There’s nothing better than a warm, sunny day in Western New York, and nobody knows how to appreciate them better than Buffalonians. There's never been a better time to start plotting which nearby oases to visit when you need to cool off. Skip the crowded, chlorinated pools this summer and dive into this nearby spring-fed pool that has been delighting Buffalonians for generations.
Just 1.5 hours from Buffalo lies Stony Brook State Park, one of Western New York's ultimate gems.
With just a few short weeks until this delightful summertime oasis opens up, now is the perfect time to plan a visit to this spring-fed pool when you need to beat the heat.
If you just can't get enough of Stony Brook State Park's swimming pool, it's worth noting that the park has 88 campsites and eight charming cabins available to rent! With camping season officially open for the year, you can make your reservations and find out more about the state park here.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Are you on the lookout for some of the best state parks to visit around Buffalo? You don't have to be a full-blown outdoor enthusiast to have a blast among the fresh air. At times, we all need to escape from the stresses of city living and retreat to nature. Whether it’s a picnic on the lake or a hike through the woods, being one with nature is a great way to feel peace and solace when life becomes a little hectic.
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Luckily, there are loads of things to do in Buffalo and beyond -- including plenty of places to venture off for a relaxing getaway. From the shores of Lake Erie to the steep gorges of Letchworth, there’s anything but a shortage of open air around Buffalo. Pack your picnic baskets, put on your hiking shoes, and hit these 14 amazing state parks around Buffalo that will blow you away.
This 64,800 acre state park south of Buffalo is full of activities to partake in year-round. The rolling hills of the park are also referred to as the Enchanted Mountains and are one of the most beautiful places to view the colorful fall foliage. Stay active at the park on its 18 hiking trails and 5.6 miles of paved biking trails, and don’t let winter stop you! The park features miles of snowmobile trails for visitors to explore. No matter when you drop by, you'll love this spot.
This small, charming local state park is a great Sunday afternoon day trip destination near Buffalo. Featuring meadows, hiking trails, and Ellicott Creek, visitors can enjoy a walk with a dog or a picnic with friends and family. Everyone will adore Amherst.
Beaver Island State Park is a great place to experience all four seasons in Buffalo. Activities at the park include basking in the sun and swimming along the half-mile shoreline, spending a day on the water with your boat, canoe, or kayak, fishing year-round, and snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. Regardless of the weather, you'll have fun at Beaver Island.
This state park is home to a serene nature preserve along the marsh and wetlands of the Niagara River. Visitors can enjoy a few refreshing hours hiking the trails, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife throughout the park.
No need to leave the city to visit this amazing state park! Buffalo Harbor State Park is located along the shorelines of Lake Erie. While swimming is currently not permitted at the park, visitors can enjoy several nearby restaurants, walk along the path, sunbathe on the beach, access the marina, and enjoy several activities on the water (kayaking and canoeing, for instance). What a great place to meet up with friends right within the bounds of Buffalo.
When Western New Yorkers hear Darien Lake, a majority of them probably think "theme park." What they might not know, however, is they can extend their visit and check out nearby Darien Lakes State Park, as well! This under appreciated state park near Buffalo offers amenities such as campsites, pavilions, and playgrounds to make for a fun-filled summer getaway. Make a day of it.
Located along the Niagara Gorges, the ArtPark state park is a great place for nature and entertainment. The park grounds serve as a venue for concerts during the summer and a ground for public art displays. When not enjoying a show, visitors can check out the nature trails and beautiful views of the Niagara River.
Irving’s Evangola State Park is a popular spot among the vibrant camping community in Buffalo. The state park features an arc-shaped shoreline where guests can swim in Lake Erie, not to mention soccer and baseball fields for those looking to participate in team sports. Stretch your legs and connect with the great outdoors when you explore this park.
Located in East Aurora, Knox Farm is the former estate of Buffalo’s Knox family. The park is made up of 633 acres of beautiful farmland, wetlands, and woods. Visitors can enjoy walks along the paths, biking in designated areas, and even horseback rides with a permit. Don’t be surprised to see multiple photo shoots occurring during your visit due to the beautiful backdrops this state park provides. You might even want to bring along your camera to snap a few photos of your own!
There’s a reason Letchworth is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East." This exceptional park boasts beautiful gorges, waterfalls, and forestland galore. Visitors can choose to explore various hiking trails that total over 66 miles in combined length. For those who are daredevils, try out exciting whitewater rafting on the river’s rushing waters! Not afraid of heights? The park also offers hot air balloon rides to view the eastern canyons from above. Letchworth is chock full of excitement for all ages.
This state park gives visitors access to both the Niagara River and beautiful Lake Ontario. Explore the park's many trails, take advantage of the refreshing pool on a hot summer day, or tire the little ones out in the playgrounds and 18 soccer fields. For a history lesson, head next door to Old Fort Niagara and learn about the area's past.
Niagara Falls is not only a state park, but a full-blown natural wonder. This beautiful shared park between the United States and Canada is an absolute must-visit for all New Yorkers. The park consists of three waterfalls that dump over 750,000 gallons per second. If you want to get up close and personal, take the Cave of the Winds Tour or put your ponchos on and hop aboard the Maid of the Mist, which will take you right up to the falls via boat.
You can find this fast-paced park upstream from Niagara Falls. With two levels to choose from, visitors can stay on the street level to take photos of this park’s scenic views, or for those more daring, head down to the river level for up close views of the rushing waters... and a trail to the last park on our list!
Enjoy a fun day at this park, which features gorgeous views of the jade-colored water and an awesome hiking trail where you can stretch your legs. Follow the stone staircase down to the river gorge, where you'll find ample opportunities to camp and fish. For the best views, visit in fall, when the colored trees add to the already breathtaking backdrop.
Now that you've uncovered some of the best state parks to visit around Buffalo, you're something of an expert on our area's natural wonders. Have you been lucky enough to check out any of these fresh air gems during previous day trips from Buffalo? We'd love to hear from you, so share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another beautiful park near Buffalo by completing our official nomination form.
