Empire State Today

Governor Kathy Hochul marked the beginning of spring by introducing the New York Blooms Report, a weekly guide aimed at helping New Yorkers discover the beauty of roses, lilacs, tulips, cherry blossoms, and magnolias at various attractions across the state. Hochul highlighted the significance of the season, saying, "Spring is an exciting time in New York as the temperatures get warmer, the birds return from their winter migration, and the flowers bud and bloom in both our own gardens and in the many parks and botanical gardens throughout the state."

The reports, managed by I LOVE NY, offer insights from arborists, gardeners, and caretakers at over 30 sites across New York, tracking the stages of bloom for each featured flower. The reports will be available weekly on iloveny.com/blooms, with updates every Wednesday through June. Partner sites will also share photos and information about unique flowers and events, including renowned festivals like the Rochester Lilac Festival and Albany Tulip Festival.

Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight emphasized the report's role in promoting tourism, stating, "The new Blooms Report is I LOVE NY's latest offering to help New Yorkers and travelers plan a spring getaway to explore the state." ESD Vice President Ross D. Levi echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about showcasing New York's floral attractions and events through the report.

In addition to the Blooms Report, New York State Parks and Historic Sites will provide numerous opportunities for visitors to enjoy the changing season. State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons encouraged New Yorkers to explore the state's parks and historic sites, emphasizing their affordability and diverse offerings throughout the year.

Governor Hochul's commitment to supporting tourism in New York was highlighted, with the state welcoming a record 291.5 million visitors in 2022. To further boost tourism, the Governor has allocated significant funding for I LOVE NY marketing efforts and various tourism-related projects and organizations.