erie Canal Adventures (eriecanaladventures.com). © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State is continuing to invest in the New York State Canal system through a $50 million allocation in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget as the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial navigation season begins. The capital funding secured through the state, the second in two years, builds upon the annual investment into the waterway’s core operation and maintenance by the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation, and supports the vision put forth by the Canal Recreationway Commission in the recently published Canal Recreationway 2050 Plan.

“Governor DeWitt Clinton may have been the one to take credit for bringing the Erie Canal to life, but I’d like to take credit for keeping it thriving 200 years later by providing unprecedented funding to ensure the Canal system remains safe, operable, and a driver of tourism and economic activity,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By supporting the Canal system’s essential infrastructure, some of which dates back to the 19th century, we’re ensuring this network of waterways and trails will continue to positively support those who come to recreate and do business here, and the more than 200 upstate New York communities that thrive within the Canal corridor.”

The $50 million appropriation in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget includes funding to support the rehabilitation of 19th century reservoir dams, a high-hazard earthen embankment dam that retains water above an adjacent community, and aging steel gates and other water control structures along the Canal system that are designed to protect downstream life and property. This investment in the canal’s principal infrastructure ensures the waterway is resilient, supports the diverse needs of the communities it passes through, and continues to be a driver of economic development as it begins its third century of operation.

New York Power Authority Board of Trustees Chairman John Koelmel said, “We have been making historic investments in the Canal system to ensure its infrastructure is resilient; its programming is innovative and engaging; and that all of our efforts allow this waterway to remain in continuous operation for the next two centuries. We are working toward having a Canal System that is a vibrant, sustainable resource for New Yorkers and beyond.”

“We are committed to transforming the Erie Canal into a model of sustainable infrastructure that honors its rich history and secures its place in a thriving, resilient, and inclusive future for its next two centuries of use,” New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said.

2025 marks the 201st consecutive season of navigation along the Canal system and the bicentennial of the opening of the original Erie Canal on October 26, 1825. Supported by the Erie Canal Bicentennial Commission, the canal corridor from Albany to Buffalo will be bustling with events this year ranging from concerts to festivals to theater performances and more. As communities and organizations come together to commemorate this milestone, information on all of these happenings can be found on an interactive calendar hosted by the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. The link to the calendar can be found here.

This July, the two-time GRAMMY award-winning Albany Symphony, in partnership with the New York Power Authority and the New York State Canal Corporation, will perform a free five-part concert series along the Canal system. This musical experience, entitled “Water Music NY,” will be offered in Medina, Seneca Falls, Utica, Fort Plain, and Schuylerville with each concert composed specifically for the host canalside communities. The music series will explore themes of nature, the environment and contemporary communities on the Erie Canal; the food and stories of people from around the world who now call Utica, a premier Erie Canal community, home; music that honors the multi-layered stories of women on the Waterways; Indigenous heritage; and the experience of enslaved people who fought for freedom on the Underground Railroad. This year’s concerts build upon the “Water Music NY: More Voices” program offered last year that focused on exploring underrepresented voices, including those of women, immigrants, people of color and Indigenous peoples.

Albany Symphony Music Director David Alan Miller said, “As the Erie Canal nears its third century of operation, we are so excited to embark on a grand new adventure with our wonderful partners at the New York State Canal Corporation. In anticipation of the Erie Canal’s momentous bicentennial season, we have engaged five brilliant composers who have immersed themselves in five gorgeous canalside communities and have created visionary new works for our orchestra and community collaborators exploring the vibrant history and culture of our great state. We cannot wait to celebrate with thousands of residents and visitors at free daylong festivals that include delicious food, fun outdoor activities, historical explorations, and family-friendly arts, culminating in fabulous orchestra concerts featuring these dazzling new works. It is our hope that our music will spark dialogue, expand perspectives, and inspire everyone to experience and cherish the beautiful canal system that flows through our state and is so much a part of New York State’s past, present and future.”

In September, the 2025 World Canals Conference will occur in Buffalo as part of the bicentennial commemoration. This yearly event, held in locations around the world, brings together an international audience of hundreds of canal and inland waterway enthusiasts, professionals and scholars to learn about a variety of topics related to canals. The New York Power Authority, New York State Canal Corporation, and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, in partnership with the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and Visit Buffalo Niagara, are the joint sponsors this year and are coordinating all aspects of the conference.

As the World Canals Conference concludes, the Seneca Chief, a replica of the original Erie Canal boat New York State Governor DeWitt Clinton sailed from Buffalo to New York Harbor in 1825, will begin its journey to recreate that inaugural voyage. The Seneca Chief is scheduled to arrive in New York Harbor on October 26, the official anniversary of the completion of the Erie Canal. Created and built by the Buffalo Maritime Center, the project has been heralded as one of the largest community-based boatbuilding endeavors in the world. The Seneca Chief will make stops in communities across the Erie Canal and Hudson River, with commemorative events at each stop.

To ensure a more complete narrative on the Erie Canal’s history and its enduring legacy is told this bicentennial year, the New York Power Authority, New York State Canal Corporation, and WMHT Public Media partnered to create a multi-platform, multi-media initiative, called “Reflections on the Erie Canal,” which launched this spring with the airing of a 10-part weekly documentary series. The series will conclude with an hourlong original documentary, to premier this September at the World Canals Conference in Buffalo. In addition to the documentary series, new content was created for classrooms across New York.

Last, in honor of the Erie Canal’s bicentennial, the New York State Canal Corporation commissioned artist Dr. Tyler Nordgren to create a poster that captures 200 years of this remarkable waterway, and its future. The image can be found here. Information on how to obtain copies of the full-sized poster will be made available to the public in the coming weeks.

New York State Canal Corporation Director and Erie Canal Bicentennial Commission Co-Chair Brian U. Stratton said, “We have been hard at work since 2017, the beginning of this bicentennial period, to ensure we honor this occasion appropriately,” New York State Canal Corporation Director and Erie Canal Bicentennial Commission Co-Chair Brian U. Stratton said. “Our efforts have ranged from event support to creating a robust blueprint for the next 25 years of Canal operations to putting herculean effort into ensuring our infrastructure is in good, safe working order. The end goal is a thriving Erie Canal that is open for through-navigation, for all of the communities it passes through, and for all of the people who come to recreate here.”

In addition to the abovementioned efforts, several New York State agencies and businesses are offering Erie Canal Bicentennial themed products, including:

  • New York State Office of General Services – An Erie Canal themed photo exhibit at the Empire State Plaza in Albany
    • New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets – Erie Canal themed displays at the 2025 Great New York State Fair
    • Saratoga Springs based Stewart’s Shops – “Minted in 1825” ice cream available at participating locations throughout the Capital Region, Mohawk Valley and Syracuse area
    • Buffalo based Big Ditch Brewing Company – An Erie Canal themed beer will be available soon at select locations in Western NY where Big Ditch is sold

 “Two hundred years after its opening, the Erie Canal is still a driver of tourism and economic activity,” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said. “As we commemorate the Bicentennial this summer, there are many opportunities for visitors to learn about the canal, whether experiencing the exciting ‘Waterway of Change’ exhibit at Canalside in Buffalo, following the Seneca Chief’s journey across New York State or listening to community concerts set to historically inspired scores. Thanks to Governor Hochul and to investments in the Erie Canal’s infrastructure, this iconic waterway will be celebrated for the next 200 years.”

Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, “As we celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, we honor a legacy that transformed New York State and the nation. Exploring the Canal offers a unique journey through America’s early history and innovation as the Canal continues to connect people through its scenic trails, vibrant waterways, and historic towns. The 200th anniversary serves as a reminder of the enduring value of preserving our heritage while embracing the recreational, cultural, and historic destination the Canal provides for future generations to come.”

New York State Historian Devin Lander said, “The building of the Erie Canal was a complex and momentous undertaking. It involved thousands of laborers and dozens of engineers and resulted in a public works project beyond anything the nation had seen at the time. It opened New York State to the west and opened the west to America. When it was all said and done, it can be said that the Empire State was born on the back of a canal boat.”

“The Erie Canal transformed New York State and had a profound impact on the nation. We hope this auspicious anniversary year invites everyone to explore New York’s extraordinary canal heritage and enjoy all that the waterway has to offer today,” Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor Executive Director Bob Radliff said.

The New York State Canal system will operate daily this navigation season through Monday, November 3, 2025.

See also:

ANNUAL CYCLE THE ERIE CANALWAY BIKE TOUR IS ALL THE MORE SPECIAL DURING 200TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

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Driveable destinations, hiking, New York State tourism, Uncategorized

New Year, No Fees: New Yorkers Invited to Start New Year with Free First Day Hikes in State Parks

Watkins Glen, one of 100 locations across New York State hosting free first day hikes © Karen Rubin/goingplcesfarandnear.com

Celebrate the New Year at New York State parks, historic sites, natural areas, environmental education centers, canal trails, and public lands across the Empire State on January 1, 2025. The 14th annual First Day Hikes program is offering varied hike options for people at nearly 100 locations across the state. Parking fees at all State Parks are being waived to increase access to these events on New Year’s Day (admission to State Park grounds is always free).

“There’s no better way to kick off the New Year than with family and friends at a First Day Hike to experience and enjoy the winter beauty of New York’s amazing scenic landscapes,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “This year, I’m waiving parking fees at every State Park and Historic Site to encourage all New Yorkers to join in on this fantastic tradition.”

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Canal Corporation are partnering to host the many walks and hikes taking place throughout the state as part of the 14th Annual First Day Hikes program.

Most walks and hikes are family-friendly, and typically range from one to five miles depending on the location and conditions. More than 120 individual hikes are being offered at state parks, historic sites, canal trails, and DEC natural areas and environmental education centers.

Noteworthy for 2025 is a historic landscape and winter wildlife hike along Lake Champlain at Crown Point State Historic Site; a scenic hike up the Appalachian Trail at Bear Mountain State Park; a hike along the old tow paths of the Erie Canal at Schoharie Crossing; and a hike along the Lake Erie shoreline at Evangola State Park. The Catskill Mountain Club will be leading a hike up the Tremper Mountain Fire Tower qualifying for DEC’s annual Catskills Fire Tower Challenge. There will also be a hike up Mt. Van Hoevenberg from the Olympic Complex along one of the newer trails in the High Peaks region.

A list of New York State First Day Hikes, location details, format, pre-registration requirements and additional information can be found online for  Parks,  DEC, and Canals. Interested participants are encouraged to check the details of their preferred host site and register where required.

Starting in Massachusetts in 1992, First Day Hikes are now a national event taking place in all 50 states. While the following locations are offering organized activities, most of New York’s public lands are accessible on this day and throughout the winter season.

List of First Day Hikes by region:

Western New York
Allegany State Park – Red House Area, Salamanca; 716.379.6941
Brockport Welcome Center, Brockport;
Clear Lake Wildlife Management Area (DEC), North Collins; 716.379.6389
DeVeaux Woods State Park, Niagara Falls; 716.282.5154 register here
Evangola State Park, Irving; 716.282.5154 register here
Fort Niagara State Park, Youngstown; 716.282.5154 register here (2 hikes)
Genesee Valley Greenway, Avon; 585.493.3614
Genesee Valley Greenway, Cuba; 716.378.1923
Genesee Valley Greenway, Fillmore; RevupHume@gmail.com
Genesee Valley Greenway, Hinsdale; 585.493.3614
Genesee Valley Greenway, Mt. Morris; 585.493.3614
Genesee Valley Greenway, Nunda; 585.493.3614
Genesee Valley Greenway, Rochester; register here
Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville; 585.493.3614
Genesee Valley Greenway, York; 585.493.3614
Hamlin Beach State Park, Hamlin; 716.638.7179 (2 hikes)
Knox Farm State Park, East Aurora; 716.282.5154 register here
Lakeside Beach State Park, Waterport; 716.638.7179
Letchworth State Park Humphrey Nature Center, Castile; 585.493.3688 (3 hikes)
Letchworth State Park Highbanks Picnic Shelter, Mt. Morris; 585.493.3688 (2 hikes)
Macedon Canal Park, Macedon;
Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls; 716.282.5154 register here (2 hikes)
Phillips Creek State Forest (DEC), West Almond; 607.382.9770 (4 hikes)
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center (DEC), Depew; 716.683.5959
Whirlpool State Park, Niagara Falls; 716.282.5154 register here
Wilson Tuscarora State Park, Wilson; 716.282.5154 register here
Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area (DEC) – Ross Pond, Gowanda; 440.983.0023

Finger Lakes and Central New York
Bowman Lake State Park / DEC’s McDonough State Forest, Oxford; 607.334.2718
Catharine Valley Trail, Watkins Glen; 607.329.2982
Cayuga-Seneca Trail / Lock CS-4, Waterloo
Chenango Valley State Park, Chenango Forks; 607.648.5251 (2 hikes)
Clark Reservation State Park, Jamesville; 315.559.7341
Delta Lake State Park, Rome; 315.337.4670
Fort Ontario State Historic Site, Oswego; 315.832.8285
Gilbert Lake State Park, Laurens; 607.432.2114
Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown; 607.547.8662
Green Lakes State Park, Fayetteville; 315.637.6111
Hemlock-Canadice State Forest (DEC), Canadice; 585.374.8366 (2 hikes)
Herkimer Home State Historic Site, Herkimer; 315.823.0398
Lorenzo State Historic Site, Cazenovia; 315.655.3200
Montezuma Audubon Center, Savannah; 315.539.5089; register here
Newtown Battlefield State Park, Elmira; 607.379.7645
Rogers Environmental Education Center, DEC’s Friends Support Group, Sherburne; 607.674.4733 (3 hikes)
Selkirk Shores State Park, Pulaski; 315.298.5737
Seneca Lake State Park, Geneva; 315.789.2331
Taughannock Falls State Park, Trumansburg; 607.795.6631
Two Rivers State Park, Waverly; 607.379.7645

