NEW YORK — Empire State Development (ESD) highlighted the start of the fall foliage and travel season throughout New York State.
The I LOVE NY weekly foliage reports will launch on Wednesday, September 16, and will be shared every Wednesday throughout the season to showcase the progression of seasonal colors across the state. The reports will be complemented by an integrated I LOVE NY marketing campaign that encourages visitors to plan a fall getaway to explore and experience the state’s 11 diverse and picturesque vacation regions.
ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York continues to invest in its statewide tourism industry, which is vital to both state and local economies. Fall offers a perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to take a trip and explore some of the diverse communities and local small businesses that make New York State so unique.”
According to a news release, thanks to one of the longest and most colorful foliage seasons in America, autumn is traditionally one of New York’s most popular travel periods, attracting visitors from around the world. For more than 40 years, I LOVE NY – Empire State Development’s Division of Tourism – has issued weekly fall foliage reports. This year, nearly 100 volunteers will track changes throughout the season and provide on-location accounts for the upcoming weekend that detail prevailing leaf colors, percentage of total transition, and progression relative to peak conditions, which are considered the best that the foliage will look during a given season. Historically, foliage reaches its peak between late September and mid-November, depending on the location within the State.
An interactive foliage map complements the reports on the I LOVE NY website, tracking weekly changes and progression throughout the season. The map offers recommended viewing locations, examples of peak foliage in certain areas, and travel information about popular local attractions. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to share their best foliage photos from around New York State on social media using the #NYLovesFall hashtag for a chance to be featured on the I LOVE NY website and official social media accounts, including Instagram, Facebook, X and Threads, which collectively reach more than two million followers.
ESD Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “Fall brings a special magic to New York State, with nature’s dazzling colors and crisp temperatures creating the perfect environment for a memorable trip. Foliage watching complements hiking, cycling and paddling in the great outdoors, apple and pumpkin picking, visits to wineries and craft beverage makers, spooky Halloween activities and special Path Through History Weekend events at museums and historic sites. The I LOVE NY foliage report – our most popular digital initiative of the year – provides the latest info to help you plan your perfect getaway and find everything you love across the Empire State.”
Reports are available online at iloveny.com/foliage, or toll-free at 800-CALL-NYS (800-225-5697) from anywhere in the U.S., its territories and Canada.