What’s New in NY State for 2024
By Emma Frisbie via ILoveNY
New year, new New York State happenings! 2024 promises an exciting lineup of new attractions, exhibits, restaurants, and more to explore throughout the Empire State. Celebrate Pride at the first national park visitor center dedicated to LGBTQ+ history, hike to new heights at a fire tower in the Catskills, or spend the night alongside tigers and lions at a wild animal resort. Add some of these exciting openings to your next New York State adventure and be the first to experience 2024’s hottest new happenings.
New Attractions
Bramley Mountain Fire Tower (Catskills)
Attention hikers! Be sure to add this newly-reconstructed fire tower to your 2024 hiking bucket list. After serving as an early warning system for forest fires throughout most of the 1900s, the Bramley Mountain Fire Tower was taken down in 1970. This summer the fire tower returns to its home atop the 2,817-foot summit of Bramley Mountain. To unlock this stunning vista, follow the four-mile Bramley Mountain Trail loop which shows off views of the southern high peaks, Mount Pisgah, and the western Pepacton Range.
New Ride at Zoom Flume Water Park (Catskills)
More rip-roaring fun is coming to Zoom Flume Water Park this summer! Slip and slide your way onto the brand-new twister slide which will be located right next to the crowd-favorite “Rip Van Racer.” The new addition is sure to get your adrenaline pumping and bring a smile (or a scream) to whoever dares to take it on.
New Places to Stay
Inn at Bellefield at Historic Hyde Park (Hudson Valley)
On your next trip to the Culinary Institute of America, be sure to book a night at the Inn at Bellefield right across the street. This new hotel features 137 spacious suites equipped with kitchens, separate living rooms, and comfortable beds. Grab a cocktail from the onsite bar, cozy up around the outdoor fire pit, or take a stroll around the hotel where you’ll find nature-inspired spaces around every corner. The inn officially starts taking reservations in the beginning of January.
The Heartwood Inn (Hudson Valley)
A new 50-room inn is coming to the Vassar Institute of Liberal Arts this year. Slated to officially open in January, the 48,000 square foot inn will serve as a place where guests from all different backgrounds can mingle and have serendipitous encounters, unexpected exchanges, and learn the stories and experiences of others. Filled with inviting and comfortable spaces for striking up a conversation, the hotel is also located on the Vassar campus and in close proximity to downtown Poughkeepsie, making it easy to explore the area.
The Ranch Hudson Valley (Hudson Valley)
The #1 Voted Destination Spa in the U.S. in 2022 by Travel & Leisure, The Ranch is set to open a luxury health and wellness retreat spa in Rockland County in spring 2024, making it the company’s first on the East Coast and third worldwide location. Relax and unwind at the castle-like Table Rock Estate among 200 forested acres in Sloatsburg at The Ranch Hudson Valley. This luxury fitness retreat aims to empower and promote physical and mental health as well as longevity through a variety of engaging activities. Connect with nature through daily hikes, find balance through guided exercise, and fuel your soul with locally-sourced plant-based meals.
Doubletree Grand by Hilton (Hudson Valley)
Stay the weekend at Poughkeepsie’s newly-renovated Doubletree Grand Hotel just 10 minutes outside of the Union Street Historic District. The elegant hotel features spacious guest rooms and suites, including two penthouses and 15,000 square feet of ballrooms and event space for weddings. You’re also conveniently located less than a mile from attractions like Walkway Over the Hudson, the Mid-Hudson Civic Center, Bardavon 1869 Opera House, and Millhouse Brewing Company, plus the CIA is just three miles away.
Prominence (Catskills)
Culinary excellence meets warm hospitality at the Prominence Italian & Steakhouse Restaurant in Windham, opening in 2024. Transport into a realm of culinary delight with authentic Italian cuisine, cozy ambiance, and impeccable service. Delectable dishes make up the extensive menu which includes capellini vongole, fettuccine alfredo, linguine porcini, and more.
New Pours
North Branch Cider Mill (Catskills)
The historic North Branch Cider Mill is reopening after nearly 25 years. Dating back to the mid-1900s, this cider mill not only sold delicious cider and treats, but it was also a major tourist attraction drawing in famous visitors including former President Jimmy Carter. Today, the renovated mill sells local provisions and specialities like tea, coffee, hard candy, and apple cider doughnuts. In fall 2024, the beautiful riverside garden will be open to enjoy sweet and hard cider from the fully-functional press, and tasty bites, carrying on the tradition from more than 80 years ago.