North Country/Adirondacks
Cat Mountain, DEC’s Lake George Wild Forest, Bolton Landing; 518.338.8173
Crown Point State Historic Site, Crown Point; 518.597.4666
Jabe Pond Trail (DEC), Hague; 518.897.1242
John Brown Farm State Historic Site, Lake Placid; 518.527.0191
Lost Pond (DEC), Ticonderoga; 518.681.2232
Mt. Van Hoevenberg via the MVHE Trail, Lake Placid; 518.897.1283
Northwest Bay Trail, DEC’s Lake George Wild Forest, Bolton Landing; james.white2@dec.ny.gov
Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC), Paul Smiths; 315.832.2695
Point Au Roche State Park, Plattsburgh; 518.563.0369
Robert G. Wehle State Park, Henderson; 315.938.5302
Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, Sackets Harbor; 315.646.2321
Silver Lake Mountain (DEC), Black Brook; adkliam24@gmail.com
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry – Adirondack Interpretive Center, Goodnow Mountain, Newcomb; 518.582.2000; register here
Wellesley Island State Park/ Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, Fineview; 315.482.2479 (2 hikes)
Winona State Forest (DEC), Lorraine; 315.376.3521 (taking place on 12/31/2024)

Greater Capital District
Adirondack Ultra Cycling, 160 Broad St., Schuylerville; 518.583.3708
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center (DEC), Delmar; 518.475.0291 (3 hikes)
Grafton Lakes State Park, Grafton; 518.279.1155 (3 hikes)
Moreau Lake State Park, Gansevoort; 518.793.0511
Mine Kill State Park, North Blenheim; 518.593.4393
Peebles Island State Park, Cohoes;  register here (2 hikes)
Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs; 518.810.6906
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site, Fort Hunter; SchoharieCrossing@parks.ny.gov
Thacher State Park, Voorheesville; 518.872.0800 (4 hikes)

Hudson Valley/Catskills
Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain; ryan.gerbehy@parks.ny.gov
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, Yorktown; 914.245.4434
Huckleberry Point Trail (DEC), Elka Park; 845.688.3369
Little Stony Point/Hudson Highlands State Park, Cold Spring; 917.658.4526
Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Peter’s Kill, Kerhonkson; 845.255.0752
Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Sam’s Point, Cragsmoor; 845.647.7989

North-South Lake, DEC’s Kaaterskill Wild Forest, Haines Falls; 518.303.6050

Nyack Beach State Park, Upper Nyack; register here
Croton Gorge Park, Cortlandt; 646.303.1448; register here
Rockwood Hall, Sleepy Hollow; 914.370.9352; register here
Staatsburgh State Historic Site/Mills Norrie State Park, Staatsburg; register here
Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center, DEC’s Friends Support Group, Wappingers Falls; 845.831.3800; register here
Taconic State Park – Copake Falls, Copake Falls; 518.912.7387
Tremper Mountain Fire Tower from Willow Trailhead (DEC), Phoenicia; Peter@catskillmountainclub.org
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, Poughkeepsie; 845.392.7800

New York City and Long Island
Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale; 631.962.0217
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, W. Babylon; 631.481.3514
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, Staten Island; 631.601.4127, register here
Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Oakdale; 516.563.2769, register here
Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City; register here
Hallock State Park Preserve, Jamesport; 631.315.5475

Heckscher State Park, North Babylon; 631.481.3513, register here
Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead; 516.766.1029
Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center, Wantagh; 516.548.7809
Mt. Loretto Unique Area (DEC), Staten Island; 718.877.1513
Ridge Conservation Area (DEC), Ridge; 631.444.0350
Robert Moses State Park, Babylon; 631.481.3516, register here
Shirley Chisholm State Park, Brooklyn, register here
St. Francis Woodlands (DEC), Staten Island; R2ed@dec.ny.gov
Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park; 516.330.4438, register here

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “First Day Hikes are a family-friendly tradition that offer a great way to embrace the outdoors this winter season and allow us to take a break and understand the importance of the connection nature and outdoor recreation has to our physical and mental wellness. On New Year’s Day, I encourage you to connect with your community and visit a familiar or new destination to create new memories, treat your wellness and experience our state’s natural treasures year-round.”

“First Day Hikes are a favorite New Year’s Day tradition, and we look forward to starting 2025 with an extra burst of energy as we begin the Erie Canal’s bicentennial year. I’d like to encourage you to check out our On the Canals Programming for New Year’s Day for all of the ways you can experience the beauty of our 420 plus miles of the Canalway Trail network this winter season,” New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian Stratton said.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit  parks.ny.gov, download the free  NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on  Facebook,  Instagram,  Twitter, and the  OPRHP Blog.

DEC manages more than five million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill forest preserves, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails, and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Many sites and trails are accessible to people with disabilities. Find recreation options by visiting Love Our NY Lands – NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation or visit DECinfo Locator – NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. The State’s Love Our New York Lands campaign encourages visitors to be respectful of other visitors in these shared spaces. Visitors are asked to share trails, treat people with kindness, and leave things as they found for others to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to think of themselves as responsible for helping protect these irreplaceable destinations for future generations.

DEC’s Adventure NY initiative connects more New York families and visitors to the great outdoors. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with DEC on Facebook, X, Flickr and Instagram.

See also:

DRIVEABLE ADVENTURES: HIKING/CAMPING IN THE ‘GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST’ – NY’S LETCHWORTH STATE PARK

NEW YORK’S WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK IS SPELLBINDING

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camping-glamping, New York State tourism, Outdoors Travel

New York State Parks and Historic Sites Celebrate Centennial

Watkins Glen State Park. New York State is celebrating the centennial of its parks and historic sites system with programs and events throughout 2024. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com 

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated the centennial of the State Council of Parks creation on April 18, 1924. Landmarks across the state are being illuminated in Parks green and centennial gold and a special centennial flag will be raised at parks and historic sites across the state to commemorate the day. 

Throughout 2024, New York State Parks is marking the 100th anniversary with a range of programs and events. Celebratory initiatives include ‘Blazing A Trail,’ an interactive timeline chronicling the agency’s history and influential figures; an exhibit in the New York State Capitol’s State Street Tunnel currently on view; the Share Your Story project, which invites people to tell their own stories relating to Parks and Sites; the  Centennial Challenge, which encourages people to win prizes by participating in various activities at parks and sites; and the release of the Centennial Collection merchandise, which includes t-shirts, hoodies, mugs and more. Additional initiatives will be announced throughout 2024. 

“Our State Parks and Historic Sites system is a treasure for New Yorkers and visitors alike, and today we celebrate 100 years of memories,” Governor Hochul said. “The system we have today started with visionary leadership, and it has grown over the decades to encompass more than 250 properties covering 360,000 acres of land. As Governor, I will continue this legacy as we honor the history of our parks today and throughout the year.”

New York’s modern State Parks and Historic Sites system was created when Governor Alfred E. Smith and the State Legislature established the New York State Council of Parks on April 18, 1924. Creation of the Council built on state actions begun in the late 19th Century to protect places of natural significance, establish the Adirondack and Catskill forest preserves, create the Palisades Interstate Park Commission by the New York and New Jersey legislatures in 1900, and form the Reservation on the St. Lawrence, which today includes many state parks in the Thousand Islands Region. 

In 1970, state legislation that created the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation also upgraded the former Division of Parks into an independent agency, known as the New York State Office of Parks and Recreation. Further legislation in 1972 gave the agency direct control of New York’s park lands, with the State Council of Parks and regional commissions retaining an advisory management role. The agency’s name was updated in 1981 to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to reflect the agency’s mission to protect New York’s historic heritage. 

