New York State Division of Tourism announced on May 5 that families can explore Black history and culture across several destinations this summer, with a focus on multigenerational travel experiences. The initiative aims to connect visitors with cultural landmarks, outdoor recreation, and Black-owned businesses throughout the state.
The announcement underscores the importance of travel as a way for families to bond while learning about the state’s rich Black heritage. Destinations such as Harlem in New York City, Syracuse and Auburn in the Finger Lakes region, Albany and Troy in Capital-Saratoga, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls offer opportunities for education, reflection, and community engagement.
In Harlem, visitors are encouraged to experience institutions like the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Studio Museum, National Jazz Museum, Marcus Garvey Park, BLVD Bistro for brunches featuring Southern comfort food classics, Sylvia’s and Melba’s Restaurant for soul food staples, Apollo Theater performances in the evening hours, Sugar Hill Creamery’s ice cream flavors inspired by local history—and accommodations at Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. The area is described as a place where “grandparents share lived memories” while younger travelers see legacy come alive.
Other regions highlighted include Syracuse’s Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), Green Lakes State Park’s unique landscapes suitable for outdoor activities such as canoeing or kayaking; WonderWorks ropes courses at DestinyUSA shopping center; Big Fella’s restaurant; overnight stays at Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor. In Auburn near Harriet Tubman National Historical Park and Harriet Tubman Home—sites commemorating her life—families can also enjoy Emerson Park on Owasco Lake or take sightseeing cruises on Skaneateles Lake before staying at Inn at the Finger Lakes.
Albany features tours at Underground Railroad Education Center telling Stephen and Harriet Myers’ story; Historic Cherry Hill offers insights into Albany’s early Black community; hands-on exhibits await at New York State Museum. Family fun continues with Huck Finn’s Playland amusement park or visits to Troy Waterfront Farmers Market. Dining options include Allie B’s Cozy Kitchen run by Kizzy “Allie B” Williams. Accommodations are available at Crowne Plaza Albany.
Buffalo provides access to Crenshaw’s Chicken & Waffles restaurant before visits to Buffalo Zoo or Buffalo Museum of Science. Sites like The Freedom Wall mural installation or Nash House Museum highlight local abolitionist history; dining options include Park Vue Soul Food Bar & Restaurant followed by browsing Zawadi Books bookstore dedicated to African American literature—with overnight stays possible at Buffalo Marriott LECOM Harborcenter along Canalside waterfront.
Niagara Falls offers natural attractions such as Maid of the Mist boat rides near Horseshoe Falls plus educational stops like Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center museum connecting landscape with stories of freedom seekers crossing into Canada. Families may also visit Aquarium of Niagara before meals at Simply Soul restaurant or rest overnight at Wyndham Garden hotel close to major attractions.