State Park Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “New Yorkers united 100 years ago to create one of New York State’s greatest environmental legacies – our State Park and Historic Site system. Our agency is looks forward to working with Governor Hochul, the State Legislature, our many partners across the state, and our visitors to build and sustain this legacy over the next century.” 

State Council of Parks Chair Bryan Erwin said, “For 100 years, New Yorkers have enjoyed their very own version of the National Park System. Through war, peace, recessions, and boom times; through pandemics, heat waves, cold snaps, balmy springs and crisp autumns. Through generations of Irish, Italian, Jewish, African American, Puerto-Ricans, Dominicans, Chinese Americans and all the rest of our neighbors: we all of us, no matter what the current backdrop of our lives, are able to enjoy what was bestowed on us a century ago. I’m so grateful that our leadership in Albany, led by this Governor, has invested in our parks so they will remain the critical part of our lives, and our childrens’ lives, forevermore.” 

 “For the last century, New York has led the nation in creating an unparalleled state park system that continues to play a vital role in providing New Yorkers of all ages and backgrounds with affordable and inspiring outdoor opportunities,” Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan said, “Scenic Hudson’s partnership with the state and others has allowed us to help create or enhance one-of-a-kind destinations, including Sojourner Truth State Park, Walkway Over the Hudson, Franny Reese State Park and Olana State Historic Site. We look forward to building on this legacy with Governor Hochul and the State Parks team to create innovative ways to connect people with nature and each other.”

Open Space Institute’s Chief Conservation and Policy Officer Kathy Moser said,“The Open Space Institute is honored to join our partners in New York State to protect, enhance, and expand our incomparable State Parks. Over the last 50 years, OSI has added nearly 40,000 acres to our State Park system – more than ten percent of the total acreage – as well as numerous other initiatives to make our parks more welcoming and accessible for all. Protection of our state’s abundant natural beauty and cultural heritage is a gift for people today and countless future generations. We could not be more proud to join with Governor Hochul and New York State Parks to celebrate the Centennial Celebration, and we look forward to the next 100 years.”

State Senator Jose M. Serrano said, “As chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, I recognize that it is critically important to connect people to nature and to keep our green spaces accessible and welcoming. My sincere thanks to the dedication of the Governor, the Legislature, and parks staff, as we have seen a continued reimagining of our parks system that reinforces the many benefits of parks and historic sites.”

“Today, we stand on the shoulders of the visionaries who, a century ago, recognized the importance of preserving our natural landscapes and historic sites in the state of New York,” Assemblymember Daniel J. O’Donnell said, “So, as we illuminate our landmarks and raise the centennial flag, we not only celebrate the past 100 years but also reaffirm ourselves to carrying on the legacy that our forefathers established, and ensure these spaces are preserved and enriched for generations to come.”

Today, Commissioner Pro Tempore Simons is marking the occasion by raising a State Parks centennial flag at Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site in Newburgh and attending a lighting ceremony at Saratoga Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs. 

Other lighting events will be held today at:

  • One World Trade Center in Manhattan  
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge in South Nyack 
    • Kosciuszko Bridge in Brooklyn 
    • H. Carl McCall SUNY Building in Albany 
    • State Education Building in Albany 
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building in Albany 
    • Empire State Plaza in Albany 
    • State Fairgrounds Main Gate and Exposition Center in Syracuse 
    • Niagara Falls State Park  
    • Albany International Airport Gateway  
    • Metropolitan Transportation Authority/Long Island Railroad East End Gateway at Penn Station in Manhattan 
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal  
    • Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station  
    • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park in Poughkeepsie 
    • Olana State Historic Site in Hudson 
    • Staatsburgh State Historic Site 
    • Lorenzo State Historic Site in Cazenovia 
    • Letchworth State Park in Castile 
    • Robert Moses State Park in Babylon 
    • Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh 
    • Fort Ontario State Historic Site in Oswego

1 Million Visit NYS Parks for Total Solar Eclipse

Just how revered New York State parks are, was clear during the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024.

From April 6 to April 9, nearly one million visitors showed up to New York State Parks to witness and celebrate the total solar eclipse, an increase in attendance of more than 45 percent compared to the same days in 2023. On April 8 alone, New York State Parks welcomed more than 326,500 visitors, an over 52 percent jump in attendance compared to last year. 

12 state parks reached full capacity on April 8:

  • Cayuga Lake (Seneca County)
  • Chimney Bluffs (Wayne County)
  • Crown Point (Essex County)
  • Cumberland Bay (Clinton County)
  • Fair Haven State Park (Cayuga County)
  • John Brown Farm (Essex County)
  • Point Au Roche (Clinton County)
  • Robert Whele (Jefferson County)
  • Selkirk (Oswego County)
  • Seneca Lake (Seneca County)
  • Southwick Beach (Jefferson County)
  • Stony Brook State Park (Steuben County)

Governor Hochul opened campgrounds at State Parks within the path of totality early to accommodate visitors for the total solar eclipse, which were 100 percent booked the night of April 7 and 93 percent booked the night of April 8. To welcome visitors, New York State Parks and Historic Sites hosted numerous eclipse-viewing gatherings on April 8. Additionally, scientists, subject matter experts and astronauts from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) provided programming and exhibits at Niagara Falls State Park through April 8.

The New York State Thruway Authority and New York State Department of Transportation recorded significant increases in vehicle travel, and the New York Power Authority provided nearly double the charging miles for electric vehicles when compared to the previous week. Governor Hochul was one of 45,000 visitors who experienced Monday’s celestial event at Niagara Falls State Park.

On April 7 and April 8, the New York State Power Authority reported that EVolve Stations dispensed over 260,000 miles of driving, which is over 115,000 more miles dispensed than the same days the previous week.

From majestic Niagara Falls to the mighty Adirondacks, New York was one of the best places on earth to witness this once-in-a-generation celestial event,” Governor Hochul said. “We planned for more than a year to welcome a record number of visitors during the total solar eclipse, and those preparations helped this event go off safely and successfully.”

In October 2022, Governor Hochul convened an Interagency Task Force comprised of nearly two dozen state agencies and authorities to prepare to welcome the influx of visitors the state expected for this once-in-a-generation event. New York State agencies involved in the Interagency Task Force reported record services provided to residents and travelers.

On April 7 and April 8, the New York State Power Authority reported that EVolve Stations dispensed over 260,000 miles of driving, which is over 115,000 more miles dispensed than the same days the previous week.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023.

For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app  or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on  Facebook,  Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and the OPRHP Blog.

See also:

DRIVEABLE ADVENTURES: HIKING/CAMPING IN THE ‘GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST’ – NY’S LETCHWORTH STATE PARK

NEW YORK’S WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK IS SPELLBINDING

PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS: TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE ABOVE LONG LAKE, IN NEW YORK’S ADIRONDACKS IS STELLAR

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, New York State tourism, Outdoor travel experiences, Uncategorized

First Phase of 34-Mile Adirondack Rail Trail Completed

Construction on the first phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail, 10 miles of what will be a 34-mile, multi-use recreational corridor for outdoor adventurers between Tupper Lake and Lake Placid, has been completed © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Construction on the first phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail, 10 miles of what will be a 34-mile, multi-use recreational corridor for outdoor adventurers between Tupper Lake and Lake Placid, has been completed, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced.

The first of three construction phases converted the former railbed along the Lake Placid to Saranac Lake segment of the corridor into a world-class shared-use path that when complete, will be open all year, free of charge, for hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers and snowmobile enthusiasts. 

To protect public safety, access to the Lake Placid to Saranac Lake segment was restricted during active construction. The public is now allowed in this segment of the corridor; snowmobile access through the entire 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail begins on Dec. 10, 2023.

“The Adirondacks provide some of the most beautiful natural landscapes and resources in the world alongside scenic communities ready to welcome visitors,” Governor Hochul said. “Today’s milestone is a step towards realizing the vision of the Adirondack Rail Trail and I look forward to the project’s ongoing progress that will bring year-round enjoyment to Rail Trail users and boost local economies.”

Upon completion of all three phases of construction, the Adirondack Rail Trail will connect the communities of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake. The route will provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the unique charm and amenities of each community while providing access to miles of breathtaking trails, numerous campsites and abundant waterways in the Forest Preserve lands adjacent to the corridor. Along the Rail Trail, interpretive signage will help visitors learn about the history of the railway, cultures of adjacent communities and surrounding lands and waters.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Office of General Services (OGS) awarded Kubricky Construction Corp. of Wilton, Saratoga County, the $7.9-million contract for the first phase of construction. The contract is funded by NY Works, with an additional $225,000 supported by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund for construction oversight and inspections. The first phase of construction began at Station Street in Lake Placid, just west of the Lake Placid Depot, and ended just past the Saranac Lake Depot near the intersection of Cedar Street and Route 86, totaling 9.9 miles. In October, DEC announced a Request for Information (RFI) to submit ideas and plans for use and public access to the historic Saranac Lake Depot building on the Adirondack Rail Trail in the village of Saranac Lake. DEC is reviewing submissions before issuing a formal Request for Proposals. The RFI closed to public submissions on Nov. 3, 2023.

“The Adirondack Rail Trail is well on its way to becoming a prime destination in the Adirondacks, connecting New Yorkers to nature and attracting visitors to the region’s wide-ranging, multi-seasonal opportunities for recreation,” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “Today’s milestone marks the completion of the first phase of the Rail Trail’s construction and an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the sustained efforts of the State, federal, Indian Nation, and local partners working together advance this regional asset from concept to reality.”

The initial phase of construction also included work on expanded parking options in Tupper Lake and the removal of additional rails around the Saranac Lake Depot. Construction of the second phase of the trail, including the Saranac Lake to Floodwood segment, began in 2023 and will pause for the winter. This phase is expected to be completed in late 2024. The final phase of construction from Floodwood to Tupper Lake is expected to begin in 2024, pause for winter and conclude in 2025. The Saranac Lake to Tupper Lake trail segments were open to interim recreation throughout the first phase of construction. OGS will continue to oversee trail design and construction throughout all three phases.

The project is part of DEC’s strategic investments through the Adventure NY Initiative to enhance public access to State lands and facilities and connect people with nature and the outdoors. The trail is designed to be accessible by people of all abilities to the maximum extent practicable. Most of the trail surface will consist of compacted crushed stone. The trail will be paved in select areas within the village of Saranac Lake and on small sections of trail over bridges. 

Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said,“The OGS team is proud to have worked in partnership with the DEC and DOT to fulfill Governor Hochul’s commitment to creating a recreational rail trail that would allow residents and visitors to experience the scenic Adirondacks and its local communities with ease. As we celebrate the completion of the trail’s first phase today, we also stand committed to fully realizing the Governor’s vision of a world-class, multiple-use, year-round, and accessible trail connecting Lake Placid to Tupper Lake.”

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The New York State Department of Transportation is proud of the role we played in the beginning phases of construction on the Adirondack Rail Trail, clearing old tracks and laying the foundation for a new chapter of recreation in the Adirondack Park. This multi-purpose trail will allow residents and tourists alike to enjoy the natural beauty and majesty of the Adirondacks year-round in a sustainable way. Thank you to Governor Hochul and our partners at DEC and OGS for supporting this project from the beginning and for the work that went into making this first phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail a reality.”

“Completion of the first phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail is welcome news for our region. Investments and enhancements such as this are crucial to helping our region continue to develop,” State Senator Dan Stec said. “Once all three phases are completed, the trail will be a vital part of the North Country economy and provide another unique outdoor recreational activity for residents and visitors alike.”

“The Adirondack Rail Trail is a testament to New York’s commitment in showcasing how we can maintain the pristine character of our natural environmental resources while developing the capacity of them to serve as world class outdoor recreational assets,” Assemblymember Matthew Simpson said. “With the Stage 1 now complete, the reality of this vision coming to fruition is cause for true celebration. I applaud Governor Hochul and DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos for their ongoing support of this project and offer a tip of the cap to the men and women who had a hand in the physical construction of this great project.”

Work to transform the trail started in October 2020 when the State Department of Transportation (DOT) worked to remove rail infrastructure from the Tupper Lake to Lake Placid segment of the corridor. In March 2022, DEC and DOT announced the transfer of jurisdiction to DEC, marking the formal completion of the rail removal phase and the start of the formal trail design and construction phase. With the transfer of jurisdiction, DEC assumed management of public safety and recreational activities, as well as maintenance, along this segment of the corridor. 

Upon completion of construction, DEC will assume day-to-day management of the trail, working closely with stakeholders and municipalities. Up-to-date information on corridor conditions, phases of construction, guidance on interim recreation, and a public use map are available on DEC’s Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor webpage. Additional details about the 2020 Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor Unit Management Plan Amendment/Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement are also available on DEC’s website.

More information at https://www.dec.ny.gov/places/adirondack-rail-trail.

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camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, New York State tourism, Uncategorized

Reservations Now Available at 7 NYS Campgrounds for Prime Viewing of 2024 Solar Eclipse

New York State has opened reservations at seven state park campgrounds, including Letchworth,  for prime viewing of the rare total solar eclipse in April 2024 The early opening for reservations will help accommodate an expected influx of visitors heading to several regions of the state to witness the celestial event.(c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State has opened reservations at seven state park campgrounds for prime viewing of the rare total solar eclipse in April 2024 The early opening for reservations will help accommodate an expected influx of visitors heading to several regions of the state to witness the celestial event.

“Next year, New Yorkers and visitors alike will have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary, celestial show in our state as the solar eclipse passes over the heart of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Adirondacks in 2024,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Our State Parks will open campground accommodations early, prior to the traditional camping season, to ensure people can see this amazing display in one of New York’s beautiful natural settings. I encourage all who are interested to reserve their spot beginning this week for this incredible event.” 

Starting the week of July 3, 2023, reservations will become available from State Parks at a total of 335 campsites, cottages and cabins stretching across eight counties in western, central, and northern New York. On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will trace a narrow path of totality across 15 U.S. states, including much of western and upstate New York. For visitors with reservations for the night of April 8, check-out time is 11:00 a.m. the following morning, so visitors can avoid traffic and enjoy the attractions of the region after the eclipse.

“Visitors not only will get a chance to see this inspiring cosmic display – which won’t happen again in the continental U.S. until 2044 – they will also be able to enjoy the beauty of early spring in some of our most beautiful State Parks and see how we are continuing to enhance our accommodations,” New York State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said,

Reservations can be made nine months in advance for a minimum of two nights through ReserveAmerica.com.

Sites will be available April 4-8 at the following State Parks:

  • Allegany State Park, 2373 ASP, Rte 1, Salamanca, NY 14779 (Allegany County), for 165 sites, including campsites, cabins, cottages, and a group camp. New reservations open July 4.
  • Fair Haven Beach State Park, 14985 State Park Road, Fair Haven, NY 13064 (Cayuga County) for 29 cabins and one cottage. Reservations open July 5.
  • Letchworth State Park, 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427 (Livingston/Wyoming counties) for 19 cabins and cottages. Reservations open July 5.
  • Evangola State Park, 10191 Old Lake Shore Road, Irving, NY 14081 (Erie County) for 25 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Four Mile Creek State Park, 1055 Lake Road, Youngstown, NY 14174 (Niagara County) for 50 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Golden Hill State Park, 9691 Lower Lake Road, Barker, NY 14012 (Niagara County) for 25 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Wellesley Island State Park, 44927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640 (Jefferson County) for 21 cabins and cottages. New reservations open July 5.

In the U.S., the eclipse will pass northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. The eclipse will begin in western New York shortly after 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Full totality will begin in Chautauqua County at 3:17 p.m., moving through the state to Plattsburgh at 3:25 p.m.. Locations in the path of totality could experience total darkness for up to 4 minutes. The eclipse will then enter Canada in southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton.

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will not be until August 2044.

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. People viewing the eclipse from locations where the moon’s shadow completely covers the Sun – known as the path of totality – will experience a total solar eclipse. The sky will become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun.

Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it is unsafe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. According to NASA, viewing any part of the sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury. The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a handheld solar viewer. Regular sunglasses, polarized or otherwise, are not a safe replacement for solar eclipse glasses.

For more information about the 2024 Total Eclipse in New York State, visit https://www.iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024/.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which in 2022 were visited by record 79.5 million people. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit www.parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518.474.0456. Also, connect on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

See: DRIVEABLE ADVENTURES: HIKING/CAMPING IN THE ‘GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST’ – NY’S LETCHWORTH STATE PARK

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Active Travel, bike trips, cycling trips, Historic Places

Parks & Trails NY Opens Registration for 25th Anniversary Cycle the Erie Canal Adventure

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Parks & Trails NY’s eight-day, 400-mile Cycle the Erie bike adventure from Buffalo to Albany is back to full strength, 650 riders, for its 25th anniversary year. Registration has just opened © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Parks & Trails NY has opened registration for the 25th Anniversary Cycle the Erie Canal 2023. The eight-day, 400-mile adventure from Buffalo to Albany takes place July 9-16.

This year, the ride – a supported camping trip – returns to its full complement of 650 riders.

There are two options: an 8-day tour from Buffalo to Albany and a 4-day option from Buffalo to Syracuse (4-day capped at 100 riders).

The route follows the legendary Erie Canal passing locks and aqueducts and winding through historic villages and rural farmlands.

The 400-mile journey along the legendary Erie Canal ends in Albany eight days later. Along the way, cyclists enjoy some of the finest scenery, most interesting history, and unparalleled cycling in the United States. Covering between 40 and 60 miles per day, cyclists travel along the Erie Canalway Trail, which is now the east-west axis of the statewide 750-mile Empire State Trail.

Designed as a camping trip, accommodations are provided with showers, toilet facilities, some with pools or lakes for swimming; eight breakfasts and six dinners; two daily refreshment stops along the route; evening entertainment including music and historical presentations; guided tours of the Canal, historic sites, museums and other attractions including the Women’s Rights National Historic Park, Erie Canal Museum and Village, Fort Stanwix National Monument and a boat tour through the Lockport locks; kick-off reception and end-of-tour celebration; Cycle the Erie Canal t-shirt; baggage transport; SAG wagon and mobile mechanical support; daily maps and cue sheets; painted and arrowed routes; pre-departure info packet including training trips.

Other amenities available (at additional fee) include fresh daily towels, gourmet morning coffee, tent and air mattress rental and set up (for those who don’t want to pitch their own tent or prefer to rent).

Shuttle transportation from Albany to the start in Buffalo (you arrive the night before the bike trip starts and have an extra night camping), or from Albany back to Buffalo is available. Arrangements are made for parking.

Safety protocols are place (see 2023 COVID Policy).

Find the answers to questions at the Cycle the Erie Canal FAQ page.

The registration fee for the full tour is $1,075 for adults and $580 for youths ages 6-17, and $750 for non-cycling participants.

To register, visit https://www.ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal/annual-bike-tour/register

See:

Cycle the Erie: 400 Miles & 400 Years of History Flow By on Canalway Bike Tour Across New York State

Cycle the Erie, Day 1: In Lockport, See Erie Canal Engineering Marvel, ‘Flight of Five’, Cruise Thru Double Locks, and Go Underground to Fathom Rise of Industrial Revolution

Cycle the Erie, Day 2-3: A Sequence of Charming Canaltowns, Pastoral Landscapes, Punctuated by City Birthed by ‘Mother of Cities’

Cycle the Erie, Day 4: Seneca Falls to Syracuse, Crossing Halfway Mark of 400-Mile Biketour

Cycle the Erie, Day 5: Deep Dive into The Erie Canal: ‘Mother of Cities’, Empire Builder, Wonder of the World

Cycle the Erie: At Fort Stanwix, Rome, Time Travel Back to America’s Colonial, Native American Past

Cycle the Erie, Days 6-7: Erie Canal Spurs Rise of America as Global Industrial Power

Cycle the Erie, Days 7-8: Schoharie Crossing, Mabee Farm, Cohoes Falls to Finish Line in Albany of 400-Mile Biketour

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Museums & Exhibits, New York State tourism

National Comedy Center to Open ‘Carl Reiner: Keep Laughing’ Exhibit

Jamestown, NY – As the world remembers the late comedy legend Carl Reiner on his 100th birthday this Sunday, March 20, the National Comedy Center – the United States’ official cultural institution dedicated to the art form of comedy, and the home of Reiner’s career archive — continues digitizing and preserving rare documents, scripts and artifacts spanning Reiner’s extraordinary career in preparation for its new, multi-media exhibit: Carl Reiner: Keep Laughing, debuting on July 1, 2022. 

The National Comedy Center is the United States’ official cultural institution and museum dedicated to presenting the vital story of comedy and preserving its heritage for future generations, as formally designated by the U.S. Congress. Based on the vision of Jamestown native Lucille Ball for her hometown to become a destination for comedy, the non-profit National Comedy Center, which opened in 2018, showcases comedy’s great minds and unique voices in ways that engage, inspire, educate and entertain. The Comedy Center’s mission is to provide education on the comedic arts in the form of commentary and contextualization of its bodies of work across all eras and genres of the art form. The museum complex offers an unprecedented, immersive visitor experience using state-of-the-art technology, interactivity and personalization.

The new exhibit will showcase hundreds of never-before-seen archival materials spanning Reiner’s remarkable seven decades as a writer, director, producer, author, and performer. Visitors will explore interactive stations that feature rare audiovisual clips, creative papers, photographs, and dimensional artifacts that intimately chronicle a lifetime of creative output: from Reiner’s early years as a performer on Sid Caesar’s legendary Your Show of Shows to his creation of the seminal The Dick Van Dyke Show, from his collaboration with Mel Brooks on the Grammy-winning 2000 Year Old Man to his acclaimed cinematic partnership with Steve Martin (The Jerk, All of Me and more), and across his far-reaching contributions to the comedic art form. The exhibit will run throughout 2022 and beyond.

On the occasion of Reiner’s 100th birthday, the National Comedy Center released images of select artifacts and documents which will be on display in the exhibit, including Reiner’s typewriter case and original, typed manuscript for the first episode of Head of the Family – which would become the legendary The Dick Van Dyke Show; rare photos of Reiner with Mel Brooks, with Sid Caesar and Imogene Coca, and with Dick Van Dyke and Mary Tyler Moore; the cowboy hat that Reiner wore in the final episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show; and a manila envelope with Reiner’s New Rochelle, NY address on Bonnie Meadow Road (just one number off from Rob Petrie’s address in The Dick Van Dyke Show)  in which he kept early short stories, and more. 

Reiner, who was a founding Advisory Board member of the National Comedy Center, will also be celebrated with a special event, Carl Reiner at 100 – Celebrating a Comedy Legacy, on July 27, 2022, as the National Comedy Center partners with nearby, world-renowned Chautauqua Institution for an evening program featuring those who knew them best – including children Annie, Lucas and Rob Reiner, and best friend Mel Brooks – joining together for a one-of-a-kind evening of laughter as they reflect on Reiner’s life, career and legacy. The presentation will feature in-person and video appearances by special guests as well as rare footage from the National Comedy Center’s new exhibit.

With a multi-faceted career spanning television, film, stage, record albums, books and even social media, Carl Reiner, who passed away in June of 2020, was a twelve-time Emmy® award-winner, a Grammy® award-winner and a recipient of The Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, 

Reiner was an early advocate and an instrumental supporter for the National Comedy Center’s vision to celebrate comedy as an art form. In 2021, the National Comedy Center formally named its ongoing work to preserve comedy’s heritage in honor of Reiner. The Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation serves as the central hub for all archival and preservation work within the Comedy Center, as it continues its mission to present the history of comedy and preserve comedy’s heritage for future generations. 

The Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation is an incubator for the study and dissemination of comedy history, and a resource for educating artists, students, scholars and the public about comedy’s great minds and unique voices. The Department leads research, conservation and exhibition activities throughout the organization, including the acquisition of artifacts, documents and audiovisual materials that chronicle the story of comedy across all genres and eras of the art form.

Reiner’s career archive includes thousands of pages of creative papers and business correspondence; unpublished comedy material; rare photographs, film footage and audio recordings from his personal and professional life; and industry awards, including his Emmys and Mark Twain Prize. The comprehensive collection includes early drafts and final scripts written by Reiner throughout his career with his handwritten annotations – from the earliest material from his Army days and “Your Show of Shows” sketches to all 158 “Dick Van Dyke Show” scripts, and his film screenplays. Also included are the chairs and TV trays used for years by Reiner and his best friend and frequent collaborator ­­– comedy legend Mel Brooks ­– as they would spend evenings together eating dinner and watching television.

The National Comedy Center has collaborated with dozens of artists and estates to preserve materials that represent comedy’s significant artistic, social, and political contributions to American culture including collections illustrating the careers of legendary artists like George Carlin, Lucille Ball, Lenny Bruce, The Smothers Brothers, and the development of groundbreaking creative work such as sketch comedy series In Living Color, Saturday Night Live and more.

The National Comedy Center’s Advisory Board includes the recent addition of Tiffany Haddish – filling the seat held by the late Carl Reiner – along with Jim Gaffigan, Lewis Black, W. Kamau Bell, Paula Poundstone, Pixar’s Pete Docter, Paul Feig, Kelly Carlin, and more. 

Within the Comedy Center’s museum galleries, more than 50 interactive exhibits and immersive experiences employ cutting-edge technology to present the story of comedy from its origins to the present day – using archival documents, artifacts, and media as their core. 

The museum’s educational programming on the art form has featured George Lopez, Margaret Cho, Norman Lear, Tiffany Haddish, Debra Messing, Rain Pryor (daughter of Richard Pryor), Jay Leno, Kenan Thompson, Gabriel Iglesias, Ben Stiller, John Cleese, Jimmy Fallon, Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and many more. 

Plan your visit to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY at ComedyCenter.org. Tickets for the special event on July 27 can be purchased now by calling 716-357-6250 or online at tickets.chq.org starting May 3rd.

The National Comedy Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit cultural institution whose mission is funded by philanthropic support. Donations and grants support the museum and its work to present the vital story of comedy and preserve its heritage for future generations. Visit Comedycenter.org for details.

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Historic Places, Historic Preservation, New York State tourism

Eleven Projects Receive 2020 New York State Historic Preservation Awards

Historic Hudson Masked Tour: Statewide Historic Preservation Advocacy Organizations were recognized with an Excellence in Historic Preservation Organizational Achievement award. “2020 was unprecedented in its impacts to communities across New York State. The state’s preservation organizations rose to the challenge of programming during a global pandemic and tumultuous political year. Their ingenuity, resilience, and creativity proved that preservation is imperative to quality of life and will be essential in navigating the path to economic recovery.” (Photo by NYS Parks)

Eleven projects preserving New York State’s history, ranging from an eighteenth-century Dutch barn rehabilitation to an artist installation memorializing black lives at John Brown Farm State Historic Site, have received 2020 State Historic Preservation Awards. 

Created in 1980, the State Historic Preservation Awards are awarded by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation each year to honor excellence in the protection and revitalization of historic and cultural resources. The Governor also signed legislation in 2013 to bolster state use of rehabilitation tax credits, which have spurred billions of dollars in completed investments of historic commercial properties and tens of millions in owner-occupied historic homes.

“The 2020 New York State Historic Preservation Awards help bolster efforts to keep New York’s storied history protected and accessible to all,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said.”These historic projects demonstrate the diversity of lived New York experiences since our state’s founding. New York is thankful to the dedicated stewards of each site, who provide invaluable support by devoting countless hours to the protection of historic sites for all to learn from and enjoy.”

State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “The diversity of the projects being recognized demonstrates that preservation begins with passionate local individuals expanding their advocacy into productive partnerships. We are proud to be one of those partners and congratulate all of the individuals and groups for their extraordinary efforts to preserve these historic places.”  

This year’s 2020 State Historic Preservation Awards recipients are:

Binghamton Carnegie Library, Broome County

Excellence in Historic Building Rehabilitation 

The former Carnegie Library in downtown Binghamton was transformed into SUNY Broome’s Culinary and Events Center serving the school’s hospitality programs. The $21.5 million dollar rehabilitation project successfully made use to commercial tax credits to revitalize the historic building into a state-of-the art education and event facility. 

Cropsey Barn, New City, Rockland County

Excellence in Historic Building Rehabilitation & Conservation 

The Cropsey family has made an extraordinary commitment in the rehabilitation and long-term use of a New York State and National Register listed property. In fear of losing an agricultural site to sprawl, the family transferred ownership of their eighteenth-century barn and land to the county with a restrictive covenant ensuring its agricultural future. Working with a group of traditional trades craftspeople and building conservators, the barn had been fully restored and is now used by the local County Sponsored Agriculture (CSA) association for planting and harvesting organically grown products. 

Holley Gardens, Village of Holley, Orleans County

Excellence in Historic Building Rehabilitation

Constructed between 1930 and 1931, the former Holley High had been vacant since 1975.  In 2020, Home Leasing and Edgemere Development completed a dramatic rehabilitation of the building that has created 41 affordable housing units for seniors and new office and meeting space for the village government. The developers utilized both the state Historic Tax Credit and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit programs to assist with the adaptive reuse.  

Dr. Ferguson’s House, Glens Falls, Warren County

Excellence in Historic Building Rehabilitation 

When Dr. Ferguson’s House became threatened with demolition, local preservationists Darren & Lisa Tracy stepped in to rescue it. With careful planning and cooperation, the Tracys rehabilitated the 1870 National Register-listed building using Federal & State Historic Tax Credits for use as an apartment building, thereby saving an important community treasure.

Onderdonck-Tallman-Budke House, Clarkstown, Rockland County

Excellence in Historic Building Rehabilitation

Constructed between the 1790s and 1870s, and last occupied in the 1930s, the Onderdonck-Tallman-Budke House had fallen into disrepair. With the help of town funds, the historic sandstone Dutch house was painstakingly restored and serves as an educational resource in Clarkstown’s Germonds Park.  

Fire Watchtower at Marcus Garvey Park, Harlem, New York City

Excellence in Historic Structure Rehabilitation 

Known to many as the Harlem Fire Watchtower, the 1856 cast iron structure at Marcus Garvey Park is a community landmark owned by the City of New York. Spurred by citizen advocacy, a public-private partnership was established to restore Watchtower, which resulted in sizable contributions from the New York City Council, Mayor, and Borough President’s offices. The resulting rehabilitation preserves an enduring symbol of Harlem’s identity and historic legacy.  

Carnegie Libraries of New York City

Excellence in Historic Documentation  

What began in 2009 as a project by the Historic Districts Council to survey Carnegie Libraries in New York City, culminated in the creation of a Multiple Property Documentation Form that was approved by the National Park Service in September 2020. Establishing the significance of these resources facilitates future listings for these beloved community buildings.

Mary E. Bell House, Center Moriches, Long Island

Excellence in Organizational Achievement  

The restoration and historic registers listing of the Mary E. Bell House preserves a history of black landownership on Long Island during the nineteenth century and documents the central role of women within the Moriches African American community. Constructed in 1872, the home was occupied by the Smith and Bell families for more than 100 years. Owner Mary Bell rose to prominence in the community for her association with the Moriches AME Zion Church. By 2011, the house had fallen into disrepair. The town of Brookhaven acquired the property and a formal agreement with the Ketcham Inn Foundation was entered to restore the building, which now operates as historic site.

Village of Heuvelton, St. Lawrence County 

Excellence in Archeology Stewardship

The Village of Heuvelton unexpectedly discovered several historic burials of the former village “old cemetery” during a water tank and sewer rehabilitation project. Through careful research and coordination with agencies involved, the village successfully and sensitively navigated the challenges of excavating the human remains for further study and re-interment.

Memorial Field for Black Lives, John Brown Farm State Historic Site, Essex County

Excellence in Historic Site Interpretation and Public Engagement

Working with the not-for-profit group John Brown Lives!, Artist Karen Davidson Seward created the Memorial Field for Black Lives as a space to acknowledge the struggle for equality in America in response to the brutal murders of unarmed Black Americans and widespread protests this summer. The exhibit debuted at John Brown Farm State Historic Site, the home and final resting place of an abolitionist who gave his life to end slavery.

Statewide Historic Preservation Advocacy Organizations

Excellence in Historic Preservation Organizational Achievement 

2020 was unprecedented in its impacts to communities across New York State. The state’s preservation organizations rose to the challenge of programming during a global pandemic and tumultuous political year. Their ingenuity, resilience, and creativity proved that preservation is imperative to quality of life and will be essential in navigating the path to economic recovery.  

New York’s Division for Historic Preservation helps communities identify, evaluate, preserve and revitalize their historic, archeological, and cultural resources. The Division works with governments, the public, and educational and not-for-profit organizations to raise historic preservation awareness, to instill in New Yorkers a sense of pride in the state’s unique history and to encourage heritage tourism and community revitalization.

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fall festivals, festivals & events, New York State tourism, Uncategorized

New York’s Corn Mazes, Pick-Your-Own, Hayrides, Haunted Houses, Farmers Markets Open for Visits this Fall

New York State will be offering fall festivals that support the state’s agribusiness and agritourism, such as with this “Taste of New York” stand on the NY Thruway, with COVID-19 precautions in place. (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

This fall, you can enjoy your favorite corn mazes, pick-your-own-fruit and vegetable activities, hayrides and haunted houses, plus farmers’ markets and craft beverage trails in New York State.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced new state guidance for agritourism businesses as New York State enters the fall season. The businesses, which include corn mazes, pick-your-own fruit and vegetable operations, hayrides and haunted houses, are considered low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment and are permitted to operate under New York’s NY Forward guidance. New Yorkers can also visit the State’s farmers’ markets and craft beverage trails, which have remained open under State guidance, supporting agriculture and tourism in the state.

“New York State’s amazing outdoor attractions and recreational opportunities are a boon for families and communities during the fall season each year, and we want New Yorkers to be able to enjoy this time with their family responsibly and safely,” Governor Cuomo said. “The new guidance announced today will ensure that these businesses can open to the public, allowing families to enjoy their favorite fall activities while providing a boost for our farming communities and local economies.”

“As one of the nation’s top agricultural states, New York traditionally comes together in the fall to celebrate the harvest—from apples to grapes to pumpkins,” State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said. “This year, while things may not look exactly the same on your favorite farm, I am happy to say we can still celebrate agriculture’s bounty and the many family-friendly activities that go with it. With this new guidance, we hope New Yorkers will be able to enjoy some of the best of New York agriculture in a safe and socially distanced manner.” 

The businesses that can reopen are subject to Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment and Public Transportation guidance. Guidance includes, but is not limited to:

Corn Mazes – permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions:

  • Reduced capacity
  • Face coverings required
  • Social distance maintained between individuals/parties

Hayrides – permitted consistent with Public Transportation guidance and the following conditions:

  • Mandatory face coverings
  • Social distance required between individuals/parties
  • Frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, cleaned and sanitized between rides

Pick-Your-Own Fruit/Vegetables Operations – permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions:

  • Reduced capacity
  • Face coverings required
  • Social distance maintained between individuals/parties.

Haunted Houses – permitted consistent with Low Risk Indoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions:

  • Reduced capacity
  • Face coverings required
  • Social distance maintained between individuals/parties

Petting zoos are not permitted.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has issued a full slate of guidelines for the agricultural industry, including guidance for farmers’ markets and for its food and beverage producers. All guidance can be found at https://agriculture.ny.gov/coronavirus.

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